Seattle vs. Portland

[Frodo]

I would go for Portland -they have a functioning mass transit system (i.e. light-rail), and it's a bit more affordable to live in. 

[Frodo]

So why is everyone going for Seattle over Portland? 

[Frodo]

So why is everyone going for Seattle over Portland? 

There isn't a huge difference.

Seattle population change, 2000-2005: +1.9%
Portland population change, 2000-2005: +0.5%

Not a huge difference, although Portland does have more generous incorporation boundaries (I believe it touches some less-than-dense-urban unincorporated areas, which Seattle doesn't).

Portland is more affordable, though, but a lot of people don't realize that Portland is a pretty vibrant city itself (the suburbs, I'm sad to say, mostly suck).

Really?  In what way? 

[Frodo]

You lived in Seattle for a while, Frodo... What was wrong with it?

As a transitory college student -nothing.  As a potential permanent resident, it's a different story.  I look at the taxes, the high cost of living, and the general lack of a mass transit system, and there is much to give me pause.  I have never been to Portland, but from what I have heard, it is (at the very least) much more affordable, has a functioning top-notch light rail system, and has a more small-town atmosphere with all the advantages of a major city.