Portland’s Best Is Your New Home
Portland, Oregon, is known for both its incredible landscapes, diverse culture and events, as well as it’s chill and laid-back lifestyle, It is a great option for anyone considering a move to this neck of the woods. Placed between the impressive Cascade Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this city blends urban needs with a unique natural vibe.
If you love nature but also need to hold down a day job, this could be your dream spot to live life. If you’re convinced and actually thinking of making the move, here’s an in-depth guide written by Portland locals to help you navigate your move and discover the best neighborhoods that Portland has to offer!
Cost of Living: A Critical Aspect Before Jumping In
The cost of living in Portland has been on the rise as is in the entire USA, particularly in popular neighborhoods things aren’t cheap.
While it may still be more affordable than cities like San Jose or NYC, it’s critical to budget accordingly.
Housing prices vary widely, depending on neighborhoods so find an area that fits your budget.
Utilities, groceries, and transportation are pretty standard and should also be factored into your cost of living predictions.
Understanding the Neighborhoods: Step One
Portland is made up of several different neighborhoods, each with its has it’s own unique vibe and charm. Understanding these areas is key to finding the right spot for your home for the lifestyle you are imagining.
1. Downtown Portland
This area is perfect for people wholove that urban environment with all the amenities that come with it. It boasts a great choice of local shops, restaurants, and cultural spots, museums and theaters.
Living downtown means being at the heart of the city’s action 24-7, with easy access to public transportation to get around and see it all.
It can be pricier than other neighborhoods, and the hustle and bustle might not be ideal for everyone, but for those in that stage of life, it is one of the most perfect places for 25-45-year-olds.
2. Northwest Portland
Known for its trendy vibe and cute small shops, Northwest Portland is home to the famous Nob Hill and the Pearl District. These neighborhoods are known for thier Victorian homes, boutique shopping, and great dining options.
The Pearl District, in particular, is an art lovers haven, featuring galleries and a great nightlife scene for the creatives. It tends to be on the more expensive side so make sure to budget accordingly.
3. Southwest Portland
This area features more suburban vibes, with larger homes and more space for kids to run around. It’s close to great spots like Forest Park, which offers the best hiking trails.
If you’re looking for a quieter lifestyle with easy access to nature while still being close to the city, Southwest Portland is the place for you.
4. Outer East Portland
Offers larger homes at more affordable prices. It’s also known for its parks and outdoor spaces, making it a great choice for families. However, the trade-off is longer commutes into the city for work.
5. Southeast Portland
This area is popular with working families. With its tree-lined picture-perfect streets, parks, and a strong sense of community, Southeast Portland offers a balance of urban life and suburban comfort.
I personally love Hawthorn which is a great gated neighborhood. The affordability here is a plus, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy city life without breaking the bank.
6. Northeast Portland
Known for its diversity and strong sense of community, Northeast Portland offers a mix of residential and commercial slots. Areas like Irvington and Woodlawn are particularly appealing, with historic homes and parks. This neighborhood is also becoming more and more popular for its foodir scene and local breweries. Make sure you get a lager at one of the local bars.
Lifestyle Is Everything: Step Two
Portland is known across the US for its progressive culture always heading off the social protests, environmental consciousness, and commitment to sustainability.
The city is often described as “weird,” and this motto is embraced in its strange shops, diverse food scene, and local coffee roasters. Foodies will find a haven here, with all the food carts offering everything from gourmet tacos to vegan delights.
Portland Farmers Market, is a local favorite when it comes to delicious food options, while restaurants prioritize farm-to-table dining. The coffee culture is equally impressive, with many artisanal coffee shops serving high-quality coffees that are sourced from local roasters.
Keeping things local is the name of the game in Portland. For me, knowing there is great coffee in the area is enough to convince me to move to Portland.
Portland’s arts scene is unbeaten in the Northeast with many special galleries, music spots, and theaters. You can always find live music no matter the night. The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Portland Rose Festival and the Waterfront Blues Festival. Outdoor lovers will love the constant proximity to nature, with activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking being local favorites.
Tips from a Local Perspective: Step 3 to Understanding
Moving to a new city like Portland can be overwhelming, but as a local, I can offer some insider tips to help you settle in. We know you will love Portland as much as we do in no time.
- Transportation: Portland is known for its excellent public transportation, including buses and the MAX Light Rail. If you’re moving to a neighborhood close to downtown, consider using public transit instead of a personal car, as parking can be a challenge. Biking is also a popular mode of transportation, with many bike-friendly lanes and paths. More people own bikes than cars in the city.
- Weather: The weather in Portland can be quite wild, with a reputation for rainy winters. Invest in a good rain jacket and waterproof shoes to walk around without freezing. Summer is usually mild, so take advantage of the outdoors and go hiking every weekend!
- Community: Community is everything when you arrive in a new town. Portland has a strong and inviting community spirit. Get involved in local events, join a community group, or volunteer to get to know locals in the neighborhood. If you are into protests you will find friends in no time.
- Foodie Fun: With its incredible food cart scene and unique restaurants, don’t hesitate to explore different culinary options. Portland attracts so many cultures and with that comes delicious foods. Many food carts offer unique and affordable dishes, providing a taste of Portland’s diverse food culture.
- Outdoors: Embrace the outdoors with numerous parks, hiking trails, and Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood, take the time to explore the beauty outside the city.
- Embrace the “Different”: Portland prides itself on being a different and even weird city. Don’t avoid the strange festivals, local art shows, and offbeat shops. Embrace the local culture, and you’ll find a community that values creativity and individuality.
Closing Shop In Portland
Moving to Portland is an exciting adventure filled with nature every weekend and great foodie options. With its different neighborhoods, urban culture, and stunning natural mountains in the surroundings, the city offers a unique blend of urban and outdoor living.
By understanding the different areas, embracing the local foodie and protest scene, and preparing for the costs of life in Portland, you’ll be on your way to your new home!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time does it take to pack up a bedroom?
It will take anywhere from 7 hours to a few days, which is the average we have seen. It really depends on many personal factors such as size, dedication to the task, clutter, clothing preferences, and other items. It’s more of a question for yourself if you plan to declutter and go full minimalist style or if you plan to throw everything in a carton. Plan accordingly so you will finish all your packing in a stress-free manner. No matter what you plan, don’t forget to label and close off that box!
When would using a packing service be helpful?
Professional packers are not for every budget but will work fast and efficiently to get all your items packed up safely. While you will take time to sort through things, they will have your entire home packed up and bubble-wrapped in no time. If you are in a time rush, amid important work things, or just want to feel like a king, think about using a packing full-service moving option.
What is the best time of year to move?
If you are looking to save, the winter months especially midweek and midday, are the cheapest time to move. Most people move in the summer months in order to start the academic year off and also prefer not to miss a day or work, use this to your benefit to save and move then! Many rental contracts end at the end of the month, so mid-month moves on odd days are ideal. You can potentially save hundreds of dollars by changing your schedule and understanding the above.
How can I remain calm during my moving day?
When you book with Pricing Van Lines, you know you are taking a step in the right direction to keep your move calm, cool, and collected. When you are proactive about all the many tasks that need to be done, it is easier to keep calm. Keeping a list and organizing it by priority items to finish and giving due dates for each line item can be a good way to feel in control of the move rather than it is controlling you.
Are all storage containers climate-controlled, and do I need this option?
No. Most storage containers are designed to hold your items for a short period of time, and not necessarily meant to be used as long-term storage, therefore are not a climate controlled environment. If you need a climate controlled unit, your best option is still going to be renting a dedicated, climate-controlled storage unit from the get-go and not just hoping for the best and ruining your items.
