Portland, ME to Manchester, NH Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Portland to Manchester typically costs $1,300–$4,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 93 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Portland to Manchester
Moving from Portland, ME to Manchester, NH typically costs $1,300–$4,100 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 93-mile move from Portland to Manchester, 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
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $2,540 for a 4 bedroom using professional movers.
- American Van Lines recently quoted $1,015 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $1,962 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
4 Bedrooms
Feb 01, 2026
Studio apartment
Jan 30, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 29, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 23, 2026
1 Bedroom (small)
Jan 03, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Dec 26, 2025
3 Bedrooms
Dec 24, 2025
Studio apartment
Dec 21, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 09, 2025
Key factors that impact the cost of your Portland to Manchester move
Your total cost will depend on:
- Home size: The number of rooms makes a big difference. Expect around $700 for a one-bedroom, or up to $4,700 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 $100 to $200, but require more effort than hiring movers.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Manchester, NH to Portland, ME guide.
Best Portland to Manchester movers by type
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Local
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Portland to Manchester
Opting for a full-service mover can make your interstate move from Portland to Manchester 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→NH 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 Manchester
Many movers find Manchester easier on the wallet than Portland - roughly 2% less for singles and 13% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,449 for one person in Manchester versus $2,491 in Portland. For a family of four, it's $5,256 compared with $6,060.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Portland | Manchester | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,925 | $1,767 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,500 | $2,461 |
| Average home value | $542,001 | $410,329 |
| Average income (per capita) | $64,171 | $67,132 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,491 | $2,449 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,060 | $5,256 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | 3.8% |
| Sales tax | 5.5% | 0.0% |
| State income tax | 5.8% | 4.0% |
- Moving to Manchester from Portland won't change your financial plan too much, as rent costs are comparable.
- You can relax about your monthly mortgage expenses, thanks to home prices being nearly 24% more affordable in Manchester compared to Portland.
- In terms of average income, Manchester and Portland are closely matched, within a 5% range, keeping your financial situation largely unchanged.
- Since the cost of living for a single person in both Manchester and Portland is within a 5% difference, your expenses will be quite similar.
- A move to Manchester can help cut down on a family's routine expenses, including utilities, transportation, and groceries. The cost of living for a family of four is 13% less than what it costs in Portland.
- The unemployment rate in Manchester is about 27% lower than in Portland. This is often a positive indicator of a robust job market and economic health, beneficial if you plan to move there.
- Manchester has no sales tax, so you’ll save money on every taxable purchase compared to Portland. This can be especially helpful if you make frequent or larger purchases.
- Income taxes in New Hampshire are 31% below those in Maine. This decrease in income tax can leave more funds at your disposal, allowing you additional financial breathing room.
See how the cost of everyday necessities and regular monthly payments differs between Portland and Manchester:
| Living Expense | Portland | Manchester |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $203.15 | $218.54 |
| Cell phone plan | $54.88 | $51.38 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.26 | $4.53 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.62 | $3.01 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $27.50 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $120.00 | $85.00 |
| Gym membership | $65.00 | $81.25 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Portland than in Manchester, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Portland than in Manchester.
- Eggs are less expensive in Portland than in Manchester.
- Bread is more expensive in Portland than in Manchester.
- A quick meal is cheaper in Portland than in Manchester.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Portland than in Manchester.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Portland than in Manchester.
How life is different in Portland vs. Manchester
| Portland | Manchester | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 68,408 | 115,644 |
| Transportation score | 6 | 3 |
| Walkability score | 62 | 51 |
| Bike friendliness score | 68 | 42 |
| Crime index | 32.16 | 56.09 |
| Safety index | 67.84 | 43.91 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Manchester's population is about 69% greater than Portland.
- Manchester's public transportation score of 3 out of 10 is lower than Portland's score of 6.
- Manchester is less walkable than Portland with a score of 51 out of 100 vs Portland's 62 out of 100.
- Manchester has a bike-friendliness score of 42 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 68.
- Manchester's crime rate is higher than Portland with a score of 56.09 compared to Portland's 32.16. This means that Manchester neighborhoods are safer than 56.09% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 32.16%.
- Manchester is considered to be less safe than Portland with a score of 43.91 vs Portland's 67.84.
- Air quality in Manchester is Good, and in Portland it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Portland to Manchester 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: The New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT) is the agency tasked with regulating and overseeing movers that offer relocation services within the state. If you’ve already moved and had a dispute with your moving company, they may be able to help resolve the issue, but you’ll need to file a formal complaint first. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: New Hampshire’s public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- Moving Permits: New Hampshire 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 Manchester. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations. Choose Released Value Protection for a cost-free, minimal coverage option from movers. They're responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Where to live in Manchester
Planning your move to Queen City? Take a look at our picks for the best neighborhoods to call home in Manchester.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Wilton
- Bedford
- Amherst
- Merrimack
- Milford
- Hooksett
- Brookline
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bedford
- Hollis
- Amherst
- Mont Vernon
Things to do in Manchester
After settling into your new New Hampshire home, you'll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Manchester has lots to offer, no matter what you're interested in:
- Arts and culture: Manchester features a variety of museums and cultural arts centers, including the Currier Museum of Art, Millyard Museum, Scouting Museum and Library, and Art 3 Gallery.
- Outdoor recreation: The city's Lake Massabesic, Livingston Park, and Pine Island 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 New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Eastern League)Saint Anselm Hawks (NE-10)Southern New Hampshire Penmen (NE-10) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Portland to Manchester?
Planning your move from Portland to Manchester? 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 Manchester?
Because most people are moving from Portland to Manchester 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 Manchester take?
The 93-mile journey from Portland, ME to Manchester, NH, typically takes one to two 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 Manchester.
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.
