Factors influencing moving costs from Portland to Fargotoggle

The cost of Portland movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The cost of your move will depend on the amount of items you have in your home. For example, moving a one-bedroom apartment from Portland to Fargo can be as low as $1,748 while a four-bedroom home can be as high as $ 12,403.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Portland, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • Do-it-yourself vs professional mover: Renting a truck or using a moving container can be cheaper options, with prices for a rental truck ranging from $1,176 to $3,161. However, these options require more work and effort compared to hiring professional movers.

What to know before moving from Portland to Fargo

Moving from Portland to Fargo 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 Fargo, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

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

Portland Fargo
Average rent cost $1,991 $1,055
Average home value $542,001 $287,548
Average income (per capita) $64,171 $59,493
Cost of living (single person) $2,491 $1,566
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,060 $3,299
Unemployment rate 5.2% 3.6%
Sales tax 5.5% 7.5%
State income tax 5.8% 2.9%
  • Rent prices in Fargo are 47% 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 Fargo.
    Home prices in Fargo are 46.9% lower than in Portland.
  • Income in Fargo is 7.3% lower than in Portland, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Fargo include Noridian Mutual Insurance Company, TMI Hospitality, and Scheels.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Fargo is 37.1% lower than in Portland. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Fargo is 45.6% lower than in Portland.
  • The unemployment rate in Fargo is 30.77% lower than in Portland.
  • Youโ€™ll spend more on retail and restaurants in Fargo, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Fargo are 36.36% higher than in Portland.
  • One perk of moving to Fargo is paying less in state income taxes, which are 50.00% lower than in Portland.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,885.99 in Fargo to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Portland.

How life is different in Portland vs. Fargo

Fargo Portland
Population 125,990 68,408
AllTransit Transportation Performance 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
  • Fargo's population is about 84% greater than Portland.
  • Fargo's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Portland's higher score of 6.
  • Fargo is less walkable than Portland with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Portland's 62 out of 100.
  • Fargo has a bike-friendliness score 49 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.
  • Fargo's crime rate is lower than Portland with a score of 8.0 compared to Portland's 32.16. This means that Fargo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
  • Fargo is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 56.17 vs Portland's 67.84.
  • Air quality in Fargo is good, and in Portland it's good.

Other things to consider for your Portland vs. Fargo move

  • Weather: August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Fargo, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
  • 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: All local and intrastate movers operating in the Flickertail State are regulated by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT). Each mover in good standing is issued an NDDOT Number, which consumers may check the status and validity of by calling the phone number listed below.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a North Dakota moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: North Dakota 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 Fargo. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, providing minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your selected 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 Fargo

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

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Rose Creek
  • Southpointe
  • Stonebridge
  • Lincoln
  • Horace Mann

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Rose Creek
  • Southpointe
  • Centennial
  • Pointe West
  • Woodhaven

Things to do in Fargo

Now that you've made the move to North Dakota, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Fargo. 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 Fargo, such as the Fargo Air Museum, Roger Maris Museum, and Plains Art Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Lindenwood Park, Rheault Farm, Northern Plains Botanic Garden Society, and Broadway Square 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 Fargo Force (USHL) and North Dakota State Bison (Summit League) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Portland to Fargo?

The best time to move from Portland to Fargo is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Portland.

When is the cheapest time to move from Portland to Fargo?

Because most people are moving from Portland to Fargo 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 Fargo take?

The 1,723-mile move from Portland, ME, to Fargo, ND, takes four to 15 days. Some Portland movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Fargo.

Helpful moving resources