Portland
Known for its natural beauty, the city of Portland is extremely eco-friendly in the best way possible. This green city, both literally and figuratively, boasts thousands of acres of lush public parks with extensive biking and hiking trails. Portland is Oregon’s largest city on the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. This thriving area is home to the iconic Washington Park, which offers residents and visitors alike 15 miles of trails, the Oregon Zoo, and the Portland Japanese Garden. Portland has its own public railway service, so getting around the city is easier than ever. This major metropolis is known for its art, theater, and music scene. Check out popular attractions like the Portland Art Museum, OMSI, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, and Roseland Theater. Portland’s culinary scene is one of the best, offering up chef-inspired restaurants and lively local businesses like Tasty n Alder, Pok Pok, Deschutes Brewery, Voodoo Doughnut, and Salt & Straw. Portland is bordered by Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Mount Hood National Forest, and Clatsop National Forest, offering residents scenic views in every direction from their luxury apartments and cozy homes.
Seattle
Nestled on the shores of Puget Sound, Seattle is home to glorious mountain views in the distance, making it one of the most scenic metropolitan areas in the nation. Skyscrapers like the Columbia Center and Space Needle grace the city’s skyline, adding to Seattle’s allure. Starbucks, Amazon, and Nordstrom have headquarters in Seattle, so there are plenty of job opportunities in the city. Interstates 5 and 405 and the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport are major benefits for frequent travelers. Residents enjoy exploring the waterfront neighborhoods of Pioneer Square and the famous Pike Place Market for shopping, trendy bars, and restaurants. Seattle’s art scene is very vibrant, flanked with art galleries, theaters, and sculptures. The city is home to more than 80 music halls and 15 symphony orchestras. Bumbershoot Musical Festival, held every Labor Day Weekend, is one of the world’s largest international music and arts festivals—so don’t miss it this upcoming year! Seattle is the ideal metropolis for residents with an active lifestyle and an interest in parks, hiking, and biking. Check out the trails at Cougar Mountain Wildland Park and Tiger Mountain State Forest after you find your luxury apartment in the city.
Lacey
Lacey is a primarily suburban community in the south Puget Sound area. Olympia is right next door, making it a convenient drive whether you’re going for work every day or just popping into town once in a while to take advantage of the shopping, dining, and entertainment. With Joint Base Lewis-McChord located just minutes away as well, Lacey is a popular option for military personnel seeking off-base apartments and houses. The city has no shortage of amenities to keep you occupied—several large shopping centers can be found near Interstate 5, parks and lakes are scattered throughout the community, and unique local restaurants and coffee houses are everywhere. Of course, like everywhere in Washington, the natural landscape surrounding the city is gorgeous— large nature preserves like Olympic National Park and Mt. Rainier National Park are easily within day trip distance.
