About Portland


Community Profiles

The metropolitan area is composed of six counties: Clackamas, Columbia, Multnomah, Washington and Yamhill Counties in the state of Oregon; and Clark County in the state of Washington. These counties cover 5,103 square miles and have a population of 2 million.

Clackamas County
The entire northern border of Clackamas County abuts Multnomah County's southern edge. The county is large, with 1,879 square miles of land. Clackamas County is home to some of Oregon's most prominent features including Mt. Hood (11,235 ft.) and Timberline Lodge, which has the country's only year-round skiing resort. Major cities include: Gladstone, Lake Oswego, Milwaukie, Oregon City, West Linn and Wilsonville.

Columbia County
Located northwest of Portland, Columbia County spans 687 square miles with 62 miles that run along the shores of the Columbia River. This rural county's main industries are agriculture, lumber and fishing. With so much of the county abutting the Columbia River, recreation is becoming a thriving industry. Major cities include: St. Helens and Scappoose.

Multnomah County
Multnomah County, at 465 square miles, is the smallest county in Oregon. However, it has the largest population with more than half of the residents living in the city of Portland. Multnomah County is a narrow strip of land that runs from Sauvie Island at the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers east to the western slopes of Mt. Hood. Major cities include: Portland, Gresham, Fairview, Troutdale and Wood Village.

Washington County
Located west of Multnomah County, 727-square-mile Washington County is one of the fastest growing areas in the state. Its thriving high technology industry is the prime mover behind the upsurge in population and economy. The county also has some of Oregon's most productive agricultural land. Major cities include: Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard and Tualatin.

Yamhill County
Located southwest of Portland, Yamhill County is one of the most agriculturally rich counties in the state. Historically known for its nut and fruit orchards, Yamhill County has a growing wine industry. The county is home to more than 40 wineries and 100 vineyards and is recognized as one of the premier Pinot noir producing areas in the world. Major cities include: McMinnville and Newberg.

Clark County
Although located in the state of Washington, Clark County's economy and lifestyle is tied to that of Portland's. Thousands of people who live there work in Portland. The county is home to regional and corporate headquarters, high tech manufacturing firms and traditional small businesses, creating a mix of urban density and wide open spaces. Cities include: Vancouver, Camas and Battle Ground.

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