austin to portland

---
title: "Moving from Austin to Portland: Cost, Best Movers & What to Expect"
description: "Real cost estimates, top-rated movers, and key things to know before your 2,053-mile move from Austin to Portland, OR."
author: Sean Sullivan
keywords: ["moving from Austin to Portland", "Austin to Portland movers", "Austin to Portland moving cost", "long-distance movers Austin", "moving to Portland Oregon", "Austin moving companies", "Portland relocation guide"]
---

# Moving from Austin to Portland: Cost, Best Movers & What to Expect

If you're moving from Austin to Portland, you already know this isn't a weekend truck trip. At 2,053 miles, it's a serious long-haul move — and the stakes are high enough that picking the wrong mover or underestimating your budget can cost you real money and real stress.

Here's what I've put together: the best Austin movers for this route based on verified customer feedback, honest cost ranges for every budget level, and a straight comparison of what life in Portland actually costs versus Austin. No wind-ups.

---

## Best Austin Movers for Your Portland Move

Finding an Austin mover who handles long-distance to Portland — and does it well — takes some digging. I reviewed 32 local Austin movers operating on this route, evaluated by pricing, service range, and customer feedback. Here are the five that held up.

1. **College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving** — 4.64 / 5
2. **NorthStar Moving Company** — 4.58 / 5
3. **Greater Austin Moving** — 4.66 / 5
4. **Firefighting's Finest Moving & Storage** — 4.72 / 5
5. **3 Men Movers** — 4.56 / 5

---

### College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving

**720 Bastrop Hwy, Austin, TX 78741 | (336) 810-1801**

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/college-hunks-hauling-junk-and-moving-austin-austin) — 215 reviews
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=college+hunks+moving+service+austin&sxsrf=AJOqlzXuy1So7_mKf8vbewpp5Py14bOOdA%3A1676449306517) — 1,324 reviews
- [BBB: Grade A](https://www.bbb.org/us/tx/austin/profile/moving-companies/college-hunks-moving-0825-1000190325)

**80% positive | 19% negative**

State license: 007743472C | DOT: 2378173 | 6 years in business

College Hunks earns its reputation mostly on speed and crew attitude. Of 469 reviews analyzed, 80% highlight fast movers, friendly staff, and solid communication — and customers regularly report crews finishing jobs ahead of the estimated time.

The complaints that do surface (about 19% of feedback) center on item damage, charges that came in above the original quote, and occasional late arrivals or no-shows. The billing transparency issue is the most consistent pattern: get your quote in writing before move day and know exactly what triggers additional charges.

Good pick for efficiency on a long-distance haul, with the caveat that you verify pricing details upfront.

**Services:** Local moves, packing, unpacking, office moves, storage, credit card accepted

---

### NorthStar Moving Company

**2021 Guadalupe St, Suite 260, Austin, TX 78705 | (512) 790-0087**

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/northstar-moving-company-austin) — 24 reviews
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Northstar+Moving+Company+Austin&sxsrf=AJOqlzXrJmOXbCS0_ATHLd4azpHAiw1zZA%3A1676881918108) — 80 reviews
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tx/austin/profile/moving-companies/northstar-moving-company-0825-1000202902)

**93% positive | 7% negative**

State license: 009181943C | DOT: 1836576 | 30 years in business

Thirty years in the moving business is easy to claim; a 93% positive rate across 43 reviews is harder to fake. NorthStar customers consistently call out careful handling, professional crews, and strong communication before and after the move — the kind of reliability that most movers advertise but few deliver consistently.

Where they fall short: the 7% of negative reviews describe missing items, damaged valuables, and a difficult claims resolution process. If you have irreplaceable pieces, get the specifics on their full-valuation coverage in writing before you book.

For most interstate moves on this route, NorthStar's track record puts them near the top of the list.

**Services:** Local, interstate, and international moves; packing, unpacking, office moves, pianos, art, antiques, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage; cash and credit accepted

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### Greater Austin Moving

**9201 Brown Ln #180, Austin, TX 78754 | (512) 766-6683**

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/greater-austin-moving-austin-2) — 27 reviews
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=Greater+Austin+moving) — 83 reviews
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tx/pflugerville/profile/moving-and-storage-companies/greater-austin-moving-0825-1000109287)

**95% positive | 6% negative**

State license: 006252715C | 24 years in business

A 94.5% positive rate out of 110 reviews is genuinely impressive on a route with this much competition. Greater Austin Moving gets flagged repeatedly for courteous crews, careful item protection, straightforward booking, and upfront pricing — attributes that are rarer than they should be.

The small share of negative reviews (around 5.5%) involve furniture damage, pricing discrepancies, and difficulty following up on claims. These show up at most regional movers; Greater Austin's volume of issues runs below average. Overall, a reliable option for a move of this distance.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office moves, pianos, crating, storage, credit card accepted

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### Firefighting's Finest Moving & Storage

**1800 W Howard Ln, Austin, TX 78728 | (512) 361-6683**

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/firefightings-finest-moving-and-storage-austin-2) — 24 reviews
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=firefighting%27s+finest+moving+%26+storage+austin+tx) — 370 reviews
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tx/fort-worth/profile/moving-companies/firefightings-finest-moving-storage-inc-0825-235962333)

**91% positive | 8% negative**

State license: 007074263C | DOT: 2783472 | 22 years in business | DOD certified

The highest-rated company on this list at 4.72/5, and the reviews back it up. Out of 241 pieces of feedback, 91% describe professional, polite crews who protect furniture carefully, communicate clearly about pricing, and typically finish on time or ahead of schedule.

Negative reviews are proportionally rare: some clients mention damaged items, higher-than-quoted costs, or inconsistencies in crew experience. The overall track record is among the best you'll find on this route. The DOD certification is also worth noting for any military families doing a PCS move through Austin.

**Services:** Local moves, packing, unpacking, office moves, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, art, antiques, grandfather clocks, crating, full-valuation coverage, storage, fragile-only packing, safes; money order, cash, and credit accepted; deposit required

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### 3 Men Movers

**1005 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701 | (512) 982-9705**

- [Yelp reviews](https://www.yelp.com/biz/3-men-movers-austin-austin) — 91 reviews
- [Google reviews](https://www.google.com/search?q=3+men+movers+austin) — 953 reviews
- [BBB: Grade A+](https://www.bbb.org/us/tx/houston/profile/moving-companies/3-men-movers-0915-26717)

**93% positive | 7% negative**

State license: 000534796B | DOT: 1914113 | 40 years in business

Forty years in business and a 92.7% positive rate across 273 reviews. Customers consistently describe efficient, punctual crews who handle belongings carefully and communicate well throughout the process. People regularly note that the team finishes faster than competitors while being more careful with their stuff.

The 7% of negative feedback covers property damage, late arrivals, and a few jobs that felt rushed. A handful of reviews mention broken items without adequate follow-through on compensation. Worth inspecting your belongings carefully before the crew wraps up.

What you get with 3 Men Movers is a long-established, consistently reliable operation — not flawless, but better than most.

**Services:** Local and interstate moves, packing, unpacking, office moves, pianos, storage, safes

---

## How Much Does It Cost to Move from Austin to Portland?

Moving rates in [Texas](/movers/texas) average around $131 per hour for professional crews. For a 2,053-mile haul like Austin to Portland, your total depends heavily on home size, time of year, and whether you go full-service, container, or rental truck.

Use the [MoveFinders moving cost calculator](/calculator) to get a personalized estimate based on your actual move date and home size.

Here's a breakdown of typical cost ranges for this route:

| Move Size | Full-Service Movers | Moving Container | Rental Truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 BR | $1,265 – $4,916 | $1,074 – $2,799 | $1,103 – $2,063 |
| 2–3 BR | $3,133 – $7,063 | $1,952 – $4,185 | $1,255 – $2,560 |
| 4+ BR | $6,423 – $10,826 | $2,867 – $5,375 | $1,615 – $3,041 |

*Ranges are approximate for a 2,053-mile move from Austin to Portland, based on pricing data as of January 2026. Actual costs vary with shipment size, access conditions, fuel rates, seasonal demand, and added services. Get quotes from multiple movers before committing.*

### Cost to Hire Full-Service Movers from Austin to Portland

Full-service is the most hands-off option, and on a move this long, a lot of people find it worth the premium. Budget $1,265 to $4,916 for a studio or one-bedroom. Two- to three-bedroom moves typically run $3,133 to $7,063. For a four-plus-bedroom home, expect $6,423 to $10,826.

If you haven't used a [long-distance moving company](/best/long-distance-movers) before, get at least three quotes — this route sees significant price variation between carriers.

### Cost of Moving Containers from Austin to Portland

[Moving containers](/best/moving-containers) split the difference between full-service and DIY: you pack at your own pace, they handle the driving. Costs run $1,074 to $2,799 for a small move, $1,952 to $4,185 for a two- to three-bedroom, and $2,867 to $5,375 for a four-bedroom or larger.

Container pricing can look attractive upfront, but watch for fuel surcharges and destination fees on a haul this long — they add up.

### Cost of Rental Trucks from Austin to Portland

[Renting a truck](/best/truck-rentals) is the cheapest option on paper, but you're doing all the loading and driving 2,053 miles yourself. Studio or one-bedroom: $1,103 to $2,063. Two- to three-bedroom: $1,255 to $2,560. Four-bedroom and up: $1,615 to $3,041. These estimates factor in average fuel costs, but mileage overages can bite you on a trip this distance.

### Key Factors That Affect Your Austin to Portland Moving Cost

- **Home size:** A one-bedroom averages around $2,328; a four-bedroom can reach $10,122.
- **Time of year:** Summer is peak season in Austin. Moving in late fall or winter means lower rates and more scheduling flexibility.
- **DIY vs. professional:** Truck rentals range from $1,103 to $2,862 but require you to handle all the labor and the entire drive.

---

## What to Know Before Moving from Austin to Portland

The headline number is that Portland is roughly 23% cheaper for singles and 22% cheaper for families. That's real — but the full picture is more complicated, particularly on taxes.

| | Austin | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,208 | $1,825 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $3,827 | $3,410 |
| Average home value | $508,841 | $522,596 |
| Average per capita income | $68,258 | $85,876 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,345 | $2,572 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $7,815 | $6,077 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.5% | 6.9% |
| Sales tax | 8.25% | 0.0% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 9.9% |

*Sources: World Population Review, Zillow, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation*

What that table actually means in practice:

- **Rent** is about 13% cheaper in Portland — real savings month over month.
- **Home values** are close (within 5%), so if you're buying, don't expect a windfall.
- **Income** averages about 26% higher in Portland — but that's before Oregon's income tax takes a bite.
- **Overall cost of living** is 23% lower for singles and 22% lower for families, mostly driven by housing.
- **Unemployment** in Portland is nearly double Austin's rate (6.9% vs. 3.5%). The job market is more competitive — factor that in if you don't have something lined up before you move.
- **Sales tax:** Portland has none. Every taxable purchase is cheaper.
- **State income tax:** Oregon taxes income at up to 9.9%. Texas taxes none. That higher average Portland income gets trimmed significantly once Oregon's tax code applies to it.

Here's how day-to-day expenses compare:

| Expense | Austin | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $181.48 | $211.77 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.16 | $66.74 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.35 | $4.64 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.50 | $4.11 |
| Fast food / casual meal | $20.00 | $20.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range) | $77.50 | $95.00 |
| Gym membership | $62.38 | $37.76 |

Groceries and utilities tilt slightly toward Austin. Gym memberships are notably cheaper in Portland. Dining out runs meaningfully more expensive in Portland. On net, the overall cost-of-living edge for Portland holds — it's just not uniform across every category.

### How Life Differs Between Austin and Portland

| | Austin | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 974,447 | 652,503 |
| Transit score | 5 / 10 | 8 / 10 |
| Walkability score | 42 / 100 | 81 / 100 |
| Bike friendliness | 54 / 100 | 92 / 100 |
| Crime index | 42.91 | 57.37 |
| Safety index | 59.87 | 42.63 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |

*Sources: Wikipedia, AllTransit, Walk Score, NeighborhoodScout, AirNow*

A few things worth calling out specifically:

- Portland is dramatically more walkable (81 vs. 42) and ranks among the most bike-friendly cities in the country (92 out of 100). If you're coming from Austin's car-dependent sprawl, this is a genuine lifestyle shift.
- Public transit is better in Portland — an 8 out of 10 versus Austin's 5. Actual usable transit, not just a token bus line.
- Crime runs higher in Portland. The crime index of 57.37 versus Austin's 42.91 means Portland neighborhoods are statistically safer than roughly 57% of U.S. neighborhoods — but Austin is safer than Portland by this measure. The safety index confirms it: 42.63 for Portland vs. 59.87 for Austin. Portland is not uniquely dangerous, but it's worth researching specific neighborhoods before you sign a lease.
- Air quality is Good in both cities.

### Other Logistics to Handle for Your Austin to Portland Move

- **Building rules:** Check any moving restrictions — elevator reservations, truck access windows, noise curfews — in both your Austin building and your Portland destination.
- **Truck parking permits:** Some Portland neighborhoods require permits for large moving vehicles parked on the street. Confirm before move day.
- **Oregon mover licensing:** Moving companies delivering into [Oregon](/movers/oregon) must carry a valid USDOT number and a license issued by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). Verify both before booking anyone for the Portland end of your move.
- **State regulator:** Oregon's public utilities commission provides official mover license verification.
- **Moving permits:** Oregon doesn't require specific moving permits, but check local parking restrictions before the truck arrives.
- **Change of address:** File your USPS change of address at least one week before your move date. It sets an official forwarding start date and keeps your mail from getting lost in the transition.
- **Mover insurance:** All movers must offer Released Value Protection at no charge, but coverage is capped at 60 cents per pound per item — which doesn't go far on a 2,000-mile haul. Full-valuation coverage or a separate moving insurance policy is worth serious consideration here.
- **Moving checklist:** Use the [MoveFinders moving checklist](/resources/moving-checklist) to track everything from utility transfers to vehicle registration in Oregon.

---

## Where to Live in Portland

Neighborhood choice in Portland matters more than most people expect before they get there. Here's a quick breakdown by life stage.

### Best Neighborhoods for Singles

- Downtown
- Northwest
- Buckman
- Goose Hollow
- Eliot
- Richmond
- Pearl

### Best Neighborhoods for Families

- Forest Park
- Hillsdale
- Irvington
- Sellwood-Moreland
- Southwest Hills

### Things to Do in Portland

Portland rewards exploration once you're settled. A few highlights:

- **Arts and culture:** The Portland Art Museum, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Oregon Historical Society, and Oregon Maritime Museum cover a lot of ground for a city of this size.
- **Outdoor recreation:** Washington Park, Forest Park, Hoyt Arboretum, and Mount Tabor Park offer trails, cycling, and open space — particularly satisfying given how bike-accessible Portland is.
- **Sports:** The Trail Blazers (NBA), Portland Timbers (MLS), and Portland Thorns (NWSL) all have serious local followings.

*Source: AttractionsofAmerica*

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## Austin to Portland Move: FAQ

### When is the best time to move from Austin to Portland?

Spring and fall. Weather is reasonable on both ends, demand is below summer peak, and movers have more availability. You'll get better scheduling options and likely better pricing than if you move in July.

### When is the cheapest time to move from Austin to Portland?

Winter. Most people avoid it, which means movers have open capacity and are more willing on price. If you can handle arriving in Portland in the cold, the savings are real.

### How long does a move from Austin to Portland take?

The 2,053-mile trip typically takes professional movers six to seventeen days. Some Austin movers offer expedited service if you're on a hard deadline — ask about it upfront. If your Portland place isn't ready when the truck arrives, confirm whether storage-in-transit is available before you book.

### Are there special discounts available from Austin movers?

Some Austin movers on this route offer discounts for specific groups. Of the movers reviewed here, two offer military discounts and two extend reduced rates to seniors. These vary by company and scheduling, so confirm the details directly before booking.

### Can Austin movers handle pianos and antiques?

Not all of them. For this route, 18 Austin movers handle piano relocations and 13 are equipped for antique transport. Across Texas, there are 179 piano movers and 124 antique movers; nationally, those numbers are 2,299 and 1,464 respectively.

If you have specialty items, ask specifically about packing methods and liability coverage — not just whether they technically offer the service.

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## Plan Your Austin to Portland Move

The cost ranges above are a starting point. To get actual numbers for your home size and move date, [compare moving quotes with our calculator](/calculator) — prices on this route vary enough by season and mover that a few quotes will tell you more than any estimate can.

If you're shipping a vehicle to Portland separately, check out [auto transport options](/best/car-shipping) — on a 2,000-mile move, having someone else drive your car often makes more sense than it seems upfront.

And if you're still evaluating how to structure the move itself, the [long-distance movers guide](/best/long-distance-movers) covers what to look for in a carrier and how to protect yourself on an interstate move.