Any graphic desgners/webmasters in Portland?

[Cascadian]

I am currently going to school up here in Spokane. I am in the Graphic Design program at my school. I'm already looking towards the future and I am seriously considering a move to Portland when my schooling is over. I would like to know how are the job prospects for people in my field of occupation down there and what is it like living in the Rose City? I have visited many times but they say that there is a big differnce between visiting and living in a place.

The impression I get is that it is a more laid-back, friendlier version of Seattle. Rents are a little cheaper compared to Seattle. You have an excellent transit service, an awesome bookstore named Powell's, and a decent nightlife. Anything else I should know and be warned of?

I am just eager to get out of Spokane. It's a lovely city but there isn't a hell of a lot to do out here and it is far too conservative in my opinion. Spokane is known as The Lilac City but I prefer roses to lilacs anyday! ;)

I could move back to Seattle but I lived there for almost 16 years and it is just not the same as it was before.

Your input is appreciated. Thanks!

John

[0rganism]

1. prospects should still be solid for web designers

check out http://www.employment.oregon.gov/, the employment dept site. They have some resources for looking at career prospects based on your work preferences and skills that are pretty nice, and some info on career futures. You may have some stiff competition at first and you may be farming out resumes for a while, but if you're halfway competent and willing to work six- or twelve-month contracts, you'll land a job pretty quick.