Cost of Living in Portland

Oregon · Population: 641,165 · Updated 2026

Average
Cost Index
105.4
100 = US avg
Median Income
$91K
Annual household
Median Rent
$1,655/mo
2-bedroom unit
Rent Burden
22%
Income to rent ratio
Cost Category Breakdown

Indexed to national average (100)

Housing97.4
Groceries385.9
Utilities100.0
Transportation284.4
Healthcare100.0
Economic Details
Median Home Value$582K
State Income Tax9.9%
Unemployment Rate4.9%
Est. Net Income$82K/yr
Affordability Score
97
out of 100
Above national average cost
Salary Converter for Portland

See what salary you'd need in another city to match your purchasing power in Portland.

$75,000

About Portland

Portland is a culturally rich Pacific Northwest city with strong tech and manufacturing sectors. While Oregon has no sales tax, high income taxes and rising housing costs push the overall cost of living above the national average.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Portland expensive?

Portland has a cost of living index of 105.4, where 100 represents the national average. This is close to the national average.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Portland?

Based on a rent-to-income ratio of 30%, you'd need at least $66,200 to afford the median 2-bedroom apartment in Portland and maintain basic expenses.

What is the median rent in Portland?

The median 2-bedroom rent in Portland is $1,655 per month, according to HUD Fair Market Rent data.