Portland has long been a magnet for creatives, outdoorsy types, and coffee enthusiasts, but living in the city can come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, the suburbs surrounding Portland offer more affordable alternatives without sacrificing charm, natural beauty, or easy access to downtown. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat, a historic main street, or miles of scenic trails, these budget-friendly suburbs provide plenty of options. Here’s a quick look at nine of the top affordable Portland suburbs for renters in 2025.
Portland’s Housing Market at a Glance
Portland has always been a city of paradoxes—artsy yet entrepreneurial, urban yet deeply connected to nature. But as its reputation has grown, so have its housing prices, pushing many to look beyond the city’s borders. Fortunately, the suburbs surrounding Portland offer an intriguing alternative. Some are historic mill towns reinventing themselves, others are natural escapes that somehow remain tethered to the city’s energy. Before we explore the most affordable Portland suburbs, let’s check out Portland’s current housing prices for renters and buyers.
Average 1-bedroom rent in Portland |
$1,524 |
Average 2-bedroom rent in Portland |
$1,949 |
|
$487,000 |
1. McMinnville
McMinnville serves up a taste of Oregon wine country with a side of small-town charm.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,280
- Distance from Portland: 40 miles southwest
- Drive time to Portland: About 50 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,280, McMinnville is one of the most affordable Portland suburbs. The Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is a major draw, home to the legendary Spruce Goose aircraft and fascinating exhibits on space exploration. Downtown McMinnville adds to the appeal with its historic charm, complete locally owned restaurants and cozy cafés, like Summon Coffee.
2. Keizer
Keizer is a hidden gem that offers affordability alongside pristine nature.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,295
- Distance from Portland: 45 miles south
- Drive time to Portland: About 55 minutes
At $1,295 per month for a 1-bedroom apartment, Keizer provides a budget-friendly alternative without straying too far from the city. Keizer Rapids Park is a favorite among locals, with trails, river access, and open spaces for picnicking. For a splash of color, Schreiner’s Iris Gardens is a must-visit. Thanks to acres of blooming irises, this spot attracts visitors from across the state. Keizer is perfect for those looking for a quieter lifestyle with a touch of natural beauty.
3. Salem
Salem offers the conveniences of a city with a more relaxed, suburban vibe.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,385
- Distance from Portland: 47 miles south
- Drive time to Portland: About 60 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,385, Salem provides an affordable option for those willing to commute a bit farther. Bush’s Pasture Park and Bush House Museum offer a blend of history and green space, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. For something unique, the Enchanted Forest theme park brings fairy tale-inspired attractions to life, offering a whimsical escape just outside the city. Salem is a mix of history, affordability, and Oregon’s signature natural beauty.
4. Troutdale
Troutdale blends affordability with access to some of Oregon’s most stunning landscapes.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,400
- Distance from Portland: 16 miles east
- Drive time to Portland: About 25 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,400, Troutdale is an ideal spot for outdoorsy folks. McMenamins Edgefield is a local landmark, offering a quirky mix of historic charm, restaurants, a spa, and even a winery. Sandy River Delta Park provides scenic trails, dog-friendly spaces, and river access for kayaking and fishing. Troutdale is the perfect launching point for adventures in the Columbia River Gorge while staying within easy reach of friends living in Portland.
5. Battle Ground
Battle Ground is a sweet spot for those who want easy access to nature without giving up convenience.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,425
- Distance from Portland: 25 miles north
- Drive time to Portland: About 35 minutes
At about $1,425 per month for a 1-bedroom, Battle Ground, Washington, offers affordability with plenty of outdoor adventure. Battle Ground Lake State Park is a top destination, featuring a picturesque lake perfect for fishing, swimming, and hiking. Lewisville Regional Park provides even more green space, with trails and picnic areas that invite visitors to slow down and enjoy the scenery. Battle Ground is an excellent choice for those who prefer the quiet of the countryside while staying within a reasonable commute to Portland.
6. Gresham
Gresham is an affordable alternative to Portland with a strong sense of identity and community.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,460
- Distance from Portland: 16 miles east
- Drive time to Portland: About 25 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,460 per month, Gresham offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing amenities. The Gresham Japanese Garden is a peaceful retreat tucked into the heart of the city, featuring traditional landscaping and cultural elements. The Springwater Corridor Trail, a 40-mile path for walking and biking, runs through town, connecting residents to nature and neighboring communities. Gresham is a growing and affordable Portland suburb with a mix of history, outdoor space, and affordability.
7. Camas
Camas delivers small-town charm with stunning views and easy Portland access.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,495
- Distance from Portland: 20 miles northeast
- Drive time to Portland: About 30 minutes
Just across the border in Washington, Camas boasts an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,495, making Camas a great choice for those seeking a balance between affordability and scenic beauty. Lacamas Lake is a local favorite, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside strolls. Downtown Camas is equally charming thanks to its historic architecture, local boutiques, and cozy cafés, like Devs Coffee Bar.
8. Sherwood
Sherwood is where small-town living meets outdoor adventure.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,500
- Distance from Portland: 17 miles southwest
- Drive time to Portland: About 30 minutes
At $1,500 per month for a 1-bedroom, Sherwood is a slightly pricier option, but it offers access to beautiful natural spaces. The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Old Town Sherwood provides a touch of history with locally owned shops and restaurants, like Fat Milo’s, that make the community feel welcoming.
9. Beaverton
Beaverton is a thriving suburb that offers city convenience surrounded by outdoor escapes.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,512
- Distance from Portland: 7 miles west
- Drive time to Portland: About 15 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,512, Beaverton is one of the more expensive options on this list, but it delivers on amenities. Tualatin Hills Nature Park is a sprawling 222-acre preserve with trails winding through wetlands and woodlands. Cooper Mountain Nature Park provides breathtaking views, making it a favorite for hikers and photographers alike. Beaverton’s proximity to Portland, combined with its parks and growing food scene, make it an attractive choice for renters at all stages of life.
Find your favorite affordable Portland suburb
Portland’s suburbs offer a wide range of choices, from the small-town feel of McMinnville to the lakeside appeal of Camas. Whether you’re looking for affordability in Keizer, outdoor adventure in Troutdale, or a lively downtown in Beaverton, there’s a suburb that fits your lifestyle and budget. The hardest part? Deciding which one to call home.
Affordability is based on whether a suburb’s one-bedroom rent was less than Portland’s average rent and under 50 miles from downtown Portland. Average rental data from Portland rental market trends in January, 2025. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
