I’m a single mom in the DMV considering a great job opportunity in Portland. I have two kids, ages 8 and 6, and I’m looking at this as potentially a 2–3 year chapter for our family before eventually returning to the DC area.
Professionally, it’s a really good opportunity for me to grow, but obviously moving across the country with two kids is a much bigger decision than just taking a job.
I’ve visited Portland and really enjoyed it, but I know visiting and actually raising kids there are two completely different things.
Housing-wise, I’m looking for a 3-bedroom under about $2,800/month, good public schools, a safe/family-friendly neighborhood, and a reasonable commute into Portland. I’ve been looking at Beaverton, Happy Valley/Clackamas, Gresham, Portland proper, and possibly Vancouver, but I’m open to other areas.
I’m coming from the DMV, so I already understand that the racial demographics are going to be very different. I also understand the reality that my children may sometimes be the only Black kids in certain spaces. I’m not expecting Portland to recreate the DMV.
What I am trying to understand is how Black families intentionally find and build community there. Where have your kids found friends and spaces where they feel connected? Are there particular neighborhoods, schools, churches, sports programs, parent groups, cultural organizations, events, etc. that you’d recommend?
And for anyone who moved to Portland with kids from a more diverse area: Would you do it again?
I’d really appreciate the good, the bad, and the stuff people don’t necessarily tell you before moving.
That last question is the money question. Reddit will absolutely tell you the stuff nobody put in the relocation brochure 😂.