Portland, Oregon, is a diverse and eclectic city that draws people from all over to experience its “weirdness.” But don’t overlook the surrounding cities, which offer their own quirks, beauty, and charm. Here’s our list of the top 10 cities near Portland that you might want to consider if you’re planning a move in 2024.
The best cities near Portland, Oregon
- Vancouver, WA
- Gresham, OR
- Beaverton, OR
- Lake Oswego, OR
- West Linn, OR
- Happy Valley, OR
- Milwaukie, OR
- Tualatin, OR
- Oregon City, OR
- Tigard, OR
1. Vancouver, WA
- Driving distance from Portland: 9.2 miles
- Commute time to Portland via car: 21 minutes
- Population: 194,512
- Median rent: $1,750, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs
- Attractions: Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Esther Short Park, Vancouver Waterfront Park
Why Vancouver is a great place to live
Vancouver offers a great mix of history and outdoor fun. The Fort Vancouver National Historic Site gives you a peek into the past, while the Columbia River Gorge offers endless hiking, biking, and water sports. The city’s revitalized waterfront area, featuring Vancouver Waterfront Park, hosts various events and festivals.
2. Gresham, OR
- Driving distance from Portland: 16.8 miles
- Commute time to Portland via car: 34 minutes
- Population: 111,621
- Median rent: $1,597, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Families and those seeking a small-town feel
- Attractions: Gresham Japanese Garden, Gresham History Museum
Why Gresham is a great place to live
Gresham offers a family-friendly vibe, many parks, and a historic downtown area with cute shops and restaurants. The Gresham Japanese Garden is a peaceful spot, and the Gresham History Museum showcases the city’s rich heritage. Its small-town charm and proximity to Portland make it a great option for a quieter lifestyle.
3. Beaverton, OR
- Driving distance from Portland: 7.5 miles
- Commute time to Portland via car: 25 minutes
- Population: 97,053
- Median rent: $1,802, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Tech professionals and foodies
- Attractions: Nike World Headquarters, Beaverton Farmers Market, Cooper Mountain Nature Park
Why Beaverton is a great place to live
Beaverton is a tech hub, home to Nike’s World Headquarters, making it a great spot for professionals. The city also has a thriving culinary scene, highlighted by the Beaverton Farmers Market. Nature lovers will enjoy Cooper Mountain Nature Park, which offers hiking trails and stunning views.
4. Lake Oswego, OR
- Driving distance from Portland: 7.3 miles
- Commute time to Portland via car: 16 minutes
- Population: 40,108
- Median rent: $2,695, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Affluent families and outdoor enthusiasts
- Attractions: Oswego Lake, George Rogers Park, Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market
Why Lake Oswego is a great place to live
Lake Oswego is a high-end community known for excellent schools, beautiful parks, and access to Oswego Lake for boating, swimming, and fishing. The downtown area has high-end shops and restaurants, and the Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market is a favorite weekend spot. The natural beauty and strong sense of community here make it a top choice for affluent families.
5. West Linn, OR
- Driving distance from Portland: 11.8 miles
- Commute time to Portland via car: 27 minutes
- Population: 26,931
- Median rent: $2,149, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Nature lovers and families
- Attractions: Mary S. Young Park, Willamette Falls, West Linn Farmers Market
Why West Linn is a great place to live
West Linn offers a scenic setting along the Willamette River, with beautiful views of the Willamette Falls and easy access to hiking and biking trails at Mary S. Young Park. The historic downtown area hosts the West Linn Farmers Market, which features local produce, crafts, and live music. With top-rated schools and a welcoming community, West Linn is perfect for families.
6. Happy Valley, OR
- Driving distance from Portland: 15.1 miles
- Commute time to Portland via car: 29 minutes
- Population: 26,456
- Median rent: $2,407, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Families and outdoor enthusiasts
- Attractions: Happy Valley Park, Mount Talbert Nature Park, Happy Valley Farmers Market
Why Happy Valley is a great place to live
Happy Valley is known for its excellent schools, ample green spaces, and outdoor activities. Happy Valley Park has sports fields, playgrounds, and a splash pad, while Mount Talbert Nature Park offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing. The Happy Valley Farmers Market brings the community together with local vendors and artisans. Safe neighborhoods and easy access to Portland make it a great choice for families.
7. Milwaukie, OR
- Driving distance from Portland: 6.4 miles
- Commute time to Portland via car: 15 minutes
- Population: 21,375
- Median rent: $1,733, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Commuters and those seeking a small-town feel
- Attractions: Milwaukie Bay Park, Milwaukie Farmers Market, Milwaukie Museum
Why Milwaukie is a great place to live
Milwaukie offers a charming small-town atmosphere with easy access to Portland, making it perfect for commuters. The downtown area has unique shops, restaurants, and the Milwaukie Farmers Market. Milwaukie Bay Park is a scenic spot along the Willamette River, and the Milwaukie Museum provides a glimpse into the city’s history.
8. Tualatin, OR
- Driving distance from Portland: 12.2 miles
- Commute time to Portland via car: 26 minutes
- Population: 27,797
- Median rent: $1,833, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Shopping enthusiasts and nature lovers
- Attractions: Bridgeport Village, Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, Tualatin Commons
Why Tualatin is a great place to live
Tualatin offers a great mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. The upscale Bridgeport Village shopping center has a variety of retail and dining options, while the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge offers hiking and birdwatching. Tualatin Commons features a lake, splash pad, and amphitheater, hosting various community events. With a strong job market and good education opportunities through the town’s school district, Tualatin is great for families and professionals.
9. Oregon City, OR
- Driving distance from Portland: 12.9 miles
- Commute time to Portland via car: 31 minutes
- Population: 37,327
- Median rent: $1,795, according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: History buffs and outdoor enthusiasts
- Attractions: End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, Willamette Falls, McLoughlin House
Why Oregon City is a great place to live
Oregon City, the first incorporated city west of the Rocky Mountains, is rich in history and natural beauty. The End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center offers a look into the city’s pioneer past, while the Willamette Falls provides stunning views and opportunities for hiking and fishing. The McLoughlin House is a must-see for history buffs. With a charming downtown and great access to outdoor activities, Oregon City is a unique and historic place to call home.
10. Tigard, OR
- Driving distance from Portland: 9.4 miles
- Commute time to Portland via car: 34 minutes
- Population: 55,762
- Median rent: $1,823 according to July 2024 rent research
- Best for: Families and golf enthusiasts
- Attractions: Broadway Rose Theatre Company, Tigard Festival of Balloons, RedTail Golf Center
Why Tigard is a great place to live
Tigard offers a family-friendly atmosphere with highly-rated schools, plenty of parks, and a packed community calendar. The Broadway Rose Theatre Company provides top-notch musical theater, and the annual Tigard Festival of Balloons is a colorful event for all ages. Golf lovers will enjoy the RedTail Golf Center. With a strong job market and easy access to Portland, Tigard is a welcoming and active community for families and professionals.
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