Portland, OR to Sacramento, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Portland to Sacramento typically costs $2,700–$7,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 580 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Portland to Sacramento
Moving from Portland, OR to Sacramento, CA typically costs $2,700–$7,000 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 580-mile move from Portland to Sacramento, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $2,440 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- PODS recently quoted $2,095 for a 3 bedroom using a moving container.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $5,809 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
Studio apartment
Feb 13, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Feb 08, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 27, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 22, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 21, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 11, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 07, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 26, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 12, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Nov 26, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Portland to Sacramento move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $1,600 for a one-bedroom, or up to $9,900 for a four-bedroom.
- The time of year you're moving: Rates climb in summer because of peak season demand in Portland.
- DIY vs. professional: Rental trucks can range from $500 to $1,300, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Sacramento, CA to Portland, OR guide.
Best Portland to Sacramento movers by type
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Container
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Rental Truck
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Portland to Sacramento
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Portland to Sacramento much easier by letting professionals manage the entire process. This choice allows you to focus on what matters most instead of the logistics of moving.
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 OR→CA movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 37 Oregon movers, pinpointing the highest-rated services by analyzing satisfaction metrics, reviews, and overall cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The business consistently meets deadlines, communicates clearly with clients, and remains within the expected spending limits.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Mistakes cannot be avoided in the moving industry. We look for companies that own their mistakes and make genuine efforts to fix any issues that arise during a move.
- Industry reputation (15%): This mover maintains a strong reputation among industry peers and is active in professional associations and events.
- Online reputation (15%): A polished, accurate website and quick, respectful responses to online inquiries reflect the company’s strong digital presence.
- Service options (10%): A broad service menu matters. We value movers that cover everything from packing and storage to unique item care and speedy delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Portland to Sacramento
Overall, Portland and Sacramento land in a similar cost of living range, so your monthly outlay shouldn’t swing dramatically.
Singles average $2,656 in Sacramento and $2,572 in Portland, while families in Sacramento see $6,191 versus $6,077 in Portland.
Here’s how the everyday expenses compare across both cities:
| Portland | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,825 | $2,080 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,410 | $3,540 |
| Average home value | $522,596 | $476,699 |
| Average income (per capita) | $85,876 | $78,954 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,572 | $2,656 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,077 | $6,191 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.9% | 7.7% |
| Sales tax | 0.0% | 8.75% |
| State income tax | 9.9% | 13.3% |
- Planning a move to Sacramento? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 24% higher than in Portland, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 9% more affordable in Sacramento compared to Portland.
- Reviewing your financial plan is wise before moving. The average income is nearly 8% lower in Sacramento compared to Portland.
- Since the cost of living for a single person in both Sacramento and Portland is within a 5% difference, your expenses will be quite similar.
- The cost of living for a family is within about 5% of the same in Sacramento and Portland, so you probably won’t see a major difference in expenses.
- Sacramento shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Portland by around 12%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sacramento has a sales tax, while Portland does not. That means you’ll pay more at checkout after your move, adding extra cost to everyday purchases.
- Income taxes in California are 34% above those in Oregon. Consequently, more of your income may be allocated to tax payments, which could diminish your overall earnings.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Portland and Sacramento:
| Living Expense | Portland | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $211.77 | $356.80 |
| Cell phone plan | $66.74 | $61.14 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.64 | $4.58 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.11 | $4.27 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $95.00 | $80.00 |
| Gym membership | $37.76 | $47.08 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Portland than in Sacramento, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Portland than in Sacramento.
- Eggs cost more in Portland than in Sacramento.
- Bread costs less in Portland than in Sacramento.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Portland than in Sacramento.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Portland than in Sacramento.
How life is different in Portland vs. Sacramento
| Portland | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 652,503 | 524,943 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 81 | 49 |
| Bike friendliness score | 92 | 67 |
| Crime index | 57.37 | 49.21 |
| Safety index | 42.63 | 50.79 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Sacramento's population is about 20% less than Portland.
- Sacramento's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is lower than Portland's score of 8.
- Sacramento is less walkable than Portland with a score of 49 out of 100 vs Portland's 81 out of 100.
- Sacramento has a bike-friendliness score of 67 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 92.
- Sacramento's crime rate is lower than Portland with a score of 49.21 compared to Portland's 57.37. This means that Sacramento neighborhoods are safer than 49.21% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 57.37%.
- Sacramento is considered to be safer than Portland with a safety index of 50.79 vs Portland's 42.63.
- Air quality in Sacramento is Moderate, and in Portland it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Portland to Sacramento move
- 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: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: California’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: California 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 Sacramento. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Sacramento
Planning your move to Almond Capital of the World? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Sacramento.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Downtown Sacramento
- East Sacramento
- Land Park
- Natomas Park
- North Oak Park
Best neighborhoods for families
- Boulevard Park
- River Park
- Land Park
- Village 7
- East Sacramento
- Natomas Park
Things to do in Sacramento
After settling into your new California home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Sacramento has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Sacramento features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the California State Railroad Museum, Crocker Art Museum, California State Capitol Museum, and Old Sacramento.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, Capitol Park, William Land Park, and McKinley 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 Sacramento Kings (NBA)Sacramento Republic FC (USL Championship)Sacramento River Cats (Triple-A West) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Portland to Sacramento?
Planning your move from Portland to Sacramento? Aim for spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and demand is lower, helping you avoid peak-season rates in Portland.
When is the cheapest time to move from Portland to Sacramento?
Because most people are moving from Portland to Sacramento in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Portland to Sacramento take?
The 580-mile journey from Portland, OR to Sacramento, CA, typically takes one to six days. Some movers in Portland offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Sacramento.
Are there special savings available from movers in Portland?
Several movers here offer discounted rates that can help lower your total moving costs. 2 extend reduced rates to seniors.
These offers can vary widely, so it’s best to verify details with the mover before booking.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Portland?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Portland, 16 movers can manage piano relocations. 10 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Oregon has 28 piano movers and 16 antique movers, while nationwide there are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
Always confirm the mover’s experience and packing methods for fragile or specialty items before booking.
