Moving from Seattle, WA to Portland, OR

Starting over away from Seattle? Find harmony with nature in the City of Roses 

Located less than 200 miles apart, Seattle, WA and Portland, OR are two of the largest cities in the Pacific Northwest. If you’re planning a move from Seattle to Portland, you may wonder just how similar — or how different — the two are. Maybe you’ve visited the City of Roses and are familiar with the popular slogan “Keep Portland Weird,” but what is it like to actually live there? 

We’ll compare and contrast the two cities, offer some insight and suggest an easy and affordable long-distance moving option. 

Witness a passion for environmental protection 

If you use Seattle’s local bus system or like to commute by bicycle, you’ll feel right at home in Portland. The CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project) has designated Portland as one of the 88 most environmentally progressive cities in the world, in part because of its efficient land-use planning and focus on extensive public transportation. 

The well-marked bike lanes and paths that are available throughout the metro area serve as a nod to Portland’s devoted bicycling culture. 

Nature lovers will have plenty to explore 

Seattle and Portland get about the same amount of rainfall each year, so there won’t be much of an adjustment. That means you’ll be looking for green spaces to enjoy in Portland on those sunny days. 

Worried about missing Puget Sound, Lake Washington, Mount Rainer and Discovery Park? Portland counters with equally impressive outdoor options in the Willamette and Columbia rivers, Mount Hood and Forest Park.   

Seattle, Portland each offer a variety of career options 

The technology and health care industries have established a strong foundation in both Seattle and Portland. While Seattle’s top employers include Amazon, Microsoft and Boeing, Portland is just 7 miles east of Beaverton and Nike headquarters, which employs about 12,000 people within the county. 

Intel Corporation continues to expand in the Portland area, and opportunities in the medical field exist with large employers like the Oregon Health & Science University and Providence Health & Services. 

Make sure to bring your appetite 

While Seattle is famous for Pike Place Market, Portland has carved out a culinary niche with its wide array of food trucks. And following whatever delicious on-the-go meal you choose, be sure to hit up Voodoo Doughnut afterward (or before; we won’t judge). Pro tip: don’t miss two of their best-sellers, the Bacon Maple Bar and the Portland Cream. 

Focus more on your new home and less on your move with U-Pack 

Yes, it’s only about a 3-hour drive from Seattle to Portland. But it’s much less stressful making it in your own vehicle and not behind the wheel of a big rental truck. 

That’s where U-Pack® comes in. You pack and load, and we drive! With our nationwide network and fast transit times, we make long-distance moving simple and affordable. Get your free quote today!