10 Things to Know Before Moving to Portland, Oregon

People move to Portland for its beautiful greenery, job opportunities, pet-friendly lifestyle, and incredible cultural scene. To jump right into enjoying the city, here is what you need to know before moving to Portland, Oregon.

Key Takeaways

1. The cost of living in Portland is 16.8 percent higher than the national average.
2. The average rent in Portland is $1,526/month.
3. The best neighborhoods in Portland are Waterfront, Uptown Portland, Pearl, Sullivan's Gulch, and Richmond.
4. Nature is everywhere in Portland.
5. Portland is a very pet-friendly city.
6. The weather in Portland is often rainy or overcast.
7. There is tons to do in Portland, from its arts, music, and food scene to events and festivals.
8. Residents often bike or take public transport to get around Portland.
9. Portland's major industries are tech, clothing and outdoor gear, and health.
10. There are several major universities in Portland, including Portland State University and University of Portland.

The Cost of Living in Portland, Oregon

The cost of living in Portland, OR is 16.8 percent higher than the national average. It is more expensive to live in compared to other cities but is not as pricey as the biggest cities, like Los Angeles, New York, or Seattle.

Renters should expect to pay about $6,302/month to cover basic household expenses, including rent. To comfortably afford that amount, a salary of $75,624 is suggested. While residents find they spend more on household expenses, there are areas where Portland is more affordable, such as utilities.

The Average Rent in Portland, Oregon

The average rent in Portland, OR is $1,526/month, putting it six percent below the national average rent price of $1,629/month. Depending on how many bedrooms you want, your monthly rent will vary from $1,250–$2,142.

Rent data was gathered on Apartments.com on October 2, 2025.

Where to Live: Best Neighborhoods in Portland, Oregon

Portland’s neighborhoods each have their own character and identity, from bustling city life in Downtown Portland to quiet nights out at local restaurants in Sellwood-Moreland. Whether you want to live in a high-rise next to the river or a cozy apartment just down the street from cafés and coffee shops, Portland has a place for you.

With both affordable neighborhoods and luxury rentals, you can find a home that fits your budget and style. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Portland to explore:

• Waterfront: As its name suggests, Waterfront is right on the Willamette River in Downtown Portland. As the city’s hub of activity, Waterfront is full of shops, restaurants, parks, businesses, events, and more.
• Uptown Portland: All the activity centers around NW 21^st and 23^rd, where boutiques, cafes, and local restaurants line the streets. Whether you want to live right next to the action or down a quieter side street, the area is very walkable so you can get around with ease.
• Pearl: Pearl packs everything Portland is known for into one dense neighborhood that is easy to get around. Marvel at masterpieces in art galleries or stop in for an afternoon in the stacks at Powell’s City of Books.
• Sullivan’s Gulch: This laidback neighborhood offers a retreat from the hectic city with plenty of local spots. Though the tree-lined streets are quiet, you aren’t far from the shopping and entertainment in Lloyd District.
• Richmond: With its balanced mix of residential and retail, everything you need is in Richmond. Head down cozy streets to SE Division Street to visit local hotspots.

Nature Is Everywhere in Portland

The outdoors are a part of everyday life in Portland. Mount Hood stretches over your morning commute, the Willamette River runs under the bridges you cross, and the trees of Washington Park keep you cool as you run. Local parks and community gardens are packed into tree-filled neighborhoods, so you won’t have to go far to enjoy the outdoors.

Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., with over 80+ miles of trails minutes from downtown. Washington Park offers a more crafted approach to nature with the Portland Japanese Garden, Hoyt Arboretum, and the International Rose Test Garden. Hop over the river to the east side of the city and climb the winding trails of Mount Tabor to enjoy a relaxing picnic as you overlook the city.

Portland Loves Pets

Portland’s bountiful green space, combined with how pet-friendly the city is, makes it a great place for pet owners. Most neighborhoods are dog-friendly due to plentiful off-leash areas and trails meandering between homes. Local businesses and restaurants roll out the red carpet for pets, so your furry family member doesn’t have to be left behind.

Weather in Portland, Oregon

Part of living in Portland is reminiscing about the warm summer days from June to September during the rainy fall, winter, and spring. Drizzles often last for days, contributing to the average of 157 days of rain. The city itself doesn’t get much snow, but if you live in the suburbs, you may see flurries more frequently, especially if you are at a higher elevation.

Things to Do in Portland: Culture, Food, and Local Lifestyle

Portland gets its distinct identity from its cultural and food scenes. Food cart pods, permanent clusters of food trucks and carts, are a classic part of life in Portland. From renowned restaurants to favorites among locals, you’ll discover cuisine from around the world. Portland’s coffee and brewery scene is also gaining in popularity.

The cultural scene in Portland is vast, covering everything from music to art. Theaters, art galleries, music venues, and more celebrate creativity. There are many entertainment venues and other activities around Portland to explore.

Regardless of the weather, there is always an event or festival going on in Portland because the city celebrates everything, from films and music to food and nature. Farmers markets are a must visit with produce, crafts, and crowds filling the streets. Festivals and events happen every month, from summer time celebrating flowers at the Portland Rose Festival to winter months at the Portland Winter Light Festival.

Getting Around Portland

Navigating Portland is easy thanks to TriMet, which runs the city’s bus system and MAX Light Rail. The Portland Streetcar adds convenient spots to hop on and off through downtown. What the city lacks in full-scale public transit coverage, it makes up for with bike- and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Miles of dedicated bike lanes and trails make walking or cycling a safe, practical way to commute.

For longer trips, Portland is well connected by car and air. Major highways like I-5 and I-405 link the city to nearby destinations, while Portland International Airport offers flights across the country and around the world. Whether you’re traveling for work or adventure, the city’s transit makes it easy to get where you need to go via your favorite mode of transport.

Working in Portland

The primary industries in Portland are as varied as its landscape. Due to the density of tech companies led by giants like Intel, the city has gained the nickname, “Silicon Forest.” Major brands in footwear, clothing, and outdoor gear have settled into the area, including Nike, Adidas, and Columbia. Healthcare is another large sector, with Oregon Health and Science University and other big health companies employing tens of thousands.

Education in Portland

Education is a cornerstone in Portland as well as one of the city’s largest employers. Portland Public Schools is the biggest school district in Portland with 86 schools, and higher education is anchored by major universities including Portland State University, University of Portland, Reed College, Pacific University, and Lewis and Clark College.

Find Your Perfect Place in Portland

Portland may have thousands of rentals, but Apartments.com makes it easy to narrow it down to the right one. Use the commute tool to see how long it takes to get to work, or filter by must-have amenities to find the home that fits your lifestyle. No matter what you’re searching for, Apartments.com helps you discover a place that feels like home.