Beyond the Hype: A Closer Look at Living in Portland vs. Vancouver

Are you considering a move to Portland, Oregon? If so, there are a few crucial factors you need to consider before making that decision. As a local market expert, I have lived in both Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, and I must say that I love Vancouver a thousand times more. While Portland has its merits, there are five reasons why I choose Vancouver over Portland every day. In this blog post, we will delve into these aspects, providing you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

Reason 1: Dense Housing in Portland

One of the primary reasons I am not particularly fond of living in Portland is the issue of density. The city has implemented a policy known as the urban growth boundary, which restricts urban sprawl and encourages denser development within city limits. While this approach may have some advantages in terms of sustainability and preserving natural areas, it has resulted in a scarcity of space and cramped living conditions. The city is constantly adding overlays and packing in houses to accommodate its growing population. Additionally, there has been a recent trend in Oregon of eliminating residential zoning altogether, leading to the construction of multiplexes in once-desirable neighborhoods. In contrast, Vancouver offers more spacious lots and a less crowded environment. The population of the entire Portland metro area is approximately 2.2 million people, whereas Clark County, where Vancouver is located, has only around 550,000 residents, making a notable difference in housing availability and quality of life.

Reason 2: Bad Traffic in Portland

Another significant drawback of living in Portland is the notorious traffic congestion. As a real estate professional who commutes frequently, I can attest to the frustration of dealing with Portland's traffic. Rush hour in the city is a nightmare, and if you happen to be driving downtown after 2 p.m., be prepared for a journey that takes over an hour to reach Vancouver, even though the distance is not substantial. The city's infrastructure poses challenges when traveling from the east side to the west side, and commuters working in areas like Hillsboro face lengthy two-hour drives to reach destinations on the opposite side of the city. Such traffic woes can significantly impact your daily life and add unnecessary stress to your routine, making Vancouver a more appealing choice for those seeking a smoother commute.

Reason 3: Portland is Dirty and Filthy

While Portlandians often boast about their love for the outdoors and their eco-consciousness, the city itself has become disappointingly filthy. Trash litters the streets, graffiti covers buildings, tents are scattered everywhere, and discarded needles pose a safety hazard. As someone who grew up in the Midwest, where cleanliness was a point of pride, I find the state of Portland disheartening. Many of my clients who consider relocating to Portland express their concerns about the city's appearance, questioning whether any part of the city remains unspoiled. Regrettably, in the past five or six years, the situation has deteriorated significantly, and the authorities have not effectively addressed the issue. In stark contrast, Vancouver takes pride in maintaining clean streets and actively works to keep the community beautiful. Trucks are frequently seen cleaning and picking up litter, ensuring a pleasant environment for residents and visitors alike.

Reason 4: Portland has a Serious Crime Problem

One cannot ignore the escalating crime rates and homelessness crisis in Portland. Year after year, the city has witnessed a steady increase in both issues. This alarming trend raises concerns about safety and security. During my time living in southeast Portland, I often found myself wondering whether the noises I heard were gunshots or fireworks. I even had to deal with the unpleasant task of discovering people using my backyard as a restroom. The crime situation, coupled with the pervasive trash problem, paints a disconcerting picture of Portland's current state. It is crucial for the city's leadership to take swift and effective action to restore safety and address the homelessness issue.

Reason 5: Politics in Portland

The political climate in Portland can be polarizing and exclusionary. While I refrain from taking sides or expressing personal beliefs, it is important to note that living in Portland often means conforming to a specific set of political ideologies. Divergent opinions are met with intolerance and the possibility of being ostracized or "cancel-cultured." This lack of open-mindedness goes against the principles of healthy discourse and respectful disagreement. In contrast, adults in the real world can hold differing views while maintaining friendships and engaging in constructive conversations. The prevailing political atmosphere in Portland often stifles meaningful progress, with issues being perpetually deferred without effective solutions. It's worth mentioning that this political climate extends beyond Portland and permeates much of Oregon. Interestingly, recent news coverage has highlighted the movement known as "Greater Idaho," where several Oregon counties are exploring the possibility of seceding from the state to join Idaho, reflecting the growing dissatisfaction with the current political landscape.

Bonus Fun Fact: You Can't Pump Your Own Gas in Oregon

In Oregon, it is illegal to pump your own gas—a fact that surprises many newcomers. Only a handful of states in the country have similar regulations. While the intention behind this law is to create more job opportunities, the experience of waiting for attendants to pump your gas can be frustrating, particularly when faced with long queues. While this may seem like a minor inconvenience, it is an aspect of daily life that sets Oregon apart from other states.

As someone who has experienced living in both Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, I cannot stress enough the importance of thoroughly considering all aspects of a potential move. While Portland undoubtedly offers unique cultural experiences and attractions, it is essential to weigh the drawbacks discussed in this blog post against your personal preferences and priorities. Vancouver, with its more spacious housing, smoother commute, cleaner streets, and inclusive community, may better align with your desire for a simpler, more comfortable lifestyle. Ultimately, the decision rests in your hands.

If you have found this blog post informative, I encourage you to subscribe to my channel for more insightful content. I am constantly receiving inquiries from individuals like you who are contemplating a move to either Vancouver or Portland. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns you may have. As a realtor and local market expert, I am dedicated to helping you find the best location for your needs and ensuring a smooth transition to the Pacific Northwest. Thank you for visiting, and I look forward to assisting you on your journey.