Hillsboro, OR, United States

Capital City

With a population of over 106,000, Hillsboro is the fifth-largest city in Oregon and a major tech hub, home to Intel's largest site employing about 16,000 workers. But don't be fooled - this suburban enclave is no Silicon Valley. The bureaucratic hassles of conforming to the city's internal address grid are a persistent headache, and the rainy Pacific Northwest climate can be a damper on outdoor activities. Still, with its mix of high-paying tech jobs, abundant parks, and decent public transit, Hillsboro may appeal to those seeking a more affordable alternative to its Portland neighbor to the east.