($2,011) Movers From Portland, ME to Los Angeles, CA

What to know before moving from Portland to Los Angeles

Moving from Portland to Los Angeles comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Los Angeles is generally more expensive than Portland, it’s important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.

Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Los Angeles are 49% higher than in Portland, which means you’ll have less money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Portland.
  Home prices in Los Angeles are 336.9% higher than in Portland.
• Income in Los Angeles is 16.9% higher than in Portland, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Los Angeles include County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Unified School District, and City of Los Angeles (including DWP).
• Be sure to budget for higher bills in Los Angeles, since the cost of living for a single person in Los Angeles is 57.4% higher than in Portland. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• 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 52.0% higher than in Portland.
• The unemployment rate in Los Angeles is 103.85% higher than in Portland.
• You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Los Angeles, since the city’s sales taxes in Los Angeles are 72.73% higher than in Portland.
• State income taxes in Los Angeles are 129.31% higher than in Portland.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $4,723.40 in Los Angeles to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Portland.

How life is different in Portland vs. Los Angeles

• Los Angeles's population is about 5,485% greater than Portland.
• Los Angeles's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Portland's lower 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 59 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 68 out of 100.
• 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 vs. Los Angeles move

• Weather: The temperature in Los Angeles is known to be very comfortable. Los Angeles is subject to a phenomenon typical of a microclimate, causing variations in temperature. So be sure to check your weather report before your move.
• HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
• Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
• 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.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a California moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
• Moving permits: California doesn\’t require moving permits, but it\’s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
• 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: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.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: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Los Angeles

Ready to relocate to "City of Angels"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Los Angeles.

Helpful moving resources