Best Portland to Raleigh Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Portland to Raleigh and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 826 mile move from Maine to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Portland to Raleigh 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 Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland compared to Raleigh. 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.

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Best Portland to Raleigh Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Raleigh Moving Company9.449.6Active
2Athens Moving Experts9.349.49Authorized For HHG
3You Move Me Portland9.289.4Authorized For HHG
4SC Moving Services9.219.35Active
5Vacationland Moving9.059.22Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Portland to Raleigh?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 826 miles from Portland, ME to Raleigh, NC will cost on average $2,111 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Raleigh move is roughly $5,067. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,420300 ft³$4.73
1 Bedroom$2,111450 ft³$4.69
2 Bedrooms$3,487750 ft³$4.65
3 Bedrooms$5,0671100 ft³$4.61
4 Bedrooms$7,3021600 ft³$4.56
5+ Bedrooms$8,1381800 ft³$4.52
*Please note: These Maine to North Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Maine & North Carolina. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed ME to NC mover.
Maine iconArrow iconNorth Carolina icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Raleigh to Portland guide.

Compare the 5 Best Portland to Raleigh Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Raleigh Moving Company Logo

Raleigh Moving Company

Exceptional9.44/10
based on 856+ data points

Raleigh, NC, 27609

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
1
Athens Moving Experts Logo

Athens Moving Experts

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 3,932+ data points

6601 Hillsborough St # 111

Raleigh, NC, 27606

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
You Move Me Portland Logo

You Move Me Portland

Exceptional9.28/10
based on 1,494+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2388358 / 820850

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved45,000 (2020)
View Full Review
3
SC Moving Services Logo

SC Moving Services

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 594+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2324405 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2016)
View Full Review
4
Vacationland Moving Logo

Vacationland Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.05/10
based on 255+ data points

1484 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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3540196 / 1181718

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2024)
View Full Review
5
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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. Raleigh Neighborhood Comparison

If you're planning a move from Portland, ME, to Raleigh, NC, this comparison will help you bridge the gap between these two cities. By using your knowledge of familiar Portland neighborhoods, you'll be able to find the best comparison neighborhoods in Portland, ME & Raleigh, NC to ease your transition.

PortlandRaleighHow They're Similar
Old PortCity Market DistrictVibrant nightlife and shopping
West EndCameron ParkHistoric charm with tree-lined streets
East End/Munjoy HillGlenwood SouthArtistic vibe with trendy eateries
Deering CenterFive PointsResidential feel with local shops
Parks EdgeUmsteadProximity to outdoor recreation
RosemontNorth HillsFamily-friendly with parks and schools
BaysideWarehouse DistrictIndustrial feel with new developments
LibbytownSouth ParkMix of residential and commercial spaces
Nason's CornerOakwoodCozy neighborhood with rich history
StroudwaterBrier CreekGrowing area with modern amenities

Transitioning from the lively Old Port in Portland to the City Market District in Raleigh will feel like a seamless move. Both areas boast vibrant nightlife with a plethora of trendy bars and restaurants. If you're a fan of the lush tree-lined streets and historic charm of the West End, Cameron Park's similar environment will surely resonate with you. For those who appreciate the artistic vibe and trendy eateries of the East End/Munjoy Hill, Raleigh's Glenwood South neighborhood offers an eclectic mix of art, dining, and entertainment. If having access to green spaces like Deering Oaks Park is important to you, then living near Umstead State Park in the Umstead neighborhood will keep you connected to nature. Don't worry about missing out on cozy, history-rich areas in Portland, as Oakwood offers that same inviting ambiance with its array of historic homes and beautifully preserved gardens.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Raleigh

The purpose of this comparison is to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Portland, ME to Raleigh, NC . By exploring both sides, you can ensure your moving decision aligns with your lifestyle preferences.

CONs
PROs
Portland, ME iconPortland, ME
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher cost of living
  • Limited job market
  • Smaller city
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • Milder winters
  • Affordable housing
  • Diverse job opportunities
  • Vibrant city life
Raleigh, NC iconRaleigh, NC
  • No coastline
  • Higher crime rate
  • Less historic sites
  • Limited seafood options
Portland, ME iconPortland, ME
  • Coastal scenery
  • Low crime rate
  • Rich history
  • Excellent seafood

The move from Portland’s charming coastal scenery to Raleigh’s bustling city life offers drastic lifestyle changes. While you might miss the Old Port's historical charm and a leisurely stroll through East Promenade with its ocean views, Raleigh compensates with communities full of energy, such as Glenwood South, brimming with vibrant restaurants and entertainment. For those seeking proximity to nature, Dix Park offers sprawling green areas just a stone’s throw from downtown. Furthermore, Raleigh’s affordable housing options and a dynamic job market create a formula that resonates well with young professionals and families looking to grow.

Portland vs. Raleigh Food Guide

Food is an integral part of local culture, shaping the experience of living in an area. In this guide, we'll compare the local cuisine between Portland, ME and Raleigh, NC to help you navigate the food scene as you transition to your new home.

Portland
Raleigh
Most iconic local food item
Lobster Roll
BBQ
Most popular meat dish
Seafood Chowder
Pulled Pork
Most popular street food item
Fried Clams
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Vegan Lobster Roll
Jackfruit BBQ
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

As you prepare to move to Raleigh, you'll discover a vibrant BBQ culture, with renowned spots like The Pit located in the Warehouse District, offering standout pulled pork. Unlike Portland's seafood focus, Raleigh is a haven for those who love southern flavors, boasting a rich selection of tacos found in food trucks around neighborhoods like Morgan Street Food Hall. While seafood is less prevalent, vegan-friendly options flourish, highlighted by dishes like jackfruit BBQ that align with Raleigh's growing health-conscious ethos.

Portland vs. Raleigh Restaurant Comparison

Finding the right place to eat can be crucial in making a new city feel like home. This guide draws on the top culinary experiences in Portland, ME to help you discover your new go-to spots in Raleigh, NC , ensuring that your favorite dining indulgences follow you on this move.

PortlandRaleighWhat You'll Love
Fore StreetAshley Christensen's Poole's DinerBoth focus on upscale, locally-sourced ingredients
Eventide Oyster Co.St. Roch Fine Oysters + BarBoth offer fresh and creative oyster dishes
DuckfatBeasley's Chicken + HoneyBoth known for comfort food and casual dining
Central ProvisionsSecond Empire Restaurant & TavernBoth serve high-end, curated small plates
The Holy DonutDuck DonutsBoth celebrated for their unique and flavorful donut offerings
Street & Co.Crawford and SonBoth have a strong focus on great seafood options
DiMillo's on the Water18 SeaboardBoth recognized for classic American fare with a twist
Flatbread CompanyBrixx Wood Fired PizzaBoth specialize in wood-fired, artisanal pizzas
BodaGarlandBoth offer a unique take on Asian flavors and bold culinary styles
Hot SuppaFlying Biscuit CaféBoth serve up hearty and beloved Southern brunch fare

Transitioning from Portland's iconic Fore Street to Raleigh's renowned Poole's Diner offers a chance to continue enjoying exquisite, locally-sourced dishes in sophisticated surroundings. Meanwhile, oyster enthusiasts will find themselves at home at St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar, which mirrors the creative offerings of Portland's Eventide Oyster Co.. And when you're in the mood for something comforting and familiar, Beasley's Chicken + Honey provides a Southern charm similar to the beloved bites at Portland's Duckfat. These establishments offer a seamless culinary transition, blending time-honored favorites with new local flavors.

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Ready to start your move?

Portland vs. Raleigh Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most essential aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Portland and Raleigh compare. Whether you're considering costs or walkability , these charts will guide you in making an informed decision. Know what awaits in your new home.

Portland
Raleigh
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial
Ranch
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Waterfront views
Green spaces

Moving from Portland to Raleigh presents some intriguing lifestyle changes. In terms of housing costs, you're likely to find more affordable options in Raleigh, with a lower median home price and monthly rent. While Portland offers a more walkable urban setting with its colonial architecture, Raleigh compensates with a better bikeability score, making it easier to explore its green spaces. Each city boasts unique aesthetic elements — Portland with its coastal views and Raleigh with its abundance of parks such as William B. Umstead State Park. The choice between the two can impact your daily lifestyle, but both promise a rich cultural experience.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC

1. Five Points : You’ll love the convenient access to several dog-friendly parks and walking trails that make exercising and socializing with your pet enjoyable.

2. North Hills : This area offers pet-friendly apartments and a variety of outdoor spaces, including a nearby dog park, making it easy to live and play with your furry friend.

3. Glenwood South : With its numerous pet-welcoming cafes, bars, and community events, you and your pet can enjoy vibrant social activities together.

Portland vs. Raleigh Weather Considerations

If you're moving from Portland, ME to Raleigh, NC , understanding the weather differences is essential. These charts provide an insight into variations in temperature, humidity, and other weather factors, helping you prepare for your new environment. Comparing the two climates ensures you're ready for the transition .

Portland
Raleigh
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms
Hurricanes
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

79/58
89/69
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

34/16
52/32


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

49
43
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

70
6


Moving from Portland's cold winters to Raleigh's milder climate means that you can expect significant changes in both average temperatures and snowfall. In Raleigh, winters are much warmer, and you will experience a decrease in snowfall, which drops from Portland's substantial 70 inches to just 6 inches annually. While both locations boast a good number of sunny days, Raleigh enjoys a slightly higher UV index, so don't forget your sunscreen. The humidity levels are quite similar, offering a mild adjustment in this respect, but Raleigh might pose different challenges with seasonal allergies, as grass pollen is more prevalent there.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Raleigh

If you're moving from Portland, ME to Raleigh, NC , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you're accustomed to. By examining key factors and financial metrics from each city, you can better anticipate changes in your expenses and make informed decisions about your relocation.

Portland
Raleigh
Avg. Household Income
$70,244
$74,612
Cost of Living Index
116.5
98.2
State Income Tax
7.15%
5.25%
Avg. Property Tax
1.36%
0.84%
Avg. Sales Tax
5.5%
7.25%
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Tourism, Education
Technology, Healthcare, Education
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Low
Moderate
Homelessness
Low
Moderate

When considering a move from Portland to Raleigh, you might notice that Raleigh boasts a higher average household income, which aligns with its thriving technology industry. Despite a higher sales tax rate, Raleigh's overall cost of living index is considerably lower than Portland's, potentially allowing for more disposable income. While state income tax is lower in North Carolina, you may find property taxes are more favorable in Raleigh too. Understanding these financial differences can help you gauge your purchasing power and lifestyle adjustments in your new city.

Portland vs. Raleigh Political & Religious Comparison

The purpose of this comparison is to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This is a comparison of the politics between Portland & Raleigh , giving you an overview to help you understand your new community.

Portland
Raleigh
Political Make-up
Liberal
Moderate
Local Politics
Progressive
Centrist
Religion
Secular
Diverse religious affiliations

In Portland, you will generally find a more liberal and progressive population, with local policies often leaning toward environmental and social issues. Meanwhile, Raleigh's political landscape tends to be more moderate, reflecting its blend of traditional Southern culture and the innovative influences of institutions like North Carolina State University. When it comes to religion, Portland has a more secular atmosphere, while Raleigh is home to a variety of religious communities. This diversity in Raleigh may offer you the opportunity to engage with a range of cultural and religious perspectives, making it a vibrant setting for personal growth and exploration.

Portland vs. Raleigh Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the daily commute and traffic nuances in a new city can be challenging. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland, ME & Raleigh, NC will help you better navigate your move and daily routine.

Portland
Raleigh
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
20
25
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
6 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
7 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes
No

While Portland's average commute time is shorter, you may find more traffic congestion during peak hours in Raleigh. The public transit options in Portland, including buses and the METRO, offer more accessibility compared to Raleigh, where the car is often essential for daily errands. Despite this, Raleigh's [GoRaleigh](https://goraleigh.org) and other transit services are continuously expanding, aiming to improve accessibility and reduce dependency on private vehicles. If you're moving to Raleigh, planning your travel time and routes with these factors in mind will make your transition smoother.

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