Portland is a vibrant city celebrated for its eclectic neighborhoods, lush green spaces, and thriving cultural scene. When looking at Portland neighborhoods, it can be helpful to divide the city into four different quadrants, divided by the Willamette River and Burnside Street: Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, and Southeast. Our guide, highlighting our favorite 7 Portland neighborhoods for renters, showcases areas that combine accessibility, amenities, and unique local charm, offering something special for everyone looking to call Portland home.
The top 7 Portland neighborhoods
- Northwest District
- Hawthorne
- Boise
- Laurelhurst
- Kerns
- Buckman
- Richmond
Selection criteria
To determine the best neighborhoods in Portland, we looked at median rent prices on Zumper as of September 2024, points of interest, and overall atmosphere. Here are the seven neighborhoods in Portland we love and why.
1. Northwest District
Best for foodies and those looking for historical charm
- Median rent:
- Driving distance to downtown: 5.4 miles
- Commute time to downtown via public transit: 101 minutes
- Culture: A mix of urban sophistication and historical character
- Top Things to Do: Shop at Powell’s City of Books, explore Tanner Springs Park, and dine at Andina or Deschutes Brewery
The vibrant Northwest District, located north of Downtown Portland and bordering the Pearl District, is home to old Portland-style Victorian houses and sleek new-build condos, and an abundance of bars and restaurants. It’s also considered one of Portland’s most walkable areas, so residents and visitors can easily access its many dining and entertainment destinations. Neighboring neighborhoods include Downtown Portland, Old Town Chinatown, and The Pearl District, so residents can access both the bustling urban center of Portland and historical character. And, with Portland known for lush outdoors, you also have easy access to Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States, via the St. Johns Bridge.
Because of its walkability, proximity to cultural institutions, and lively atmosphere, this area is perfect for food lovers and and history buffs.
2. Hawthorne
Perfect for vintage enthusiasts
- Median rent:
- Driving distance to downtown: 2.9 miles
- Commute time to downtown via public transit: 20 minutes
- Culture: A mix of eclectic shops, dining, and entertainment
- Top Things to Do: Catch a movie at McMenamins Bagdad Theater, shop at vintage stores like House of Vintage, and dine at Por Que No or Apizza Scholls
The Hawthorne District is a collection of blocks along Hawthorne Avenue, straddling multiple neighborhoods, including Buckman and Richmond. Living along this avenue allows anyone who loves a unique shopping experience to live their vintage and boutique shopping life to the fullest. Among the charming boutiques and unique stores—including local favorites like Red Light Clothing Exchange—that scatter the area, this is also a paradise for residents who want diverse dining options and a strong sense of community. With its walkability, access to green spaces like Mount Tabor, and community events like the Hawthorne Street Fair, the Hawthorne District is perfect for anyone who loves staying and shopping locally.
3. Boise
Best for those seeking a diverse and engaging community
- Median rent: $1,779
- Driving distance to downtown: 3.4 miles
- Commute time to downtown via public transit: 28 minutes
- Culture: A diverse and lively community with a rich history
- Top Things to Do: Explore Mississippi Avenue, visit Prost Marketplace food cart pod, and enjoy live music at Mississippi Studios
The Boise neighborhood is a gem that offers a unique blend of cultural diversity, community spirit, and urban amenities. The area’s rich history is evident in its architecture and community initiatives like the Boise Voices Oral History Project. Mississippi Avenue, the neighborhood’s main corridor, is a hub for independent shops, cafes, and music venues, showcasing the area’s unique character. With its convenient location near the MAX light rail, access to green spaces like Denorval Unthank Park, and strong sense of community, Boise is an excellent choice for those seeking a diverse and engaging urban living experience.
4. Laurelhurst
Best for families and architecture lovers
- Median rent: $1,295
- Driving distance to downtown: 4.8 miles
- Commute time to downtown via public transit: 36 minutes
- Culture: Historical and welcoming with a strong sense of community
- Top things to do: Visit Laurelhurst Park, catch a movie at Laurelhurst Theater, and dine at Laurelhurst Market
Laurelhurst is a sought-after neighborhood known for its historic homes, showcasing a mix of architectural styles from the turn of the century. The iconic Laurelhurst Theater, built in 1923, adds to the area’s cultural richness with its art deco design and eclectic vibe. Residents enjoy the beautiful Laurelhurst Park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which features amenities like a pond, sports courts, and walking paths. The neighborhood’s walkability, bikeability, and friendly community feel make it an ideal choice for families and professionals looking for a balance of history and modern living.
5. Kerns
Best for nightlife and vibrant energy
- Median rent: $1,467
- Driving distance to downtown: 2.8 miles
- Commute time to downtown via public transit: 23 minutes
- Culture: Urban and diverse with a thriving dining and nightlife scene
- Top things to do: Explore the dining options along 28th Avenue, catch a show at the Oregon Children’s Theatre, and visit the repurposed Pepsi Blocks
Kerns is full of urbanity and cultural richness, making it an attractive choice for anyone who seeks out vibrant energy where they live. The neighborhood has a mix of housing options, from newer builds to a few historic homes, making this a great spot for renters open to a variety of housing options. Its dining scene, particularly along 28th Avenue, is flourishing with popular restaurants. Kerns is also home to landmarks like the historic Laurelhurst Theater and the repurposed Pepsi Blocks. With its dining and nightlife scene and easy access to downtown Portland via public transportation, Kerns is an excellent choice for those seeking an urban lifestyle full of activity.
6. Buckman
Best neighborhood for hipsters
- Median rent: $1,467
- Driving distance to downtown: 2 miles
- Commute time to downtown via public transit: 17 minutes
- Culture: Urban and diverse with a thriving dining and nightlife scene
The Buckman neighborhood is a hipster’s paradise along the Willamette River, with stunning views of Downtown Portland. This Portland neighborhood is home to coffee shops, eateries, and multiple breweries and is a popular destination for entertainment and relaxed but youthful culture. Consider grabbing your caffeine fix at Rimsky-Korsakoffee House, one of the city’s oldest coffee houses. Inside an old Victorian home, Rimsky’s serves homemade desserts and a ghostly atmosphere. Tables named after deceased classical composers and live classical music set the mood.
Looking for the best eats? Hawthorne Asylum, an extensive outdoor food court, showcases various food trucks with options to satisfy every palate and desire. Grab a bite and a beverage with friends as you sit around the fire pit and converse with other Portland locals. Beer enthusiasts will have endless options to frequent Buckman, including Hair of the Dog Brewing Company and Cascade Brewing Barrel House. Enjoy the Portland outdoors at Audrey McCall Beach and Eastbank Esplanade, where you can enjoy public art, riverfront views, and scenic bike paths.
7. Richmond
Best neighborhood for style icons
- Median rent: $1,773
- Driving distance to downtown: 4.7 miles
- Commute time to downtown via public transit: 31 minutes
- Culture: Urban and diverse with a thriving dining and nightlife scene
Set in southeast Portland, the Richmond neighborhood is a trendy area known for unique boutique shops and diverse dining options. It’s also home to the SE Division, one of Portland’s thriving districts for small businesses. Along SE Division Street, you’ll find great shopping and top eateries, including the Bollywood Theater, where you can enjoy Indian street food while you watch old Bollywood films.
The Hawthorne District, where locals enjoy art galleries, cafes, and bookstores, is a key drawcard of the Richmond neighborhood. Head to the Hawthorne Famer’s Market in the summer to enjoy live music, local food, and street vendors. Another popular destination is McMenamins Bagdad Theatre & Pub, a historic staple for cinema and cuisine dating back to 1927. Hawthorne is also the home to the best vintage shopping in Portland. Must-shop vintage collectives include Artifact, Village Merchants, and the House of Vintage, where you’ll find over 60 retailers of vintage clothing, shoes, accessories, home goods, and art.
8. Creston – Kenilworth
Best for dog owners
- Median rent: $1,679
- Driving distance to downtown: 4.4 miles
- Commute time to downtown via public transit: 36 minutes
- Culture: Urban and diverse with a thriving dining and nightlife scene
he Creston-Kenilworth neighborhood is one of the oldest areas of Portland. While a primarily residential neighborhood with a more laid-back vibe, Creston-Kenilworth doesn’t fall short of options for residents to eat, drink, and have fun. Dog-friendly spaces like Creston Park and Kenilworth Park make this neighborhood ideal for dog owners.
The main street of this neighborhood is SE Gladstone, where residents can frequent many local establishments. Beer drinkers will find an oasis in C-Bar Portland with 20 rotating taps. You can bring your dog or your kids until 10 p.m. Gladstone Street Pub welcomes dogs and their humans to their back patio area. Enjoy a drink around the firepit with live music on selected nights. After drinks, venture down SE Gladstone Street to Saint Pizza Lounge & Gladstone St. Pizza, a friendly pizzeria that permits dogs on its patio.
9. Sellwood-Moreland
Best for families
- Median rent: $2,018
- Driving distance to downtown: 5 miles
- Commute time to downtown via public transit: 25 minutes
- Culture: Urban and diverse with a thriving dining and nightlife scene
Portland’s urban feel and unashamed weirdness appeal to many new residents, but it’s not all the city offers. For a more suburban neighborhood ideal for raising a family, consider Sellwood-Moreland. This friendly community moves slower, and that’s exactly how the residents like it. Most residents own their own homes, but you can find limited rentals at affordable prices. The local schools are also excellent, so you can feel confident your kids can reach their academic potential here.
Sellwood-Moreland is a 12-minute drive from Downtown Portland, but there’s plenty within the community to keep you all entertained. The kids will love Oaks Amusement Park, which has provided family fun since 1905, and Moreland Theater, a historic cinema showing the latest films since 1926. The whole family will also love looking for animals as you explore the trails of Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. When you’re eating out, the classic menus at Bertie Lou’s Café, San Felipe Taqueria, and Saburo’s Sushi House should satisfy even the fussiest eaters.
Frequently asked questions about living in Portland
Is Portland a good place to live?
Portland, Oregon, is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful natural surroundings, and progressive mindset. It offers a unique blend of outdoor recreational opportunities, diverse dining options, and a thriving arts scene.
The city’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives is also a big draw, particularly for the climate-conscious and climate advocates. Portland’s public transportation system, including light rail and buses, makes getting around without a car easy. And, the city’s proximity to stunning landscapes, such as Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge, makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
However, it’s not perfect for everyone: The Pacific Northwest weather, characterized by rainy winters, may be a drawback. Another downside is the cost of living—prices in Portland are not cheap, especially housing prices, which have been increasing in recent years.
Overall, Portland’s unique charm, progressive values, and abundant recreational opportunities make it an attractive option for many. Still, it’s essential to carefully assess personal needs and goals before deciding to move to the city.
What’s the most affordable area to live in Portland?
Affordability can vary depending on individual circumstances and desired features. As of September 2024, the most affordable neighborhoods in Portland include Hazelwood, with an average monthly rent of $1,123; Woodstock, at $1,24 monthly; and Lloyd District, with an average rent of $1,1331.
Which Portland neighborhood is famous for its food scene?
Both the Alberta Arts District and the Hawthorne District are well-known for their fantastic food scenes. These neighborhoods offer a plethora of cuisines and dining styles, from casual to upscale and everything in between.
Is public transportation easy to access in Portland neighborhoods?
Yes, most of the neighborhoods mentioned here have good access to public transportation. For instance, the Boise neighborhood is close to the MAX light rail, and the Kerns neighborhood has convenient public transit routes to downtown Portland.
Which Portland neighborhood is most family-friendly?
Sellwood is often seen as one of the most family-friendly neighborhoods in Portland. With its welcoming vibe, attractions like Oaks Amusement Park, and plenty of parks and outdoor spaces, Sellwood offers a lot for families with kids of all ages.
Are there neighborhoods in Portland that are great for outdoor enthusiasts?
Laurelhurst is a fantastic choice for outdoor lovers, thanks to Laurelhurst Park, which has a pond, sports courts, and walking paths. The Sellwood neighborhood is another excellent option, offering access to the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge and the Springwater on the Willamette trail, which are perfect for outdoor activities.
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