Factors that influence moving costs from Portland to Kansas Citytoggle

The cost of Portland movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Portland to Kansas City might cost as little as $1,710, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $11,789.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Portland, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $1,065 to $2,769. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Portland to Kansas City

Moving from Portland to Kansas City means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Portland than in Kansas City, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Portland compares to Kansas City so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Portland Kansas City
Average rent cost $1,991 $1,300
Average home value $542,001 $233,378
Average income (per capita) $64,171 $64,551
Cost of living (single person) $2,491 $2,473
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,060 $6,361
Unemployment rate 5.2% 5.3%
Sales tax 5.5% 8.4%
State income tax 5.8% 4.8%
  • Rent prices in Kansas City are 35% lower than in Portland, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Kansas City.
    Home prices in Kansas City are 56.9% lower than in Portland.
  • Income is the same in Kansas City and Portland. The top employers in Kansas City include Public School System, Federal Government, and State/County/City Government.
  • The cost of living for a single person is the same in Kansas City and Portland. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • If youโ€™re moving your family to Kansas City, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Kansas City is 5.0% higher than in Portland.
  • The unemployment rate in Kansas City is 1.92% higher than in Portland.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Kansas City, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Kansas City are 52.73% higher than in Portland.
  • One perk of moving to Kansas City is paying less in state income taxes, which are 17.24% lower than in Portland.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,978.32 in Kansas City to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Portland.

How life is different in Portland vs. Kansas City

Kansas City Portland
Population 508,090 68,408
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 6
Walkability score 35 62
Bike friendliness score 35 68
Crime Index 58.4 32.16
Safety Index 42.6 67.84
Air Quality Good Good
  • Kansas City's population is about 643% greater than Portland.
  • Kansas City's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Portland's higher score of 6.
  • Kansas City is less walkable than Portland with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Portland's 62 out of 100.
  • Kansas City has a bike-friendliness score 35 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.
  • Kansas City's crime rate is higher than Portland with a score of 58.4 compared to Portland's 32.16. This means that Kansas City neighborhoods are safer than 58.4% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
  • Kansas City is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 42.6 vs Portland's 67.84.
  • Air quality in Kansas City is good, and in Portland it's good.

Other things to consider for your Portland vs. Kansas City move

  • Weather: Kansas City is in an area of the country with a lot of storms, very hot summers, and very cold winters. Therefore, there's chance that your move will be affected by the weather. Check the forecast ahead of time to plan accordingly. Remember, moves often require 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: Movers that provide local and intrastate relocation services in Missouri fall under the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). Every household goods mover operating in the state is required to have a MoDOT Number.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Missouri moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Missouri doesn\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™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. Youโ€™ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Kansas City. 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, the budget-friendly choice with no extra cost from movers. This minimal coverage ensures that movers are liable for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per item. For a comprehensive coverage of your valuables, explore alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider. Ensure the full value of your items is covered by consulting with the moving company for suitable alternatives.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Kansas City

Ready to relocate to "KC"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Kansas City.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • River Market
  • Union Hill
  • Volker
  • West Plaza
  • West Waldo

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Armour Hills
  • Brookside
  • Sunset Hill
  • Volker
  • Waldo

Things to do in Kansas City

Now that you've made the move to Missouri, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Kansas City. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Kansas City, such as the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, National World War I Museum and Memorial, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, and Union Station.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden, Loose Park, Thomas Hart Benton Home and Studio State Historic Site, and Line Creek Trail โ€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Kansas City Chiefs (NFL), Kansas City Royals (MLB), Sporting Kansas City (MLS), or Sporting Kansas City II (MLS Next Pro) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Portland to Kansas City?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Portland to Kansas City. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Portland.

When is the cheapest time to move from Portland to Kansas City?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Portland to Kansas City, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Portland to Kansas City take?

The 1,529-mile journey from Portland, ME to Kansas City, MO typically takes four to 15 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 Kansas City.

Helpful moving resources