Posted on by Bradley Boland

Portland Neighborhood Guide

Portland, Oregon is a city defined by its neighborhoods—each with distinct energy, architecture, and livability. Officially divided into six Portland districts—North, Northeast, Northwest, South, Southeast, and Southwest—the city offers a wide variety of residential experiences that appeal to newcomers of all kinds. Whether someone is looking for quiet tree-lined streets, bustling retail corridors, or walkable neighborhoods with coffee shops and parks on every corner, Portland neighborhoods offer a full spectrum of places to live. This Portland neighborhood guide explores where to live based on lifestyle, housing types, and proximity to amenities.

North Portland: Historic Roots and Community Pride

North Portland, often affectionately called “NoPo,” extends from the tip of the St. Johns peninsula to the neighborhoods bordering the Columbia River and the industrial waterfront. This district blends older working-class neighborhoods with a growing number of young professionals, artists, and families. “North Portland remains a more affordable option for now but it’s slowly creeping into the realm of trendy as the younger crowd lands there seeking cheaper rent,” PortlandReloGuide.com says. Access to downtown via the MAX Yellow Line and I-5 makes it an appealing option for commuters who still want a quieter, more residential atmosphere. Community parks, walkable streets, and hyper-local businesses define the character of this district.

St. Johns

St. Johns has the look and feel of a small town, thanks to its self-contained downtown, vintage storefronts, and tight-knit residential blocks. The neighborhood is framed by the dramatic St. Johns Bridge and bordered by green spaces like Cathedral Park and Pier Park.

Neighborhood Highlights:

  • Self-contained downtown with vintage storefronts
  • Surrounded by green spaces like Cathedral Park and Pier Park
  • Mix of Craftsman, mid-century, and modern housing
  • Home to the University of Portland
  • Civic events such as farmers markets and parades

With a mix of early 20th-century craftsman homes, mid-century ranches, and a growing number of townhomes, the housing stock supports both first-time buyers and long-term residents. The local Saturday farmers market, annual parades, and neighborhood clean-up events highlight the civic pride that defines this area. Proximity to the University of Portland also brings a steady student presence and boosts rental demand.

Kenton

Once home to Portland’s livestock industry, Kenton has evolved into a community-focused neighborhood with a strong sense of identity. The Paul Bunyan statue on Denver Avenue is a local landmark that anchors a walkable business district filled with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. The Kenton Library and Peninsula Park provide family-friendly amenities, while new apartment developments coexist alongside classic 1920s bungalows and brick Tudors. With easy access to downtown and a relatively low median home price compared to inner eastside neighborhoods, Kenton continues to attract young professionals and families alike.

 

Northeast Portland: Culture, Diversity, and Tree-Lined Streets

Northeast Portland, also part of East Portland in broader city planning terms, includes some of the best neighborhoods in Portland for families, artists, and entrepreneurs. “…you’ll find some of Portland’s loveliest homes here, with historic Tudors and Craftsman houses dotting the tree-lined streets,” says Corcoran.com. Its strong community culture, bike-friendly streets, and vibrant business districts appeal to people moving to Portland from both in-state and across the country.

Alberta Arts District

Alberta Arts is one of Portland’s most vibrant and expressive neighborhoods. Known for its public art, colorful murals, and bohemian spirit, the district’s commercial heart runs along NE Alberta Street.

What You’ll Find Along Alberta Street:

  • Art galleries and vibrant public murals
  • Food carts and diverse eateries
  • Monthly “Last Thursday” street festival
  • Boutique shops and local cafes
  • A mix of classic homes and modern infill housing

Boutiques, food carts, galleries, and cafes line the blocks between 10th and 30th Avenues, with community events like Last Thursday bringing live music, street performances, and pop-up shops to the area every month. Residents enjoy a mix of old Portland homes and modern infill projects. The neighborhood continues to evolve, drawing interest from remote workers, creatives, and families who want walkable access to cultural experiences.

Hollywood District

Centered around the historic Hollywood Theatre, this neighborhood combines classic Portland charm with urban convenience. NE Sandy Boulevard cuts through the district, connecting it to I-84 and other eastside corridors. Grocery stores, gyms, and independent businesses offer everyday amenities without needing to travel far. While Hollywood lacks the edginess of Alberta, it offers a slightly quieter, family-oriented experience with excellent access to public transit and bike infrastructure. Housing includes older homes with large yards, small apartment complexes, and some newly built condominiums.

Beaumont-Wilshire

With quiet residential streets, strong public schools, and proximity to the NE Fremont corridor, Beaumont-Wilshire is a magnet for families and long-term homeowners. The area offers a blend of early 20th-century architecture, manicured yards, and a slower pace of life. Beaumont Village—a stretch of NE Fremont Street—is the neighborhood’s commercial core, featuring local cafes, bakeries, and boutique retailers. Many homes in this area are owner-occupied, giving the neighborhood a well-established feel.

 

Northwest Portland: Urban Living with a Historic Backdrop

Northwest Portland is one of the city’s most walkable and densely populated districts. “Living in Northwest Portland puts you right in the heart of some truly awesome bars, restaurants, and shops,” Living-InPortlandOregon.com states. With easy access to downtown, Forest Park, and the Pearl District, this area caters to those who want an urban lifestyle without sacrificing proximity to nature. Streetcars, frequent bus lines, and bike lanes make it easy to navigate. Historic apartment buildings sit alongside luxury condos and townhomes, while older homes fill the more residential Alphabet District.

Nob Hill / Alphabet District

Nob Hill, also called the Alphabet District, is famous for its historic buildings, tree-canopied streets, and the bustling shopping corridors of NW 21st and NW 23rd Avenues. The neighborhood is lined with Victorian-era homes, 1920s apartment buildings, and sleek modern condos. Boutique retailers, high-end restaurants, and sidewalk cafes contribute to a distinctly European-style urban experience. Public transportation via the Portland Streetcar and TriMet buses provides seamless access to downtown and other parts of the city. Residents often choose this area for its cosmopolitan vibe paired with strong historic preservation.

Slabtown

Just north of the Alphabet District, Slabtown has emerged as one of Portland’s most rapidly transforming neighborhoods. Once an industrial zone filled with timber warehouses (hence the name), it’s now a hotspot for mixed-use development. New mid-rise apartment buildings, modern office space, and trendy eateries have turned this area into a tech and design hub. Slabtown is popular among young professionals and renters who want to be close to downtown without living directly in the Pearl.

Pearl District

Converted from former warehouses and rail yards, the Pearl District exemplifies Portland’s urban renaissance.

Pearl District Features:

  • High-rise condos and loft-style apartments
  • Art galleries and performance venues
  • Trendy restaurants, bars, and Powell’s City of Books
  • Compact urban parks like Jamison Square and Tanner Springs
  • Designed for walkability and a car-free lifestyle

High-rise condos, loft-style apartments, and office spaces now fill the area, anchored by art galleries, wine bars, and Powell’s City of Books—the world’s largest independent bookstore. The Pearl appeals to professionals, empty nesters, and those seeking a car-free lifestyle. Jamison Square and Tanner Springs Park offer small but thoughtfully designed public spaces that add greenery to an otherwise built-up district.

 

South Portland: Waterfront Access and Mixed-Use Growth

South Portland is the city’s newest district, established in 2020, and includes neighborhoods previously grouped under Southwest Portland. The district stretches along the west bank of the Willamette River and contains residential pockets, college campuses, and growing development. “This laid-back river community is a perfect 10 if water recreation, low-key urban green spaces and hubs to grub and shop are your things,” says TravelPortland.com.

South Waterfront

South Waterfront has undergone dramatic redevelopment over the last two decades, transforming into a sleek neighborhood of high-rise condominiums, research centers, and medical offices. The Portland Aerial Tram connects the district to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) atop Marquam Hill. Greenways, parks, and bike paths line the waterfront, making it one of the city’s most modern and accessible neighborhoods. Most of the housing here is vertical—condos and apartment towers—attracting healthcare professionals and downsizers.

Corbett-Terwilliger-Lair Hill (CTLH)

One of Portland’s oldest neighborhoods, CTLH preserves many historic homes while benefiting from its proximity to downtown, OHSU, and the Ross Island Bridge. Victorian and early 20th-century homes dot the hills, with views of the river and Mount Hood in the distance. Despite being close to downtown, the neighborhood maintains a surprisingly quiet, residential tone with leafy streets and a mix of renters and longtime homeowners.

 

Southeast Portland: Local Flavor and Eclectic Enclaves

Southeast Portland, part of what many refer to as East Portland, is known for its independent spirit, eclectic housing mix, and bustling commercial corridors like Hawthorne, Belmont, and Division. “Southeast Portland is home to tree-lined streets, critically acclaimed restaurants, vintage theaters, quirky bars, small boutique shops, and a few of the city’s most noteworthy parks,” ThePortlandLife.com states. These streets define some of the most walkable neighborhoods in Portland, where food carts, vintage shops, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure intersect.

Hawthorne District

Stretching from SE 30th to 50th Avenue, the Hawthorne District centers around vintage shops, brewpubs, and indie theaters. The residential streets just south of Hawthorne Boulevard include Craftsman homes, small apartment buildings, and duplexes. The area has long been associated with Portland’s counterculture, but rising prices have made it attractive to a broader demographic.

Reasons to Love the Hawthorne District:

  • Iconic vintage shops and independent theaters
  • Dense network of cafes, pubs, and eateries
  • Craftsman-style homes and duplexes on residential streets
  • Easy public transit and pedestrian-friendly design
  • Strong creative and cultural presence

Hawthorne’s appeal lies in its walkability, transit access, and dense array of local businesses. Many consider Hawthorne one of the best neighborhoods in Portland for those seeking creativity, culture, and a strong sense of place.

Division-Clinton

Division and Clinton Streets run parallel in the Richmond neighborhood and have become one of Portland’s most desirable residential and commercial areas. High-end restaurants like Ava Gene’s and casual hangouts like the Division Street food cart pod coexist, giving the neighborhood both polish and comfort. Residential options include single-family homes, townhouses, and new apartment buildings. Wide sidewalks, protected bike lanes, and frequent transit make the area easy to navigate without a car.

Mount Tabor

Built around a dormant volcanic cinder cone, Mount Tabor offers a rare combination of elevation, views, and parkland. Mount Tabor Park includes miles of wooded trails, open lawns, and a public reservoir system. The surrounding neighborhood features a mix of vintage homes and newer construction, with quiet, curving streets that feel distinctly separate from the grid layout of other Southeast neighborhoods.

 

Southwest Portland: Hills, Parks, and Suburban Access

Southwest Portland contains some of the city’s greenest and most residential neighborhoods. Winding roads, larger lots, and hilltop homes define the area, which is less dense than the east side but full of hidden gems. “Southwest Portland showcases two different facets of Portland’s personality within one district, as it comprises both busy Downtown Portland and a large area of quiet residential neighborhoods,” Corcoran.com explains. Access to downtown via I-5 and Highway 26 keeps it well connected.

Multnomah Village

Known for its “main street” charm, Multnomah Village offers a small-town feel within city limits. Local bookstores, bakeries, and galleries line SW Capitol Highway. The neighborhood is popular with families seeking a quieter lifestyle but still within reach of downtown. The housing stock includes Cape Cods, ranch-style homes, and new construction tucked into the forested hills.

Hillsdale

Located between Multnomah Village and Portland Heights, Hillsdale centers around a commercial node that includes a farmers market, library, and several schools. The community’s hilly terrain and established residential areas make it feel suburban, but it’s only minutes from downtown. SW Terwilliger Boulevard offers a scenic drive and access to nature trails that wind through the area.

Portland Heights

One of the city’s most affluent residential enclaves, Portland Heights features grand homes, panoramic views, and top-rated schools. Located just above downtown and Washington Park, the neighborhood includes historic mansions, large modern homes, and few rentals.

What Sets Portland Heights Apart:

  • Large, private homes with sweeping city views
  • Tree-lined streets and lush landscaping
  • Top-rated public and private schools
  • Quick access to downtown and Washington Park
  • Strong sense of exclusivity and prestige

Its elevation, tree-lined streets, and exclusivity make it a premier destination for homebuyers seeking privacy and prestige.

 

Final Thoughts

Each of the Portland districts brings its own flavor to the city’s residential landscape. Whether exploring the creative pockets of Northeast Portland, the charming streets of North Portland, or the upscale urban core of Northwest, there’s a neighborhood that fits nearly every lifestyle. For those wondering where to live in Portland, Oregon, the decision often comes down to walkability, access to green space, community vibe, and home type. From the best neighborhoods in Portland for families to cool, up-and-coming enclaves for professionals, the options reflect the city’s dynamic and evolving spirit.

Whether the goal is walkability, quiet green space, access to nightlife, or proximity to schools and transit, Portland’s neighborhoods provide a wide spectrum of options for movers ready to call the city home.