Portland, Oregon vs. Seattle, Washington?

Question

I am from Oregon and I have always said my city "Portland" is very underrated. Everyone wants to talk about "Seattle" but Portland in my opinion is much greener, prettier, and cleaner. And to be honest how much bigger is Seattle than Portland, seriously, they look about the same size to me. I guess my question is what city do you think is better and why, I would like reasons because I cannot find any reasons why somebody would choose Seattle over Portland. I love that damn city and I am not saying that just because I am from there, I really think Portland is more intriguing for many reasons! Please tell me what you think!!! Thanks!
~~Melissa

Okay so still we are proving my point that my city is "UNDERRATED" You know these 2 great cities are only 3 hours apart and the 2 answers I have so far have guys stating they have never even been to Portland. Of course you would vote for Seattle if you have never been to the opposing side. Because with the exception of the islands and the Orca Whales Portland has everything and more you two have mentioned, just thought you should know, ut thanks for your answers guys!!!
~~Melissa

Answer 1

Cheap cruises out of seattle to alaska. The sound makes the city. Puget sound is incredible for so many reasons. Proximity to Victoria, Vancouver, Olympia NP, Cascades, skiing. View of the amazing Mt Ranier from every corner of the sound. Killer whale right in the sound. Many other towns/cities all around so greater Seattle is much bigger. Endless islands to explore. This doesn't include all the activities in the city itself. ............ Never said I didn't live in Portland. I lived there for 6 months on a traveling physical therapy contract and I lived 10 months in Seattle. Portland has some very quaint downtown areas and in some suburbs. Also great skiinga and Mt Hood is cool, but Seattle is just way better overall. If your going to ask questions then don't bit*h about the answers just because you don't get validation on you opinion.

Answer 2

I have visited both cities on several occasions. I think I would prefer to live in Portland, but visit Seattle. Seattle seems to have more things to do, & more natural beauty (the water), but Portland has a smaller, more comfortable feel.

Answer 3

They're both great, but I'd choose Portland, since I like the youthful atmosphere, and it has a concentration of things to see and do. Seattle spreads out far and wide, so it would take more time to get to know it. One difference is Seattle built an expressway along its waterfront (near the fish market) which is a sad waste of beautiful waterfront. Portland built a park along its river so people could stroll and play next to the water.

Answer 4

Well, I had the privelage of living in Seattle for 2 years. Never lived in Oregon. Nothing beats coming across the Puget Sound at night and seeing the Seattle city lights as night. Priceless. My vote is for Seattle.