Let the numbers do the talking.
Medford, OR vs Portland, OR
Medford, OR vs Portland, OR: What the data shows
Medford, OR is in Medford, OR while Portland, OR is in Portland, OR — both in the same state. On home prices, Medford, OR is the more affordable option at $297,600 median — $343,800 less than Portland, OR's $641,400. WYLT rates Medford, 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.
Medford, OR has the stronger safety profile of the two. Medford, OR has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Portland, OR has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Medford, OR has Low flood risk and Portland, OR has Low flood risk.
Portland, OR is the more walkable neighborhood. Medford, OR scores N/A/100 versus Portland, OR's 55/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Portland, OR has the higher school rating — Medford, OR rates 8.2/10 and Portland, OR rates 8.5/10.
| Category | Medford, OR | Portland, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $298K ✓ Lower price | $641K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $59K | $64K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 55/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 1/100 | 42/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 1/100 | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 90 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesStudentsRemote workers | young professionalscreative artistsfamilies with school-age kids |
Bottom line
If you're a family, student, or retiree looking for an affordable, safe, and car-focused living situation, Medford might be a better fit. However, if you're a young professional or creative type with a decent budget, Medford's job opportunities and overall amenities might be lacking compared to Portland's more vibrant, albeit expensive, scene. Ultimately, prioritize your priorities to make the best call for your lifestyle.
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