Ann Arbor, MI to Portland, ME Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Ann Arbor to Portland typically costs $2,600–$7,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 848 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
|
|
|
 rating
4.2 / 5
Licensed
Insured
Price
|
Cost to move from Ann Arbor to Portland
Moving from Ann Arbor, MI to Portland, ME typically costs $2,600–$7,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 848-mile move from Ann Arbor to Portland, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 20, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
|
2-3 bedrooms
|
4+ bedrooms
|
Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Joyce Van Lines recently quoted $5,943 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $3,856 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Budget Truck Rental recently quoted $856 for a 4 bedroom using a rental truck.
5+ Bedrooms
Feb 14, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Feb 13, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Feb 11, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 07, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 23, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 15, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 06, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 21, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 19, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Ann Arbor to Portland
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Ann Arbor to Portland might be as low as $2,200, while a four-bedroom could reach $8,800.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Ann Arbor.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $600 to $1,700 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Portland, ME to Ann Arbor, MI guide.
Best Ann Arbor to Portland movers by type
Professional
|
Local
|
Container
|
Rental Truck
|
Labor Only
|
Best professional movers from Ann Arbor to Portland
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Ann Arbor to Portland, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best MI→ME movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 84 Michigan movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Ann Arbor to Portland
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Portland runs about 14% higher for singles and 13% higher for families than Ann Arbor.
Singles spend around $2,491 in Portland versus $2,176 in Ann Arbor; families pay $6,060 compared with $5,344.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Ann Arbor | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,831 | $1,925 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,763 | $3,500 |
| Average home value | $474,909 | $542,001 |
| Average income (per capita) | $66,964 | $64,171 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,176 | $2,491 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $5,344 | $6,060 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.5% | 5.2% |
| Sales tax | 6.0% | 5.5% |
| State income tax | 4.25% | 5.8% |
- Good news! When moving to Portland from Ann Arbor, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 12% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 14% higher in Portland than in Ann Arbor.
- Luckily, the average income is within about 5% of the same in Portland and Ann Arbor, so no need to worry about big financial changes.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Portland, as the cost of living for a single person in Portland is 14% greater than in Ann Arbor. This covers typical expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transport.
- As you plan your move to Portland, consider the possibility of increased living costs. The cost of living for a family there is 13% more than it is in Ann Arbor.
- The unemployment rate in Portland exceeds that of Ann Arbor by about 49%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 8% lower in Portland than Ann Arbor, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 36% higher in Maine than in Michigan. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Ann Arbor and Portland, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Ann Arbor | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $158.05 | $203.15 |
| Cell phone plan | $48.64 | $54.88 |
| Dozen eggs | $2.70 | $4.26 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.60 | $3.62 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $75.00 | $120.00 |
| Gym membership | $44.00 | $65.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Ann Arbor than in Portland, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Ann Arbor than in Portland.
- Eggs are less expensive in Ann Arbor than in Portland.
- Bread costs less in Ann Arbor than in Portland.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Ann Arbor than in Portland.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Ann Arbor than in Portland.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Ann Arbor than in Portland.
How life is different in Ann Arbor vs. Portland
| Ann Arbor | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 123,851 | 68,408 |
| Transportation score | 7 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 52 | 62 |
| Bike friendliness score | 71 | 68 |
| Crime index | 31.0 | 32.16 |
| Safety index | 79.18 | 67.84 |
| Air quality | Moderate | Good |
- Portland's population is about 45% less than Ann Arbor.
- Portland's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Ann Arbor's score of 7.
- Portland is more walkable than Ann Arbor with a score of 62 out of 100 vs Ann Arbor's 52 out of 100.
- Both Portland and Ann Arbor have similar bike-friendliness scores (71 vs 68), meaning Portland is about as safe for cyclists as Ann Arbor. Typically, cities with scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though higher scores mean better cycling accessibility.
- Portland and Ann Arbor have a similar crime rate with scores of 32.16 and 31.0, respectively.
- Portland is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 67.84 vs Ann Arbor's 79.18.
- Air quality in Portland is Good, and in Ann Arbor it's Moderate.
Other things to consider for your Ann Arbor to Portland move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- 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. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Maine moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Maine, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Portland without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. 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 will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Portland
Ready to relocate to The Forest City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Portland.
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
Now that you've made the move to Maine, it's the perfect time to explore Portland. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Portland include museums and art centers like the Portland Museum of Art, Victoria Mansion, 5th Maine Museum, and The Wadsworth-Longfellow House.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Eastern Promenade Trail, Back Cove Trail, Deering Oaks Park, and Quarry Run Dog Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Maine Celtics (G League)Maine Mariners (ECHL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Ann Arbor to Portland?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Ann Arbor to Portland. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Ann Arbor.
When is the cheapest time to move from Ann Arbor to Portland?
With many people choosing to move from Ann Arbor to Portland in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Ann Arbor to Portland take?
Covering 848 miles, the move from Ann Arbor, MI to Portland, ME typically takes two to seven days. Some Ann Arbor movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Portland can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Ann Arbor offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 1 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Ann Arbor can handle specialty items for my move to Portland?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Ann Arbor, 20 movers can handle pianos. 7 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of MI, there are 51 piano movers and 19 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,294 and 1,462 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
