Cost of Living: Portland, OR vs Vancouver, WA (2026)

Portland

Oregon
138
VS

Vancouver

Washington
123

Portland is 15% more expensive than Vancouver.

$1,596/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,632/mo ↑ 2%
$88,792/yr ↑ 14%
Median Income
$78,156/yr ↓ 12%
$557,600 ↑ 27%
Home Value
$440,300 ↓ 21%
$1,771/mo ↑ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,607/mo ↓ 9%
642,715
Population
192,696

Tax Comparison

9.9%
Income Tax
0%
0%
Sales Tax
6.5%
0.93%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

21.6%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Portland, OR and Vancouver, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 138 and 123 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $10,636/year higher in Portland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Portland is $557,600 compared to $440,300 in Vancouver.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Vancouver residents a significant tax advantage over Oregon's 9.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Portland vs Vancouver — common questions

Is Portland or Vancouver cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Vancouver is cheaper to live in with an index of 123 compared to 138 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Portland and Vancouver?
Median rent in Portland is $1,596/month and in Vancouver it's $1,632/month — a difference of $36/month.
Which city has higher income, Portland or Vancouver?
Median household income is $88,792 in Portland and $78,156 in Vancouver. Median household income is $10,636/year higher in Portland.
How do taxes compare between Oregon and Washington?
Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Portland or Vancouver?
It depends on your priorities. Portland has a cost index of 138 with median rent of $1,596/mo, while Vancouver has a cost index of 123 with rent of $1,632/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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