Portland vs Seattle?

squiddy

So my husband is from Northern California and eventually we'd love to move back. The closer we get to actually making a decision the more we keep changing our minds. California's economy doesn't seem to be getting better and neither does my Mother-in-law

We want to be close to at least some family. He loves Northern Cali and I fell in love with the pacific coast this summer... i could care less if it was CA/WA/OR. I've never been to Seattle or Portland but they seem to be 2 of the bigger cities in the North West.

Anybody live up there that can give some insight? Jobs/schools/etc?

jonboy61

I live between Seattle and Tacoma, and work in West Seattle. In comparison between Portland and Seattle; Seattle is a mess. Terrible traffic problems that won't be solved in a generation if that. 10% sales tax. There may be more overall employment opportunities in Seattle when the recession receeds, but if I could I would try Portland first.
YOMV.

Angelo

Well Portland is closer to CA giving you more options relative to travel.

Portland adopted a resolution several years ago for a moratorium on urban sprawl which allows for greater investment in the city's infrastructure thereby increasing property values and general better living. They have a solid public transportation system, a vibrant downtown, a respected university system... and all of the natural beauty surrounding the city that the upper northwest is famous for. I think this might be a no-brainer. good luck

squiddy

Thanks guys... i was beginning to lose hope anyone would respond.

I've looked at housing in both places and I like the look and feel of the area of Portland over Seattle.

What exactly is The Pearl? I saw it come up a few times, looks like a downtown high end area. I wasn't sure if there was more to it or not.

I've been looking into the OR State Patrol as a job option. Although this would probably take me away from Portland itself you never know. My degree is in Social Services but I've been working in the Computer Software industry for the last year.

Enitsugua

squiddy wrote:

So my husband is from Northern California and eventually we'd love to move back. The closer we get to actually making a decision the more we keep changing our minds. California's economy doesn't seem to be getting better and neither does my Mother-in-law

We want to be close to at least some family. He loves Northern Cali and I fell in love with the pacific coast this summer... i could care less if it was CA/WA/OR. I've never been to Seattle or Portland but they seem to be 2 of the bigger cities in the North West.

Anybody live up there that can give some insight? Jobs/schools/etc?

So, why not try some of the islands in Puget Sound instead? Easy ferry ride into Seattle for the big city stuff.

OR has income tax but no sales tax. WA has sales tax but no income tax. I like both cities and could live in either. (We live in the Seattle area.)

To someone who commented on traffic as though Portland was better in this area--get a grip. BOTH cities have HORRIFIC traffic if you are driving. If you are going to love in the downtown of either, then walking is good in both. Downtown Portland has the river front, very nice. Downtown Seattle has Puget Sound, also very nice. Living in either downtown would be great, but both are pricey! Again, I'd look into the islands in the Sound.

squiddy

thanks!

wrightdawg

Keep in mind that many of us Seattle area residents try and tell others NOT to live here since traffic is so bad

Don't let people scare you away from our beautiful area (yes, traffic here does suck). I have yet to meet anyone who has moved to Seattle from somewhere else that has regretted the decision.