Being a white transplant, my perspective is limited and most likely doesn't reflect the experience of Portland natives, white or otherwise.

This is the third city I have lived in, the first two being larger and on the East coast. Another poster commented on how Portlanders are generally friendlier and I would have to agree. Being a smaller city, I think that people feel more invested in their community. It's more accessible and more personal. I think that's a big reason that we have all of these wierd events like the Naked Bike Ride and tons of parades. Sure, New York has the pants-less subway ride, but the city is just too big for the event to be so wholly embraced.

Being a young transplant, most of the people I socialize with are also young transplants. I think this too contributes to my perceived friendliness because most young people who leave home are looking for a new community of like-minded peers. How do you build community if not for being open to new people? Portland in particular has a reputation for openness and accepting of most alternative lifestyles, so it attracts that laid back demographic.

Portland is also known for its strip clubs -- the quality and sheer amount. Our lax nudity laws do allow for a full-nude experience, which its unique to many places. Before moving to Portland I would never in my wildest dreams attend a strip club, but lo and behold, Sassy's does now have the record of me yelling "Wow! That's a really hard move, good for you!" Portland is the only place I have ever visited that is so fond of and so proud of their clubs. In general I think they are thought of as seedy and something only a really specific type of person patrons, but they are so casual here. In fact, most of the people I know here who are really excited about strip clubs are my lady friends. While I'm still not personally the most comfortable with them, I do appreciate that the wide acceptance has led to a major de-stigmatization of exotic dancers here.

I think Portland gets some crap for being "where young people go to retire", but I think it's cool that a lot of people come here to pursue their passion with open, like-minded people. Most of the people that I know here are incredibly hard working -- they're just working on something fun that they love.

Also, we have amazing beer.