California might have the glitz and glamour, but the state of Oregon still has a powerful draw for young people looking to strike out on their own on the West Coast. In fact, Millennials comprise a full 20% of the city’s population, making it one of the ten most Millennial-saturated metropolises in the entire country.
Why are so many young folks drawn to this weird, wild, wonderful city? The following reasons might have something to do with it. Here you can get the best brunch in Portland.
Housing Doesn’t Cost an Arm and a Leg
When you’re young, dumb, and full of… ambition… having access to affordable housing is a must. The median rent cost for apartments in Portland, Oregon, is roughly on par with the national average, and significantly cheaper than in areas with similarly large Millennial populations, like Sunnyvale, California, and Cambridge, Massachusetts. For more details, visit rent.com.
It’s a Green City (in More Ways Than One)
Millennials are way more concerned about and mindful of their relationship with Mother Nature than previous generations have been. That makes Portland a great fit, not just because of its proximity to so much scenic Oregon wilderness, but also because of the local government’s efforts to “go green,” such as by banning single-use plastic grocery bags and raising taxes on big corporations then using the revenue to fund energy efficiency initiatives.
Of course, that’s not the only way Portland has “gone green.” It was, after all, the very first US state to decriminalize marijuana, getting the ball (or joint, if you prefer) rolling all the way back in 1973.
The fact is that the younger population is now more oriented to nature, and there are many places around this city where you can have a great day off. Also, there are many attractions around it, like Crater Lake National Park, Bend, Columbia Gorge, Coast, and more. This provides a unique combination of activities since you can enjoy at the beach, go hiking, walk through a desert, and much more.
It Offers Many Possibilities
Another reason why this city is so popular among younger generations is the fact that there are many big companies with offices in Portland. Some of the biggest names are fashion brands like Keen, Nike, Under Armour, Adidas, and more. This is an excellent opportunity for younger people to get their first job or a side income. For those with a bachelor’s degree in computer science or engineering, which are some of the most popular professions these days, you can apply to work for Daimler or Intel, which also have their companies stationed in this city. Another company in Portland providing web design and online marketing services is Salt Creative.
Ease of Traveling
The great benefit of living in Portland is that there is one of the best airports in the United States. Considering the popularity, it is not a surprise that you can find the flight to almost every destination all over the world. In that matter, staying in touch with your family and seeing them more often won’t be such a problem. Also, it will motivate you to travel more. On the other side, if you decide to stay at home during summer, the climate is perfect during this time of the year, with maximum temperatures around 90 degrees. Winter brings some advantages as well, and you can find a lot of activities during this season.
Best Parts of Portland for Millennials
This city is known as being urban and eclectic, which is the main reason for such popularity in recent years. It is especially good for modern professions like working for tech companies and working remotely as well. If you are looking for a more affordable solution that is not placed in the center of the city, you should check out Goose Hollow. The great thing about living here is the lack of traffic jams and noise. However, if you are looking for a place where you can meet a lot of new people, Nob Hill is one of the best options. For those who prefer the center and everything to be on a few minutes of walk, the best solution is Pearl District. Moreover, for those interested in starting a family in this place, Sellwood Moreland offers the most.
The Arts Scene is On a Whole Other Level
Portland locals have a certain reputation for being… let’s say, artsy. Actually, if we’re being honest, let’s say the stereotype is that they’re just plain weird. Unlike most stereotypes, though, this is one is about as true as true gets. Aside from being home to such dignified cultural institutions as the Portland Art Museum and Blue Sky, the Oregon Center for the Photographic Arts, the city has one of the most eclectic and eccentric nightlife scenes you’re likely to find anywhere.
One undeniably Portland-y after-dark hot spot is Casa Diablo, which is not only the world’s only vegan strip club, but one with a famous grudge against the Acropolis Steakhouse next door!
Sorry, but Paying Sales Tax is for Suckers
Sales tax is the worst, isn’t it? You can’t buy anything for the price that’s actually on the tag; you always have to do mental math before you get to the checkout to see how bad the damage is going to be. Unless you live in Portland, that is. Oregon is one of only five US states that doesn’t charge sales tax. On anything. Ever. Clearly, this is one place where mo’ money doesn’t equal mo’ problems.
The Bottom Line
It is important to learn more about this city before moving. For example, some things might annoy you, like the rain. Some parts of the year will make you think like you are living in the UK. Also, the traffic can sometimes be frustrating, and drivers in this city are known as one of the worst in the whole of the US. Moreover, the high popularity is leading to increased prices of rents and apartments as well. In that matter, you should never rush with your decisions. You have to be sure that you can afford to live here. Still, most of these things are not so crucial, and you can get used to them over time. Apart from that, Portland is an amazing place for young people.
