Coworking in Portland, Oregon

Portland is the largest city in the state of Oregon. Surrounded by forests, mountains, and the Oregon coastline, it has much to offer working professionals.

The strong economy and low cost of living in Portland make it a top destination to start or grow a business. The city is home to prominent industries including climate technology, media, and software. Its innovative culture and supportive community for entrepreneurs have led to an increase in coworking in Portland.

Coworking spaces have been proven to promote networking, foster creativity, and provide financial savings. Coworking is particularly suited to startups, freelancers, and solo entrepreneurs.

In this article, we’ll discuss why this city is a great place to do business and the best options for coworking in Portland, Oregon.

Geography of Portland

Portland is situated in northwestern Oregon, 110 miles from the Pacific Ocean. It lies between two mountain ranges in the Willamette Valley, the Cascade Range and the Oregon Coast Range. The Willamette River flows through the city itself, dividing it into east and west. Winters are wet and rainy and summers are mild thanks to the marine air.

Those who love green spaces will be spoiled for choice here. Powell Butte Nature Park, Forest Park, and Providence Park offer hiking trails and the chance to unwind in nature. Portland is also known as the City of Roses, and there are some breathtaking rose gardens around town.

The city is divided into six main sections comprising more than 90 official neighborhoods. The main sections are:

• North: Portland’s “Fifth Quadrant” comprises commercial districts, residential areas, and green spaces. Here, you’ll find neighborhoods like Mississippi and attractions like Cathedral Park and St. John’s Bridge.
• Northeast: Known for its sports attractions, Northeast is the largest quadrant in the city. It offers beautiful architecture, golfing, theaters, and more. Neighborhoods here include the Alberta Arts District and Hollywood.
• Northwest: In Northwest Portland, you’ll find everything from high-end shops and restaurants to natural parks. The Pearl District in particular has excellent shopping.
• South: South Portland is the newest section of the city and one of the smallest. It is home to the South Waterfront and John’s Landing neighborhoods.
• Southeast: Boasting good food, lively neighborhoods, and plenty of bars, Southeast Portland is full of life. Here, you’ll find the Hawthorne District and the Jade District.
• Southwest: A plethora of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues await in Southwest Portland, as well as the well-known downtown area.

Living in Portland, you will benefit from its stunning natural beauty and fresh air. Portland is an eco-conscious city and has a commitment to sustainability. For example, it has a dedicated public transportation system and a network of bike lanes, meaning that you can cycle to work.

In 2021, Portland was ranked the second most future-focused city in the US by FinanceBuzz.

There are lots of benefits to choosing shared office space in Portland. Read on to learn more about how businesses thrive and grow here.

6 benefits of establishing your company in Portland

Portland is a great place to do business. There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, and cultural venues to explore. Here are the top six benefits of establishing a company in this beautiful city.

1. Supportive local community

Portland is known for its strong support of local businesses. There are numerous companies like Portland Buy Local, a nonprofit organization that provides educational resources to local businesses.

Portland also provides information and resources for its citizens, such as the Portland Business Directory, encouraging them to shop local. This is a tangible advantage for startups and small enterprises looking to establish a loyal customer base in the city.

There has also been a shift toward coworking spaces that offer childcare services. This fosters an inclusive and supportive environment, one that addresses the work-life balance challenges faced by working parents.

2. State incentives

The state of Oregon provides various incentives to attract small businesses and promote their growth. ​These include:

• TThe Oregon Investment Advantage: This provides ten-year taxable income exemptions for certified businesses.
• Enterprise Zones: In return for investing in an enterprise zone, businesses are exempted from certain taxes.
• Business Expansion Programs: These programs offer cash-based forgivable loans that small businesses can put towards expanding.
• Strategic Investment Program (SIP): This program provides a 15-year property tax exemption on fractions of large capital investments.

3. Tax advantages

Greater Portland has the advantage of straddling two states: Oregon and Washington. Oregon offers low corporate income taxes and no sales tax, while Washington has neither personal nor corporate income tax. This gives businesses in Portland a significant financial advantage.

In Oregon, corporate tax is assessed on income from business conducted within the state. This is a benefit for smaller, local businesses. Depending on how the business has been set up (e.g., S Corporation, C Corporation, LLC), businesses can take further advantage of these tax systems to pay less overall.

There is only one type of state tax enforced on corporations and LLCs in Oregon. The majority of small businesses in Portland are S Corporations, sole proprietorships, and partnerships. This means their state taxes remain low.

4. Financial advantages

Opting for a shared workspace in Portland means that you’ll have more flexible lease terms compared to traditional offices. You can also select the capacity depending on the size of your team or company. This can be a financial advantage.

Coworking spaces in Portland can provide more flexibility to accommodate each business’s unique needs. Everyone from individual clients to large corporations can benefit from these options.

5. Talent pool

Portland has a skilled and educated workforce. More than 55% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher. Portland workers are known for their creativity and skill, particularly in the technology industry.

There are also over 60 universities, colleges, and satellite campuses within close proximity of Greater Portland. This pool of talent is a significant factor for businesses, as they know they will have access to a steady flow of talented graduates.

6. Portland-based transportation

If you prefer to work in coworking spaces, good public transport links are vital. As a city committed to green initiatives, Portland’s transport system is key for the city’s workers.

There are several ways to efficiently navigate the city. These include the TriMet public light rail, Portland Streetcar, and the city bus system.

Portland International Airport is also nearby, making domestic and international travel easy. It has repeatedly been voted the nation’s best airport in Travel+Leisure’s reader survey.

How much are coworking memberships in Portland?

Choosing a place to work is all about budgeting. The size of your team and the number of days you want to work in the city will play a key part in your decision. In terms of costs, Portland may be a more cost-effective option than other big cities in the US.

The average cost of coworking space in Portland is $269 per month, with the cheapest option being $129 per month. This is cheaper than Seattle in the neighboring state of Washington, where the average cost of coworking space is $309 per month.

Regus office space in Portland includes several types of coworking membership, including fixed desks for 24/7 access, coworking memberships, and day coworking.

Below, we provide a list of the best coworking spaces and shared offices Portland has to offer.

The best coworking spaces in Portland

Coworking offices in Portland are easy to find, but it’s important to choose the location that will best suit your business needs.

The ease of the commute, the facilities you need nearby, and the amenities that are in the neighboring area. These are just some of the factors you should consider.

If you need inspiration, here is our list of the best coworking spaces in Portland.

Best coworking space for startups in Portland - Buckman on MLK

Startups in Portland will love Buckman on MLK, a vibrant new flexible working hub. This contemporary business complex is located in Buckman, one of Portland’s business hot spots. Work alongside like-minded professionals with meeting and conference rooms across three floors.

Buckman on MLK is well-connected, and you can get to downtown Portland in less than five minutes by car. The complex is surrounded by popular bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. There are also plenty of green spaces close by, including the Eastbank Esplanade walkway along the Willamette River.

Highlights include:

• Secure bike storage
• Shower facilities
• Parking area

Information about Buckman on MLK

• Location: 555 Southeast Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard, Suite 105, Portland, OR 97214
• Starting cost: From $189 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: SE M L King & Stark Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away) and SE MLK & Stark Light Rail Station (a three-minute walk away)

Best coworking space for networking in Portland - The Leland James

For remote workers and freelancers, networking is important. If you’re after a coworking space where you can build your network, consider The Leland James. These modern offices are located in Slabtown, a dynamic professional community in the northwest of the city.

In addition to private, meeting, and communal spaces, there is also a selection of shops and restaurants and a sky porch on the third floor. After work, spend time with colleagues at the numerous boutiques, art galleries, parks, and restaurants in the area. There are also fitness centers, grocery stores, and hotels nearby.

Highlights include:

• Bike storage
• Parking
• Showers

Information about The Leland James

• Location: 2175 North West Raleigh Street, Portland, OR 97210
• Starting cost: From $349 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: NW 23rd & Raleigh Bus Stop (a three-minute walk away) and NW Thurman & 21st Bus Stop (a four-minute walk away)

Best coworking space for remote workers in Portland - 13535 SW 72nd Ave

13535 SW 72nd Ave is a great option for solo entrepreneurs and remote workers. This warm and welcoming location includes meeting rooms, open-plan office spaces, and break-out areas to foster connection and creativity.

You can book a dedicated desk or hot desk wherever you feel most inspired. These are one of the coworking spaces in Portland where a day pass is an option.

After work, grab a bite to eat at one of the area’s restaurants and cafes. There is also a gym nearby.

Meeting with international clients or colleagues is also easy here. The Tigard TC WES train station is a three-minute drive away, and Portland International Airport is a 25-minute drive.

Highlights include:

• Break-out areas
• Major transport links
• Meeting rooms

Information about 13535 SW 72nd Ave

• Location: 13535 SW 72nd, Portland OR 97223
• Starting cost: Prices available upon request
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: SW 72nd & Cherry Dr Bus Stop (a two-minute walk away) and SW 72nd & Varns Bust Stop (a four-minute walk away)

Best coworking space for small teams in Portland - 192nd Avenue

Located 20 minutes from downtown Portland, 192nd Avenue is a contemporary office space that is great for small teams. A small-town setting that offers a relaxed, private place to work, this is a highly accessible spot in the city. Its convenient location means that hosting clients is easy.

Share lunch with colleagues in the on-site lunch restaurant. In the neighboring area, you’ll find tree-lined plazas to explore, as well as shops, bistros, and a gym.

Highlights include:

• Parking
• On-site lunch restaurant
• Business lounge

Information about 192nd Avenue

• Location: 2005 Southeast 192nd Avenue, Camas, WA 98607
• Starting cost: From $269 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: SE 192nd Ave & 20th S Bus Stop (a three-minute walk away) and SE 192nd Ave & 15th St Bus Stop (a seven-minute walk away)

Best coworking space for entrepreneurs and freelancers in Portland - 1435 NW Northrup Street

Situated in the fashionable Pearl District, 1435 NW Northrup Street is a modern office building. This is a coveted location for entrepreneurs and freelancers in finance, real estate, and advertising. The software industry also has a strong presence here.

With meeting rooms and flexible coworking spaces, you can connect with colleagues and meet new people. After work, catch a movie at the retro-style Cinema 21 Movie Theater or explore the boutiques and art galleries nearby.

You also have easy access via I-405 and I-5 and the public transport links.

Highlights include:

• Central location
• Break-out areas
• Major transport links

Information about 1435 NW Northrup Street

• Location: 1435 NW Northrup St, Portland, OR 97209
• Starting cost: From $129 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: NW 14th & Northrup Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away) and NW 18th & Northrup Bus Stop (a four-minute walk away)

Most accessible coworking space in Portland - Liberty Center

With panoramic views of downtown Portland, Liberty Center is a premium office space that makes it easy to achieve your business goals. The center has amazing facilities, including an on-site restaurant, a gym, and an outdoor terrace. It also has parking and bicycle storage.

However, the jewel in Liberty Center’s crown is its accessibility, with close connections to both the MAX Light Rail and the Banfield Expressway. This makes it a good location for meeting clients and interviewing potential employees.

Highlights include:

• Disabled facilities
• Secure underground parking
• On-site lunch restaurant

Information about Liberty Center

• Location: 650 N. E. Holladay Street, Portland, OR 97232
• Starting cost: From $239 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: NE 7th & Holladay Light Rail Station (a one-minute walk away) and NE Grand & Holladay Light Rail Station (a two-minute walk away)

Coworking space with the best transport options in Portland - 1050 SW 6th Avenue

If your top priority for a workspace is transport links, 1050 SW 6th Avenue could be the office for you. Set in the heart of the city, you can easily get to downtown Portland and beyond.

Known for its striking glass façade, the building has a gym, an on-site lunch restaurant, and shower facilities.

1050 SW 6th Avenue is a fantastic location for businesses in the legal and financial sectors, especially with neighbors like Tonkon Torp. After work, there are multiple places to eat, or you can explore attractions like Portland’s Art Museum, only a short walk away.

Highlights include:

• Disabled facilities
• Gym and fitness room
• On-site lunch restaurant

Information about 1050 SW 6th Avenue

• Location: 1050 SW 6th Avenue, Portland, OR 97204
• Starting cost: From $249 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: SW Salmon between 6th and 5th Avenue Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away) and SW 5th & Main Bus Stop (a two-minute walk away)

Coworking space with the best parking in Portland - US Bancorp Tower

If you drive to work, parking facilities will be top of your list of priorities. US Bancorp Tower is an award-winning location with secure underground parking.

This location is in the center of Portland’s premier business district. You’ll be in good company working here, as the area is one of the city’s most active financial sectors.

US Bancorp Tower has spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains and historic bridges of Portland. It is also committed to sustainability. Facilities include an on-site gym, a restaurant, and showers.

Highlights include:

• Secure underground parking
• Gym and fitness room
• On-site lunch restaurant

Information about US Bancorp Tower

• Location: 111 S.W. Fifth Avenue, Portland, OR 97204
• Starting cost: From $279 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: SW 5th & Pine bus stop (a two-minute walk away) and SW 5th & Oak station (a three-minute walk away)

Most affordable coworking space in Portland - River Park Center

Surrounded by beautiful green spaces, River Park Center is one of the most affordable coworking spaces south of Portland.

You can enjoy comfortable office and coworking spaces and modern facilities. Or take a break from the grind and relax with breathtaking views over the Willamette River and the beachfront.

Not only will River Park Center help save you money, but opportunities for outdoor pursuits are second to none. Lake Oswego, Oregon City, and Beaverton are all within easy reach.

Highlights include:

• Business park location
• Disabled facilities
• Showers

Information about River Park Center

• Location: 205 SE Spokane St., Portland, OR 97202
• Starting cost: From $269 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: SE Tacoma & 7th Bus Stop (a seven-minute walk away) and SE Tacoma & 13th Bus Stop (a 14-minute walk away)

Best coworking space for larger companies in Portland - Lincoln Center

For large companies, it’s sometimes difficult to find office space. If you have a large team, consider Lincoln Center, the tallest building in Washington County. This is an excellent location for businesses looking to put down roots in Portland. Its attractive facilities include a gym and a sandwich bar.

You’ll also benefit from easy access to Oregon’s Silicone Forest, which is home to more than 1,000 technology companies. These include Tektronix, Intel, Planar Systems, and Hewlett-Packard Co. Local amenities include Washington Square, a large shopping center with restaurants and entertainment options.

Highlights include:

• Disabled facilities
• Gym and fitness room
• On-site lunch restaurant

Information about Lincoln Center

• Location: 10260 SW Greenburg Road, Portland, OR 97223
• Starting cost: From $249 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: SW Greenburg & Washington Square Rd Bus Stop (a five-minute walk away) and SW Locust & 87th Bus Stop (an 11-minute walk away)

Discover coworking in Portland with Regus

It’s easy to see why many people make Portland the place to start or grow a business. The city’s low cost of living, skilled workforce, and thriving economy make it a popular destination for businesses.

The growth of coworking in Portland reflects a broader trend toward flexibility and community building. It’s also resulting in more services that enhance productivity and work-life balance for professionals in the city. You can learn more about our coworking offering on the Regus website.

Our selection of coworking spaces can be tailored to your specific business type. If you have any questions about the best coworking option for you, we are always here to help. Get in touch today to learn more about our amazing coworking membership packages and shared office spaces in Portland, Oregon.