Moving from Salt Lake City, UT to Portland, OR

Discover other scenic views and so much more

Few places can rival the natural beauty of Salt Lake City, which sits at the base of Utah’s Wasatch Mountains and is within driving distance of five national parks. But Portland, OR is pretty easy on the eyes, too. And when you relocate 800 miles northwest to the Rose City, there’s no doubt you’ll find a lot to like about your new home — including three nearby mountain ranges! 

How do Salt Lake City and Portland compare? Read on to learn more. Then, find out about an easy long-distance moving option designed save you costs while giving you peace of mind. 

Get the most out of a milder climate 

Enjoying a stunning view of snow-capped mountains for most of the year requires lots of powder, and Salt Lake City delivers. Utah’s state capital can get up to 60 inches of snow per year and wintry weather can stretch well into spring. 

However, the Portland area rarely gets any snowfall. It’s more known for a consistent mist during a long rainy season that lasts from October to mid-spring. Portland has four seasons, including sunny, dry summers, and average winter temperatures that hover around the low 40s. That means more opportunities to get out and explore! 

Prepare to spend more 

Portland’s cost of living is higher than the national average and almost 20 percent higher than Salt Lake City’s. New residents often look for better deals in neighboring communities like Gresham, Beaverton (the home of Nike) or Vancouver, WA. Oregon’s income tax rate is one of the highest in the country, but on the plus side, Portland has no sales tax. 

Whatever you’re into, you can find 

Concerned about filling the void of the Sundance Film Festival, live theater and world-class skiing? Salt Lake City has its gems, but so does Portland. The Rose City ranks third on Niche’s list of Best Cities for Outdoor Activities in America. Stroll along the banks of the Willamette River, which runs through downtown, or navigate the hiking trails in Forest Park. Portlanders are also an hour’s drive from both Mt. Hood and the Oregon coast.  

Craving culture? Portland is a haven for free spirits and creatives. Check out Powell’s Books, the flagship location of the world’s largest independent chain of bookstores. Hungry for local fare? Browse the Saturday Market, grab an artisanal coffee and pasty or make your way through the hundreds of highly-rated food trucks doing brisk business around the city. Up for a game? Go cheer on the NBA’s Trail Blazers and the MLS’ Timbers. 

Career growth opportunities 

Much like Salt Lake City, Portland has a diverse employment base that’s led by technology and health care. A growing number of independent companies and startups have found a home in Portland, as well. The area’s largest employers include Nike (which employs about 12,000 people in Washington County), Oregon Health & Science University and Providence Health & Services. 

Choose U-Pack for a more affordable and stress-free move 

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when planning a long-distance move. U-Pack® takes the weight off your shoulders by helping you design the move you want at a price you can afford, thanks to our nationwide network of service centers. We’ll even handle the driving — all you do is pack and load! Contact one of our professional moving consultants today for a no-obligation quote.