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 — $130,900 less than Portland, OR's $528,500. 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 High flood risk.
Portland, OR is the more walkable neighborhood. Albany, OR scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus Portland, OR's 18/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Portland, OR has the higher school rating — Albany, OR rates 8.1/10 and Portland, OR rates 8.6/10.
| Category | Albany, OR | Portland, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $398K ✓ Lower price | $529K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $94K | $104K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 | 18/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 28/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 60/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with school‑focused kidsBudget‑conscious buyers looking for a foothold in the regionSuburban commuters who can drive | FamiliesStudentsBike commuters |
Bottom line
If you prioritize schools and are set on living in a suburban area, Albany might be a better fit for you, despite its drawbacks in walkability and rising crime. However, if you prefer to be close to downtown Portland and can find a home with a low flood risk, the neighborhood has some decent options. For everyone else, consider neighboring areas with more balanced trade-offs.
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