Portland
Known for its natural beauty, the city of Portland is extremely eco-friendly in the best way possible. This green city, both literally and figuratively, boasts thousands of acres of lush public parks with extensive biking and hiking trails. Portland is Oregon’s largest city on the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. This thriving area is home to the iconic Washington Park, which offers residents and visitors alike 15 miles of trails, the Oregon Zoo, and the Portland Japanese Garden. Portland has its own public railway service, so getting around the city is easier than ever. This major metropolis is known for its art, theater, and music scene. Check out popular attractions like the Portland Art Museum, OMSI, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, and Roseland Theater. Portland’s culinary scene is one of the best, offering up chef-inspired restaurants and lively local businesses like Tasty n Alder, Pok Pok, Deschutes Brewery, Voodoo Doughnut, and Salt & Straw. Portland is bordered by Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Mount Hood National Forest, and Clatsop National Forest, offering residents scenic views in every direction from their luxury apartments and cozy homes.
Gresham
Located in the Willamette Valley, Gresham combines city living with natural surroundings. This established community, situated east of Portland, offers diverse rental options throughout its neighborhoods, including Central City and Historic Southeast. The rental market remains stable, with one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,375, showing a 1.5% increase over the past year. Gresham features several distinct areas, including Gresham Butte with its elevated views and Powell Valley near numerous parks. The city's trail system includes the Springwater Corridor and the Gresham-Fairview Trail, connecting neighborhoods and providing outdoor recreation opportunities. Originally settled in 1851 as Powell's Valley, Gresham maintains its historic character while offering contemporary amenities. The downtown district preserves many original buildings while housing local businesses. Mount Hood Community College serves as an educational hub, while Main City Park and Hogan Butte Nature Park offer outdoor spaces. The MAX Blue Line provides direct access to downtown Portland, making commuting accessible for residents. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, Gresham continues to preserve its natural areas while supporting community growth.
Beaverton
Nestled in the Tualatin Valley, Beaverton combines suburban comfort with easy access to Portland. This community of nearly 100,000 residents features abundant green spaces, including Tualatin Hills Nature Park and Cooper Mountain Nature Park. The downtown district showcases the Patricia Reser Center for the Arts, BG's Food Cartel food cart pod, and the Beaverton Farmers Market. Housing options include apartments near MAX light rail stations and in established neighborhoods throughout the city. Current rental trends show average prices of $1,468 for studios, $1,545 for one-bedrooms, and $1,770 for two-bedroom apartments, reflecting a slight decrease in rates over the past year. Beaverton's name originates from early settlers who discovered numerous beaver dams in the area. Today, the city hosts major employers including Nike's world headquarters and Tektronix. Residents have access to shopping at Cedar Hills Crossing, multiple parks and recreation facilities, and comprehensive transit options through TriMet's bus and light rail services. The city maintains connections with six sister cities worldwide and features a diverse population. With its mix of outdoor spaces, employment opportunities, and transportation options, Beaverton offers convenient access to both urban amenities and natural surroundings.
