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There is some history here. Over a century ago, both Seattle and Portland vied to be the top city in the NW. The Alaskan Gold Rush helped swing things toward Seattle. WWII continued to favor Seattle with Boeing becoming a giant job producer. In later years, Microsoft helped define Seattle as the regional capital.
But it goes beyond that. Seattle developed a more pro-growth sensibility in the 1950's and 60's, and the result was a Worlds Fair, and the entry of major league sports, and the goal of building stadiums to house them. In the meantime, Oregon was developing a strong environmental, slow-growth attitude that still defines Portland today.
The result of these events is evident today. Both cities are growing, but Seattle feels much bigger. Who knows, it could swing back toward Portland, but I don't see that anytime soon.
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