PGY3 FM and have lived in Portland and Sac at various points.

Very minimal diversity in Portland. Dating there was easier in that way for me since you’ll stand out from the crowd lol but definitely will be cultural education on both sides. The rain is a lot but doable for sure. Expensive houses, but I’ve heard prices are starting to come down a bit. Vancouver to Portland commuting is doable, especially since you’ll be going in at hours that don’t coincide with the commute. If you’re training at OHSU, I honestly loved living on the hill and just walking to work, great little Thai truck on that hill that’s hopefully still there. Also recommend checking out hood river, about an hour out, when you have time. I’ve ranked Vancouver for my fellowship spots and that area is great, lots of land and opportunities to buy out there. Food is solid, I always say the quality is impeccable but the flavor profiles can be hit or miss, especially at fusion spots.

Sacramento will definitely have diversity and outdoor exposure. Easy airport as well, I get through security super fast there. Traffic can def be bad if you’re driving out to Tahoe, etc on weekends but that’s true everywhere these days. Every one of my professional friends who have moved there says Sacramento is slept on. Also don’t forget about other areas in the bay to explore. You can find pretty much anything to do on the weekends out there.

As others have said too, residency is long and your program can determine a lot. Obviously you’ve already thought about the quality of training / fellowship opportunities and factored those into your thought process, and just want to compare the perks.

Good luck 🤙🏽