Buying a home or renting an apartment in Portland means living in an area surrounded by lush greenery, with easy access to hiking trails and outdoor activities. The city is famous for its beautiful natural landscapes, food carts, craft breweries, and coffee culture, making it a haven for foodies and coffee enthusiasts. If you’re wondering, “Should I move to Portland, OR?” or want more information about the area, we have you covered. Below, we’ll discuss 10 pros and cons of living in Portland that may help you decide if it’s the right place for you.
Portland at a Glance
Walk Score: 67 | Bike Score: 83 | Transit Score: 49
Median Sale Price: $480,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,497
Portland neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Portland | Apartments for rent in Portland | Homes for sale in Portland
Pro: Beautiful outdoor spaces
Portland is known for its abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. With easy access to beautiful landscapes including Mt. Hood National Forest, Crater Lake National Park, and Lewis and Clark National History Park, locals always have a way to explore the outdoors. Popular activities include hiking, kayaking, cycling, and birdwatching.
Con: Cloudy weather
One of the drawbacks of living in Portland is the cloudy and, at times, dreary weather. The city experiences a significant amount of rainfall, especially during the winter months. The overcast and rainy weather can contribute to a lack of natural light, which may affect some residents’ mood and energy levels. This lack of sunlight can be challenging for those who thrive in sunnier climates.
Pro: Fantastic food and drink scene
Portland boasts a vibrant food and drink scene, with a plethora of local breweries, coffee shops, and food carts. Residents can indulge in a wide variety of cuisines and beverages, and the city is particularly known for its craft beer culture, with numerous breweries offering unique and innovative brews. Some favorite local breweries include Von Ebert Brewing and Wayfinder.
Con: Heavy traffic congestion
Portland’s growing population has led to increased traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The city’s reliance on automobiles coupled with a Transit Score of 49, contributes to gridlock on major thoroughfares and highways. This can be a source of frustration for those who rely on driving to get around. Efforts to improve public transit infrastructure, such as the expansion of light rail and bus rapid transit lines, are underway but face logistical and funding challenges.
Pro: Excellent creative arts scene
Portland fosters a thrilling arts scene, attracting creatives from various disciplines. The city is home to numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues, with institutions like the Portland Art Museum showcasing both local talent and international works. Events like the Portland International Film Festival and Last Thursday Art Walk in the Alberta Arts District provide platforms for artists to showcase their work and engage with the community.
Con: High cost of living
The cost of living in Portland is 29% higher than the national average. Everyday expenses such as groceries, dining out, transportation, and healthcare can also be notably expensive. The city’s popularity and desirability have led to increased demand for goods and services, contributing to higher costs across the board. This can be a barrier for individuals looking to establish roots in the area.
Pro: Strong sense of community
The people in Portland showcase a strong sense of community, with many residents actively participating in neighborhood associations, community events, and volunteer initiatives. The city’s emphasis on local engagement and grassroots activism creates a supportive and connected environment for its residents.
Con: Environmental concerns
Despite its reputation for sustainability, Portland faces environmental challenges such as air and water pollution, particularly in industrial areas along the Willamette River. Issues like air quality advisories due to wildfires and pollution from transportation contribute to these issues. Additionally, the city grapples with waste management problems, including plastic pollution and recycling contamination, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to promote eco-friendly practices and mitigate environmental impact.
Pro: Bike-friendly infrastructure
Should I move to Portland, OR if I enjoy biking? Absolutely. With a high Bike Score of 83, Portland is renowned for its bicycle-friendly infrastructure, making it easy for residents to commute and explore the city on two wheels. With dedicated bike lanes, extensive bike-sharing programs, and initiatives like Sunday Parkways, which temporarily close streets to vehicle traffic, cycling is a popular and sustainable mode of transportation. Additionally, organizations like the Community Cycling Center promote bicycle advocacy and education, further fostering a culture of cycling in Portland.
Con: Transportation challenges during snowy weather
While Portland’s mild climate is generally fine for walking, biking, and using public transportation, the city can experience disruptions during periods of inclement weather, such as snow and ice storms. Unlike cities with more robust snow removal infrastructure, Portland can struggle to maintain transportation services during severe winter weather events. The city’s hilly terrain and limited snow removal equipment can make driving treacherous and public transit less reliable during snowy conditions.
