Tigard, OR vs. Gresham, OR: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Tigard vs Gresham. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Tigard vs Gresham in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Tigard and Gresham. Here’s a comparison of typical rent and mortgage costs:
| Housing Type | Tigard | Gresham |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,800 | $1,500 |
| 3BR Home (Median Price) | $550,000 | $475,000 |
🏆 Winner: Gresham. Housing costs tend to be 15-20% lower in Gresham compared to Tigard.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another important factor in the cost of living in Tigard vs Gresham. In Tigard, expect to pay around $180 per month for a typical apartment’s utilities. Gresham utility costs are similar, averaging $175 monthly.
Both cities experience mild winters and warm summers, so heating and cooling costs are comparable. Tigard and Gresham both offer “green power” programs for renewable energy at a small premium.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are nearly identical in Tigard and Gresham.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices are fairly consistent across the Portland metro area. Expect to spend around $400 per month on groceries for a single person in either Tigard or Gresham.
Eating out is also similarly priced. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs about $15-20 per person in both cities. However, Tigard has a few more upscale dining options that can drive up costs for foodies.
🏆 Winner: Gresham, but only slightly. Grocery and restaurant prices are comparable, with Gresham a hair cheaper.
Taxes and Fees
Oregon has no sales tax, so that’s one less cost to worry about in Tigard and Gresham. However, property taxes do differ:
- Tigard property tax rate: $19.32 per $1,000 assessed value
- Gresham property tax rate: $17.89 per $1,000 assessed value
For a $400,000 home, that’s a difference of about $570 per year. HOA fees in Tigard also tend to be slightly higher, often including landscaping and trash service.
🏆 Winner: Gresham. Lower property taxes and fees give Gresham the edge.
Cost of Living in Tigard vs Gresham: Summary
| Category | Tigard | Gresham |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,800 | $1,500 |
| Utilities | $180 | $175 |
| Groceries | $400 | $380 |
| Transportation | $100 | $80 |
| Taxes & Fees | $400 | $350 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,380 | $2,985 |
All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax). Check out some Monthly Budget Examples for Tigard Residents to see how your spending might break down.
Lifestyle Fit
While Gresham is more affordable, Tigard offers a few lifestyle perks that could be worth the extra cost for some people:
- Tigard is closer to downtown Portland, with more convenient access to city amenities and jobs.
- Tigard has highly rated schools, which can be a major draw for families.
- Gresham offers more affordable housing options, especially for first-time homebuyers.
- Gresham has a more suburban feel with larger lots and more green space.
FAQ
Is Tigard more affordable than Gresham?
No, Gresham is generally more affordable than Tigard, especially when it comes to housing costs. See our full Cost of Living in Tigard (2025 Guide) for more details.
Which city has lower rent?
Gresham has lower average rent prices than Tigard. A typical 2BR apartment rents for around $1,500/month in Gresham, compared to $1,800/month in Tigard.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Gresham has lower median home prices, around $475,000 for a 3BR house. In Tigard, a similar home would cost closer to $550,000.
Conclusion
Overall, Gresham comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. A household moving from Tigard to Gresham might save $400 per month or more on housing and other expenses.
However, Tigard can still be a great choice for those prioritizing location, schools, and proximity to Portland. It’s all about finding the right fit for your budget and lifestyle. Be sure to check out cost of living breakdowns for other Oregon cities as you weigh your options!