It takes significant time and energy to understand a new city and navigate the many neighborhoods that one could potentially call home. Many new Portlanders will opt for an apartment when they first relocate, giving them time to explore the variety of options before committing themselves to home ownership. If apartment living in Portland is for you, here are a few tips.
Others will find that renting works out just fine for them. Rent in Portland in the most desirable neighborhoods is relatively affordable compared to many big cities. Renting gives Portlanders a little more flexibility in which neighborhood they choose. As well as the freedom to move elsewhere, should their neighborhood preferences change.
The Portland area is changing quickly. You’re sure to discover more and more to love about living here. For those opting for apartment living, you’ll find the search for your first Portland apartment to be an exciting adventure into what makes our neighborhoods and our city so special.
The Apartment Market in Portland
Everyone is moving to Portland. That’s a slight exaggeration. But not by much. A migration study released by Atlas Van Lines in 2020 reported that Oregon ranks 7th in the country for percentage of inbound moves. Word of Oregon’s impressive livability is spreading across the country. The mild temperatures, stunning natural surroundings, and the craft food and beverage scene are calling many. And for many of those newcomers, Portland is the Oregon city of choice.
A surge in Portland residents means that apartment prices have been going up for years. This year alone, the average rent of an apartment in Portland has decreased to $1,493 monthly, a 4 percent change year over year.
On the upside, Portland still offers affordable options compared to bigger cities like New York City and San Francisco. With comparable offerings in urban amenities, from museums to top-rated restaurants. Those who are looking for an exciting, up-and-coming city that doesn’t require celebrity wealth or multiple side jobs, will find just that in Portland.
You’ll find more affordable rental options as you move away from the city center, especially in the far east side and North Portland.
Exceedingly low vacancy rates are making the competition for properties a fierce one. It’s not uncommon for landlords to rent out apartment units, sight unseen. Potential tenants are anxious to jump on appealing options in their neighborhoods of choice.
Choose your style
The prevalence of craftsman style bungalows in Portland means that many apartments are in houses. Many residents enjoy the affordability and amenities of sharing a house over an apartment living in Portland. Houses are an obvious choice for families, but singles can also find apartment options in houses. Whether you’re looking to rent your own, or split one with roommates, the houses for rent in Portland are attractive alternatives to apartments. Houses are the more traditional residential option in Portland. However, high-rise apartment buildings are popping up with greater size and frequency in most close-in neighborhoods.
Real estate experts are now predicting that as the influx of new residents continues in Portland, the city will shift to one that’s dominated by multi-family buildings. Forecasts state that approximately 123,000 new housing units will be added to the city between 2010 and 2035. Of those 123,000, 94,000 will be apartments or condos. Or roughly three-quarters of all new homes.
Be Prepared and Ready to Move
Renters should be ready to move fast when searching for apartments in Portland. Whatever it is you’re looking for a downtown apartment, a Southeast Bungalow, or month-to-month room. Preparing your paperwork in advance of viewing apartments in Portland is a must. Landlords all have different requirements. It’s always a good idea to have your proof of income in the form of W-2 forms, rental history, and references on hand. Open houses will welcome plenty of worthy candidates, and having the necessary paperwork to begin the approval process will land you ahead of the line.
The apartment living in Portland might be competitive. Considering the many desirable traits of this city — from the most bike friendly streets to the booming craft beer scene — calling Portland home is well worth the effort. With a little time and patience, you’re sure to find an apartment in Portland that will soon feel like home.
