Explore the elevation of Portland—Oregon’s largest city and a Pacific Northwest gem located at just 50 feet above sea level, where rivers converge, greenery thrives, and culture flourishes in one of the most environmentally progressive cities in America.

Table of Contents

Where is Portland?

  • Location: Portland is situated in the Willamette Valley, where the Willamette and Columbia Rivers meet in northwestern Oregon.

City Profile

  • Nickname: Commonly called the City of Roses.
  • Fame: Known for progressive values, environmental awareness, and a vibrant cultural scene.
  • Population: About 650,000 residents in the city and nearly 2.5 million in the metropolitan area.
  • Size rank: Largest city in Oregon and the 26th most populous in the United States.

Elevation Basics

  • City elevation: Portland sits at an elevation of 50 feet (15 m) above sea level.
  • State comparison: Oregon’s mean elevation is 3,300 feet (1,010 m), making Portland significantly lower.
  • Founding history: Settled in the 1830s and named after Portland, Maine.
  • Economic growth: Location at river confluence made Portland a transportation and trade hub.
  • Reputation evolution: Once known as a dangerous city in the early 1900s, Portland transformed into a beacon of eco-consciousness.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Elevation definition: Measures a city's height above sea level.
  • Comparison to other port cities:
    • New York City: 33 feet (10 m)
    • New Orleans: 1–2 feet below sea level
  • Why so low? Portland’s proximity to the coast keeps elevation low, unlike Oregon’s mountainous interior.
  • Highest point in Portland: 9936 NW Wind Ridge Drive – 1,188 feet (362 m).
  • Lowest point in Portland: Near the Columbia River, only 0.6 feet (0.19 m) above sea level.
  • Highest point in Oregon: Mount Hood – 11,249 feet (3,429 m).
  • Lowest point in Oregon: Pacific Ocean – sea level.
  • Other Oregon cities:
    • Bend: 3,623 feet (1,104 m)
    • Salem: 154 feet (47 m)
  • Portland’s rank: Lower than most other major Oregon cities in elevation.

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Portland has a temperate climate with mild, wet winters and dry summers.
  • Nickname origin: Called the City of Roses for its ideal rose-growing weather.
  • Summer weather: Warm and dry, with average highs of 81°F (27°C) in July and August.
  • Winter weather: Cool and rainy, with light snowfall possible.
  • Attractions: Offers restaurants, galleries, theaters, parks, and sports venues.
  • Green spaces: Boasts thousands of acres of parks and trails.
  • Unique experiences: Features a zoo, planetarium, and renowned cycling events.
  • Major events: Hosts the Portland Marathon and various annual races.

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