What city has a better alternative music scene, Portland, OR or Austin, TX?

Considering moving to one of those cities.

They're both pretty lively and active, and they're pretty comparable on a lot of levels. Austin's probably a little better for country/bluegrass/alt-country/rockabilly... though, if that's your thing. Austin's weather is a lot more conducive to outdoor shows and it doesn't get cold the minute the sun goes down like in the NW. Also, there's sxsw in March.
I don't really know too much about Portland, sorry.

Never been to Austin, but Portland is pretty hot for alt right now. Plus it's nicer, more rain - but I'm prejudiced, I live in OR. :-)

they're both amazing. i love summer zoo shows in portland but nothing beats austin city limits in september. i kinda think it just depends on the style you're looking for. i love them both

austin

I don't know about Portland, but there's a reason why SXSW is in Austin. There are small live music venues throughout the city all year long. You get very spoiled here because many major bands play in tiny places. And there are many small bands that have great local fan bases. It's best for rock, country, folk and blues. Jazz is weaker than a few other cities (e.g., NOLA).

here in portland we've got the decemberists and beth ditto. also there are a lot of house shows, the rainbow house, the green house...