Portland and Seattle: How Are They Similar? How Are They Different?

Question

I'm thinking about relocating to the Great Northwest. I love the moderate temperatures, rainy days, sparkling bodies of water, and plush greenery found there. But I can't decide: Portland or Seattle?

How are they alike? How are they different? Which city would you prefer, and why?

Answer 1

LOL! I would say the same things Akyer said in reverse! Portland IS cheaper ... for housing, groceries, and just about everything else. Oregon has no sales tax, however it does have an income tax, which Washington State does not. Portland housing is about 12% cheaper than Seattle ... so not a huge margin.

Portland, in my experience, is greener and cleaner than Seattle. Seattle has more job opportunities right now. Seattle has more attractive buildings right downtown, but Portland is working on it.

My advice to you would be to come to the Pacific Northwest and spend a few days in each city. Also, apply for jobs in both cities, and see which one you get hired in first!

If you like clubbing and more of a party scene, go for Seattle, Portland is a bit duller. Akyer may be correct about more gang activity in Portland than Seattle, but you would have to research that one out.

I have spent a lot of time in both cities, and am a bit partial to Portland, but Seattle is cool, too. If I were to have to choose between the two, I think I would have to flip a coin.

Answer 2

Personally I like Seattle better. Much more enjoyable relaxed living style, more affordable and people are not so prone to drive by shootings like in Portland.