($1,667) Movers From Portland, ME to Atlanta, GA

What to know before moving from Portland to Atlanta

Moving from Portland to Atlanta comes with exciting new opportunities — but also higher living costs. Since Atlanta 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 Atlanta are 5% lower than in Portland, which means you’ll have more money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Atlanta.
  Home prices in Atlanta are 28.4% lower than in Portland.
• Income in Atlanta is 3.0% higher than in Portland, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Atlanta include Delta Air Lines, Emory University / Emory Healthcare, and The Home Depot.
• Be sure to budget for higher bills in Atlanta, since the cost of living for a single person in Atlanta is 25.8% higher than in Portland. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• If you’re moving your family to Atlanta, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Atlanta is 29.1% higher than in Portland.
• The unemployment rate in Atlanta is 15.38% higher than in Portland.
• You’ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Atlanta, since the city’s sales taxes in Atlanta are 61.82% higher than in Portland.
• One perk of moving to Atlanta is paying less in state income taxes, which are 5.34% lower than in Portland.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,774.39 in Atlanta to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Portland.

How life is different in Portland vs. Atlanta

• Atlanta's population is about 629% greater than Portland.
• Atlanta's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Portland's lower score of 6.
• Atlanta is less walkable than Portland with a score of 48 out of 100 vs Portland's 62 out of 100.
• Atlanta has a bike-friendliness score 42 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.
• Atlanta's crime rate is higher than Portland with a score of 64.23 compared to Portland's 32.16. This means that Atlanta neighborhoods are safer than 64.23% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
• Atlanta is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 35.77 vs Portland's 67.84.
• Air quality in Atlanta is moderate, and in Portland it's good.

Other things to consider for your Portland vs. Atlanta move

• Weather: Atlanta has hot summers and cool winters. It's unlikely that the weather will delay your move but prepare for the weather ahead of move day since moving typically requires spending many hours outdoors.
• 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: Moving companies in Georgia are regulated by the the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS). Regulations include insurance requirements and the handling of consumer complaints.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
• State regulator: You can check the status of a Georgia moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
• Moving permits: Georgia 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 Atlanta. 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 for its cost-effectiveness, offered by movers at no extra charge. However, it provides minimal coverage, with the mover's responsibility limited to 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage matching the full value of your items, explore other options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
• Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Atlanta

Ready to relocate to "Atl"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Atlanta.

Helpful moving resources