Things to Know Before Moving to Portland from Vancouver

Vancouver isn’t the only amazing Pacific Northwest city – a five-hour drive over the border and down the coast brings you to Portland, Oregon. Renowned for its happening food scene, relaxed atmosphere, and a high number of hipsters-per-capita, Portland is a wonderful place to live.

If you’re making the move from Vancouver, British Columbia to Portland, Oregon, you have a lot to look forward to. Here are our essential tips moving to Portland, Oregon.

Preparing to Leave

It can get easy to get caught up in the excitement of your big move and forget about the administrative side of moving. Make sure that you take these essential steps before your move.

• Organize your documentation. In moving to a new country, you’ll need to make sure that you have everything you need to organize things like a driver’s license, an American credit card, and setting up a bank account. If you have this prepared before you leave, it’ll save you a lot of time and stress.
• Apply for insurance. You’ll need new insurance policies when you move countries to ensure that you’re safe and protected while living in Portland. It is important to remember that healthcare isn’t universal in the United States like it is in Canada; make sure that you get health insurance coverage organized for your move.
• Hire movers. Packing and moving is overwhelming at the best of times; when you’re moving to a new city in a different country, there’s a new level of stress. Working with movers is a great way to minimize stress and ensure that everything is prepared according to best practices when moving over the border. Trans Canada Movers specializes in efficient and effective cross-border moves; learn more here.

The Best Things About Portland

People throughout North America visit Portland each year and rave about what a wonderful place it is. Here are some of the best things about Portland, Oregon that you have to look forward to after relocating:

• Relaxed atmosphere. Many people joke that flannel, a beard, and a toque are the official uniform of Portland. It’s true – Portland has a relaxed atmosphere and is known for its friendly and kind people. This welcoming attitude makes moving there just a little bit easier.
• Incredible Food and Great Beer. You’ve seen pictures of the fish sauce chicken wings, the endless food trucks, and donuts bigger than your head. Portland is renowned for having one of the best food scenes in America. You’ll be able to enjoy delicious food, no matter your budget or preferences. If you’re a craft beer lover, you’re in luck. There are 58 high-quality craft breweries in Portland for you to taste your way through.
• No sales tax. In Portland, there is no sales tax, making it way easier to budget and calculate your purchases. However, keep in mind that there are higher income taxes as a result, as well as a mandatory $35 arts tax required by all residents each year.
• Close to nature. Those of us from Vancouver love being so close to the mountains and beaches. Portland is filled with parks and surrounded by beautiful hiking trails that lead to views and waterfalls. Tyron Creek is an especially great option for reconnecting with nature.
• The beauty of Oregon. There are plenty more beautiful things to see in Oregon if you feel like taking a weekend out of the city. Dip your toe into the ocean along the Oregon Coast, camp amongst the trees near Mt. Hood, or sip wines in the Willamette Valley.

Where do you want to live?

Portland is known for having cool and diverse neighborhoods. The city is divided into 5 quadrants, each with its own distinct flavour.

• North Portland is the most industrial and least-trendy of the quadrants; if you’re moving to Portland to go to school, you might spend a lot of time here, as this is where the University of Portland is located.
• Northwest Portland is known for its historic landmarks and upper-class eateries. In Northwest Portland, you can find the popular Pearl District, filled with art galleries, boutique shopping, and of course, delicious food.
• Northeast Portland is an up-and-coming area that has recently become trendy, filled with entertainment and nightlife. Head on over to the Northeast to catch a basketball game at the Rose Garden or enjoy the finer things in life in the Alberta arts district.
• This is the area that many think of when they think of Portland. This downtown area is worth exploring, containing landmarks like Powell’s Books, the world’s largest independent bookstore, and the delicious creations at Voodoo Donuts.
• The Southeast area of Portland has more of a quiet, residential feeling but still contains lots of fun and relaxing things to do. Get in touch with nature at Mt. Tabor, a park centered around a cinder cone volcano, or take a stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden.

Are you excited to make the big move to Portland? We’re excited for you! Make your move as stress-free and efficient as possible with Trans Canada Movers. We’ve been helping Vancouverites just like you have smooth moves to Portland for years and can’t wait to help you start your new life in the city. Contact us today!