Which is a better city to live in: Seattle or Portland?

Seattle and Portland are the Northwest's two largest cities. While there is some shared Northwest flavor between the two, there are also plenty of differences that make these two rainy metropolises unique from one another. read more

Seattle is a much larger city and IMHO has a 'big city' feel to it while Portland feels like a classic mid-market town. Think Chicago versus Milwaukee. It comes down to where you feel more comfortable - the dynamism of a large metro area of the relative laid back vibe of a smaller city. read more

Portland is slightly smaller than Seattle. While both cities have suburbs and other cities nearby, Seattle's metropolitan area is larger with other cities like Bellevue and Tacoma not far off. The result is one long metro area along the Puget Sound while Portland feels a little more suburban on its outskirts. read more

I live in Portland and have lived in Seattle. These are both wonderful cities. Seattle (and in general Washington state) has better government in my opinion. Seattle as a city is more grounded, holds onto its traditions a little better, perhaps because Boeing has provided such a successful financial basis. read more