Let the numbers do the talking.
Albany, OR vs Portland, OR
Albany, OR vs Portland, OR: What the data shows
Albany, OR is in Albany, OR while Portland, OR is in Portland, OR — both in the same state. On home prices, Albany, OR is the more affordable option at $397,600 median — $260,100 less than Portland, OR's $657,700. WYLT rates Albany, OR as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Portland, OR as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Portland, OR has the stronger safety profile of the two. Albany, OR has High violent crime and Moderate property crime. Portland, OR has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Albany, OR has Low flood risk and Portland, OR has Low flood risk.
Portland, OR is the more walkable neighborhood. Albany, OR scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus Portland, OR's 17/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Portland, OR has the higher school rating — Albany, OR rates 8.1/10 and Portland, OR rates 8.4/10.
| Category | Albany, OR | Portland, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $398K ✓ Lower price | $658K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $94K | $95K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 | 17/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 28/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 12 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with school‑focused kidsBudget‑conscious buyers looking for a foothold in the regionSuburban commuters who can drive | Young professionalsCommutersNightlife lovers |
Bottom line
Based on the given data, neither Albany nor Portland, OR is a clear "Settle here" choice. For families with school-focused kids, Albany may be slightly more suitable due to its decent schools, lower median home price, and suburban atmosphere. For young professionals and those valuing city amenities, Portland has a unique advantage despite its high cost of living.
Share this comparison