Why are there so many homeless people in Portland?

But these problems aren't confined to the American Northwest; why does Portland seem to have so many more homeless people than elsewhere? ... tickets to Portland,” says Commissioner Saltzman, but then he concedes: “Portland is a tolerant city and has a moderate West Coast climate, so I think there's some truth to it. read more

Some believe homeless gravitate here because we offer better services than many other cities, and we have a more relaxed attitude. Local police will move illegal campers, but arrests are rare. Other cities aren’t so hands off, homeless men and women say. read more

3. It’s getting more dangerous for homeless people, too. Homeless people say sleeping outside can be a frightening prospect. On March 31, a homeless man allegedly shot a fellow camper in inner Southeast Portland. Then on April 23, a homeless man was accused of stabbing another homeless man in downtown Portland. read more

Low paying jobs plus high living prices equals out to people losing control of their finances while actively working, and trying to make rent. Portland would LOVE to be a high priced paradise. read more

4. Homeless camps are taking over sections of the city. The battle over where Portland’s homeless population should camp has incited contentious debates. In the Overlook neighborhood, neighbors are fighting to stop people from sleeping at the Hazelnut Grove camp. read more