A recent survey conducted by the Oregon Values and Beliefs Center has highlighted the primary complaint among Portland residents: the high cost of living.
The survey, which polled 1,190 residents between May 2 and May 20, revealed that nearly 70% expressed dissatisfaction with the affordability of living in the city.
This trend was particularly pronounced among individuals with lower incomes, less education, and people of color, who reported higher levels of unhappiness regarding both the city’s affordability and job opportunities.
Amaury Vogel, executive director of the Oregon Values and Beliefs Center, stated, “We are falling short of expectations that people have for our city, especially for the most vulnerable people.”
In addition to affordability, participants also conveyed their grievances about the limited opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship within Portland.
The survey noted significant dissatisfaction with city services that primarily affect vulnerable and low-income residents, particularly in the areas of affordable housing, homeless shelters, and emergency mental health services.
Portland’s affordability challenges are not new; a 2022 report from the Portland Metro Chamber highlighted that the city has the second lowest median household income compared to its peer cities while simultaneously experiencing higher costs for housing, childcare, and taxes.
Despite the high levels of dissatisfaction regarding affordability and job prospects, some positive sentiments emerged from the survey.
Overall satisfaction with Portland showed a slight increase of 6% compared to the previous year, signaling a glimmer of hope amid ongoing challenges.
Portlanders expressed significant approval for the city’s natural and outdoor areas, with nearly 80% positively rating these spaces.
They also reported high satisfaction levels with the local shops, restaurants, as well as arts and cultural offerings, while over 60% praised the quality of parks, community centers, and cultural events.
Residents identified ongoing improvements in services such as fire and paramedic assistance, street maintenance, transportation, and environmental protective measures.
These survey results were unveiled on the same day the Portland City Council was scheduled to vote on adopting its budget.
The proposed budget includes new investments in shelters, although it also suggests reductions in parks and transportation programs.
In the coming weeks, the council is expected to decide on a measure that could renew or expand the city’s parks levy, with the deadline to refer this measure to the November ballot rapidly approaching.
The survey’s findings could be critical for shaping the city’s budget priorities, especially since many residents highlighted affordable housing as a top concern.
Vogel noted that the data counters the narrative being promoted by the Portland Metro Chamber regarding an alleged economic decline of the city, stating, “Despite all of that, people are holding on to hope that Portland is going to move forward.”
As residents continue grappling with affordability issues, the city’s leadership faces significant choices that will impact the welfare and satisfaction of its residents.
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