Suburban Living in Portland: Top Nearby Cities for Homebuyers
Portland is famous for its vibrant urban culture, walkable neighborhoods, and natural beauty, but not every homebuyer is looking for life in the heart of the city. For those who want more space, a slower pace, or a more family-friendly environment while still being close to all that Portland has to offer, the suburbs provide an ideal solution.
The Portland metro area boasts several nearby cities that offer a blend of suburban living with easy access to the city. Whether you're searching for top-rated schools, parks, or larger homes at more affordable prices, here are the top suburban cities near Portland that homebuyers should have on their radar.
Suburban living in Portland
The top nearby cities for homebuyers
1. Beaverton
Just a 20-minute drive west of downtown Portland, Beaverton is one of the metro area’s most popular suburban destinations. Known for its strong job market (home to the global headquarters of Nike and nearby Intel), Beaverton offers excellent schools, a variety of housing options, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Beaverton’s neighborhoods range from newer developments with modern amenities to established areas with tree-lined streets and spacious yards. For homebuyers looking for convenience, Beaverton is connected by the MAX light rail, providing easy access to Portland’s downtown and other parts of the metro area.
Highlights:
Top-rated schools in the Beaverton School District.
Proximity to high-tech jobs in the "Silicon Forest."
Family-friendly parks like Tualatin Hills Nature Park and RedTail Golf Center.
2. Lake Oswego
If you're looking for an upscale suburban feel, Lake Oswego is hard to beat. Located about 8 miles south of Portland, this affluent city is known for its picturesque lake, well-manicured neighborhoods, and top-tier schools. The city’s charming downtown offers boutique shopping, gourmet dining, and a lively arts scene.
Lake Oswego is also known for its recreational opportunities, with access to the Willamette River, numerous parks, and an extensive network of trails.
Highlights:
Beautiful waterfront homes and exclusive lake access.
Top-rated Lake Oswego School District.
A close-knit community with a vibrant cultural scene.
3. Tigard
For homebuyers looking for a more affordable option without sacrificing convenience, Tigard is a growing suburban city located southwest of Portland. Tigard has experienced significant development in recent years, with new housing communities, shopping centers, and entertainment options popping up.
Tigard offers a mix of older homes, new construction, and apartment developments, making it a great option for first-time buyers. It’s also home to Bridgeport Village, a popular outdoor shopping center, and offers easy access to major highways, making the commute to downtown Portland a breeze.
Highlights:
Family-friendly neighborhoods and growing amenities.
Access to excellent shopping and dining at Bridgeport Village.
Affordable housing options compared to other nearby suburbs.
4. Hillsboro
Further west of Beaverton, Hillsboro is another fast-growing city in the Portland metro area, and it’s become one of the most important tech hubs in the region. Hillsboro is home to Intel's largest campus and a thriving high-tech sector, which has spurred the development of modern communities, parks, and services.
Hillsboro offers a more rural feel than Beaverton, with plenty of open space, farms, and wineries surrounding the city. Yet, it also has a lively downtown and a growing number of restaurants, breweries, and cultural attractions. Housing in Hillsboro tends to be more affordable, making it a great option for those working in the tech industry or seeking a balance between suburban and rural living.
Highlights:
Excellent job opportunities in the tech industry.
Proximity to nature, with easy access to farms, vineyards, and forested areas.
Family-friendly neighborhoods with newer homes and developments.
5. West Linn
If you’re seeking a peaceful suburban lifestyle with plenty of green space and a small-town feel, West Linn might be the perfect fit. Located south of Portland and just east of Lake Oswego, West Linn offers a slower pace of life while still being close to city amenities.
West Linn is known for its well-regarded schools, parks, and strong sense of community. The city has a mix of historic homes, newer developments, and large properties with ample privacy. West Linn’s proximity to the Willamette River also makes it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
Highlights:
Top-rated West Linn-Wilsonville School District.
Scenic views and access to the Willamette River.
A quiet, close-knit community with plenty of parks and outdoor activities.
6. Gresham
Located east of Portland, Gresham offers one of the most affordable suburban options in the metro area. Gresham is ideal for homebuyers looking for more space at a lower price point, with a range of housing styles including single-family homes, townhouses, and condos.
While Gresham has a more suburban and rural feel, it’s well-connected to downtown Portland via the MAX light rail and major highways. Gresham is also close to the Columbia River Gorge, making it a great option for nature lovers who enjoy hiking, fishing, and outdoor adventures.
Highlights:
Affordable home prices with a variety of housing options.
Easy access to outdoor recreation in the Columbia River Gorge.
Direct connection to Portland via the MAX Blue Line.
Choosing the Right Suburb for You
Each of these Portland suburbs offers its own unique appeal, and choosing the right one depends on your lifestyle, budget, and priorities. Whether you’re drawn to the family-friendly vibe of Beaverton, the upscale allure of Lake Oswego, or the tech-driven growth of Hillsboro, there’s a suburb near Portland that’s perfect for you.
As a local real estate expert, I can help guide you through the home-buying process, ensuring that you find the right home in the Portland metro area. If you’re considering a move to one of Portland’s nearby cities, reach out today—I’d love to help you explore these communities and find the perfect place to call home.
