Best Portland to Washington DC Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to Washington DC and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 549 mile move from Maine to DC go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Portland to Washington DC moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland compared to Washington DC. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Portland to Washington DC Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Mic's Moving | 9.60 | 9.56 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | You Move Me Portland | 9.28 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | SC Moving Services | 9.21 | 9.35 | Active |
| 5 | Vacationland Moving | 9.05 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Portland to Washington DC?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 549 miles from Portland, ME to Washington DC, DC will cost on average $1,911 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Washington DC move is roughly $4,578. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,287 | 300 ft³ | $4.29 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,911 | 450 ft³ | $4.25 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,153 | 750 ft³ | $4.20 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,578 | 1100 ft³ | $4.16 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,590 | 1600 ft³ | $4.12 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,337 | 1800 ft³ | $4.08 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Washington DC to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Washington DC Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Bookstore Movers
5200 46th Ave
Hyattsville, MD, 20781
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Mic's Moving
1250 9th st. nw
Washington DC, DC, 20011
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2474176 / 856657 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2019) |
You Move Me Portland
9442 SW Barbur Blvd
Portland, OR, 97219
About You Move Me Portland
You Move Me Portland is the mover your neighbors trust and recommend. In terms of reliability, customer service, and professionalism, this...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2388358 / 820850 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 45,000 (2020) |
SC Moving Services
25 Augusta St
South Portland, ME, 04106
About SC Moving Services
SC Moving Services is a family-owned and operated business located in South Portland, offering a wide range of services to Southern...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2324405 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2016) |
Vacationland Moving
This listing has been claimed by Vacationland Moving1484 Maine St Apt 1
Poland, ME, 04274
About Vacationland Moving
Vacationland Moving is a relocation specialist company based in Portland, Maine. Their services, which are considered some of the finest moving...
Services
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3540196 / 1181718 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2024) |
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Portland vs. Washington DC Neighborhood Comparison
Exploring a new city can be exciting yet daunting; familiarizing yourself with neighborhoods in Portland, ME & Washington DC, DC can help ease the transition. We'll compare popular neighborhoods to find their closest counterparts in DC.
| Portland | Washington DC | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Old Port | Georgetown | Historic charm and waterfront views |
| Munjoy Hill | Capitol Hill | Residential vibes with trendy spots |
| West End | Dupont Circle | Eclectic mix of culture and history |
| East End | Logan Circle | Modern living with artistic flair |
| Bayside | Shaw | Up-and-coming area full of energy |
| Downtown | Downtown DC | Business hubs and shopping |
| Deering Center | Cleveland Park | Quiet neighborhood with beautiful architecture |
| North Deering | Van Ness | Suburban feel yet well connected |
| Rosemont | Friendship Heights | Tight-knit community with local shops |
| Back Cove | National Harbor | Scenic waterfront and outdoor recreation |
If you're drawn to the historic charm and waterfront views of Old Port, you'll find a similar allure in Georgetown, where cobblestones meet the Potomac River. For those who enjoy Munjoy Hill's residential vibes and trendy spots, Capitol Hill offers a comparable atmosphere with its mix of classic row houses and bustling Eastern Market. Meanwhile, the West End in Portland is known for its eclectic mix of culture and history, much like Dupont Circle, where you'll find historic homes set against the backdrop of vibrant galleries and eateries. Finally, if you love the quiet streets and charming architecture of Deering Center, don't miss Cleveland Park in DC, a serene area known for its grand homes and leafy parks.
Things to Do in Washington DC
Visit the Smithsonian Museums for free.- Stroll around the Tidal Basin during cherry blossom season.
- Catch a Nationals game at Nationals Park.
- Enjoy kayaking on the Potomac River.
- Explore historic Georgetown’s shops and alleyways.
- Hike or bike the scenic C&O Canal Towpath.
- Experience the nightlife in the Adams Morgan neighborhood.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Washington DC
Moving from Portland, ME to Washington DC, DC presents both opportunities and challenges. This comparison offers an honest reflection of the pros and cons , helping you make a more informed decision. Whether you're drawn to the urban energy of the nation's capital or the charming coziness of Portland, this guide highlights what you can expect from this major move.
Portland, ME- Harsh winters
- Limited job market
- Fewer cultural events
- Small city amenities
Washington DC, DC- Milder climate
- Robust job opportunities
- Vibrant arts scene
- Extensive public transportation
Washington DC, DC- Higher cost of living
- Longer commute times
- Busy, crowded streets
- Higher property taxes
Portland, ME- Coastal charm
- Tight-knit community
- Quieter lifestyle
- Local seafood
In Washington DC, the presence of a robust job market can be seen in prominent companies and institutions like Smithsonian Institution and various federal agencies. Although the district can be quite bustling with busy streets and longer commutes, the extensive Metro system helps you navigate the city efficiently. Areas like Georgetown and Dupont Circle are great places to explore diverse dining options and cultural events. While the cost of living is higher compared to Portland, the vibrant social life and cultural richness make it worthwhile for many. Conversely, Portland impresses with its tranquil lifestyle and coastal allure, offering a different pace and intimate community feel, especially when enjoying eateries like Porthole Restaurant by the harbor.
Portland vs. Washington DC Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Portland, ME & Washington DC, DC to help you be better informed about the food scene you are moving to.
- Eventide Oyster Co.
- Street & Co.
- Fore Street
- Le Diplomate
- Old Ebbitt Grill
- Blue Duck Tavern
Moving to Washington DC, you'll find an impressive array of culinary delights. Neighborhoods like Shaw and Dupont Circle are famous for their bustling food scene, offering everything from delicious street tacos to vegan soul food. Iconic eateries such as Le Diplomate and Old Ebbitt Grill deliver the signature charm of the city. With a high score in the abundance of food trucks category, Washington DC is a paradise for street food enthusiasts, especially with diverse options like the iconic Half-Smoke sausage. Additionally, the city's commitment to health-conscious dining ensures you have numerous wholesome options, particularly in neighborhoods like Georgetown.
Portland vs. Washington DC Restaurant Comparison
Finding your favorite restaurants is key to feeling at home in a new city. This comparison of Portland and Washington DC eateries will guide you in discovering new favorites by referencing familiar tastes from your current hometown.
| Portland | Washington DC | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Fore Street | Le Diplomate | Known for its farm-to-table offerings and sophisticated atmosphere |
| Becky's Diner | Founding Farmers | Loved for its regional American comfort food and community feel |
| Eventide Oyster Co. | The Salt Line | Famed for fresh seafood and a coastal dining experience |
| Hot Suppa | Busboys and Poets | Renowned for comforting meals in a welcoming environment |
| Street & Co. | Penn Commons | Offers a similar casual yet refined seafood-centric menu |
| Duckfat | Good Stuff Eatery | Celebrated for excellent fries and shakes |
| Central Provisions | Rose's Luxury | Prized for its New American small plates with inventive flavors |
| Tandem Coffee + Bakery | The Coffee Bar | Offers artisanal coffee and pastries in a chic setting |
| The Honey Paw | Maketto | Merges global flavors in a vibrant communal atmosphere |
| Salvage BBQ | Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant | Known for authentic flavors and casual dining |
When craving fresh seafood, head to The Salt Line in Washington DC, which captures the essence of Portland’s Eventide Oyster Co. with its oceanic bounty and inviting atmosphere. Fans of Portland’s classic diner experience at Becky's Diner might find a new comfort food haven at DC’s Founding Farmers, celebrated for its hearty dishes and welcoming vibe. For those who adore Duckfat’s renowned fries, Good Stuff Eatery provides a delicious counterpart with its addictive shakes and classic American comfort food. Meanwhile, Central Provisions fans will love the inventive small plates at Rose's Luxury, capturing the essence of Portland’s innovative culinary scene.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Washington DC Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Portland, ME and Washington, DC compare to make informed decisions. Our comparison covers aspects such as cost, architecture, and walkability to help you evaluate the housing scene in each city.
When deliberating a move from Portland to Washington, DC, you will notice a significant difference in property prices. While Portland offers a charming New England architectural style and boasts views of the ocean, Washington, DC presents a more urban lifestyle with its iconic Federal architecture. Walkability and bikeability scores indicate that DC is a better fit for those who prefer to get around without a car. Exploring DC's vibrant neighborhoods may introduce you to many unique local spots, making urban living all the more attractive. You can learn more about these neighborhoods on the city's official tourism website.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Washington DC, DC
1. Dupont Circle : You'll find plenty of dog parks and pet-friendly cafes that make it easy to enjoy the vibrant neighborhood with your furry friend.
2. Capitol Hill : With its ample green spaces and community vibe, this area offers a welcoming environment for you and your pets to roam.
3. Adams Morgan : Known for its diverse pet-friendly establishments, this neighborhood ensures your pet is part of your social outings.
Portland vs. Washington DC Weather Considerations
When relocating from Portland, ME to Washington DC , understanding the weather differences can greatly enhance your preparation. This comparison will help you adjust to weather patterns you might not be used to.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
The transition from Portland's cooler summers to Washington’s warmer, more humid ones is notable. You'll experience milder winters in Washington, with significantly less snowfall compared to Portland. While the number of sunshine days in both cities is quite comparable, Washington receives slightly more, which can be a perk if you enjoy outdoor activities. It's also worth noting that Washington has a higher UV Index, so sunscreen will become your new best friend. Additionally, be prepared for hurricane warnings in DC, as opposed to Portland's nor'easters.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Washington DC
If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This chart provides a clear comparison of Portland, ME and Washington DC to help you make informed financial decisions during your relocation.
When moving from Portland to Washington DC, you'll encounter a significantly higher cost of living. The difference in average household income between the two cities suggests a more affluent population in Washington DC. However, this prosperity is coupled with a higher state income tax. Interestingly, despite this financial weight, the property tax in Washington DC remains lower than in Portland. Furthermore, the robust governmental and financial sectors dominate DC’s industry landscape, offering ample career opportunities. Conversely, note that homelessness rates are considerably higher in the nation's capital.
Portland vs. Washington DC Political & Religious Comparison
This quick snapshot provides a glance at the diverse political and religious landscapes you will encounter when moving. This is a comparison of the politics between Portland, ME & Washington DC, DC , highlighting the differences in political makeup, local politics, and religion.
As you prepare for your move from Portland to Washington DC, understanding these differences can help ease your transition. Portland is known for its liberal tendencies, but you may find Washington DC's political landscape even more strongly liberal, given its role as the national capital. Local politics in Portland focus on progressive governance, while Washington DC's politics revolve largely around national interests with a deeply Democratic lean. Both cities boast diverse religious communities, with a significant number of residents in both areas identifying as non-religious. Exploring these aspects can enrich your experience in your new home.
Portland vs. Washington DC Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding daily commute and traffic differences can greatly aid in transitioning from one city to another. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Washington DC will help you better navigate your new environment and adjust to daily transportation needs effectively.
In Portland, the traffic is considerably lighter, which contributes to a shorter average commute time compared to Washington DC. If you’re someone who prefers public transit, you’ll find Washington DC much more accommodating, with its extensive network that includes buses, trains, and the popular Metro system. While owning a car in Portland might provide convenience, in Washington DC, the robust public transportation system means you can comfortably get around without one, which is a significant lifestyle adjustment. Consider visiting the bustling Union Station in DC to experience the hub of public transit options in action.
Additional Resources
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