Best Cary to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Cary to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,866 mile move from North Carolina to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 Cary to Portland moving companies and more than 15,000 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 $3,000 - $10,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Cary compared to Portland. 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 Cary to Portland Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.29 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
5 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Cary to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,866 miles from Cary, NC to Portland, OR will cost on average $4,218 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Cary to Portland move is roughly $10,202. 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 | $2,827 | 300 ft³ | 9.42 |
1 Bedroom | $4,218 | 450 ft³ | 9.37 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,993 | 750 ft³ | 9.32 |
3 Bedrooms | $10,202 | 1100 ft³ | 9.27 |
4 Bedrooms | $14,759 | 1600 ft³ | 9.22 |
5+ Bedrooms | $16,514 | 1800 ft³ | 9.17 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Cary guide.
Compare the 5 Best Cary to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Raleigh Moving Company
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | - |

Athens Moving Experts

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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |

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) |

All Service Moving

66 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) |

Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (2023) |

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.
Cary vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be challenging, especially when the cities are as distinct as Cary, NC, and Portland, OR. Understanding these differences can ease the transition. This guide offers a comparison of local neighborhoods between Cary, NC & Portland, OR to help you find a new home area that resonates with your lifestyle preferences. Let's explore the neighborhoods that mirror your current community vibes in a brand new city.
Cary | Portland | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Preston | Eastmoreland | Historic homes, golf |
Amberly | Bethany | Family-friendly, suburban |
Carpenter Village | Sellwood-Moreland | Community feel, walkable |
Lochmere | Hillsdale | Natural scenery, well-regarded schools |
Cary Park | Lake Oswego | Lake access, upscale living |
Highcroft | Alameda | Excellent schools, neighborhood feel |
Twin Lakes | Laurelhurst | Park access, family-friendly |
Green Hope Crossing | Montavilla | Eclectic, vibrant community |
Wellington Park | Creston-Kenilworth | Involved community, local parks |
Wrenhurst | Irvington | Historic district, leafy streets |
If the charm and community vibe of Cary's Carpenter Village captivate you with its walkable streets and quaint local shops, you'll find a similar spirit in Portland's Sellwood-Moreland. This neighborhood is punctuated by unique boutiques, cozy cafés like Moreland Farmers Market, and lush parks perfect for weekend picnics. Meanwhile, if you're drawn to the lively, eclectic community of Green Hope Crossing, then Montavilla in Portland, with landmarks like the historic Academy Theater and the bustling Montavilla Farmers Market, will feel like home. Portland's Eastmoreland recalls Cary's Preston with its prestigious golf courses like the Eastmoreland Golf Course and century-old homes, offering a seamless transition for those valuing tradition and recreation close to home.

Things to Do in Portland
- Hike in Forest Park
- Stroll through Portland Japanese Garden
- Enjoy food carts at various locations
- Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
- Explore Powell's City of Books
- Sample brews on a craft brewery tour
- Watch a movie at Cinema 21
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Cary to Portland
Moving from Cary, NC to Portland, OR requires a balanced examination of what each location has to offer and the challenges one may face. This guide aims to provide a clear comparison between Cary, NC and Portland, OR showcasing the cons of Cary against the pros of Portland and vice versa . Discover what it truly means to embark on this relocation journey, highlighting both the positive aspects and the drawbacks.
- Less walkable
- Hot summers
- Fewer cultural sites
- Standard cuisine
- High walkability
- Cooler climate
- Rich art scene
- Diverse food options
- Higher cost of living
- More urban noise
- Fewer family events
- Faster pace
- Lower cost of living
- Quieter lifestyle
- Family-friendly
- Easygoing pace
In contrast to Cary's quieter lifestyle, Portland boasts an energetic atmosphere with the buzz of urban life. The city's high walkability means you can easily explore vibrant neighborhoods such as the Pearl District and Alberta Arts District, known for their unique shops, galleries, and restaurants like Screen Door and Pok Pok. While moving from Cary to Portland might mean adjusting to more urban noise and a higher cost of living, it also opens up a world rich in cultural experiences, from the iconic Portland Art Museum to the annual Rose Festival, offering a diverse and flavorful life.
Cary vs. Portland Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and can greatly impact your living experience. With that in mind, we will undertake a comparison of the local cuisine between Cary & Portland to provide a clearer picture of the culinary scene you are moving into. This comparison will help you navigate your new food landscape with ease.
Cary | Portland | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Wild Pacific Salmon |
Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Pork Belly |
Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Food Truck Tacos |
Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Vegan Ramen |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Cary to Portland, you’re transitioning to a foodie haven known for its deeply-rooted food truck culture and vegan-friendly options. Portland is celebrated for its use of local and sustainable ingredients, with neighborhoods like Alberta and Hawthorne being hotspots for food enthusiasts. Moreover, iconic restaurants such as Pok Pok and Le Pigeon offer unique dining experiences that are quintessentially Portland. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant street food scene or indulging in vegan ramen, Portland’s culinary landscape is a testament to the city's commitment to diversity and innovation in food.
Cary vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a place feel like home. This comparison is designed to help you find your new favorite eateries in Portland, OR by drawing parallels with the best spots in Cary, NC. By using Cary's top restaurants to find Portland's equivalents , this guide aims to ease your transition and excite your taste buds.
Cary | Portland | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen | Screen Door | Southern cuisine with comfort food favorites |
La Farm Bakery | Ken's Artisan Bakery | Exceptional baked goods and pastries, maintaining a dedication to quality |
Copper Chimney | Bollywood Theater | Offers a tapestry of Indian flavors reminiscent of Copper Chimney's authenticity |
Bosphorus | Nicholas Restaurant | A go-to for Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a similar cultural dining experience |
Pizzeria Faulisi | Apizza Scholls | Celebrated for their commitment to the craft of pizza making |
Herons | Le Pigeon | Offers a dining experience with exceptional creativity and refinement |
Tony's Oyster Bar | Eventide Oyster Co. | Known for high-quality seafood and a vibrant atmosphere |
Kababish Cafe | Tusk | Middle Eastern flavors with a modern twist, capturing the essence of Kababish Cafe |
Academy Street Bistro | Grassa | Handcrafted pasta with a fresh, innovative approach, echoing Academy Street's charm |
Verandah | Departure | Offers a modern take on various Asian cuisines, providing a unique dining perspective |
When in Portland and craving the comforting flavors of the South, Screen Door will be your go-to, mirroring the beloved dishes of Cary's Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen. Fans of authentic baked expressions will find a haven in Ken's Artisan Bakery, offering a reminiscent taste of the mastery found at La Farm Bakery. For those evenings when only the familiar zest of Indian spices will do, Bollywood Theater stands as a beacon of culinary delight, akin to the garnished plates served at Copper Chimney. Each Portland establishment not only parallels the quality found in Cary but also enriches the dining experience with local flair, ensuring your new favorites are both comforting and exciting.

Ready to start your move?
Cary vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal consideration in relocating, particularly when weighing the options between Cary, NC and Portland, OR . Understanding the nuances of housing—from costs to architecture—can significantly influence your decision.
Comparison | Cary | Portland |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Transitional | Craftsman and Mid-century Modern |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Community amenities, Spacious yards | Eco-friendly features, Proximity to public transit |
When comparing Cary and Portland, the contrasts in housing affordability and lifestyle become clear. Cary, with its more modern and transitional architecture, typically offers larger properties, often highlighted by spacious yards that cater to those seeking a suburban lifestyle. In contrast, Portland's real estate listings frequently boast eco-friendly features and a strong emphasis on proximity to public transit, reflecting the city's higher walkability and bikeability scores. This shift not only caters to a greener lifestyle but also promotes a more urban, community-oriented atmosphere. For new residents, these differences could greatly affect daily life, making it crucial to consider what values and amenities align most closely with your preferences.
Cary vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Cary, NC to Portland, OR, it's crucial to grasp how the weather compares between these two cities. Understanding the seasonal variations, average temperatures, and general climate will ensure you are well-prepared for your new environment.
Cary, NC
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Cary, NC
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Cary, NC
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Cary, NC
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Cary | Portland |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Volcanic Activity |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Cary and Portland have their own charm, the weather patterns in these cities are quite distinctive. Cary enjoys more sunny days annually than Portland, which could be a significant change if you love the sun. The summer temperatures in Cary are warmer, yet Portland has milder winters, creating a comfortable climate year-round. When considering the occurrence of natural disasters, Cary faces hurricanes and tornadoes, contrasting with Portland's risks of earthquakes and volcanic activity. This information is essential for preparation and adapting to your new home's climate and potential environmental challenges.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Cary to Portland
When thinking about moving from Cary, NC, to Portland, OR, it's crucial to get a handle on how the financial landscape will change. This comparison sheds light on those differences, focusing on money and finance topics, including everything from average incomes to the cost of living, helping you gauge what to expect in Cary versus Portland.
Comparison | Cary | Portland |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $123,857 | $79,057 |
Cost of Living Index | 95.85 | 111.3 |
State Income Tax | 5.25 | 9.9 |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 1.07 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 0 |
Top 3 Industries | Technology, Health Care, Education | Technology, Manufacturing, Health Care |
Affluence | High | Varied |
Poverty | Low | Moderate |
Homelessness | Low | High |
The cost of living index shows Portland as more expensive than Cary, which is a key factor to consider if you're planning the move. While the average household income in Cary is significantly higher, Portland's varied affluence levels and no sales tax policy paint a complex picture of financial life in the city. The higher state and property taxes in Portland might affect your budget differently than in Cary. Furthermore, the emphasis on technology and health care industries in both cities may offer ample employment opportunities, although the impact of higher homelessness rates in Portland could influence your community experiences and social considerations.
Cary vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
In this section, we offer a quick overview to help you understand the comparison of the politics and religious affiliations between Cary, NC & Portland, OR . This snapshot is designed to give you a sense of the communities you're moving from and to, assisting in a smoother transition.
Cary | Portland | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Moderately conservative | Liberal/Progressive |
Local Politics | Competitive elections in a traditionally Wake County | Strongly Democratic in Multnomah County |
Religion | Mixed, with a slightly higher Protestant affiliation | Less religiously affiliated, diverse spiritual beliefs |
The political and religious climates of Cary, NC, and Portland, OR could not be more distinct. Cary, nestled within the boundaries of Wake County, has seen competitive local elections, reflecting its moderately conservative stance. This is a town where community decisions often hinge on balanced views. On the other hand, Portland's identity is deeply rooted in its liberal and progressive beliefs, strongly supported by Multnomah County’s Democratic voting pattern. Religion in Cary has a stronger Protestant presence, while Portland embraces a tapestry of spiritual beliefs, with a significant portion of its population identifying as less religious. Understanding these differences will help you navigate and connect with your new community more effectively.
Cary vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Cary, NC, to Portland, OR, brings many changes, including your daily commute. This guide aims to help you better understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between Cary & Portland, so you can plan your days more effectively.
Comparison | Cary | Portland |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 25 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
While Cary might offer a shorter average commute time, it's clear that Portland takes the lead in terms of public transit options, scoring significantly higher in availability. This means you could find it easier to live in Portland without the necessity of owning a car, thanks to its extensive TriMet public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and streetcars. On the other hand, Cary's lower score indicates that you're more likely to depend on a car for your daily movements. Traffic congestion in Portland is higher compared to Cary, which reflects the city's larger population and busier roads, but the efficient public transit system might mitigate personal impact.



Additional Resources
Cary Moving Services
Popular Cary to Oregon Routes
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