Thrift shopping in Portland is one of my favorite pastimes. It’s a fun way to discover unique, vintage items while being eco-friendly. Each store has its own charm, filled with hidden treasures waiting to be found. From budget-friendly fashion to one-of-a-kind home décor, Portland’s thrift stores have something for everyone. In this guide, I’ll share my top 7 best thrift stores Portland, where you can score stylish finds without breaking the bank.
Let’s dive in and start exploring!
Why Portland is a Thrifter’s Paradise
Portland’s thriving thrift scene is no accident. Several key factors make the city perfect for secondhand shopping.
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Here are a few reasons why:
1. Sustainability Culture
Portland is famous for its eco-conscious mindset. The city promotes sustainability in every aspect, from biking to shopping. Thrift stores Portland align with this mission by reducing waste and encouraging recycling through secondhand items. For many Portlanders, thrifting is a lifestyle choice, not just a trend.
2. Creative, Artistic Vibe
Portland is known for its creativity. Artists, designers, and makers fill the city, and their influence can be seen in its thrift stores. Many shops showcase unique, curated items that reflect Portland’s artistic flair. You’ll find one-of-a-kind pieces that highlight the city’s vibrant culture.
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3. Diverse and Trendy Neighborhoods
Each neighborhood in Portland has its own personality. You’ll find a variety of thrift stores catering to different tastes. This diversity adds excitement to every thrifting adventure, offering something fresh no matter where you shop.
4. Support for Local Communities
Many Portland thrift stores are locally owned and support community causes.
Some stores donate their proceeds to charity, while others focus on empowering the local economy.
When you shop in Portland, you’re not only finding great deals but also giving back to the community.
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How to Make the Most of Thrift Shopping in Portland
Thrift shopping in Portland can be an exciting experience if you know how to do it right.
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of it:
- Go Early for the Best Finds
Stores often restock in the morning. Arriving early gives you first access to the newest items. - Have a Plan, But Be Open
Know what you’re looking for, but stay flexible. Sometimes the best finds are unexpected. - Check for Sales and Discounts
Many stores offer special deals on certain days. Follow your favorite thrift stores on social media to catch these promotions. - Inspect Items Carefully
Check clothes and furniture for damage before buying. A small flaw can be worth fixing, but be sure it’s something you can repair. - Bring Cash
While most stores accept cards, smaller shops might offer discounts for cash payments.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to find the best deals and unique items while thrifting in Portland!
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Top 7 Best Thrift Stores in Portland
Ready to dive into Portland’s best thrift shops?
Below are my top picks for the best thrift stores Portland. Each store has its own unique vibe and collection, so let’s explore what makes them stand out!
#1 Village Merchants Thrift Store Portland
Ratings: 4.7 stars on Google from 935 ratings (as of writing this blog post)
Location: 4035 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97206
Timing: Saturday 11 AM – 6 PM,
Sunday 11 AM – 6 PM,
Monday – Friday 11 AM – 6 PM
Village Merchants is a hidden gem that feels like a treasure chest waiting to be explored.
As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by a cozy atmosphere filled with a delightful mix of vintage clothing, accessories, and home décor.
What I love most about this store is its curated collection of unique finds, ranging from vintage dresses to quirky homeware.
The friendly staff is always ready to help you hunt for that perfect piece, making your shopping experience even more enjoyable.
Why visit: Village Merchants is a local favorite for its eclectic mix of vintage clothing, furniture, and home decor. With a focus on quality and variety, you’ll find everything from classic Levi’s to mid-century modern chairs.
What Visitors Have to Say!
“Good prices, good selection, good vibes, good service. Overall great shop” – Monica V
“This place has the coolest finds the best staff and it’s just such a great vibe. They are all about being affordable to the community and they do consignment and are very fair. Great place “ – Jennifer B.
Don’t miss out on their fantastic sales, where you can snag amazing deals! If you’re searching for the best thrift stores in Portland, this spot should be at the top of your list.
#2 Buffalo Exchange Thrift Store in Portland
Ratings: 3.8 star ratings from 448 reviews
Location: 1036 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209, United States
Timing: Monday – Saturday :11AM to 8PM
Sunday: 11AM to 7PM
Buffalo Exchange is a must-visit for fashion lovers looking for the best thrift stores in Portland.
This trendy thrift store specializes in buying and selling gently used clothing, so you know you’ll find stylish items here. From retro band tees to designer handbags, there’s something for everyone.
I enjoy browsing their racks, discovering unique pieces I can’t find anywhere else. The vibe is casual and welcoming, making it easy to spend hours hunting for the perfect outfit.
Plus, they often host fun events, so keep an eye out for those!
Why visit: Buffalo Exchange is a national chain known for its high-quality consignment items. They specialize in clothing, accessories, and footwear, making it a great place to find trendy pieces at affordable prices.
What Visitors Have to Say!
“What I love about Buffalo Exchange is the concentration of cool vintage and unique pieces. Unlike traditional thrift shops where you might have to sift through racks of less appealing items, Buffalo Exchange presents a higher chance of finding hidden gems without the tedious search.” – Sophie
“The employee who checked us out with the short purple hair was so nice! They suggested a donut and chai spot that was absolutely amazing, so I really wanted to shout out their excellent customer service!” – Jordon F.
#3 SuperThrift – Thrift Stores Portland Oregon City
Ratings: 4.8 Ratings from 1551 Reviews
Location: 1809 Molalla Ave, Oregon City, OR 97045, United States
Timing: Monday to Saturday: 10AM – 8PM, Sunday: 12-7PM
SuperThrift in Oregon City is worth the short drive from Portland.
This spacious store offers a massive selection of clothing, furniture, and home goods at unbeatable prices. I love how organized the sections are, making it easy to navigate and find what you need.
Whether you’re looking for a vintage lamp or a stylish jacket, SuperThrift has it all. The best part?
Every purchase helps support local charities, so you can feel good about your shopping choices while scoring fantastic deals!
Why visit: SuperThrift is a massive thrift store with a wide selection of items, including clothing, furniture, housewares, and electronics. With its low prices and frequent sales, it’s a shopper’s paradise.
What Visitors Have to Say!
“Great staff, super clean, and well stocked with a variety of well priced things!” – Grae Schoene
“Great low prices, unbeatable deals on furniture” – Westin Martine
“Very good service excellent experience wonderful selection” – A Tabanera
SuperThrift is truly one of the best thrift stores in the Portland area.
#4 William Temple House Thrift Store Portland
Ratings: 4.3 ratings from 291 reviews
Location: 2230 NW Glisan St, Portland, OR 97210, United States
Timing: 11AM – 6PM (Everyday)
William Temple House Thrift Store is not just a store; it’s a community hub. This cozy thrift shop offers a wide range of secondhand clothing, furniture, and household items, all at affordable prices.
I appreciate that every purchase directly supports the vital services provided by the William Temple House.
The staff is friendly and passionate about helping you find exactly what you need.
Why visit: This nonprofit thrift store supports the William Temple House, a homeless shelter. While the selection may vary, you’ll often find unique vintage items and gently used clothing.
What Visitors Have to Say!
“I’ve been here several times and have always felt so welcomed and appreciated! And also, the employees at this location are truly so amazing and empathetic and helped me search for my cat when she was missing and went so above and beyond. They are compassionate beyond belief!” – Kylie Urbanek
“They have some nice clothing pieces, not a large selection of plus size. Very good prices for furniture and art.” – Eliana Sterna
With its welcoming atmosphere and meaningful mission, this store is a must-visit for anyone looking to shop with purpose.
#5 Gresham ReStore – Habitat – Thrift Stores Portland
Ratings: 4.3 ratings from 859 reviews
Location: 610 NE 181st Ave, Portland, OR 97230, United States
Timing: Tueday: 11am – 6pm, rest of the days: 10am – 6pm
Gresham ReStore is a fantastic spot for home improvement enthusiasts. This thrift store specializes in building materials, furniture, and appliances, making it a perfect destination for DIY projects.
I love browsing through their ever-changing inventory, which includes everything from vintage light fixtures to high-quality cabinets.
Shopping at Gresham ReStore not only saves you money but also supports Habitat for Humanity’s mission.
Why visit: As part of the Habitat for Humanity ReStore chain, this store sells donated building materials, furniture, and household items. It’s a great place to find affordable home improvement supplies and support a good cause.
What Visitors Have to Say!
“Found this old beauty for 89$ and it was worth every penny. She cleaned up really nice with just some wood oil. The workers were awesome in helping me load this into my vehicle. Fast and friendly service. I’ll definitely be back here again.” – Amanda Jalos
“I really like their mission a lot more as well. Occasionally I score some pretty cool stuff in the store as well 🙂 “ – Marc Whelen
If you’re looking to spruce up your home while making a difference, this store is a fantastic choice! It definitely ranks among the top Portland thrift stores.
#6 House of Vintage Portland Thrift Store
Ratings: 3.8 ratings from 694 reviews
Location: 3315 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214, United States
Timing: 11am to 7pm (everyday)
House of Vintage is a delightful place that feels like stepping back in time. This eclectic shop is packed with an amazing collection of vintage clothing, accessories, and home décor from various eras.
I love spending my weekends here, sifting through the racks and discovering unique pieces that tell a story. The atmosphere is vibrant, and the staff is incredibly knowledgeable about fashion history.
Why visit: House of Vintage is a boutique-style thrift store specializing in vintage clothing and accessories. With a curated selection of high-quality items, it’s a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts.
What Visitors Have to Say!
“Extensive inventory! You can spend a lot of time in there! Quick service!” – Erica
“Wow, talk about taking you back to the 90’s. I was super cool seeing clothing and products that I grew up with 30 years ago. It brought back many memories. We found some items that were a must-have. I regret not taking any photos. If you are looking for vintage clothing, this is the place.” – Jason Saunders
If you’re a vintage enthusiast or just looking for something special, House of Vintage is a must-visit destination!
#7 The Shopp – Thrift Stores Portland Maine
Ratings: 4.6 ratings from 50 reviews
Location: Goods BMX in Portland, OR, USA, 2808 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd #5, Portland, OR 97212, United States
Timing: Tuesday: 12-6pm, Sunday and Monday: Closed
The Shopp is a charming thrift store that embodies the spirit of community. With a focus on sustainability, this store features a curated selection of clothing, furniture, and household items, all at great prices.
I appreciate the personal touch the staff brings, often sharing the stories behind their favorite pieces.
Whether you’re on the hunt for a stylish outfit or a unique decorative item, The Shopp offers a warm and inviting shopping experience.
Why visit: The Shopp is a family-owned thrift store with a wide variety of items. From clothing and furniture to toys and books, you’re sure to find something unique.
What Visitors Have to Say!
“I love this shop. I go about once a month with a good friend of mine to thrift. We befriended a sales clerk, who is so amazing and helpful and just an all around great human (Hi Paris!). The staff, the prices, and how many good clothes I find here all is what makes this place amazing—on top of what they do for the Portland community. Highly recommend!” – Anna Nelson
“Very cute resale shop for a great cause. Impeccably organized, tons of shoes, jeans and everything else.” – Gabriela D.
Supporting this local treasure means you’re also supporting a great cause, making your finds even more rewarding!
So,
what are you waiting for? Grab your friends and head out to explore these fantastic thrift stores in Portland!
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Why Thrift Shopping is the Sustainable Choice
In the era of fast fashion, thrift shopping is more than just finding great deals.
It’s a smart way to live sustainably.
Here is why:
- Reduces Waste
Buying secondhand items keeps clothes, furniture, and household goods out of landfills. This helps reduce the amount of waste we generate. - Minimizes Resource Use
When you buy used, you’re not contributing to the production of new items. This means less energy, water, and raw materials are needed. - Supports a Circular Economy
Thrift shopping extends the life of products. Instead of throwing things away, we give them a second life, which helps reduce the demand for new products. - Cuts Carbon Emissions
Producing new items, especially clothes, generates a lot of carbon emissions. Thrifting reduces the need for new manufacturing, helping lower your carbon footprint. - Promotes Mindful Consumption
Thrift shopping encourages us to buy only what we need. It teaches us to be thoughtful about our purchases and avoid overconsumption.
By choosing thrift shopping, you’re making a positive impact on the planet. Every small step counts toward a more sustainable future!
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Tips for Thrift Shopping Success in Portland
To have a successful thrift shopping experience in Portland, consider these practical tips:
- Wear Comfortable Clothing
Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be moving around a lot, so it’s important to stay comfortable. - Bring a Tote Bag
A reusable tote bag makes carrying your finds easier. It’s also eco-friendly and reduces the need for plastic bags.
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- Set a Budget
Thrifting can be tempting. Set a budget to avoid overspending. This helps you stay focused on what you really want. - Check the Fitting Rooms
Always try on clothes when possible. Sizes can vary widely between brands, and trying items on helps ensure a good fit. - Be Patient and Persistent
Thrifting takes time. Don’t rush through the store. Browse slowly, and you may discover hidden gems. - Ask Staff for Recommendations
Store employees often know the best items in stock. Don’t hesitate to ask for their suggestions or tips on new arrivals. - Visit Regularly
Thrift stores frequently update their inventory. Make it a habit to visit regularly to catch new items before they’re gone.
Conclusion
Portland’s thrift stores offer incredible opportunities to find unique treasures while promoting sustainable fashion. By exploring these top 7 best thrift stores Portland, you can discover stylish, budget-friendly items that tell a story. Each purchase supports local businesses and contributes to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
I encourage you to embrace thrift shopping and help spread the word. Together, we can make a positive impact by choosing secondhand over fast fashion.
So, grab your reusable bag and head out to explore Portland’s vibrant thrift scene. Happy thrifting!