Tigard, OR vs. Portland, OR: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Portland metro area? Here’s a quick comparison of the cost of living in Tigard vs Portland in 2025:
- 🏠 Housing costs: 20-30% lower in Tigard
- 🥑 Groceries: 5-10% cheaper in Tigard
- 🚌 Transportation: Car-dependent in Tigard, robust public transit in Portland
- 💸 Taxes: Similar property tax rates
For a deeper dive, this article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Tigard and Portland. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Tigard and Portland. Here’s a comparison of typical costs:
| Housing Type | Tigard | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,500 | $1,900 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $450,000 | $600,000 |
🏆 Winner: Tigard. You’ll get more space for your money in this suburb compared to Portland proper.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, with Tigard coming out slightly ahead:
- In Tigard, expect to pay around $150/month for electricity, gas, water, and garbage for a 2BR apartment.
- In Portland, the same utilities average about $170/month.
- Both cities have similar climates, so heating and cooling needs are comparable.
🏆 Winner: Tigard, but not by a huge margin. Suburbs often have slightly lower utility costs than central cities.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For groceries and everyday items, Tigard has the edge:
- Expect to spend about 5-10% less on groceries in Tigard compared to Portland.
- A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in Tigard vs. $3.80 in Portland.
- Dining out is also a bit cheaper in Tigard, with fast-casual meals around $12 vs. $15 in Portland.
🏆 Winner: Tigard. Suburban supermarkets and restaurants are often less expensive than their urban counterparts.
4. Taxes and Fees
Oregon has no sales tax, so that’s even between the two cities. For property taxes:
- Tigard’s property tax rate is $2.50 per $1,000 of assessed value.
- Portland’s rate is slightly higher at $2.80 per $1,000.
- So for a $400K home, annual property taxes would be $1,000 in Tigard vs. $1,120 in Portland.
🏆 Winner: Slight edge to Tigard, but the difference is minor for most households.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Tigard | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $1,500 | $1,900 |
| Utilities | $150 | $170 |
| Groceries | $400 | $450 |
| Transportation | $600 | $200 |
| Taxes (Property) | $85 | $95 |
| Misc. | $500 | $600 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,235 | $3,415 |
Note: All figures are pre-tax monthly estimates. View more monthly budget examples for Tigard residents.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Your ideal choice between Tigard and Portland depends on your lifestyle:
- Tigard offers more space, cheaper living, and a suburban feel. It’s great for families and those who prefer a slower pace.
- Portland boasts walkable neighborhoods, diverse culture, and robust public transit. It’s ideal for young professionals and urban enthusiasts.
A key tradeoff: Tigard is more car-dependent, while Portland has extensive bus and light rail service.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Tigard more affordable than Portland?
A: Yes, Tigard is generally 5-20% cheaper than Portland, especially for housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Tigard. A typical 2BR apartment rents for $1,500/month vs. $1,900 in Portland.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Tigard. The median price for a 3BR house is around $450,000, compared to $600,000 in Portland.
8. The Bottom Line
While Portland offers big-city amenities and culture, Tigard is clearly the more affordable place to live. For a full breakdown, read our Cost of Living in Tigard (2025 Guide).
If you value space and savings, Tigard is a great choice. If you prefer urban energy and don’t mind paying a bit more, Portland may be your ideal fit.
Whichever you choose, both of these Portland-area cities offer a high quality of life in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. We hope this comparison helps with your decision!