Gresham, OR, United States

With a population of 114,247, Gresham is the fourth-largest city in Oregon, but it's no Portland. The early agricultural economy has given way to a bland suburban sprawl, and the bureaucracy is a persistent headache for residents. The climate is pleasant enough, with warm, sunny summers, but the frequent rainy periods in winter can be dreary. While Gresham has its charms, such as the historic downtown and network of parks, the city lacks the vibrancy and diversity of its larger neighbor to the northwest. This sleepy suburb is best suited for those seeking an affordable, family-friendly alternative to the higher costs and congestion of Portland.