Is Portland or Salt Lake City more affordable?
Portland has a median rent of $1,406/month, while Salt Lake City is $1,450/month. Portland is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Portland, OR vs Salt Lake City, UT
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Portland and Salt Lake City.
3
Portland wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Salt Lake City wins
OR
Portland
vs
UT
Salt Lake City
Overview
647,176
Population
199,723
$78,476✓
Median Income
-26.1%$58,000
Cost of Living
$1,406✓
Median Rent / mo
+3.1%$1,450
$462,800✓
Median Home Price
+3.7%$480,000
21%
Rent-to-Income %
30%
Taxes
9.90%
State Income Tax
4.65%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
50.49°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
46.76°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
222 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
17"
Who should choose
Portland, OR
Portland is a city in Oregon with a population of 647,176.
Read full Portland guide →Who should choose
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Portland vs Salt Lake City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Portland or Salt Lake City?
Oregon has a 9.90% state income tax. Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Salt Lake City wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Portland and Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Portland: 50.49°F. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Portland or Salt Lake City?
Portland. Salt Lake City. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.