cheaper than portland (Salem, Hillsboro, Woodburn: to live, price, commute)

[j1n]

Where, in the Portland vicinity, is it drastically cheaper to live...yet still within easy "reach" of civilization?

[Silverfall]

What do you define as the vicinity (1 hours drive??) and what is drastically cheaper?

[j1n]

Well, let me put it this way...what are some less expensive areas within an hour of Portland?

[MtnSurfer]

Hey J1n,

Funny seeing you over here from the CO forum. I am also looking at relo'ing to the PNW. I'm sure Silverfall has some great ideas being in the area and the bizz.

Here are a few which may interest you:

1. White Salmon WA: I know you love the Mtns and it is right across the Columbia from Hood. White Salmon

2. The Dalles OR: right across from White Salmon on the OR side of the Columbia. The Dalles

3. Verona OR: Closer to the coast. Verona

4. Woodburn OR: Between Portland and Salem with potential work in 'both' areas. Woodburn

These are out from Portland a ways. But because Portland is the capital there are jobs on the outskirts of the city as well such as Hillsboro which is closer to Verona. I am seriously looking at Hillsboro and the surrounding towns. But White Salmon/The Dalles is a nice spot also.

** Edit: Hood River OR was actually the one I was thinking about right across from White Salmon. It is a little more pricey than The Dalles. But it is also closer to Portland and Mt. Hood. Hood River

- Derek

[j1n]

awesome, Derek. thanks for taking the time to put that together!!

[FoxyKnox]

Originally Posted by MtnSurfer

But because Portland is the capital there are jobs on the outskirts of the city as well such as Hillsboro which is closer to Verona. - Derek

Close, but Salem is actually the capitol city, though Portland has most of the capital ($).

MtnSurfer's recommendations are fairly far out from Portland, easily more than 1 hours drive, and that is not counting traffic. Although, if you like less development, Woodburn/Mt. Angel/Mololla might be a nice area for you to check into. The outskirts of Sandy might be good too.

[MtnSurfer]

Originally Posted by FoxyKnox

Close, but Salem is actually the capitol city, though Portland has most of the capital ($).

Dooh! I always thought Portland was the capitol. What was I doing during US History in HS anyway? I guess I was preoccupied with with thoughts of girls, surfing, sleep, etc...LOL ...

[bobmulk]

Avoid Woodburn like the plague. Salem is MUCH cheaper and I think the poster meant "Vernonia", not "Verona". Mt. Angel can be relatively pricey for what you get; it's a rather no-growth community. Molalla might be a good choice.

[seven of nine]

Originally Posted by j1n

Where, in the Portland vicinity, is it drastically cheaper to live...yet still within easy "reach" of civilization?

Will you need to commute daily for work into Portland?

[MtnSurfer]

From Hood River/White Salmon you are close to beautiful lakes like this Lost Lake