Portland, OR to Olympia, WA Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Portland to Olympia typically costs $1,400–$4,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 114 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Portland to Olympia
Moving from Portland, OR to Olympia, WA typically costs $1,400–$4,200 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 114-mile move from Portland to Olympia, 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
- BLVD Moving recently quoted $2,286 for a 2 bedroom using professional movers.
- Safeway Moving recently quoted $1,194 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- United Van Lines recently quoted $3,106 for a 3 bedroom using professional movers.
2 Bedrooms
Feb 12, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 06, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 20, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 08, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Dec 29, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 29, 2025
1 Bedroom (small)
Dec 25, 2025
2 Bedrooms
Dec 20, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 14, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 08, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Portland to Olympia
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Portland to Olympia might be as low as $800, while a four-bedroom could reach $5,100.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Portland.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $100 to $300 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Olympia, WA to Portland, OR guide.
Best Portland to Olympia movers by type
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Best professional movers from Portland to Olympia
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Portland to Olympia, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
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 OR→WA movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 37 Oregon movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Portland to Olympia
Many movers find Olympia easier on the wallet than Portland - roughly 4% less for singles and 11% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,473 for one person in Olympia versus $2,572 in Portland. For a family of four, it's $5,391 compared with $6,077.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Portland | Olympia | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,825 | $1,675 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,410 | $2,817 |
| Average home value | $522,596 | $508,798 |
| Average income (per capita) | $85,876 | $66,492 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,572 | $2,473 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,077 | $5,391 |
| Unemployment rate | 6.9% | 5.6% |
| Sales tax | 0.0% | 9.4% |
| State income tax | 9.9% | 0.0% |
- Consider this before moving: Rent can be about 24% higher in Olympia than in Portland, which may impact your monthly finances.
- The home prices in Olympia and Portland differ by less than 5%, so there’s no need for a change in your mortgage funding unless you’re considering a larger residence.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 23% lower in Olympia than in Portland.
- With the cost of living for a single person differing by less than 5% between Olympia and Portland, expect similar day-to-day expenses.
- Relocating to Olympia could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 11% lower than in Portland.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 19% lower than Portland, Olympia boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Olympia has a sales tax, while Portland does not. That means you’ll pay more at checkout after your move, adding extra cost to everyday purchases.
- Washington has no income tax, meaning you keep more of your gross income, which can be a major advantage for salaried workers, freelancers, and retirees with taxable income.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Portland and Olympia, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Portland | Olympia |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $211.77 | $152.80 |
| Cell phone plan | $66.74 | $58.64 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.64 | $4.30 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.11 | $3.94 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $20.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $95.00 | $70.00 |
| Gym membership | $37.76 | $58.33 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Portland than in Olympia.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Portland than in Olympia.
- Eggs cost more in Portland than in Olympia.
- Bread is more expensive in Portland than in Olympia.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Portland than in Olympia.
- Gym memberships are more affordable in Portland than in Olympia.
How life is different in Portland vs. Olympia
| Portland | Olympia | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 652,503 | 55,605 |
| Transportation score | 8 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 81 | 39 |
| Bike friendliness score | 92 | 59 |
| Crime index | 57.37 | 27.95 |
| Safety index | 42.63 | 62.25 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Olympia's population is about 91% less than Portland.
- Olympia's public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Portland's score of 8.
- Olympia is less walkable than Portland with a score of 39 out of 100 vs Portland's 81 out of 100.
- Olympia has a bike-friendliness score of 59 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible or safe for cyclists as Portland, which has a score of 92.
- Olympia's crime rate is lower than Portland with a score of 27.95 compared to Portland's 57.37. This means that Olympia neighborhoods are safer than 27.95% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Portland neighborhoods are safer than 57.37%.
- Olympia is considered to be safer than Portland with a safety index of 62.25 vs Portland's 42.63.
- Air quality in Olympia is Good, and in Portland it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Portland to Olympia move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Movers operating within Washington DC city limits are subject to regulation by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, which issues operating permits to household goods moving companies. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Washington moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Washington, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Olympia without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. When planning a move in Washington state, explore movers' insurance options for added peace of mind. Many moving companies offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. Enhance your protection by discussing Full Value Protection with the moving company or exploring personalized plans with third-party insurance providers. Understand coverage limits, potential extra costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision on your Washington state moving insurance.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Olympia
Ready to relocate to Oly? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Olympia.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- South Capitol
- Downtown
- Bigelow Highlands
- Upper Eastside
- Eastside
- North East
- Bigelow
- South Westside
- Woodfield Estates
- Wellington West
Best neighborhoods for families
- Bigelow Highlands
- Holiday Hills
- Woodfield Estates
- Eastside
- Cain Road
- Indian Creek
- Governor Stevens
- Bigelow
- Carlyon-North
- Wellington West
Things to do in Olympia
Now that you've made the move to Washington, it's the perfect time to explore Olympia. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Olympia include museums and art centers like the Hands On Children's Museum, Olympic Flight Museum, WET Science Center, and Bigelow House Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, Squaxin Park, Percival Landing, and Tolmie State Park, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Portland to Olympia?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Portland to Olympia. You'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 Olympia?
With many people choosing to move from Portland to Olympia in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Portland to Olympia take?
Covering 114 miles, the move from Portland, OR to Olympia, WA typically takes one to two days. Some Portland movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Olympia can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Portland offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Portland can handle specialty items for my move to Olympia?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Portland, 16 movers can handle pianos. 10 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of OR, there are 28 piano movers and 16 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
