Best Portland to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 668 mile move from Oregon to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 31 Portland to San Jose 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 D&L Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland compared to San Jose. 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 San Jose Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D&L Movers | 9.35 | 9.36 | Active |
| 2 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.31 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 5 | Comfortable Moving | 9.17 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Portland to San Jose?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 668 miles from Portland, OR to San Jose, CA will cost on average $2,349 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to San Jose move is roughly $5,633. 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 | $1,581 | 300 ft³ | $5.27 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,349 | 450 ft³ | $5.22 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,878 | 750 ft³ | $5.17 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,633 | 1100 ft³ | $5.12 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,113 | 1600 ft³ | $5.07 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,037 | 1800 ft³ | $5.02 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to San Jose Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
About Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
All Service Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service Moving66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
About All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
| Registered Drivers | 113 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (2022) |
Comfortable Moving
3305 Main St # 023
Vancouver, WA, 98663
About Comfortable Moving
Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in Vancouver, WA,...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3236736 / 1015844 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 14,000 (2020) |
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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
When planning a move, getting to know your new city's neighborhoods can make the transition much smoother. This guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & San Jose, CA , utilizing familiar areas in Portland as a baseline to help you find your new favorite spots in San Jose. Whether you're seeking vibrant nightlife, a family-friendly atmosphere, or a hub of innovation, this comparison will help navigate your relocation journey.
| Portland | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | Santana Row | High-end shopping, dining |
| Alberta Arts District | Willow Glen | Quaint, artsy, small-town vibe |
| Mississippi Avenue | San Pedro Square | Trendy, live music, eateries |
| Nob Hill | Campbell | Historic homes, chic shops |
| Hawthorne | The Alameda | Eclectic, laid-back atmosphere |
| Laurelhurst | Rose Garden | Beautiful homes, gardens |
| Northwest District | Los Gatos | Upscale, scenic hiking trails |
| Eliot | SoFA District | Cultural hub, arts and entertainment |
| Ladd's Addition | Shasta Hanchett Park | Historic, diverse architecture |
| Sellwood-Moreland | Japantown | Strong community, unique shops |
If you admire the creative pulse and the array of dining and shopping options in Portland's Pearl District, you'll find a comparable vibe in Santana Row with its upscale boutiques and eateries like Santana Row. Fans of Alberta Arts District's indie spirit and community-focused ethos will enjoy exploring Willow Glen's charming streets, home to unique shops like Hicklebee's, a beloved local bookstore. Similarly, if you're drawn to the historic and bohemian atmosphere of Hawthorne, you might find The Alameda's eclectic mix of businesses and laid-back ambiance a perfect match. For those who appreciate the lush, green spaces and stunning homes of Laurelhurst, the Rose Garden area offers equally breathtaking surroundings with its namesake, San Jose Municipal Rose Garden, being a must-visit destination for anyone seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to San Jose
Moving from one place to another always entails weighing the good against the bad. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on transitioning from Portland, OR to San Jose, CA , outlining the advantages and disadvantages. Let's delve into how the quirks and charms of each city compare, ensuring you have a rounded perspective for your relocation.
Portland, OR- More rain
- Smaller tech scene
- Lower average salary
- Less diverse cuisine
San Jose, CA- Sunny days
- Larger tech industry
- Higher average salary
- More diverse food options
San Jose, CA- Less green space
- Hotter summers
- More corporate
- Fewer coffee shops
Portland, OR- Lush greenery
- Cooler summers
- Creative vibe
- Strong coffee culture
For those moving from Portland, OR, to San Jose, CA, you're transitioning from an environment with lush green spaces such as Forest Park to a more urban-centric life, where parks like Guadalupe River Park offer a respite in the heart of Silicon Valley. Despite the warmer summers in San Jose, the increase in sunny days means more opportunities to explore vibrant neighborhoods and their diverse culinary scenes, from the famous ramen in Santana Row to outstanding Mexican cuisine in the local taquerias. Additionally, San Jose's booming tech industry not only presents more job opportunities but also fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, contrasting with Portland's more laid-back and artistic atmosphere. While the coffee culture in Portland, with spots like Stumptown Coffee Roasters, is iconic, San Jose offers its own unique flavors and experiences, ensuring that your move, though challenging, will be filled with new discoveries and opportunities.
Portland vs. San Jose Food Guide
Comparing the local cuisine between Portland & San Jose is essential as food significantly impacts local culture and the living experience within an area. Through this comparison, you'll gain insights into the food scenes of both places, helping you make an informed decision about your move.
- Le Pigeon
- Pok Pok
- Salt & Straw
- Falafel's Drive-In
- Original Joe's
- Manresa
Portland boasts an eclectic mix of cuisines with an emphasis on farm-to-table dining and creative vegetarian dishes. You'll find the city's spirit alive in its food cart pods, like those in the Alberta Arts District, where local favorites and international flavors collide. On the other hand, San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers a diverse gastronomy heavily influenced by its Vietnamese and Mexican communities. For example, Phở and Carne Asada can be savored in establishments along Grand Century Mall and the historical San Pedro Square Market. Both cities present a vibrant food scene catering to an array of tastes and preferences, from the traditional to the avant-garde.
Portland vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite dining spot is crucial to feeling at home in a new city. This comparison chart aims to ease your transition from Portland, OR to San Jose, CA by finding your next beloved eateries . Whether you crave high-end meals, casual bites, quintessential flavors, or affordable eats, we've got you covered. Use this guide to explore culinary parallels and embrace the tastes of San Jose.
| Portland | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | Plumed Horse | High-end dining with innovative courses, similar attention to culinary art |
| Screen Door | Las Cazuelas | Southern comfort meets Mexican comfort, both offering hearty and soulful dishes |
| Pok Pok | Vung Tau Restaurant | Authenticity shines in both, serving traditional dishes from their respective cultures |
| Tasty n Alder | Ludwig's German Table | Both excel in a casual, yet refined atmosphere with hearty, flavorful meals |
| Blue Star Donuts | Psycho Donuts | Creative and unusual flavors that turn donuts into a culinary adventure |
| Salt & Straw | Treatbot | Inventive ice cream flavors that capture the local taste and culture |
| Nong's Khao Man Gai | Bun Bo Hue An Nam | Both specialize in a single dish perfected over time, offering authentic taste experience |
| Apizza Scholls | Bibo's NY Pizza | Both celebrate the art of pizza making, focusing on high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques |
| Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen | Pho Ha Noi | Authentic Vietnamese cuisines with a dedication to fresh ingredients and bold flavors |
| Pine State Biscuits | Bill's Cafe | Comfort food heaven, offering everything from breakfast classics to hearty sandwiches |
Moving from the lush landscapes of Portland, OR to the heart of Silicon Valley shouldn't mean sacrificing your gastronomic happiness. For instance, the transition from the rustic charm of Le Pigeon's French cuisine can find comfort in the Plumed Horse's innovative dishes. Similarly, Pok Pok's renowned Thai flavors find a companion in Vung Tau Restaurant, where authentic Vietnamese dishes are served with a passion for tradition. And for those who worship at the altar of artisanal doughnuts, Blue Star Donuts' Portland fans will discover a kindred spirit in Psycho Donuts, where creativity in flavors and presentation ensures the doughnut devotion continues in San Jose. Embrace these culinary parallels, and you'll find your taste buds feeling right at home in no time.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscape between your current city and future home is crucial. This comparison between Portland, OR and San Jose, CA, focusing on aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle, will help you understand what to expect and prepare accordingly. Let's delve into the details of housing in these two vibrant cities.
The housing markets of Portland and San Jose cater to distinctly different preferences and budgets. Portland’s housing is known for its charming Victorian and Craftsman styles, often highlighted for spacious backyards and eco-friendly features. In contrast, San Jose, at the heart of Silicon Valley, leans towards modern and Mediterranean architecture, with listings frequently boasting smart home technology and proximity to major tech campuses. The significant difference in median home prices and rent reflects the disparity in living costs between these two cities. While Portland offers a more bike-friendly environment, San Jose edges ahead with its urban lifestyle score, appealing to those looking for a vibrant city life amidst the tech industry.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen : You’ll love walking your pet through the tree-lined streets and enjoying the welcoming community parks.
2. Rose Garden : Your furry friend will have plenty of space to roam and socialize in this neighborhood's expansive park areas.
3. West San Jose : This area offers numerous pet-friendly amenities and spacious parks, making it ideal for your pet-friendly lifestyle.
Portland vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
When moving from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. Let's compare Portland, OR and San Jose, CA to shed light on how the climate might affect your lifestyle. This comparison aims to make you well-prepared for your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Understanding the weather differences between Portland, OR, and San Jose, CA, is key to a smooth transition. Portland experiences a cooler climate with more rainfall and fewer sunny days compared to San Jose. If you're moving to San Jose, you'll enjoy more sunshine throughout the year but will also need to prepare for warmer summers. The distinct change in the number of sunny days and winter temperatures can significantly impact your daily activities and wardrobe choices. Additionally, while both cities have their own natural disaster risks, it's important to note San Jose's higher UV index, suggesting a greater need for sun protection.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to San Jose
When considering a move from Portland, OR to San Jose, CA, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and other financial factors will impact your budget. This comparison will provide you with insights into what to expect in terms of money and finance, highlighting the differences and similarities between the two cities.
Moving from Portland to San Jose will introduce you to a significantly higher cost of living, primarily driven by housing costs reflected in the Cost of Living Index. However, this is somewhat balanced by higher average household incomes in San Jose. The difference in state income tax rates is notable, with California's max rate being higher. However, it's essential to consider the entire tax burden, as Oregon has no sales tax, whereas San Jose has a considerable sales tax rate. Industry strengths in both cities are tech-centered, ensuring opportunities for employment in booming sectors. Despite higher costs, San Jose also boasts a high level of affluence and lower poverty rates compared to Portland, providing a contrasting perspective on each city's economic health.
Portland vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
In this comparison, we will provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Emphasizing the differences and similarities will help you understand the community fabric of each city. Specifically, this is a comparison of the politics between Portland & San Jose and how they reflect upon local religious and political landscapes, aiding in a smoother transition for your move.
When moving from Portland to San Jose, you'll find both cities share a liberal-leaning political outlook. However, the local political agendas shift; Portland's progressive policies often emphasize environmental and social issues, reflecting its community's strong engagement in these areas. In contrast, San Jose places a considerable focus on supporting the tech industry, alongside addressing housing and transportation concerns indicative of its position at the heart of Silicon Valley. Religion in both cities represents a tapestry of diversity, with San Jose showcasing a significant Catholic population amidst its variety of faiths. Understanding these nuances ensures a deeper comprehension of the community values and social fabric you're moving into.
Portland vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move from Portland, OR to San Jose, CA, it's important to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & San Jose will help you navigate your new city more efficiently.
In Portland, the TriMet system offers extensive bus, light rail, and streetcar services, making it somewhat easier to navigate the city without a car, despite the average commute time being slightly shorter than in San Jose. On the other hand, San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, tends to have higher traffic congestion but benefits from a robust public transportation network through the VTA system, especially for those working in tech industries. However, due to the sprawling nature of San Jose and its metropolitan areas, having a car can significantly impact your mobility and access to broader opportunities outside the public transportation routes.
Additional Resources
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