2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Normal, IL vs Portland, OR

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Portland older or younger than people in Normal?
- The Median Age in Portland is 12.8 years older than in Normal.

Are housing costs cheaper in Portland or Normal?
- Portland housing costs are 156.1% more expensive than Normal housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Portland or Normal?
- The average commute for residents of Portland is 8.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Normal.

Things to do in Normal?
Normal, Illinois is a vibrant city located in McLean County, just north of Bloomington-Normal. It is home to Illinois State University and has a bustling downtown area with numerous shops, restaurants, and businesses. Normal is a major hub in the region for healthcare, finance and education opportunities. There are abundant recreational options including natural areas, parks and trails that offer plenty of outdoor activities. A variety of cultural amenities are also available such as theater performances, festivals, art galleries and other entertainment venues that give residents something to do in their spare time. Normal is truly a wonderful place where people can come together to work, play, learn and live!

Things to do in Portland?
Portland, Oregon is a vibrant city full of culture and fun activities. Spend the day exploring downtown or visit some of the city's many parks, trails and gardens such as Washington Park and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Enjoy top restaurants, breweries, shopping and nightlife activities around Alberta Street or take in the majestic views from Mount Tabor. For those looking for more adventure and exploration, head out to the Columbia River Gorge or the Cascade Mountains. From its unique attractions to its natural beauty, Portland is sure to keep you busy!

 Normal, ILPortland, ORUnited States
 Population  Unlock647,176329,725,481
 Median Income$58,564  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.938.4
 Avg. Home Price$209,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.8  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Normal    5 Reviews

While not a perfect town by any stretch of the imagination, I have lived in Normal my entire life and I have to say that there are FAR worse places one could live. The  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

I would like to know more about the quality of education at Illinois State  More

   |    Reply

With relatively low crime, good schools and excellent access to higher education, Normal is a great place to raise a family. The city is trying to update its city center  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Normal

Reviews for Portland    386 Reviews

I lived in Portland for 19 years (I've also lived in Boise, ID, the Bay Area, Austin, TX and now Nampa, ID). It drives me nuts when people try to give a large city a  More

   |    Reply

One of the best cities in America. Food scene is the best in the world. Weather is preferable over places where you have the same weather year round. I enjoy the  More

   |    Reply

I moved from Houston to Portland about a year ago. I remember reading the reviews on here and it making me second guess moving before I did, so I wanted to come back and  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Portland


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.