Portland, ME to Los Angeles, CA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Portland to Los Angeles typically costs $5,300–$10,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 3,081 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Portland to Los Angeles
Moving from Portland, ME to Los Angeles, CA typically costs $5,300–$10,800 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 3,081-mile move from Portland to Los Angeles, 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
- Mayzlin Relocation recently quoted $4,188 for a 1 bedroom (small) using professional movers.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $6,710 for a 1 bedroom (large) using professional movers.
- Colonial Van Lines recently quoted $4,703 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (small)
Feb 09, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 03, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 26, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 19, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 12, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 03, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 01, 2026
Studio apartment
Dec 22, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 13, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 03, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Portland to Los Angeles move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $3,400 for a one-bedroom, or up to $16,400 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 $1,900 to $5,300, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Los Angeles, CA to Portland, ME guide.
Best Portland to Los Angeles movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Portland to Los Angeles
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Portland to Los Angeles 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 ME→CA movers
The experienced professionals at moveBuddha reviewed moving rates from 15 Maine 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 Los Angeles
Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move - Los Angeles runs about 134% higher for singles and 110% higher for families than Portland.
Singles spend around $5,833 in Los Angeles versus $2,491 in Portland; families pay $12,720 compared with $6,060.
Dig into the side-by-side details here:
| Portland | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,925 | $2,603 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,500 | $4,443 |
| Average home value | $542,001 | $2,368,088 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,171 | $74,993 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,491 | $5,833 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,060 | $12,720 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 10.6% |
| Sales tax | 5.5% | 9.5% |
| State income tax | 5.8% | 13.3% |
- Planning a move to Los Angeles? Keep in mind that rent could be approximately 49% higher than in Portland, so be sure to adjust your monthly expenses accordingly.
- Anticipate a larger mortgage expense since home prices in Los Angeles are about 337% higher than those in Portland.
- Exciting update: you'll see an average income that's about 17% higher in Los Angeles compared to Portland, which might allow for more savings or investments.
- Prepare your budget for higher expenses in Los Angeles, as living costs for a single person are 134% higher than in Portland. This includes essential costs such as utilities, groceries, clothing, and commuting.
- If you're moving your family to Los Angeles, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Los Angeles is 110% higher than in Portland.
- Los Angeles shows an unemployment rate that exceeds Portland by around 104%. This increase suggests a broader candidate selection for employers, possibly making the job market more competitive for applicants.
- Sales taxes in Los Angeles are 73% more than in Portland, implying increased costs for common purchases like apparel, dining, and gadgets.
- Income taxes in California are 129% above those in Maine. 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 Los Angeles:
| Living Expense | Portland | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $203.15 | $192.54 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.88 | $62.50 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.26 | $7.02 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.62 | $4.58 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $100.00 |
| Gym membership | $65.00 | $47.76 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Portland than in Los Angeles.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Portland than in Los Angeles.
- Eggs are less expensive in Portland than in Los Angeles.
- Bread costs less in Portland than in Los Angeles.
- 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 Los Angeles.
- Gym memberships cost more in Portland than in Los Angeles.
How life is different in Portland vs. Los Angeles
| Portland | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 68,408 | 3,820,914 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 8 |
| Walkability score | 62 | 69 |
| Bike friendliness score | 68 | 59 |
| Crime index | 32.16 | 53.81 |
| Safety index | 67.84 | 46.19 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Los Angeles's population is about 5485% greater than Portland.
- Los Angeles's public transportation score of 8 out of 10 is higher than Portland's score of 6.
- Los Angeles is more walkable than Portland with a score of 69 out of 100 vs Portland's 62 out of 100.
- Los Angeles has a bike-friendliness score of 59 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 68.
- Los Angeles's crime rate is higher than Portland with a score of 53.81 compared to Portland's 32.16. This means that Los Angeles neighborhoods are safer than 53.81% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
- Los Angeles is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 46.19 vs Portland's 67.84.
- Air quality in Los Angeles is Moderate, and in Portland it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Portland to Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles
Planning your move to City of Angels? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Los Angeles.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Echo Park
- Los Feliz
- Playa Del Rey
- Silver Lake
- Westwood
Best neighborhoods for families
- Brentwood
- Eagle Rock
- Mar Vista
- Playa Vista
- Studio City
Things to do in Los Angeles
After settling into your new California home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Los Angeles has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Los Angeles features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the The Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, Petersen Automotive Museum, and Battleship USS Iowa Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon Park, Lake Hollywood Park, and Echo 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 Los Angeles Clippers (NBA)Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB)Los Angeles FC (MLS)Los Angeles Kings (NHL)Los Angeles Lakers (NBA)Los Angeles Rams (NFL)Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Portland to Los Angeles?
Planning your move from Portland to Los Angeles? 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 Los Angeles?
Because most people are moving from Portland to Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles take?
The 3,081-mile journey from Portland, ME to Los Angeles, CA, typically takes seven to 21 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 Los Angeles.
Are piano and antique moving services available in Portland?
Not all movers have the resources to handle high-value or delicate items. In Portland, 9 movers can manage piano relocations. 6 movers are equipped for antique transport. By comparison, Maine has 13 piano movers and 7 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.
