2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Portland, ME vs Palo Alto, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Palo Alto older or younger than people in Portland?
- The Median Age in Palo Alto is 4.9 years older than in Portland.

Are housing costs cheaper in Palo Alto or Portland?
- Palo Alto housing costs are 588.9% more expensive than Portland housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Palo Alto or Portland?
- The average commute for residents of Palo Alto is 5.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Portland.

Things to do in Portland?
Portland, Maine is a picturesque coastal city located on the shores of Casco Bay. This historic town features an array of attractions for visitors to explore such as the fascinating Victoria Mansion or the charming Portland Lighthouse. Residents here also enjoy plenty of outdoor activities at Back Cove or Willard Beach. With its top-rated schools, thriving businesses, and wide selection of recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Portland their home.

Things to do in Palo Alto?
Palo Alto, California is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley. Home to Stanford University and various tech giants such as Google, Apple, and Facebook, it has long been known as the epicenter for cutting-edge technology and innovative thinking. Residents here enjoy warm weather year round, excellent public schools, a thriving nightlife scene, plus vast amounts of green space perfect for hiking, biking or horseback riding. There's also no shortage of culture with world class museums and galleries showcasing some of the area’s most celebrated artworks. With its abundant resources and booming economy, Palo Alto truly offers something for everyone!

 Portland, MEPalo Alto, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock68,624329,725,481
 Median Income$66,109  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock41.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$451,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.5%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.13  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Portland    35 Reviews

Used to be great before the pandemic. Now people from out of state have ruined it by paying New York prices for real estate site unseen. Why would you live in Maine when  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

I have never lived here but the lack of Jimmy John’s is depressing and makes me wish I was deceased.  More

   |    Reply

Reggie · 
Over 7 years ago

I found out I was allergic to corn on the cob here. I would give Portland twelve thumbs downs if I could. My friend told me there was a subway here and I thought he  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Portland

Reviews for Palo Alto    8 Reviews

The Bay Area in general, but Palo Alto specifically provides many of the qualities sought by many; the climate is beautiful, there is access to cultural and recreational  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

Very  More

   |    Reply

Over 18 years ago

VTA and SamsTrans and Caltrain all provide good service and most times frequency of service is  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Palo Alto


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.