Moving from Chicago, IL to Portland, OR

Moving from Chicago to Portland

If you’re planning a move from Chicago to Portland, you’ll notice some distinct differences between the two cities — primarily with the weather and the cost of living. But, while Portland and Chicago differ, they do share some similarities. When you leave Chicago, you’ll be leaving behind the hustle and bustle of one of the country’s largest cities — and the economic hub of the Midwest — for another large metro in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. And while Portland, with a population of around 647,000, is quite a bit smaller than Chicago (2.7 million), it still offers residents many options for work and play. Read on to learn more about Portland, how the city compares to Chicago and how U-Pack® can help you with your cross-country move

Adjusting to life in Portland

As you prepare for your move, here are some things you may want to know about Portland to help ease the transition: 

Difference in weather

Moving from Chicago to Portland means adjusting to a different climate. It doesn’t get nearly as cold in Portland as it does in Chicago, but you will see a lot of rain. While Chicago experiences hot, humid summers and frigid, snowy winters, Portland residents enjoy comfortable year-round temperatures. Portland gets about 43 inches of rain a year (compared to the 38 inches a year in Chicago) and sunny days less than half the year. Portland’s summers are warm and dry, and winters are damp and mild. Portland’s average summer highs are in the low 80s with little rain. In the winters, Portland experiences average lows in the high 30s with only about 2½ inches of snow each year, which is much less than Chicago’s annual snowfall of about 37.8 inches! Portland also receives about 36 inches of precipitation annually.

Cost of living comparison

You’ll also have to adjust to the higher cost of living in Portland. Essential items like groceries, transportation, housing and health care are a bit more costly in Portland than they are in Chicago. But, you may earn a larger salary and save a little money on your utility bill in Portland, according to CNN’s cost of living calculator

Job market in Portland

Portland is home to international apparel companies like Nike, Columbia Sportswear and Adidas, and also to tech giants such as Intel and Xerox. Aside from apparel and technology, Portland residents work in industries like tourism, manufacturing and health care. 

Education opportunities

Are you moving with children? They shouldn’t have much difficulty transitioning from Chicago schools to Portland schools! It may be easier for them to make new friends in Portland because the city has fewer students. Portland has a combined enrollment of 76,800 students (compared to more than 400,000 in Chicago). The largest school district in Portland is Portland Public Schools, which consists of 28 elementary schools, 30 K-8 schools, 10 middle schools, 12 high schools and one K-12 school. If you’re looking for higher education, Portland offers many options, including Portland State University, Portland Community College, the University of Portland and Reed College.

Entertainment options

If you’re an art or history buff and enjoy exploring and learning in one of Chicago’s many museums, you’ll be in luck in Portland! The Rose City is home to some great museums, including the Portland Art Museum and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. If performance art is more your speed, professional companies in the city include the Oregon Ballet Theatre, the Oregon Symphony, the Portland Opera and Portland Center Stage. Are you a big Chicago Bulls fan? You’ll be able to catch your favorite squad in action when they come to town to take on the Trail Blazers. Portland also has a Major League Soccer team, the Timbers. Residents also enjoy participating in popular sports like skiing, snowboarding, running and bicycling. And, if you need some retail therapy, Portland has six major shopping malls. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to have fun!

Moving to Portland with U-Pack

U-Pack is an excellent option for moves from Chicago to Portland. As a self-move service, you pack and load everything in Chicago, and we’ll pick it up and drive it to Oregon for you. And with service centers in both cities, we’re able to deliver your belongings quickly! We also offer storage, loading and unloading help, and guaranteed delivery. Get a free online quote or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to see how much your move will cost.