Fargo, ND to Portland, ME Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Fargo to Portland typically costs $4,300–$9,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 1,732 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Fargo to Portland
Moving from Fargo, ND to Portland, ME typically costs $4,300–$9,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 1,732-mile move from Fargo to Portland, 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
- Roadway Moving recently quoted $4,269 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $4,681 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $4,012 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 01, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 23, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 22, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 06, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Dec 30, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 27, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 11, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 04, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 29, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 25, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Fargo 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 Fargo to Portland might be as low as $2,900, while a four-bedroom could reach $13,700.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Fargo.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $1,100 to $3,400 — 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 Fargo, ND guide.
Best Fargo to Portland movers by type
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Best professional movers from Fargo to Portland
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Fargo 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 ND→ME movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 11 North Dakota 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 Fargo to Portland
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Portland runs about 59% higher for singles and 84% higher for families than Fargo.
Singles spend around $2,491 in Portland versus $1,566 in Fargo; families pay $6,060 compared with $3,299.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Fargo | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $963 | $1,925 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,563 | $3,500 |
| Average home value | $287,548 | $542,001 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,493 | $64,171 |
| Cost of living (single) | $1,566 | $2,491 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $3,299 | $6,060 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | 5.2% |
| Sales tax | 7.5% | 5.5% |
| State income tax | 2.9% | 5.8% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 89% higher in Portland than in Fargo, which may impact your monthly finances.
- A larger mortgage budget will be necessary since home prices are about 88% higher in Portland than in Fargo.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 8% higher in Portland than in Fargo, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Anticipate increased living expenses in Portland, as the cost of living for a single person in Portland is 59% greater than in Fargo. 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 84% more than it is in Fargo.
- The unemployment rate in Portland exceeds that of Fargo by about 44%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes are 27% lower in Portland than Fargo, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 100% higher in Maine than in North Dakota. 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 Fargo and Portland, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Fargo | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $159.44 | $203.15 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.00 | $54.88 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.00 | $4.26 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.25 | $3.62 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $15.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $50.00 | $120.00 |
| Gym membership | $55.00 | $65.00 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Fargo than in Portland, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Fargo than in Portland.
- Eggs are less expensive in Fargo than in Portland.
- Bread costs less in Fargo than in Portland.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Fargo than in Portland.
- A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Fargo than in Portland.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Fargo than in Portland.
How life is different in Fargo vs. Portland
| Fargo | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 125,990 | 68,408 |
| Transportation score | 4 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 45 | 62 |
| Bike friendliness score | 49 | 68 |
| Crime index | 8.0 | 32.16 |
| Safety index | 56.17 | 67.84 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Portland's population is about 46% less than Fargo.
- Portland's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Fargo's score of 4.
- Portland is more walkable than Fargo with a score of 62 out of 100 vs Fargo's 45 out of 100.
- With a score of 68 out of 100, Portland is more bike-friendly than Fargo, which has a score of 49 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 Fargo with a score of 32.16 compared to Fargo's 8.0. This means that Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Fargo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0%.
- Portland is considered to be safer than Fargo with a safety index of 67.84 vs Fargo's 56.17.
- Air quality in Portland is Good, and in Fargo it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Fargo 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 Fargo to Portland?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Fargo to Portland. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Fargo.
When is the cheapest time to move from Fargo to Portland?
With many people choosing to move from Fargo 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 Fargo to Portland take?
Covering 1,732 miles, the move from Fargo, ND to Portland, ME typically takes four to 15 days. Some Fargo movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Portland can help bridge the gap.
How many movers in Fargo can handle specialty items for my move to Portland?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Fargo, 5 movers can handle pianos. 2 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of ND, there are 9 piano movers and 4 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
