Beaverton... of its own? or simply Portland suburbs? (Cedar Mill, Phoenix: rent, neighborhood)

[megh]

Can anyone explain to me the flavor of Beaverton, OR. Is it simply the suburbs of Portland? or does it have its own unique culture and infrastructure. I currently live near Phoenix and pretty much all outlining areas for 1 hour in every direction are just glorified suburbs of Phoenix.. none with anything interesting or fun to do.

Also, is Beaverton "More, Less or About the Same" as Portland regarding the liberal mind set and environment?

My husband and I are doing research on different areas of the country to which to move and Portland is on the list... I'm just wondering what Beaverton is like b/c it seems to be more affordable.

Thanks!

[fjtee]

It's pretty much the suburbs of Portland. What draws people to the area is its proximity to Intel and Nike, and it has superior schools to what you'll find in Portland. The mindset of the residents is pretty much the same as Portland; that's what I found when I lived there. And, I lived there, because I had children and wanted more square footage in my house. If you're looking for a nightlife or "things to do," you won't find it there. But, Portland isn't far away.

[Not PC]

I live in Cedar Mill, basically an unincorporated area in Beaverton with a Portland address...go figure. I find this area(Beaverton) to be much more run of the mill Suburbs with SUV's, box stores, etc.(still no Wal-mart on the westside though) More generic than anything "Portland". Liberal, but not as liberal as Portland. The city is clean, safe, and seems like it would be ideal to raise a family. Washington county is one of the fastest growing in the state. As for a single 20 something like myself, I want to leave. But for a suburb this is one of the nicest I've seen. And, as fjtee stated, Portland is only a drive down Highway 26...

[Nell Plotts]

Just what Not PC said.

My advise, rent first then find a neighborhood that suits you.