Relocating to Oregon, which is better Beaverton or Vancouver?
Which one has the best of the following-
Public Schools
Job opportunities
Cheap housing ( I’m planning on renting )
Public transportation
Recreational parks, libraries, events, etc.
Shortest commute to downtown Portland
I’m aware of the fact that Vancouver is in Washington. I think we can all agree it’s considered a suburb of the Portland area (hence my question). Didn’t think I had to specify that.
I’m asking around for word of mouth advice so that I can compare it to what I’ve read so far.
I agree with Adam, the engineer and Stephanie.
Vancouver is not scummy in general. Anyone who says that has not been there in 10 years. Yes, there are some blue collar areas to it and there are a few homeless, but it’s been drastically cleaned up and is no longer where poor portlanders live. It’s now a thriving and somewhat wealthy suburb.
Overall, the tax situation is better in Washington State, meaning that most public systems are better. This includes schools, transportation, and they are improving many of their roads. And I also agree with the person who said that Camas has the best schools is the area. They do. But Battleground, ridgefield, and Washougal are also making headway. But, they add 15-30 minutes onto your drive, depending on where you are.
Beaverton could be a longer commute to Portland because of the highway system to and from the area. The 26 and 217 are constantly problem spots and can double the travel time to downtown. But, the I-5 bridge can get jammed up easily because so many Portlanders are commuting at the same time.
There are some very nice parks in Portland, but I’d guess that Beaverton and Vancouver are about equal in that, except that many area of Vancouver are being revitalized along with their parks. This could put the advantage towards Vancouver, but that’s just my opinion.
Jobs are available in both locations. Beaverton has a ton of new rebuilt areas that always need employees. Nike is also based in Beaverton. Vancouver has companies like UL, Sharp, HP, and many other tech and computer employers. Nautilus (sport equiptment) is also based in Vancouver as are several other global companies. Honestly, it really depends on the types of jobs you are looking for. Anything from Retail to clerical to tech to management to design to construction to PR and more are all available in the area. It’s probably best to narrow down a field and then search for housing in a distance that works for you.
“I’m aware of the fact that Vancouver is in Washington. I think we can all agree it’s considered a suburb of the Portland area (hence my question). Didn’t think I had to specify that.” I do have to say I’m a little concerned about this attitude. Perhaps I’m misinterpreting your tone, as is easy to do in print, if so, mea culpa. But, most people in the Portland area are VERY friendly, helpful, polite, and nice. Most of the people here who corrected you were just trying to help. I’m guessing that they’d rather have you know the geography than to fly out there, realize it, and then get mad that no one told you.
Also, your question is ambiguous. You clearly say “Oregon” – one could easily assume that you think that Vancouver is in Oregon from the way you worded it. In Portland and the surrounding areas, a little diplomacy and decorum is called for. Rudeness is not tolerated well, so consider that before making the change. The Portland area isn’t a fit for everyone, so just be sure that you’ll be happy.
Good luck to you in the move and job hunt! : )
My Commute from work an October Day in Vancouver
