Why are so many people moving to Portland?? (Hillsboro, Lake Oswego: living, restaurant)

[green_mariner]

Originally Posted by msheiny

I hear so much about the rainy, cloudy, gray depressing winters. Im reading on here about the people who need to leave to get to the sunshine. Why do you think so many people are willing to give up sun and nice weather
(california, arizona, vegas) to come to Portland? Do you think the city will soon have all the traffic, pollution and out of control growth like califonia?
Just wondering...thanks!

Part of the reason is that many transplants simply do not like where they once lived because of what those places didn't have and they move to places that have what they are looking for. I llive in the metro Atlanta area and many of the transplants from other states are there because the cost of living is much lower than where they moved from.

[Supernova7]

I would agree that 90 percent of the transplants move due to the cost of living increase. The remaining 10 percent just need a change, this may include people, scenery, environment and somewhere to start fresh. I have wondered the same thing, why Portland? It's NOT cheap to live there. In fact housing/rent is not too far from Chicago and Seattle, sure it's a "bit lower" but we're not talking major cost adjustments. Not only that but the climate is filled with rain/dampness for like nine months. So why Portland?

[Supernova7]

Just do add, I'm convinced that most people would stay where they're at if it wasn't for economic reasons. Moving is a real headache and starting over is extremely difficult when in the end you discover little has changed.

[insanityincredibly]

But if you feel like you're stagnating in a place and need a change of scenery and a definite chance at more opportunity, it's okay that it's not amazingly cheaper....just a little cheaper might be fine.

[oldtintype]

It's the people who move here for the cost of living who are the ones who ***** and moan about the weather. They want a cheaper lifestyle with everything the way they want it (i.e. the way it was where you used to live). People should (and often do) come here because they like the abundance of outdoor activities, beautiful scenery, a clean city, way of life and so on. If not, stay home.

[Supernova7]

I think anyone that moves to a new city should be prepared for the climate change and know what they are getting themselves in to. Then again, climate may not be an issue but usually it is for most people. Also, nearly every survey conducted indicates that people relocate "primarily" due to economic circumstances and/or new job etc.. Very small percentage just take off for a new state expecting to find a whole new world. My persona view is moving takes a lot of thought and planning, you have to find what's best for you and know what to expect.

[jescherer100]

The perspective on making a change in your life can only be yours. I have lived in the same area my entire life, just a burb change or two. I am more than ready for the culture, the seasons, the change and the challenge. It's all in how you choose to deal with what may come both good and bad.

[insanityincredibly]

I've been in Hawaii most of my life, as a minority, which is a fairly large part of why i'm moving, the racism. It's not terrible, but I can feel it everywhere. I'd rather my son didn't have to deal with what I had to deal with growing up, and grown up. I'm not racist in the least, but living here most of my life it feels like I am now, it kinda sucks. I wanna be where most everyone is haole. I did live in Port Angeles, Wa. for a couple years, so I know what drizzly grey weather is like. Wait, it's like that here quite a bit too. Ah, but the cold. As long as it's not like Anchorage, I'm fine. 25 degrees for a few days is fine....therefore, I think we're moving to Portland in a few months.

[mamacourt]

I'm moving mainly for the new experiences, new environment and adventure. The change in cost of living is just a small piece of the puzzle. I agree...those who are moving only for economic reasons are more likely to complain.

[Supernova7]

Wow...I'm sorry to hear that. I never would have guessed Hawaii had so much racism. When I was there people were friendly but it's SO EXPENSIVE. Portland may be a good change for you provided it meets your personal needs.