Working from anywhere is starting to look a lot more like working from somewhere. For a lot of people, that means a few days in the office, a calendar that never quits, and a fresh look at where it actually makes sense to live.
Because real talk-life runs smoother when your neighborhood works for you. A place where the commute doesn’t drain you, dinner spots are just around the corner, and trails or green space are close enough to actually enjoy.
The good news? Portland, SW Washington, and the surrounding suburbs are full of communities that get it.
Here’s your guide to the places where modern life fits and where living local still means living well.
Beaverton – Tech Hub Meets Family-Friendly Living
Industries & Employers:
Often called the Silicon Forest, Beaverton is home to global giant Nike HQ, along with major tech employers like Intel, Tektronix, and Salesforce just a short drive away in nearby Hillsboro. This area is a hotspot for professionals in software, engineering, marketing, and design.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Walkable downtown with indie restaurants, bars, and the popular Beaverton Farmers Market
- Easy MAX line access into Portland
- Parks galore, including Tualatin Hills Nature Park and miles of trails
- Top-rated schools and family-friendly neighborhoods
Hillsboro – High-Tech, High Growth
Industries & Employers:
This fast-growing suburb is a magnet for engineers and tech professionals thanks to Intel’s multiple campuses, Qorvo, and other semiconductor and biotech companies along the Sunset Corridor.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Orenco Station: a walkable, transit-friendly neighborhood with restaurants, shops, and farmers markets
- Expansive park systems and access to Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve
- Diverse dining options and cultural festivals celebrating Hillsboro’s growing international community
Inner Southeast Portland – Creative & Connected
Industries & Employers:
While SE Portland is more residential, it’s a short bike, bus, or MAX ride from downtown employers in finance, education, healthcare, and tech. Plus, many locals work for or run small creative businesses, startups, or remote jobs in design, marketing, and media.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Walkable neighborhoods like Division-Clinton, Hawthorne, and Sellwood-Moreland
- A+ food scene with award-winning restaurants, coffee shops, and local boutiques
- Tons of parks and green space, including Mt. Tabor Park and the Springwater Corridor Trail
Lake Oswego – Upscale and Business-Friendly
Industries & Employers:
Many residents commute to downtown Portland or the Kruse Way business corridor, home to law firms, finance companies, and corporate offices. Others work remotely or own businesses in the area.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Charming, walkable downtown with boutiques, restaurants, and Lakewood Center for the Arts
- Access to George Rogers Park, Tryon Creek State Park, and lakefront views
- Strong public schools and high-end housing options
Tualatin & Tigard – Suburban with a Side of Convenience
Industries & Employers:
Tigard and Tualatin offer quick access to I-5 and host employers like Lam Research, Legacy Meridian Park Hospital, and distribution centers for major brands. They’re also close to Bridgeport Village and the growing Kruse Way business district.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Mix of suburban calm and shopping/dining access
- Miles of trails along the Tualatin River Greenway
- Parks, splash pads, and family-focused amenities
North Portland – Urban Energy with Growth Potential
Industries & Employers:
Close to University of Portland, Swan Island industrial park, and transit routes into downtown, North Portland is well-positioned for educators, health workers, logistics pros, and creatives.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Lively, walkable areas like Overlook, St. Johns, and Kenton
- Community vibe with neighborhood events, cafes, and vintage shops
- Access to Cathedral Park, the Peninsula Crossing Trail, and the Columbia Slough
Gresham – Affordable Living with a Growing Job Scene
Industries & Employers:
Gresham has long been known for affordability, but it’s also growing as an employment hub. The Gresham Vista Business Park houses companies like Amazon, FedEx Ground, and ON Semiconductor. It’s also home to Mt. Hood Community College, offering opportunities in education and public service.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Proximity to the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood for epic weekend adventures
- Revitalized downtown with breweries, local shops, and the seasonal Gresham Farmers Market
- Expansive parks and trails like Main City Park and the Springwater Corridor
- Light rail (MAX Blue Line) access for easy commuting into Portland
Southwest Portland – Natural Beauty Meets Professional Access
Industries & Employers:
Southwest Portland is home to several medical and academic institutions, including OHSU (Oregon Health & Science University), Portland VA Medical Center, and Lewis & Clark College. The area’s location also allows for quick commutes into downtown and the South Waterfront Innovation District, where tech and research continue to grow.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Leafy, quiet neighborhoods like Hillsdale, Multnomah Village, and Maplewood with strong community vibes
- Walkable pockets of cafes, bookstores, bakeries, and brewpubs
- Access to Tryon Creek State Natural Area, Gabriel Park, and countless hidden hiking trails
- Weekly farmers markets and neighborhood events that bring people together year-round
Sherwood – Small Town Charm with Big Business Nearby
Industries & Employers:
Sherwood is close to the Tualatin-Sherwood Industrial Corridor, home to companies like Reser’s Fine Foods, Lambeau, and Allion USA Engineering. Many residents also commute to nearby Tigard, Tualatin, or Hillsboro for jobs in tech, logistics, and manufacturing.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Charming and walkable Old Town with shops, wine bars, and local events
- Stella Olsen Park and Snyder Park offer trails, splash pads, and sports fields
- Award-winning schools and a tight-knit, family-friendly vibe
- Close to wine country, with tasting rooms and vineyards just minutes away
Clackamas – Retail, Medical, and Mountain Access
Industries & Employers:
Clackamas is anchored by Clackamas Town Center, one of the area’s major retail hubs, along with healthcare employers like Kaiser Permanente and Providence Health. It also offers proximity to industrial and warehouse jobs in Milwaukie and along I-205.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Easy access to Mount Talbert Nature Park and nearby riverside trails
- Tons of shopping, dining, and entertainment options
- Strong public transit connections via the MAX Green Line
- Quick trips to Mt. Hood, the Clackamas River, and other weekend escapes
West Linn – Scenic Luxury with a Laid-Back Pace
Industries & Employers:
Many West Linn residents work in professional services, healthcare, or tech in nearby Lake Oswego, Tualatin, or Portland. While primarily residential, the area is known for executive-level living and proximity to major employment corridors.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Stunning river views, upscale homes, and tree-lined streets
- Great schools and a strong sense of community
- Access to Mary S. Young Park, Willamette Park, and waterfront walking paths
- Quaint downtown Willamette Historic District with shops, wine bars, and local favorites
Oregon City – History, Growth, and Outdoor Appeal
Industries & Employers:
As the original capital of Oregon, Oregon City blends history with modern growth. Key employers include Clackamas County government, Willamette Falls Legacy Project, and regional healthcare facilities. It’s also attracting remote workers and creatives thanks to its affordability and charm.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Riverfront views and access to Willamette Falls, one of the largest by volume in the U.S.
- Revitalized downtown with breweries, restaurants, and art galleries
- Outdoor access to hiking, kayaking, and fishing along the Willamette and Clackamas Rivers
- Easy I-205 access and plans for future waterfront development
Milwaukie – Waterfront Living with Urban Access
Industries & Employers:
Milwaukie is just minutes from Portland and benefits from a growing local economy. It’s home to Dark Horse Comics, regional medical offices, and creative industries, while many residents commute to nearby OHSU, Providence, and downtown Portland. The MAX Orange Line makes it a top pick for transit-friendly living.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Walkable downtown with local shops, bakeries, a food cart pod, and the seasonal Milwaukie Farmers Market
- Access to the Trolley Trail, Kronberg Park, and the Willamette River for walking, biking, and kayaking
- A mix of mid-century homes, new builds, and established neighborhoods with character
- Known for a laid-back, community-focused vibe with an artsy edge
Vancouver (City Proper) – Urban Amenities, Small-City Feel
Industries & Employers:
Downtown Vancouver is booming with jobs in healthcare (PeaceHealth, Legacy Salmon Creek), education (WSU Vancouver), and a growing base of tech and logistics companies. It’s also a commuter favorite with direct I-5 and I-205 access into Portland.
Lifestyle Perks:
- A revitalized waterfront with restaurants, breweries, trails, and events
- Walkable historic downtown and lively arts scene
- Close to Esther Short Park, the Columbia River, and seasonal street fairs
- Diverse housing options from historic homes to modern condos
Camas – Schools, Nature, and Scenic Living
Industries & Employers:
Known for top-ranked schools and higher-end homes, Camas also has a growing tech and manufacturing base including HP, WaferTech, and Sharp Microelectronics. Many residents are professionals working in tech, healthcare, or remote roles.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Beautiful Columbia River Gorge views and access to Lacamas Lake
- Strong school district and community vibe
- Walkable downtown Camas with boutiques, restaurants, and family events
- Outdoor lifestyle with trails, golf, and water access
Ridgefield – Small Town with Big Growth
Industries & Employers:
Ridgefield is fast-growing and attracting new schools, healthcare, and retail infrastructure. It’s near employers in nearby Salmon Creek, Vancouver, and distribution hubs.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Peaceful, nature-forward living with quick I-5 access
- Home to the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge and new developments with parks and trails
- Close-knit community with local wineries and family-friendly events
- Affordable new construction and master-planned communities
Battle Ground – Affordability Meets Community Spirit
Industries & Employers:
Many residents work in education, construction, or commute to larger cities for healthcare or trade roles. It’s also home to growing local businesses and remote workers drawn by its value.
Lifestyle Perks:
- Strong sense of local pride with parades, seasonal markets, and festivals
- Access to Lewisville Park and nearby recreation like hiking and horseback riding
- Budget-friendly homes with large lots and space to grow
- A quiet, small-town atmosphere with just enough convenience
What it all comes down to…
Some folks are back in the office. Others are working from the kitchen table. Most are somewhere in between. But one thing’s for sure, where you live matters.
Our region is filled with neighborhoods that offer just the right mix of connection, comfort, and everyday ease. Whether you’re craving a quieter pace, more space, or just a change of scenery, there’s a place that fits.
Let’s find the one that fits you. Reach out anytime, as we’re here to help you land where life feels good.