Movin’ to Oreg’n
Lots of people know this already, some just found out a few days ago, even more just found out yesterday: We’re breaking camp and relocating to Portland, Oregon.
Why? Because it’s time, that’s why. Salt Lake City has been good to us, but after living here for over a decade we’re jonesin’ for a different lifestyle, a different atmosphere, and a slightly more urban existence. There’s no getting around the fact that life in Utah is similiar to life in high school: a strong focus on youth and an odd parental vibe. At 41, I’m ready to get back to the adult living that I left behind when I moved here from Alexandria, VA.
Portland has a lot going for it. When you look at the other (close to) west coast cities in the lower 48, Portland is one of the last cities left that’s still somewhat affordable while being desirable. The “affordable” part is changing rapidly, though. When B and I visited Portland four or so years ago for the annual brew festival, we got a local paper and checked out houses for sale. At the time, we balked at the ~$180k price tags for what were essentially bungalows like ours. Those same houses are now selling in the $350k-$400k range. And they’re still going up in value.
Before Utahns see that and say “Portland is outrageously expensive,” keep in mind that bungalows in our area (Sugarhouse) are selling for around $250k-$300k. Housing is expensive everywhere.
Our house here in Utah is currently “pending,” meaning we have accepted a bid and we’re now in the finishing stages of the sale. We’re now looking for a temporary living situation in Portland, something that’ll last a few months and then go away. Memorial Day weekend was spent in Portland driving around with a very knowledgeable real estate agent, so we have a decent idea of the neighborhoods and what we can get for the money we’re willing to spend. Buying a house will be much easier when we’re up there and ready to write a check.
It’s going to be an adventure. Moving to a different state always is.
So there you go. Our days in Utah are numbered. We’ll be coming back to visit.
Oh, and never, ever pronounce the “o” between the “g” and the “n.” Ever.
Whoa. I’m jealous!
Comment by jenny — June 8, 2007 @ 5:18 pm
You know, Portland needs a few more West Virginians and British Canadians…
Seriously, at some point you should check out what life is like west of the Rockies. Something tells me you’d love it.
Not that West Virginia’s a bad place, of course.
Comment by erat — June 9, 2007 @ 9:50 am
It seems like more and more people I know are out on the west coast… my best friend from high school is moving to Seattle; another long-time friend lives in San Francisco; James is (somewhat) from Vancouver - and now you guys are headed to Portland… I’m convinced, there must be something worth checking out over there.
I guess, one of these days, we’re going to have to do a west-coast trip…
Comment by jenny — June 10, 2007 @ 7:26 am