Want to live somewhere with jaw-dropping natural wonders and an eccentric culture that values art, music, and more? Moving to Portland might be your dream come true! Known as one of the best places to live on the West Coast, here are 17 things to know about living in Portland!
Portland At a Glance
- Portland has a population of 650,380, making it Oregon’s largest city!
- Portland is known for a thriving craft beer scene, as well as local coffee culture.
- Located on the Willamette River, Portland is a large city on the northern border of Oregon. It’s about a 15-minute drive from Vancouver, WA, and two hours from Eugene, OR.
- Portland is home to the largest independent bookstore, Powell’s City of Books!
- There is a dormant volcano within Portland city limits! Mount Tabor offers great opportunities for hiking and breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Enjoy a High Quality of Life in Portland
Photo via @portland
You might raise an eyebrow at the generally high cost of living in Portland, but when compared to Seattle, the overall cost of living in Portland is 26.7% lower, and the median home sales price is 53% lower. Despite high real estate prices, residents still enjoy an excellent quality of life in Portland. You can take advantage of Portland’s tax-free shopping when visiting all your favorite stores, and the city as a whole is committed to green energy and sustainability. Plus, Portland has a diverse, inclusive population, evidenced by a thriving LGBTQ community that provides drag shows, dance clubs, community organizations, sports leagues, queer-friendly businesses, and more to the city’s populace!
Use our free cost of living calculator to compare Portland’s average cost of living to your current city’s.
Q: Is Portland expensive to live in?
A: While the cost of living in Portland is 38% higher than the national average. When compared to nearby big cities like Seattle and San Francisco, Portland’s cost of living is much more manageable. To live comfortably in Portland, a single adult with no children needs to make $27.47 per hour or $57,137 per year.
Portland is Known as the Silicon Forest
Photo via @veefaceswest
The prominence of startups and local entrepreneurs in the Greater Portland area has led to Portland being called the Silicon Forest. Intel, Xerox, Airbnb, OpenSesame, and New Relic are just a few tech employers in Portland. What’s more—the local startup culture is home to an abundance of creative agencies in Portland, like Wieden+Kennedy and Watson Creative. Along with tech companies and startups, Portland’s job market includes a growing bioscience sector that includes institutions like the Oregon Health & Science University—which employs 15,000 people alone! Looking for other employment opportunities in Portland? Other main industries supporting Portland’s economy are healthcare and athletic and outdoor apparel—thanks to the surrounding recreation! So, you can apply to major PDX employers like Providence Health and Services or Legacy Health. Or, find sports-adjacent jobs at Adidas North America, Under Armour, Keen, Columbia, and Nike World Headquarters located nearby!
Q: What are popular jobs in Portland, Oregon?
A: Popular jobs in Portland fall under a few industries, including technology, software, and electronics, outdoor apparel and equipment, and multimedia design. Find careers in Portland with a ton of major employers, from startups to Fortune 500 companies!
Help “Keep Portland Weird”
Photo via @theunipiper
“Keep Portland Weird” is the city’s slogan for a good reason. There are countless ways to celebrate oddity in Portland, thanks to the local shops, bars, restaurants, art galleries, and locals who have embraced the strange. As you explore, keep an eye out for the infamous Unipiper, who simultaneously rides a unicycle and plays the bagpipes while in costume. Take a stroll through Mill Ends Park, the “World’s Smallest Park” located in the middle of a crosswalk—the tiny green space is said to be inhabited by a local leprechaun colony, so be careful! Explore the Portland Troll Bridge, and remember to bring your own troll to contribute to the collection! Visit Paxton Gate on Mississippi Ave to see their trove of exotic plants, taxidermy, curios, and more. Or dive into Portland’s obsession with the bizarre and comb through galleries of oddities, novelties, and interactive art installations dedicated to learning and terror at the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium.
Q: Why is Portland so unique?
A: Portland is known as a unique city thanks to its vibrant culture, including a thriving arts scene, diverse food options, and emphasis on sustainability. Additionally, the city’s distinct neighborhoods, outdoor recreation, and quirky charm help contribute to Portland’s identity.
Advance Your Degree at Portland Colleges
If you’re planning to advance your education or earn a degree, there are plenty of quality universities and colleges in Portland. Get your degree in finance, marketing, biology, and more at the University of Portland. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly campus, start or complete your bachelor’s degree either online or in person at Portland State University. Enroll in popular programs like psychology for your undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies at Lewis & Clark College. Prep yourself for a career in medicine, biomedical science, public health, and more with a degree from Oregon Health & Science University. Or study at the oldest accredited naturopathic medical university in North America at National University of Natural Medicine.
Q: What universities are in Portland, Oregon?A: There are plenty of great universities in Portland! Reed College, the University of Portland, Lewis & Clark College, Portland State University, and Warner Pacific University are some of the best colleges in Portland.
Go Green With Portland Sustainability
In addition to its stellar transportation efforts, it may not surprise you to learn Portland has made going green an important part of its development. As a well-known environmentally forward city, Portland’s history of sustainability goes back decades, having been the first city to launch a mandatory bottle-deposit law in 1971. PDX also has a high rate of renewable energy usage compared to other U.S. cities. This emphasis on clean energy, zero waste stores, and combating climate change has landed Portland among the top greenest cities in the U.S.!
Q: How is Portland, OR sustainable?A: Portland is known as an eco-friendly city, with a large focus on renewable energy, waste management, and land-use planning. Portland has implemented a variety of climate policies in the past decades, including a Green Building Policy and a Climate Emergency Workplan, aiming to eliminate carbon emissions by 2050.
Enjoy Stellar Public Transportation & Walkability
Photo via @trimet
Trees aren’t the only thing that makes this Pacific Northwest city so green! Portland continuously ranks as one of the cities with the best public transportation in America, and the community works hard to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. Navigate the area by bus or street car with the connected TriMet system, where approximately 690,000 rides are provided weekly on buses that use 100% renewable energy! The Max light rail system also has stops throughout Portland, providing further accessibility to PDX’s businesses and amenities. Not only does Portland provide eco-friendly solutions and affordable transit, but the city’s infrastructure is constructed with the pedestrian in mind—landing Portland among the nation’s most walkable cities. Along with innovations like Tilikum Crossing—Portland is paving the way for more efficient travel in a major city.
Q: How much does Portland public transportation cost?
A: The cost of public transportation in Portland for an adult on the TriMet system is $2.80 for 2 1/2 hours, $5.60 for a day pass, and $100 for a month pass. Fares are the same across all buses, the light rail, and the commuter rail.
Cycle Your Way Through Portland, OR
Photo via @portland
With over 350 miles of bikeways and trails to explore, cycling is another popular way to get around Portland. Many locals and visitors take advantage of the Nike-sponsored bike share program, which provides classic and electric bikes throughout the city of Portland. In part because of programs like this, Portland holds the national title for the most bike-friendly city in the U.S. If traveling on two wheels is appealing to you, you’ll love to attend one of the several major bike rides in Portland like The Worst Day of the Year Ride, Tweed Ride, and Bike Summer that draw thousands of participants each year.
Q: What is the bike culture in Portland?
A: Portland has a well-established bike culture, often considered one of the best cities in the U.S. for cyclists. There is an extensive bike infrastructure, numerous cycling events, and many residents bike for daily transportation or recreation.
Get to Know the Willamette River
Photo via @portland
The 12 distinct bridges stretching across the Willamette River (pronounced “will-AM-it” by locals) is how Portland earned the nickname Bridge City. Though the river divides the city from east to west, the Willamette River unites sight-seers and nature lovers living in Portland! More than just a landmark for navigation, the Willamette River is also a great spot for activities on the water like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, boat tours, and events like The Big Float, where hundreds of participants hop on the water to drift, chill, and fundraise for the Human Access Project. Take a walk or bike ride down Eastbank Esplanade to get a fuller appreciation of the flowing waters against the breathtaking backdrop of the Portland cityscape.
Q: Is the Willamette River safe to swim in?
A: Yes, the Willamette River in Portland is generally safe to swim in! There are a few dedicated swimming areas on the Willamette River, but if you’re planning to swim, be sure to review safety considerations for swimming and stick to safe areas.
Learn Why Portland is Called the “Rose City”
Photo via @mycaninelife
Although they’re not native to the area, the city of Portland has a long history involving roses. Today, the city is full of these beautiful flowers, which help name numerous events, teams, and businesses in the area. The International Rose Test Garden in Washington Park, where more than 10,000 rose bushes bloom each year, recently held its centennial celebration and is must for Portland sightseeing. Those in North Portland can take a stroll through Peninsula Park Rose Garden or get married under the gazebo there! During the summer, Rose City locals can enjoy parades, milk carton boat races, singing competitions, and much more at the Portland Rose Festival.
Q: How long is the Portland Rose Festival?
A: The Portland Rose Festival typically lasts two to three weeks, with opening night usually occurring in late May and closing events like the Grand Floral Parade in early June.
Explore the Great Outdoors in Portland
Photo via @daaisywarren
Portland is surrounded by natural beauty, so you can look forward to plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation! With over 200 parks, there’s always somewhere to take a hike or stop for a picnic. Enjoy a calming hike among the lush greenery within city limits at Forest Park. Take a light rail to wander Washington Park, where you can get up close to more than 230 animal species at the Oregon Zoo. Tour a living museum of over 6,000 gorgeous trees at the Hoyt Arboretum. Discover a fusion of traditional Chinese art, architecture, and design from the Ming Dynasty at the Lan Su Chinese Garden. Take a day trip outside the city to enjoy year-round skiing and snow-crested adventures at Mount Hood. And don’t forget to check out some of the Oregon Coast’s best places for whale-watching in the spring and winter!
Q: How far is Portland from the coast?
A: Portland is about 90 miles from the nearest Oregon coastline. Popular ocean-front destinations near Portland include Cannon Beach and Seaside, which are about a 1.5-hour drive by car.
Discover Distinct Portland Neighborhoods
Photo via @housesofportland
With vintage, high-rise apartments as well as Victorian-style and Foursquare homes for sale or rent, there are tons of diverse housing options in Portland. You might think that the city center is the hub of activity, but each of Rose City’s neighborhoods has a distinct personality. Find active nightlife, breweries, and bustling activity in the best PDX neighborhoods for singles and young professionals, like Downtown—or eclectic shopping and fun things to do in the Pearl District and Richmond‘s districts. For more low-key, family-friendly activities, Hillsdale and Forest Park are among the best neighborhoods in Portland for families and offer residents safe streets and outdoor recreation.
Q: What are the coolest neighborhoods in Portland?
A: There are several vibrant neighborhoods throughout Portland, including the Alberta Arts District, Hawthorne District, Mississippi Avenue, the Pearl District, and Old Town/Chinatown.
Cheer for the Portland Timbers & Trail Blazers
Photo via @trailblazers
Portland is about more than just craft beer and eccentric shops—when it comes to sports in Portland, soccer is the name of the game! Come out for an exciting match played by the Portland Timbers (MLS) where you can witness real-life mascot Timber Joey sawing away at a log for every goal. Be sure to support the women’s team, Portland Thorns FC (NWSL), at Providence Park, too. Turn up at Hadlock Field to cheer on the Portland Sea Dogs (MiLB). Support one of the newest pro sports teams and watch the Oregon Steel (UFA) score points at Providence Park. Or listen to the ball hit nothing but net when the Portland Trail Blazers (NBA) shoot for three-pointers at Moda Center.
Q: Where can you watch the Portland Timbers?
A: You can watch the Portland Timbers play in their home stadium at Providence Park! Throughout the city, you can also find any affiliated Pub Partners that play every match, and even may have Timbers merch available!
Experience the Historic Portland Music Scene
Photo via @edgefieldconcerts
The Portland music scene is just as weird and unique as the rest of the city, being known for its punk, grunge, and indie rock sounds. Local bands like Bikini Kill and Sleater-Kinney (whose guitarist Carrie Brownstein would go on to create the hit show Portlandia) are credited for bringing fame and recognition to the Riot Grrrl movement in the ’90s. This strong alternative and independent musical landscape can still be witnessed today at Mississippi Studios, an artist-run venue with groups like The Weather Station and Birdtalker performing during the week. Those hoping to watch national and international touring acts will find them at the Crystal Ballroom or outdoors at Edgefield. With a vast number of music venues across the city, catching a live show is one of the best things to do in Portland!
Q: What kind of music is Portland known for?A: Portland is known for many types of music, including indie rock, folk, blues, classical, jazz, and pop. There are music festivals in Portland year-round for a variety of genres, giving plenty of opportunities for residents to see great artists live!
Immerse Yourself in Portland Art Museums & Street Art
Photo via @thealaskabarbie
Some of the best places to visit in Portland are galleries and arts-centered events. Offering five floors of expansive permanent collections, the Portland Art Museum is the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest! Go on a mural crawl featuring some of the thousands of public art displays and Portland street art baked into PDX’s infrastructure. Absorb the experimental creations of local and national artists at Portland Institute for Contemporary Art (PICA), which is home to an artist residency program and countless community events during the year. Venture to Alberta Arts District for Last Thursday and check out the work of local artists. Or make your way to the chic Pearl District, which hosts a large concentration of local galleries with First Thursday events.
Q: What is the most famous piece at the Portland Art Museum?
A: One of the most famous pieces in the Portland Art Museum is Claude Monet’s famous Waterlilies painting. The iconic painting has been on display in the museum since 1959 when the museum purchased it.
Find Some of the Best Food in Portland
Photo via @rememberingdaughters
Although locals may never agree on which restaurant has the best brunch in Portland, the overwhelming number of options will make it fun to find out! Bring your pup out to the canine-friendly patio while you enjoy the Spike-ish Breakfast Burrito or the Good Dog Stacked Scramble from Tin Shed Garden Cafe, which was featured on Guy Fieri’s Food Network show Comfort and Soul. Try the Red Curry with Roasted Vegetables, Chopped BBQ Fried Rice, Brisket Boudin, and other authentic Thai flavors at EEM. Flip the script and put vegetables first with dishes like Baby Bok Choi and Ribollita Stew at G-Love, a “reverse steakhouse” that prioritizes greens over meats. Or find Russian cuisine like Siberian Pelmeni and Lepyoshka at Kachka—and check out the Lavka Deli & Grocery located above the main restaurant.
Q: What food is Portland known for?
A: Similar to the rest of the Pacific Northwest, Portland is known for foods like fresh seafood and coffee. However, Portland also has a massive food truck scene, with over 500 trucks and carts throughout the city offering a wide variety of street food!
Come Alive With Exciting Bars in Portland
Photo by @groundkontrol
Many of the best things to do in Portland can be found after dark! Themed bars make up a large portion of the city’s one-of-a-kind nightlife. Play new and classic arcade games with friends over food and drinks at Ground Kontrol. Indulge in your love for the macabre at horror-themed venue The Coffin Club. Take part in dancing, karaoke, improv shows, and much more at the circus-like Funhouse Lounge, one of PDX’s weirdest bars. Belt out the lyrics to your favorite songs at popular karaoke destinations like Alibi Tiki Lounge and Chopsticks. As one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the U.S., it makes sense Portland also has a large number of queer bars and clubs like the dog-friendly Florida Room or CC Slaughters Portland, where you can have a blast dancing to live DJ sets and supporting local drag artists. Or check out Old Town Chinatown for the densest concentration of dance clubs in Rose City, including places like the southern-themed Dixie Tavern and Stag PDX.
Q: What are the most unique bars in Portland?
A: Portland has plenty of unique bars, but a few notable ones are Sad Valley, a gloomy-themed cocktail spot, Bible Club, a Prohibition-era speakeasy, and Hale Pele, an island-themed bar featuring fiery cocktails.
Sample PDX Breweries
Photo via @oregonbrewfest
With over 70 breweries in the city alone, living in Portland means appreciating the city as a haven for all things related to craft brews. Here, you can combine your love of cycling and beer on the Brews Cruise— one of Portland’s many beer tours where you can pedal leisurely through historic neighborhoods and breweries while sipping local beers. Sour beer connoisseurs can sample an abundance of tart ales like the Cherry Lime Casc-ade or Vlad the Imp Aler at Cascade Brewing. Sip something sweeter like the spiced chai Chaider or the Grapefruit and Chill cider at Schilling Cider House! You can also celebrate your love for adult beverages at a different beer festival almost every month, including Zwickelmania and SheBrew. No matter your tastes, there’s always a time and place to enjoy a cold beer in Portland!
Q: When is Portland Beer Week?
A: Portland Beer Week takes place on a yearly basis in the month of June. It’s an 11-day festival featuring the city’s best local beers and breweries.
Relocating to Portland? Use Our Free Moving Tools!
- Estimate your moving costs
- Calculate the number of moving boxes you need
- Discover where to find free & low cost moving boxes in Portland
***
Are you moving to Portland? Extra Space Storage has several storage facilities throughout the Portland metro that can help with your transition. Find cheap storage near you!
