Portland, OR vs. Tigard, OR: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Portland metro area? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Portland and Tigard. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real costs of living in these two Oregon cities in 2025. All income figures are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage prices compare in Portland vs Tigard:
| Housing Type | Portland | Tigard |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $550,000 | $475,000 |
🏆 Winner: Tigard. Housing costs tend to be 10-15% lower in Tigard compared to Portland proper.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities, with slight differences based on home size and energy usage:
- In Portland, expect monthly utility bills around $180 for a 2BR apartment or $250 for a 3BR home.
- Tigard utility costs average about $160/month for a 2BR and $225/month for a 3BR.
- Both cities have similar climates, so heating and cooling needs are comparable.
🏆 Winner: Tigard, but only by a slight margin. The lower housing prices mean proportionally lower utility bills.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery and restaurant prices are nearly identical in Portland and Tigard. Expect to budget around $400/month per adult for groceries, plus $250-500/month for dining out.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Prices for food, gas, and other daily goods are comparable.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both Portland and Tigard have a property tax rate around 1.1% of assessed value. However, Portland has higher home prices, so annual property tax bills tend to be higher there as well.
Portland also charges a 1% income tax for most residents, which Tigard does not have. HOA fees are similar, typically $200-400/month.
🏆 Winner: Tigard. The lack of city income tax gives Tigard a slight edge.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Portland | Tigard |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $2,750 | $2,375 |
| Utilities | $250 | $225 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $200 | $225 |
| Taxes | $800 | $600 |
| Misc | $600 | $600 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $5,000 | $4,425 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Portland offers a vibrant urban environment with great walkability and public transit. It’s ideal for those who value city amenities and culture. Tigard is about 5°F warmer than Portland in the summer.
Tigard provides more space and a suburban lifestyle for a lower cost. Commute times are 10-15 minutes longer to downtown Portland. It’s great for families who prefer a quieter setting.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Portland more affordable than Tigard?
A: No, Tigard is generally more affordable, especially for housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Tigard has lower rent prices, averaging 10-15% less than Portland.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Home prices are significantly lower in Tigard – around $475K vs $550K in Portland for a typical 3BR.
8. Conclusion
While both great cities, Tigard offers a lower overall cost of living than Portland, primarily due to more affordable housing. It’s ideal for families or those seeking a suburban lifestyle on a budget.
Portland is perfect for urban enthusiasts willing to pay a bit more for city perks and culture. Be sure to factor in the added income tax as well.
Whichever you choose, consider building a monthly budget for Portland metro living. And for more details, check out our full Portland cost of living guide for 2025.