Discover Portland’s Best Suburbs for Commuters

When it comes to buying a home near Portland, many buyers are looking for that ideal mix of suburban comfort and city accessibility. Whether you’re commuting into downtown Portland for work, want quick access to its dining, culture, and entertainment, or simply appreciate being close to the energy of the city, choosing the right suburb can make all the difference. The good news? The Portland Metro area offers a wide variety of neighborhoods that combine convenience, charm, and a high quality of life.

Still, with so many great options, it can be tough to narrow down your choices. Which suburbs have the best schools? Which ones offer the easiest commute? What area truly fits your lifestyle and budget? And how do you choose which area you want to live in?

At Paris Group Realty, LLC, we specialize in helping buyers navigate these decisions. We know the ins-and-outs of the Portland suburbs, especially when it comes to commuter-friendly communities. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or relocating to the area, we’re here to help you find a place that feels like home—and gets you where you need to go.

Top Portland Suburbs for Commuters

Living outside Portland in the suburban areas offers a unique blend of space, community, and convenience that appeals to many buyers. Suburbs provide a quieter, more relaxed pace of life compared to the city, often with larger yards, more square footage, and access to parks and nature. Families are drawn to the strong school districts and safe neighborhoods, while remote and hybrid workers appreciate the peaceful environment without sacrificing proximity to city amenities. Whether it’s a charming downtown, a strong sense of community, or simply more breathing room, Portland’s surrounding suburbs offer the lifestyle many homeowners are seeking. Portland’s suburbs are ideal for buyers who want suburban tranquility with the convenience of a shorter, more manageable commute to Portland’s downtown and business districts. Each suburb offers its own unique charm, excellent schools, and plenty of amenities, making them highly desirable for families and professionals alike.

Lake Oswego

• Commute Time to Downtown Portland: ~20 minutes
• Why It’s Popular: Lake Oswego consistently ranks as one of the most desirable suburbs in the Portland area. Known for its upscale homes, top-rated schools, and beautiful surroundings, it offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to the city. The downtown area of Lake Oswego features boutique shopping, fine dining, and outdoor activities like boating on the lake or hiking in nearby parks. Plus, its proximity to I-5 and Highway 43 makes it ideal for commuters who want a quick drive into Portland. To learn more about Lake Oswego, watch a video here.
• Best Things About Lake Oswego: Lake Oswego is one of the most sought-after suburbs near Portland—and for good reason. This picturesque community offers top-rated schools, beautiful neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community. The downtown area is full of charm, with boutique shops, local restaurants, and year-round farmers markets. Outdoor lovers appreciate the access to parks, walking trails, and of course, the namesake lake, which offers private access for many residents. With its combination of natural beauty, upscale amenities, and a short commute to Portland, Lake Oswego consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the region.

Tigard

• Commute Time to Downtown Portland: ~20-25 minutes
• Why It’s Popular: Tigard is another growing suburb that offers easy access to downtown Portland via I-5 or Highway 99. It’s known for its diverse housing options, from established neighborhoods to new construction, and offers more affordable prices compared to some of its neighboring suburbs. Tigard has a strong sense of community, good schools, and plenty of parks and green spaces. The proximity to Washington Square Mall also adds a variety of shopping and entertainment options.
• Best Things About Tigard: Tigard is a dynamic and growing suburb that offers a little bit of everything—convenience, community, and comfort. One of its biggest draws is location: it’s just a short drive to downtown Portland, but far enough out to enjoy a quieter, more suburban vibe. Tigard is home to excellent shopping options like Washington Square Mall, a wide variety of restaurants, and plenty of parks and green spaces for outdoor activities. The schools are well-regarded, and the city is continuing to invest in walkable town centers and public spaces. With easy access to major highways and public transit, Tigard is a smart choice for commuters and families alike.

West Linn

• Commute Time to Downtown Portland: ~25 minutes
• Why It’s Popular: West Linn is a picturesque suburb located just south of Lake Oswego. It’s a favorite for those who enjoy nature, with the Willamette River running alongside it and plenty of parks and trails to explore. The commute into Portland is relatively short, making it a great option for professionals who want a peaceful, scenic environment while remaining connected to the city. West Linn’s schools are highly rated, making it an ideal choice for families.
• Best Things About West Linn: West Linn is known for its scenic beauty, quiet neighborhoods, and strong sense of community. Nestled along the Willamette River and surrounded by trees and hills, it offers a peaceful, small-town feel while still being just a short drive from Portland. Residents love the highly rated schools, well-maintained parks, and outdoor recreation options—from hiking trails to river access. The historic Willamette neighborhood adds charm with local shops, cafes, and community events. For buyers looking for a safe, family-friendly suburb with natural beauty and a tight-knit community, West Linn checks all the boxes.

Beaverton

• Commute Time to Downtown Portland: ~15-20 minutes
• Why It’s Popular: Beaverton is a hub for tech professionals thanks to its proximity to Silicon Forest, where companies like Intel and Nike have their headquarters. It’s also just a short drive or MAX light rail ride from downtown Portland, making it perfect for those who work in both areas. Beaverton offers a range of housing options, from affordable starter homes to luxury properties, as well as excellent schools and a variety of shopping and dining options. With its family-friendly vibe and access to nature trails, it’s a suburb that offers a little bit of everything. To learn more about Beaverton, watch a video here.
• Best Things About Beaverton: Beaverton is one of the most popular and accessible suburbs near Portland, offering a great mix of affordability, convenience, and amenities. It’s a hub for tech professionals thanks to its proximity to major employers and it also boasts a growing food scene, diverse neighborhoods, and excellent public transportation, including MAX light rail access. Families are drawn to its strong public schools and abundance of parks and community centers. Beaverton also has a vibrant international community and a welcoming, inclusive vibe. With its blend of urban convenience and suburban comfort, it’s easy to see why so many buyers choose to call Beaverton home.

Hillsboro

• Commute Time to Downtown Portland: ~30 minutes
• Why It’s Popular: Like Beaverton, Hillsboro is a major player in the tech world, home to several large tech companies. It’s also one of Portland’s fastest-growing suburbs, offering a variety of housing options, from modern developments to larger properties with land. Hillsboro provides a suburban feel with access to urban amenities, and its MAX light rail connection offers an easy and stress-free commute into Portland. With excellent schools and plenty of parks, Hillsboro is perfect for families and professionals alike.
• Best Things About Hillsboro: Hillsboro combines small-town charm with big-city access, making it an appealing choice for buyers seeking value and convenience. As the heart of Oregon’s “Silicon Forest,” it’s home to major tech employers like Intel, drawing professionals from across the region. Despite its rapid growth, Hillsboro maintains a welcoming community feel, with excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly events. Its historic downtown offers local shops, restaurants, and a popular farmers market, while newer developments bring modern amenities and housing options. With easy access to the MAX light rail, plenty of green space, and a diverse, growing population, Hillsboro is a smart and vibrant place to call home.

Milwaukie

• Commute Time to Downtown Portland: ~15-20 minutes
• Why It’s Popular: Milwaukie is one of the closest suburbs to Portland, making it a top choice for commuters who want to minimize their travel time. Located just southeast of Portland, Milwaukie has been experiencing a revitalization, with new shops, restaurants, and parks enhancing the community. The MAX Orange Line connects Milwaukie directly to downtown Portland, providing an easy alternative to driving. The area is known for its charming neighborhoods, good schools, and strong sense of community.
• Best Things About Milwaukie: Milwaukie offers a unique blend of small-town charm and easy city access, making it a hidden gem just south of Portland. It’s known for its welcoming neighborhoods, scenic riverfront parks, and growing downtown filled with local shops, cafes, and breweries. Milwaukie is also home to the Portland-Milwaukie MAX line, giving residents a stress-free commute into the city. Buyers are drawn to its more affordable home prices compared to nearby areas, while still enjoying great schools and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re into weekend farmers markets, kayaking on the Willamette, or simply enjoying a quieter pace, Milwaukie has a lot to offer.

Happy Valley

• Commute Time to Downtown Portland: ~25-30 minutes
• Why It’s Popular: Happy Valley has been growing rapidly in recent years, offering a range of new construction homes and master-planned communities. It’s a favorite among families for its spacious homes, great schools, and abundance of parks. Despite being farther out from Portland, Happy Valley offers easy access to downtown via Highway 224 and I-205, making it a great option for those looking for suburban living with a reasonable commute.
• Best Things About Happy Valley: Happy Valley is one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the Portland metro area, and it’s easy to see why. Known for its newer homes, well-planned neighborhoods, and stunning views of Mt. Hood, Happy Valley offers a fresh, clean, and modern living experience. Residents love the spacious homes, highly rated schools, and family-friendly parks and trails. Shopping and dining options continue to expand, and the community has a safe, peaceful vibe that appeals to families and professionals alike. With easy access to nearby commercial hubs, Happy Valley delivers suburban comfort without sacrificing convenience.

Why Work with Paris Group Realty, LLC?

With so many great suburbs to choose from, finding the right one can feel daunting. That’s where we come in. We’re dedicated to making your home search as seamless and stress-free as possible. If you’re ready to find the perfect home in one of Portland’s top commuter-friendly suburbs, contact Paris Group Realty, LLC today. Our team of experienced agents is here to help you find the right home that fits your lifestyle and offers the ideal commute to the city. We’ll work with you every step of the way to ensure you find a home you’ll love for years to come!

📩 Email us at info@parisgrouprealty.com
📞 Or call us at (503) 926-5213