There is an endless number of reasons why Portland, OR, is the perfect place to live. These are just the tip of the iceberg.

Why Live Here?

Located against the backdrop of Mount Hood and with parks, rivers, and plenty of green spaces within, Portland is one of the most picturesque cities in the United States. Portland, as Oregon's largest city, is home to just under 650,000 people.

One of the best things about Portland is getting around is a breeze, especially compared to other similar-sized cities. Most things are just 10 to 15 minutes away, and there is an excellent public transport system.

For art lovers, there are plenty of opportunities to see local artwork, with the City of Portland encouraging street art and murals. Portland is home to three major league teams, two colleges, and several league teams covering a good portion of the sporting spectrum for sports lovers. And that's without even mentioning the jewel in Portland's crown, the stunning outdoors, and the adventures it offers on the doorstep.

Living the Lifestyle of the Community

Home to the hipster, Portland is a progressive and diverse city. The weird are embraced and add to the mystique of the city.

There is a strong emphasis on the environment and environmentally friendly initiatives. With 23 farmers markets within its boundaries, there is plenty of locally grown produce available.

In general, expect a friendly welcome from Portland natives when you move here.

Local Schools

There are around 47,500 students in the Portland Public Schools System. It is one of the largest school systems in the Pacific Northwest. Students attend one of 39 elementary schools, 18 K8, 13 middle schools, one K12, and 10 high schools, while the system employs nearly 8,000 community members. In general, Portland schools were rated slightly above average on Great Schools.

In addition, Portland is home to five colleges, made up of a mix of public and private institutions. Around 40,000 students attend the predominantly liberal arts schools.

Employment

Known as Silicon Forest, Portland has more than its fair share of tech startups. Intel is the largest employer, with just over 18,000 staff. The three largest hospitals employ around 40,000 residents. The apparel industry is a strong contributor to the economy, with Nike and Adidas having their respective world and North American headquarters in Portland.

Unemployment has been falling in Portland, with an unemployment rate of 5.3% in June 2021.

Entertainment

Dance clubs, karaoke, and comedy are all a part of the Portland nightlife scene.

Portland is a regular stop on live music tours, with Elton John, Andrea Bocelli, Judas Priest, and the Portland Symphony illustrating the diverse range of live entertainment options on offer.

Portland has an active theater scene, with amateur and professional shows easy to access. In addition, many of the bars and restaurants regularly host live music or entertainment events catering to the entire spectrum of tastes.

Parks and Recreation

Portland's parks are one of the city's real selling points, and many an outdoor enthusiast has succumbed to their temptation. There are over 280 parks in Portland, occupying over 10,000 acres, made up of natural areas, recreational facilities, gardens, and trails. Portland's parks have all been smoke- and vape-free since 2015.

In the surrounding area, there is a multitude of parks, trails, and adventure activities to explore and try out. From the hiking at Mt. Hood, adventure water sports on the Columbia River, and scenic drives through the Willamette Valley, you will never be short of something to do.

In winter, the Cascades offer some of the best skiing in the United States, while in summer, it's just 90 minutes to the beautiful Oregon coast. Many of the parks and towns in the surrounding areas host festivals or regular arts, crafts, and food markets guaranteed to tempt residents.

Real Estate Housing

The Portland real estate market is thriving. Portland is becoming increasingly popular, with remote work options becoming more common. It is also popular among those looking to escape the large cities but not city life altogether. All types of living options are catered for, ranging from apartment living to suburban homes. There are even lifestyle blocks on the outskirts. I can help you navigate the Portland area and its surroundings to find the perfect home. Call or text right now at (503) 319-4962