EMF Exposure in Portland, OR

779
Towers Total
182
5G Active
5.8/mi²
per sq mi
86
Very High

Portland ranks #1 of 1 Oregon cities for EMF exposure. Lower score = less exposure.

With 779 cell towers packed into its urban landscape at a density of 5.8 towers per square mile, Portland registers an EMF score of 86 out of 100, indicating very high electromagnetic field exposure levels throughout the city. As Oregon's largest metropolitan area, Portland naturally leads the state in wireless infrastructure density, with 182 of its towers equipped with 5G technology. EMF exposure varies significantly across Portland's neighborhoods, with scores ranging from a low of 17 in some areas to the maximum reading of 100 in the most tower-dense locations.

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Tower Map

Showing 779 towers within 5 miles of Portland city center.

Portland's EMF exposure score of 86 is notably high, ranking significantly above the national median of 45 and representing the only tracked city in Oregon. This very high exposure level likely reflects Portland's dense urban infrastructure, extensive wireless networks, and concentration of electronic devices typical of major metropolitan areas. For those seeking lower EMF environments in Oregon, smaller towns and rural areas throughout the state would likely offer substantially reduced exposure levels, though specific data for these locations isn't currently tracked.

EMF Exposure & Health

EMF exposure remains an active area of scientific research. While regulatory bodies maintain that current exposure limits are safe, independent research has raised questions that lead many to take precautionary steps.

What research shows
Sleep Quality: Multiple studies have found measurable effects on sleep quality and brain activity during sleep from RF-EMF exposure, though effect sizes vary across studies.
Children: Some researchers recommend lower exposure limits for children, citing developing nervous systems and longer lifetime exposure as factors warranting extra caution.
Precautionary Principle: Many health-conscious individuals choose to minimize EMF exposure based on the precautionary principle: when science is uncertain but potential consequences are significant, reducing exposure is a reasonable choice.

We provide data, not medical advice. Consult healthcare professionals for personal health decisions.

What You Can Do

Check Your Specific Address

City averages only tell part of the story. Your building's exposure depends on exact tower proximity, building materials, and which direction you face.

Enter Your Address

If You're House Hunting

Before buying or renting in Portland, check the EMF score of specific addresses you're considering. Compare neighborhoods to find lower-exposure areas.

  • Search each property address on our map
  • Note which direction bedrooms face relative to towers
  • Consider upper vs lower floors (height affects exposure)

Quick Wins (Free)

Simple changes you can make today to reduce your daily EMF exposure without spending money.

  • Move WiFi router out of bedrooms and living areas
  • Use airplane mode on phone while sleeping
  • Use speakerphone or wired earbuds for calls
  • Turn off WiFi at night (use a timer outlet)
  • Keep phone out of pockets when possible

For Portland specifically:

• Choose residential areas in outer Portland neighborhoods like Powell Butte or Mt. Tabor where the high variation in EMF exposure means significantly lower levels than downtown's dense 5.8 towers per square mile. • Install EMF shielding materials in your home's walls or windows facing toward the city center, as Portland's 182 5G towers create particularly high exposure that varies dramatically by specific location within the city.

Bigger Investments

For those wanting more comprehensive protection, especially in high-exposure areas.

  • EMF shielding film for windows facing towers
  • Shielding paint for walls on tower-facing sides
  • Shielded bed canopy for sleeping area
  • Professional EMF assessment of your home
  • Wired ethernet instead of WiFi
EMF scores across Portland range from 17 to 100. The city score of 86 represents the average across sampled locations.

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