PSU differs from the other universities in Oregon partially because it attracts a student body older than other universities. A significant percentage of PSU's classes are offered at night. Indeed, some programs only offer classes at night, notably the School of Business . PSU also delayed the development of its campus for decades after its founding. The institution sold land in a neighboring block soon after its move to downtown Portland, and delayed the construction of student housing until the early 1970s.

While the mean age of students is near the upper twenties, ambitious mixed-use building projects (commercial, educational, residential) in Portland, Oregon are purposed to attract younger students. These establishments preserve downtown shops and businesses while transforming Portland State University from a "commuter campus" to a mix between a commuter and a traditional campus. Current projects include the Steven Epler Hall and The Broadway.

Portland State University is served on Fifth and Sixth Avenues by TriMet bus lines, by the Portland Streetcar at three stops throughout campus, and by OHSU and Portland Community College Shuttles on SW Harrison Street at SW Broadway.