Moving from Arizona to Oregon

Tired of scorching hot summers, dust storms, and wildlife intruding on your home? You aren't alone. While Arizona is a stunning state, filled with breathtaking desert landscapes and some of the best golf courses in the country, there are many disadvantages to living here year-round. 

This is why many individuals are waving goodbye to desert life to settle in the Pacific Northwest, in states like Oregon.

Planning on moving from Arizona to Oregon? We put together a guide to help you plan and prepare for the transition. Here's everything you need to know before you relocate.

Benefits of Moving from Arizona to Oregon

There are many advantages to making Oregon your permanent residence. The climate is mild, housing is relatively affordable, and there's breathtaking scenery everywhere you turn. What more could you ask for?

While Oregon may experience rainy weather in the fall and winter, you'll likely find it a pleasant change from the hot Arizona summers. 

If you're set on moving to Oregon from Arizona, here's what you can look forward to:

Cost of Living Difference

Did you know there is no state tax in Oregon? While Arizona has a relatively low 2.5% state tax, you won't need to worry about it once you relocate. According to My Life Elsewhere, individuals who live in Oregon also pay 10.6% less for their groceries and 0.6% less for housing. 

While the cost of living may be more expensive in Portland than in Phoenix, there are many affordable towns and suburbs throughout the state that you can explore instead. A few of the most affordable cities include:

• Salem
• Bend
• Baker City
• Medford
• La Grande

Beautiful Views

The beauty of nature is deeply ingrained in the Oregon lifestyle. Everywhere you turn, you'll be surrounded by stunning views of the ocean or the mountains. Individuals who live in Portland can enjoy a breathtaking view of Mount Hood over the city skyline - the highest peak in Oregon. On the weekend, you can wave goodbye to the city and explore camping, fishing, and hiking trails near Mount Hood.

When you aren't exploring Mount Hood, consider a trip to the coast to enjoy Seaside, Cannon Beach, or Newport. Oregon is filled with sleepy towns and neighborhoods across the coast. No matter where you live or work, you'll find adventure at every corner.

Active Outdoor Lifestyle

Oregon is the perfect spot for individuals who want to commit to a more active lifestyle. The streets are very biker- and runner-friendly. You'll also find many hiking trails around all of the cities. The most popular outdoor activities include fishing, camping, hiking, and rafting. 

If you live an outdoor lifestyle, some of the best cities worth considering moving to include Portland, Hillsboro, and Eugene. There are many hiking trails and state parks to explore nearby.

Better Traffic and Commute

Depending on where you decide to live, you'll find the commute much more manageable in Oregon than in other major cities in Arizona. According to Bankrate, the average commute in Oregon is around 23.3 minutes, while in Arizona, it's around 25.5 minutes. You can also expect this commute to be significantly higher in major cities like Tucson and Phoenix.

Oregon’s Outstanding Outdoor Adventures

Moving to Oregon from Arizona is a great choice to consider, especially if you love spending time outside and always love a good outdoor adventure. Oregon is home to over six national parks and 361 state parks. From the quaint coast to the captivating mountain ranges, there's always an outdoor adventure, no matter where you decide to live. Some of the best outdoor attractions you'll want to see first include:

• Smith Rock State Park
• Silver Falls State Park
• Oregon Caves National Monument
• Crater Lake National Park
• Fort Stevens State Park

There are also family-friendly outdoor attractions like the Oregon Zoo and Portland Japanese Gardens. 

Best Cities to Live in Oregon

Every city and town in Oregon is unique in its own way. If you have some flexibility regarding where you can live, you should take some time to explore what each of the cities has to offer and the job opportunities available. This will ensure you find a place to live that complements your lifestyle. Five of the best cities to consider moving to include: 

• Portland: Known for its quirky atmosphere and as the birthplace of Nike, Portland is lively and has a unique vibe. It has a top-notch culinary scene, outdoor adventures, and affordable suburbs. 
• Eugene: If you are committed to an outdoor lifestyle, Eugene is the place to consider. This city is perfect for bikers and hikers. Beautiful forests surround it, and it has some of the best neighborhoods to explore. 
• Bend: A charming city located near the Cascade Range. Bend has everything small families, retirees, and young professionals need for a happy, satisfying life. There are also some great job opportunities in the healthcare and medicine industries. 
• Medford: Known for its delicious wine and pears, Medford is a quaint city filled with wineries, stunning sights, and outdoor attractions. It's also a growing city with many health care and social assistance job opportunities.
• Corvallis: Home of Oregon State University, Corvallis is a lively college town near mountains and beaches. There are many affordable neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and job opportunities. 

Cost of Moving from Arizona to Oregon

Moving from Arizona to Oregon is not an easy task to take on by yourself. Oregon is roughly 1,194.4 miles away from Arizona. Depending on how many stops you make along the way, the overall journey can take anywhere from 20 to 24 hours. You'll also need to factor in the cost of renting a van, paying for gas, and buying the moving supplies. 

As you prepare to move from Arizona to Oregon, you are probably concerned about the cost of your move. Long-distance moves can be expensive, so it’s important to choose a moving company that offers excellent service at an affordable price. North American is proud to offer superior service and competitive pricing. The average linehaul moving cost from Arizona to Oregon with North American Van Lines is $5,100.

The actual price will be dependent on other variables such as the number of items being moved, the exact distance of the move, and any additional moving services such as packing and unpacking. The best way to get an accurate quote is by using our Quote on Demand tool above or calling our customer service representatives.

To get started, contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote!