($1,140) Cost to Move From Columbia, SC to Portland, ME

1. Gentlemen Movers Inc.: 4.56 out of 5 stars
2. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.42 out of 5 stars
3. JEGA Movers LLC: 4.42 out of 5 stars
4. College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: 4.22 out of 5 stars
5. All My Sons Moving & Storage: 4.16 out of 5 stars

Cost to hire movers from Columbia to Portland

If you’re packing up a studio or one-bedroom to move to Portland from Columbia, you can expect prices to land between $1,140 and $4,686. For a two- or three-bedroom space, your costs will usually range from $2,276 to $5,633 for the trip from Columbia to Portland. If you’re moving a large four- or five-bedroom home, you’re likely looking at a price tag between $3,961 and $7,602.

Cost of moving containers from Columbia to Portland

Moving containers from Columbia to Portland will cost you $817 to $1,991 for a small move. For a two- to three-bedroom move, moving containers can cost $1,421 to $2,915. A four-bedroom move or bigger will cost $1,956 to $3,797. Learn more about PODS cost.

Here are the cheapest moving container companies when moving out of South Carolina.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Columbia to Portland

Renting a moving truck from Columbia to Portland typically costs the least, but you’ll be responsible for both the heavy lifting and all the driving.

Expect to pay between $661 and $1,291 to move a studio or one-bedroom apartment with a rental truck. For a two- or three-bedroom move, prices usually range from $685 to $1,504. If you’re relocating a four-bedroom (or larger) home, you’ll likely spend anywhere from $932 to $1,813.

These estimates factor in the average cost of fuel.

• Planning a move to Portland? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 38% higher than in Columbia, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
• Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Portland are about 146% higher than those in Columbia.
• In terms of average income, Portland and Columbia are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
• Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Portland, as living costs for a single person are 27% higher than in Columbia. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
• If you’re moving your family to Portland, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Portland is 42% higher than in Columbia.
• With Portland and Columbia having similar unemployment rates, deviating by approximately 5%, job opportunities and market competitiveness remain consistent.
• Sales taxes are 31% less in Portland relative to Columbia. This will help shrink your living expenses, especially if you tend to buy more taxable goods.
• Income taxes in Maine are 17% below those in South Carolina. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.

• Portland’s population is about 50% less than Columbia.
• Portland’s public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Columbia’s score of 5.
• Portland is more walkable than Columbia with a score of 62 out of 100 vs Columbia’s 35 out of 100.
• With a score of 68 out of 100, Portland is more bike-friendly than Columbia, which has a score of 35 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
• Portland’s crime rate is higher than Columbia with a score of 32.16 compared to Columbia’s 3.0. This means that Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0%.
• Portland is considered to be safer than Columbia with a safety index of 67.84 vs Columbia’s 48.39.
• Air quality in Portland is Good, and in Columbia it’s Good.

• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulations—some areas require permits for large moving trucks.
• State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Maine, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: Maine’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
• Moving Permits: Maine does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state. We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move.
• Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. You’ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Portland. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Consider cost-free Released Value Protection from movers in Maine, offering basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. If you seek full-value protection, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Best neighborhoods for singles

• East End
• West End
• West Bayside
• Parkside
• Downtown
• Oakdale
• Back Cove
• Valley Street

Best neighborhoods for families

• Deering Center
• East End
• Rosemont
• West End
• Valley Street
• North Deering
• Back Cove
• East Deering
• Oakdale

Things to do in Portland

After settling into your new Maine home, you’ll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Portland has lots to offer, no matter what you’re interested in:

• Arts and culture: Portland features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Portland Museum of Art, Victoria Mansion, 5th Maine Museum, and The Wadsworth-Longfellow House.
• Outdoor recreation: The city’s Eastern Promenade Trail, Back Cove Trail, Deering Oaks Park, and Quarry Run Dog Park — along with other locations — ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
• Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Maine Celtics (G League)Maine Mariners (ECHL) game.