Looking at relocating to West Linn, OR

[mdvaden]

Originally Posted by getusouttahere

west linn is nice, but people are not friendly. the jist of it is that people move to oregon to upgrade and you get the TRASH from other states that could not afford to live nicely in their own state. we hated it and moved away. the most unfriendly people.

Having done about 3000 to 4000 projects for about 900 customers over the past 20 years, I've found people in West Linn to be as friendly as in most other west side suburbs.

Guess they are the "keepers" who stayed.

Just one of many was a retired aircraft mechanic who started a handyman business. Another who comes to mind is an artist who also makes boats by hand.

If they are trash, I'm glad we recycled them here.

[Asianstorm]

I have to be honest. I have never been to West Linn but I have researched it, my late in-laws lived there and Lake Oswego for years. I plan on visiting for at least a week to experience it soon. I have lived in Portland (a short time in 2011). My heart is there however, I only live there part-time because of the rising cost and limited housing. The job market is VERY competitive and limited. Congratulations on your job! It is absolutely necessary to have a job before you move. Certain fields like tech and finance are always in demand. However, masters degrees are very common. Many people gladly accept underemployment because of the unique and desirable lifestyle Portland metro provides.

My husband graduated from West Linn high School. It was an excellent High School with classes not offered in many Universities! The area is beautiful, and has many outdoor activities. It has grown and changed since the 70s- 80s. Locals tell me it is a affluent neighborhood. The commute is far longer then you were told. All employers, recuiters and real estate agent embellish on the commute. Traffic in Portland Metro during rush hour is horrible all the way to Salem.
The responses have not addressed the lack of diversity in the suburb. West Linn is predominately White (much of Portland is) but some areas are more than others. This may not be an issue for you. Crime rate is low, peaceful when compared to the (at times) noisy and crowded downtown. In November 2015 the KKK canvased West Linn High and the surrounding neighborhoods. Law enforcement was aware and responded appropiately. The Klan will occasionally march in Downtown Portland. However, leaving flyers (and candy) at the high school was disturbing. It speaks to the Klan's view of the neighborhood as a source of recruits. It is not necessarily the reality. Residents of West Linn were very concerned when interviewed by the media. Perhaps consider the distance and experience you want your family to have. I suggest looking at St John's which has developed into a desirable family oriented neighborhood. It used to be a "bad" area but is now gentrified. I would encourage you to visit and research all possibilities because many of the neighborhoods have changed. Some schools do not live up to their past reputation.
Good Luck and go where you feel happy!