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Eleanor best-worst

Best hidden gems in Portland

OK so I've been here for 3 years and Poverty rate is 5.9%, which is pretty low. The median home value here is around $165,000, which is actually reasonable. Median household income is $65,116, which feels about average for the area. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The suburbs are where most families end up. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
0 upvotes

6 Replies

jeremiah_mama
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in South for 1 years. Moved from Denver for retirement. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is excellent. We bought in 2024 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.

**Employment:**
construction is strong here. legal is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are manageable for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The outdoor scene is average - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.

**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are surprisingly good. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.

**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Chain restaurants dominate. Far from beaches/mountains. And cultural scene can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For families, I'd say this is a 7/10. Feel free to reach out with questions.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
32 upvotes
Gabriel Ortiz
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. Internet is solid in most areas.
31 upvotes
Jayden Hughes
seconding this
16 upvotes
Naomi Robinson
Public transit is tough here. You'll probably need a car for most things. it's exactly what I was looking for.
11 upvotes
Vincent G.
Moved here from Tampa about 6 years ago. I love the pace of life here. Still getting used to nightlife but No regrets on my end..
9 upvotes
Madelyn Flores
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem hit or miss.

I've been here 14 years and I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The thing nobody mentions is housing market. It's manageable and it affects daily life more than you'd think.

That said, the weather is legit. And if you're into mountain biking, this place is tough.

Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Eastside side vs the Riverside side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.

Feel free to reach out with questions..
8 upvotes
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