🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Portland, United States, my home for several months. This vibrant city has a unique charm that draws remote workers in with its eclectic vibe, stunning natural surroundings, and thriving food and culture scene. Portland digital nomads love the city’s laid-back atmosphere, which makes it easy to settle in and find a community of like-minded individuals. With a population of 652,503, Portland is large enough to offer a wide range of amenities and activities, yet small enough to feel approachable and welcoming.
From its famous food trucks to its numerous breweries, Portland is a city that’s all about embracing individuality and creativity. As a remote worker, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to connect with other digital nomads, attend networking events, and join coworking spaces that foster collaboration and innovation. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a great cup of coffee, Portland has something for everyone.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Portland, digital nomads have a range of options to suit different lifestyles and preferences. Here are three neighborhoods that are particularly popular with remote workers:
- The Pearl District: This upscale neighborhood is known for its trendy boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. It’s a great area for digital nomads who want to be close to the city’s main attractions and have easy access to public transportation. Rent prices in the Pearl District are around $1,800-$2,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment (approximately $2,300-$3,200 CAD or €2,000-€2,800).
- Alberta Arts District: This vibrant neighborhood is a hub for artists, musicians, and creatives. It’s a great area for digital nomads who want to be surrounded by like-minded individuals and have access to a range of cultural attractions. Rent prices in the Alberta Arts District are around $1,500-$2,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment (approximately $1,900-$2,800 CAD or €1,600-€2,400).
- Hawthorne District: This eclectic neighborhood is known for its vintage shops, record stores, and cafes. It’s a great area for digital nomads who want to experience the city’s quirky side and have easy access to public transportation. Rent prices in the Hawthorne District are around $1,200-$1,800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment (approximately $1,500-$2,300 CAD or €1,200-€2,000).
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Portland is relatively high compared to other cities in the United States. However, as a digital nomad, you’ll find that the city offers a great quality of life and a range of amenities that make it worth the extra cost. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses in Portland:
- Rent: $1,638 per month for a one-bedroom apartment (approximately $2,100 CAD or €1,800)
- Food: $15-$25 per meal for mid-range restaurants, $3-$5 per coffee
- Transportation: $2.50 per ride for public transportation, $100 per month for a bike share membership
- Coworking: $200-$500 per month for a desk at a coworking space
Overall, the cost of living in Portland is around $3,500-$5,000 per month for a digital nomad, depending on your lifestyle and preferences.
Internet & Coworking
Portland has a range of coworking spaces and cafes that offer fast and reliable internet. Some popular options include:
- WeWork: With several locations throughout the city, WeWork offers a range of membership options and amenities, including high-speed internet and networking events.
- Regus: This global coworking chain has several locations in Portland, offering a range of membership options and amenities, including high-speed internet and meeting rooms.
- Coava Coffee Roasters: This popular coffee shop has several locations throughout the city and offers fast and reliable internet, making it a great spot for remote workers to get some work done.
Internet speeds in Portland are around 43 Mbps, which is relatively fast compared to other cities in the United States.
Portland has a thriving digital nomad community, with a range of meetups, events, and networking opportunities. Some popular groups and events include:
- Portland Digital Nomads: This Facebook group has over 1,000 members and is a great place to connect with other remote workers and find out about upcoming events and meetups.
- Nomad List: This online community has a range of resources and information for digital nomads, including a list of upcoming events and meetups in Portland.
- Startup Portland: This organization hosts a range of events and meetups for startups and entrepreneurs, including networking events and workshops.
Culture & Lifestyle
Portland is known for its unique culture and lifestyle, which is all about embracing individuality and creativity. As a digital nomad, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to experience the city’s vibrant food and drink scene, including:
- Food trucks: Portland is famous for its food trucks, which offer a range of cuisines and specialties. Some popular options include Pok Pok, Lardo, and Güero.
- Breweries: Portland is home to over 70 breweries, making it a beer lover’s paradise. Some popular options include Widmer Brothers Brewing, Deschutes Brewery, and Cascade Brewing Barrel House.
- Coffee culture: Portland is known for its coffee culture, with a range of independent coffee shops and cafes throughout the city. Some popular options include Coava Coffee Roasters, Intelligentsia Coffee, and Stumptown Coffee Roasters.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a visa to enter the United States. The most common visa for remote workers is the B-2 visa, which is a tourist visa that allows you to stay in the country for up to six months. However, it’s worth noting that the United States does not currently offer a specific digital nomad visa.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips for digital nomads visiting Portland:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card from a range of providers, including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Prices start at around $30 per month for a basic plan.
- Transportation: Portland has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and streetcar. You can purchase a Hop Fastpass card for $2.50 per ride or $100 per month for a pass.
- Safety: Portland is generally a safe city, but as with any city, it’s worth taking some basic precautions to stay safe. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Weather: Portland has a mild climate, with temperatures ranging from 35-85°F (2-30°C) throughout the year. However, the city is known for its rain, so it’s worth packing a waterproof jacket and umbrella.
