Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Portage offers renters a distinctive blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty. Known as "The Port City," Portage serves as an important industrial hub with its Port of Indiana while maintaining pristine lakefront areas where residents can enjoy views of the Chicago skyline across the water. The city's 26 square miles encompass the Indiana Dunes National Park, established neighborhoods, waterfront properties, and newer residential developments.

Renters in Portage find a range of housing options, from townhomes and single-family rentals to apartment communities. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,108, which is considerably more affordable than nearby Chicago. Neighborhoods like Crisman and South Haven each have their own character, with some areas offering more secluded, wooded settings while others provide convenient access to shopping centers and restaurants along major roads like U.S. Route 6 and U.S. Route 20.

Transportation is a major advantage for Portage residents, with Interstate 94 and the Indiana Toll Road (I-80/90) providing quick connections to Chicago and South Bend. The South Shore Line train at the Portage/Ogden Dunes Station offers a direct route to downtown Chicago without the hassle of driving. Major employers include the steel industry and port-related businesses, though many residents also commute to Chicago or other nearby cities for work. With a median household income of $67,500 and a population of nearly 40,000, Portage combines economic opportunity with a comfortable, accessible lifestyle.