The 12 Best Portland Suburbs: Find Your Solace in This Quirky PNW Gem
Portland (OR) Oregon
“Keep Portland Weird” isn’t just the city’s slogan; it’s a way of life. Portland is known for embracing both creativity and individuality, and you’ll even find that throughout the best Portland suburbs. Plus, moving to Portland also means the beautifully mild year-round Pacific Northwest weather — and proximity to the Pacific coastline and Cascade Mountains. Not to mention all the farmers’ markets.
Portland also comes with great job opportunities in various sectors, including healthcare, software development, and private education. It also has top-notch public schools (i.e. the No. 1 school district in Oregon), and higher education opportunities at Portland State University and Pacific University. There are a few more quick facts you should know, though.
Portland at a Glance
- The city has an approximate population of 615,300.
- The average home value city-wide is $536,800, compared to $504,700 in the state and $368,600 nationally.
- The average rent for a one-bedroom in Portland is $1,750, compared to $1,475 in the state and $1,750 nationally.
- The picturesque outdoors, impressive arts scene, and thriving culture make Portland a huge draw no matter what stage of life you’re in.
- Great for: Young professionals, families, outdoor enthusiasts, arts, unique culture
Discover the 12 Best Portland Suburbs
1. Bethany, OR
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,200
- Median home sale price: $827,500
- Great for: Families, retirees, tranquility, outdoor recreation, dining, jobs
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 20 minutes
Ranked by Niche as the No. 1 best suburb to live in Oregon, the peaceful suburb of Bethany is located just 20 minutes outside of the city. This community is conveniently located near Highway 26, making it easy for commuters to get to work (Perfect if you work at the nearby Intel campus or Hillsboro Medical Center!) and even take the occasional day trip out of town. According to NeighborhoodScout, Bethany is also one of the safest Portland suburbs.
Bethany Village is a dining and retail destination with eateries serving up a variety of cuisines, including Bethany’s Table. There are also lots of green spaces in the area — like Kaiser Woods Park and Pirate Park — which provide residents with an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and embark on some beautiful trails.
The namesake lake is the highlight of the suburb, playing the centerpiece to waterfront homes, tall fir trees, and fun-filled summer days.
(Source: City of Lake Oswego, Local Government via Facebook)
2. Lake Oswego, OR
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,175
- Median home sale price: $888,300
- Great for: Families, young professionals, retirees, lake activities, farmer’s markets, restaurants, shops
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 15 minutes
With the title of No. 2 best suburb to live in Oregon, plus the No. 1 best school district in the state, it isn’t hard to believe that anyone can make their home in Lake Oswego — especially families. The namesake lake is the highlight of the suburb, playing the centerpiece to waterfront homes and tall fir trees worthy of a magazine cover.
Lake Oswego also has plenty of ways for people to meet their neighbors and get active in the community. One of the top community gatherings is the Farmers’ Market, which is held every Saturday from May to October. It has over 80 local vendors doling out fresh produce and baked foods, or the kids can enjoy face painting and jewelry making. On the Fourth of July, the market also hosts a Star Spangled Banner Parade and an Annual Tree Lighting Festival during the holidays.
In addition to restaurants and bars, there are also plenty of independent shops and other establishments in Downtown Lake Oswego. You’ll find everything from the luxe slow fashion offerings at Biography to the thrifty finds at Simply Posh Consignment. The new Millennium Plaza Park is a wonderful place for a walk and a bite to eat. Some local favorite spots include Salt and Straw and Kyra's Bake Shop.
| Q: What is the richest suburb of Portland? A: With a median home value of almost $890,000, Lake Oswego is considered one of Portland’s wealthiest suburbs. |
3. Cedar Mill, OR
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,175
- Median home sale price: $888,300
- Great for: Families, young professionals, retirees, lake activities, farmer’s markets, restaurants, shops
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 15 minutes
Cedar Mill is another of the best Portland suburbs for families. It places a lot of importance on small businesses, and it’s apparent, with everything from diverse restaurants, like Blu Olive Mediterranean Bistro and Joy Wok, to the options in the suburb’s shopping centers, like Cedar Hills Crossing. Want to experience more local events? Check out the Cedar Mill Cider Festival every September.
There are also plenty of public transportation options. One of these is the Sunset Transit Center, which serves as the connecting station for the Red and Blue lines of the MAX Light Rail. Plus, it’s a 5-minute drive from most of Cedar Mill’s neighborhoods.
There are various parks and recreation facilities, including The Bluffs Park, which connects neighborhoods with trails, and Cedar Mill Park, which features a playground, tennis court, and a soccer field.
| Q: What cities are 30 minutes from Portland, Oregon? A: A few of the best cities just 30 minutes (or less!) from Portland include West Linn, Lake Oswego, and Beaverton. |
4. West Linn, OR
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,200
- Median home sale price: $777,200
- Great for: Families, retirees, fun events, boating
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 30 minutes
Thinking about making a move to West Linn? This Portland suburb is the perfect mix of quiet charm and everyday convenience. Tucked between the Tualatin and Willamette rivers, you’ll find great views of Mount Hood, plus a generous helping of parks, trails, and one-of-a-kind neighborhoods that make it all feel special.
The Old Time Fair is West Linn's most popular event during the summer, but you can also check out Music in the Park and Movies in the Park, among the suburb’s other holiday celebrations.
West Linn isn’t shy about showing off its outdoor areas. The suburb boasts more than 30 parks and plenty of green spaces to stretch your legs (or tire out the dog). A local favorite is Maddax Woods Park, located on the Willamette River with great views of Goat Island. Want to get out on the water? Launch your boat at Cedaroak Boat Ramp, or paddle over to the nearby Cedar Island Park.
Offering a blend of suburban charm with urban convenience, Beaverton is a great place for families to settle down.
(Source: Beaverton City Government via Facebook)
5. Beaverton, OR
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,800
- Median home sale price: $543,200
- Great for: Families, retirees, outdoor recreation, wineries, top-notch dining
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 20 minutes
Home to Nike’s World Headquarters, Beaverton is one of the most desirable suburbs of Portland, Oregon. It offers a blend of suburban charm and urban convenience, with great local job opportunities and plenty of opportunities to explore your surroundings.
Like other cities in Oregon, Beaverton has a rich network of green spaces — with over 100 parks and 30 miles of hiking trails. One of the most popular is Cooper Mountain Nature Park, which features a variety of educational programs and activities.
Beaverton is also located near the Willamette Valley wine region, making it easy for wine lovers to wind their way through the many nearby wine trails — a great way to become acquainted with the area’s award-winning Pinot Noirs. Not a wine lover? There are plenty of bars and restaurants in the area. A few local favorites include Flora and the Westgate Bourbon Bar & Taphouse.
| Q: What are the cute towns near Portland, Oregon? A: Thanks to its natural beauty, tree-lined streets, and charming downtown, Camas has earned its reputation as one of the cutest areas near Portland. |
6. Camas, WA
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,425
- Median home sale price: $754,800
- Great for: Families, young professionals, vibrant downtown, entertainment, outdoor recreation, public transportation
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 35 minutes
Camas has it all — a charming downtown packed with unique shops, tasty eats, and plenty of things to do, all framed by gorgeous Pacific Northwest greenery. One of the most popular places to visit is the historic Liberty Theatre. Once the credits roll, head over to the Attic Gallery to admire the work of local artists.
For the perfect picnic spot, head over to Lacamas Regional Park, home to one of the area’s favorite local lakes. Here, you can go fishing, paddle out on a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard, or just soak up the park’s scenery across 300 acres of trails and open space.
Those who live in Vancouver, Camas, and Clark County rely on the C-Tran for public transportation. The system connects riders to Portland, where they can easily tap into the city’s more extensive transit network.
7. Cedar Hills, OR
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,675
- Median home sale price: $720,000
- Great for: Families, young professionals, outdoor recreation, community events, blend of urban and suburban
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 20 minutes
Cedar Hills sits in Washington County, just north of Beaverton and only minutes from both Portland and Hillsboro. The community gets its name from the historic cedar forest that once covered the area, which provided timber for a pioneer mill located in the Cedar Mill Creek.
Cedar Hills makes it simple to get outside, with plenty of parks and green spaces — with Commonwealth Lake Park being a local favorite for a quick walk or some bird watching. The neighborhood also knows how to come together thanks to community events, including the holiday parades hosted by the Cedar Hills Home Association. All in all, it’s the kind of place that strikes a sweet balance between suburban calm and just enough city buzz to keep things interesting.
If you’re looking for something totally unique, check out Tualatin’s annual Giant Pumpkin Regatta.
(Source: City of Tualatin - Government via Facebook)
8. Tualatin, OR
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,775
- Median home sale price: $648,800
- Great for: Families, retirees, wineries, golfing
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 23 minutes
Tualatin is one of the top Portland suburbs located southwest of Downtown — close enough for an easy commute, yet far enough to maintain a quiet, peaceful vibe. The Tualatin River winds through town, providing both recreation opportunities atop the rolling hills and beautiful green spaces to laze around in.
Wine aficionados are in luck — Tualatin sits right in the heart of the Willamette Valley. You’ll find award-winning pours among the area’s tasting rooms, not to mention plenty of bites to try. And if wine isn’t your thing, there are plenty of craft breweries in the region, such as the Stickmen Brewing Company.
Want to hit the links? The Tualatin Country Club offers players a private course with a challenging layout and perfectly maintained greens. History buffs can visit the Tualatin Heritage Centre to see prehistoric relics or learn about the area’s earliest settlers. And if you’re looking for something totally unique, check out the annual Giant Pumpkin Regatta.
| Q: What area to stay away from in Portland? A: Some neighborhoods in East Portland can feel a bit rough around the edges, so it’s a good idea to do your research before deciding where to settle in. Some of these include Hazelwood-Mill Park, West Burnside, and Lloyd District. |
9. Tigard, OR
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,750
- Median home sale price: $619,700
- Great for: Families, young professionals, entertainment, shopping, festivals
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 25 minutes
Tigard is a true shopper’s haven, with plenty of destinations to check out. One of the top spots is Bridgeport Village, a 30-acre outdoor mall with 500,000 square feet of shops and restaurants to explore. Plus, the Regal Bridgeport Village movie theater is available when you need a break. Searching for a more traditional mall experience? Washington Square is the place for you.
Every June, Tigard holds its annual festival of balloons, a community favorite packed with family-friendly activities, attractions, and, of course, colorful hot air balloons. For a more down-to-earth experience, check out Cooper Mountain Ale Works — a family-owned business featuring a rotating lineup of craft beers.
The local Portland Golf Club offers members access to an 18-hole championship course, a pool, and a racquetball court.
(Source: Portland Golf Club via Facebook)
10. Raleigh Hills, OR
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,425
- Median home sale price: $924,300
- Great for: Families, retirees, wildlife exploration, golfing, dining
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 20 minutes
Raleigh Hills has been ranked among the top 10 best suburbs of Portland, Oregon. It’s known for its upscale homes, lush greenery, and convenient location just southwest of the city. Walkable and welcoming, the community comes with homes in various architectural styles, sitting on spacious quarter-acre lots, complete with leafy yards and thick vegetation that give the neighborhood a private, tucked-away feel.
Raleigh Hills is home to plenty of local birdlife, including blue herons and belted kingfishers. For golf enthusiasts, the local Portland Golf Club — founded in 1914 — offers members access to an 18-hole championship course, a pool, and a racquetball court. Want to get further out? Forest Park is just 30 minutes away and comes with miles of trails to explore.
The intersection of Beaverton Hillsdale Highway and Scholls Ferry Road leads through the Raleigh Hills community to some of the area's best establishments, like the McMenamins Raleigh Hills Pub.
11. Oak Hills, OR
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,525
- Median home sale price: $587,500
- Great for: Families, beautiful architecture, outdoor recreation, shopping, dining
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 20 minutes
Located just west of Portland, Oak Hills comes with serious bragging rights: It was one of Oregon’s very first master-planned communities and even holds a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. The suburb’s architecture draws inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wright, with open layouts and floor-to-ceiling windows. Many homes in this area were even designed by Robert Rummer, who is known for his work on midcentury modern homes.
At the heart of the neighborhood is the Oak Hills Recreation Center, offering plenty of ways to connect with your neighbors. With two outdoor pools, a playground, a gymnasium, and a basketball court, there’s something for the entire family. Recently, the complex was renovated, giving it a modern feel. One of the town's most popular traditions is the annual Fourth of July Celebration, which offers live music and food trucks.
Check out the Oak Hills Village shopping center and one of its establishments, McMenamins — a well-known Portland institution that sells brewed beer on site.
12. West Slope, OR
- Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,675
- Median home sale price: $780,000
- Great for: Families, retirees, proximity to top outdoor locations, off-leash dog areas
- Commute to Downtown Portland: 12 minutes
The beautiful West Slope region serves up stunning views or valleys and mountains, along with great ways to get outside and explore. Local stand-outs include Washington Park, home to the famous International Rose Test Garden. This area's residents have a sense of pride and belonging in their homes, and the neighborhood vibe is friendly, welcoming, and just the right mix of laid-back and lively.
Life in West Slope comes with easy access to some great outdoor hangouts. Families love the Oregon Zoo, while your four-legged friend can get their share of fun at the area’s many dog parks. Local favorites, like Gabriel Park and Council Crest Park, give pups plenty of space to run and play freely while you soak up those sweet PNW views.
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Move to One of the Best Portland Suburbs With PODS
Once you’re ready to make the move to your Portland suburb, consider renting a portable storage container from PODS. Have it delivered right to your driveway, where you’ll be able to pack and load at your own pace. Once you’re ready, have it picked up and taken to your new home or locked up in a secure PODS Storage Center. One month of storage is built into the cost of every PODS move, allowing you to unload and get organized on your own schedule without a tight time crunch.
Visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call (855) 706-4758 for long-distance moving.
Editor’s note: Average and median rent prices were obtained from RentCafe and Zumper; average home values were obtained from Zillow; and median home sale prices were obtained from Redfin. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.
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