Living in Portland, OR: Cost of Living, Lifestyle and More Portland, Oregon, is known for “keeping it weird.” There’s an edgy music and art scene, out-of-the-box places to get food and drinks, and a laid back, liberal culture. It’s also surrounded by breathtaking nature, from the rocky shores of the West Coast to the powdered peaks of Mount Hood and the dense, mossy forests in between. January 1, 2025