Welcome to our homebuyer guide to the best neighborhoods in Portland, Oregon. This quirky Pacific Northwest city is known for its incredible food culture, abundance of breweries and pubs, and scenic location surrounded by lush forests, rivers, and mountains. This guide covers some of the city’s best neighborhoods and suburbs, where you can immerse yourself in the Portland lifestyle and find a home just right for you.

Summary:

• Best Neighborhoods in Portland, OR

• Best Suburbs in Portland, OR

• Which Portland Neighborhood Is Right for You?

• Best Neighborhoods in Portland to Buy a House

• Portland Neighborhoods Conclusion

Best Neighborhoods in Portland, OR

A good neighborhood has an inviting atmosphere where you feel welcome and connected. It offers convenient access to the activities and amenities that matter most to you, such as quality schools, parks, local events, and even employers. Here are the best neighborhoods in Portland, Oregon, that check all those boxes.

Somerset West/North Bethany

Somerset West/North Bethany is a neighborhood in Washington County, northwest of Portland, Oregon. It features newer residential developments with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. The area offers access to parks like Somerset Meadows Park and Springville Meadows Park for recreational activities. Convenient transportation options via highways and public transit allow easy access to nearby shopping centers and downtown Portland. 

Pros

• Newer residential developments with modern housing options

• Access to parks for outdoor activities

• Quality schools within the Beaverton School District

• Convenient access to downtown Portland

• Ongoing growth and development 

Cons

• Possibly less sense of community in some areas due to the newer developments

• Potentially higher housing prices than older, established neighborhoods

• Traffic congestion during peak commuting hours, especially on major roadways

• Limited dining and entertainment options than more urban neighborhoods

• Potential for some noise and disruption due to ongoing construction and development

Goose Hollow

Goose Hollow is a historic neighborhood located southwest of downtown Portland, Oregon. It’s known for its charming tree-lined streets, historic homes, and diverse architecture. The neighborhood offers multiple housing options, including single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums. Residents enjoy access to attractions like the Portland Art Museum and Providence Park, home of the Portland Timbers soccer team, which hosts concerts and other events. Goose Hollow is also served by public transportation, including TriMet’s MAX light rail and bus lines, providing convenient access to downtown and other parts of the city.

Pros

• Diverse dining options, with restaurants and cafes offering various cuisines

• Rich history and cultural significance, with opportunities to explore the city’s past

• Access to multiple public transportation options 

• Proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities, including nearby parks and trails for hiking and biking

• Active community engagement, with neighborhood events and initiatives fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among residents

Cons

• Limited parking availability, especially during events at Providence Park

• Higher housing prices compared to some other neighborhoods 

• Potential noise from nearby highways and stadium events 

• Limited green spaces and parks within the immediate neighborhood

• Traffic congestion during peak commuting hours, particularly on major thoroughfares

Nob Hill/Northwest District

Nob Hill, part of the Northwest District in Portland, is characterized by its historic Victorian and Craftsman-style homes, streets adorned with lush foliage, and a hot commercial district. The area offers a mix of residential options, including apartments, condominiums, and single-family homes. Residents enjoy easy access to numerous amenities, including boutique shops, quaint cafes, restaurants, and 70 miles of trails at Forest Park.  

Pros

• An abundance of boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants 

• Historic Victorian and Craftsman-style homes offering charm and character

• Pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and street life for exploring the city

• Proximity to Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States and ideal for outdoorsy folks

• Access to galleries, theaters, and cool venues like McMenamins Mission Theater & Pub

Cons

• Limited parking availability

• Younger demographic, which may not suit everyone

• Potential noise disruption from nightlife 

• Limited green space in the immediate neighborhood, with most parks on the outskirts

• Increased traffic congestion during rush hour and on weekends

Sellwood-Moreland 

Sellwood-Moreland is a charming neighborhood in southeast Portland that sits along the Willamette River. It’s known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and scenic riverfront parks. Residents get a little of everything thanks to a commercial district with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, plus proximity to Sellwood Riverfront Park and Oaks Amusement Park. 

Pros

• Unique history and personality, with a vintage amusement park and antique shops

• Scenic riverfront parks and recreational activities

• Amazing dining options, including local eateries, cafes, and food carts

• Close to Eastmoreland Golf Course for an afternoon on the fairway

• An outdoor paradise with spots like Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, Springwater Corridor, and Westmoreland Park

Cons

• Limited public transportation options than other neighborhoods

• Not as commuter-friendly as some neighborhoods on the outskirts of Portland

• Potential noise from nearby industrial areas

• Possibly less appealing to those who prefer more modern construction and amenities

• Traffic congestion during peak commuting hours

Hawthorne 

Located in southeast Portland, Hawthorne is known for local bookstores, vintage shops, and restaurant-lined streets. The neighborhood offers several residential options, including single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums. Hawthorne is rich with attractions like the vintage Cinemagic Theater. Transportation options include bus lines and bike lanes, offering convenient access to downtown Portland and other parts of the city.

Pros

• Eclectic atmosphere, with diverse shops, cafes, and restaurants along Hawthorne Boulevard

• Quirky and artistic community with colorful murals and a bohemian vibe

• Access to plenty of attractions like the Bagdad Theater & Pub

• Proximity to parks like Laurelhurst Park

• Active neighborhood association and community

Cons

• Limited parking availability

• Potential noise from commercial districts and busy streets

• Traffic congestion during peak commuting hours, especially on Hawthorne Boulevard and nearby streets

• Not as commuter-friendly as other suburbs or neighborhoods further from downtown

• Potentially less appealing to those who prefer a more contemporary area

Pearl District 

The Pearl District is a dynamic neighborhood located in downtown Portland, Oregon. It’s known for its industrial past, converted warehouse lofts, and modern condominiums. The neighborhood offers a mix of residential and commercial spaces, including trendy restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. Residents enjoy access to amenities like parks, including Jamison Square and Tanner Springs Park, and Portlandian institutions like the Portland Art Museum and Powell's City of Books.

Pros

• Proximity to iconic attractions like the Portland Saturday Market and the Lan Su Chinese Garden

• Celebrated food scene with renowned restaurants like Lechon and Canard and breweries like Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House

• Access to unique boutiques and shops along NW 23rd Avenue, perfect for retail therapy

• Active arts and culture scene, with galleries, theaters, and performance venues like the Portland Center Stage

• Convenient access to parks for outdoor activities and events

Cons

• Limited parking availability, especially in popular commercial areas like NW 21st Avenue and NW Lovejoy Street

• Higher housing costs, according to Realtor.com® in February 2024, due to the neighborhood's popularity and desirable location

• Potential noise from busy commercial districts and streets

• Crowded parks during peak times

• Increased traffic congestion during rush hours and on weekends, particularly on major streets

Best Suburbs in Portland, OR

Several of the best areas of Portland to live can be found a bit further outside the city lines. If you’re seeking the best suburb of Portland, Oregon, for your new home, here’s our list of top picks.

Wilsonville

Wilsonville is southwest of Portland along the I-5 corridor. With a population of around 25,000, it offers a welcoming atmosphere and multiple housing options. The city is also home to technology and manufacturing companies. Residents can enjoy access to parks, like Memorial Park and Graham Oaks Nature Park, shopping centers, and local events, fostering a strong sense of community. Overall, Wilsonville provides a high quality of life with its convenient location, proximity to employers, and abundant recreational amenities. You can explore our new construction homes in Wilsonville, OR.

Pros

• Proximity to major companies like Mentor Graphics and Xerox 

• A community-oriented atmosphere with quality schools 

• Access to recreational amenities like Memorial Park and Bullwinkle's Family Fun Center

• Convenient shopping options at Wilsonville Town Center

• Regular community events, such as the Wilsonville Farmers Market and the Wilsonville Festival of Arts

Cons

• Limited public transportation options

• Higher cost of living, 25% more than the national average, per Salary.com® as of February 2024

• Traffic congestion during rush hour, especially on major thoroughfares like SW Wilsonville Road and I-5

• Limited nightlife and entertainment options 

• A handful of lower-rated schools in the district as of 2024, according to GreatSchools®.org

Lake Oswego

Lake Oswego is approximately 8 miles south of downtown Portland. The city is known for its affluent neighborhoods and picturesque landscapes with numerous housing options, including waterfront estates, single-family homes, townhouses, and condos. The downtown area features boutique shops, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and lots of entertainment options. Oswego Lake, a private lake owned by the Lake Oswego Corporation, offers boating, fishing, and swimming for easement members and their guests.

Pros

• Ranked in the top 5% among state school districts in 2024, per Public School Review

• Beautiful surroundings with access to scenic parks and recreational areas like Tryon Creek State Natural Area and George Rogers Park

• Upscale shopping and dining options in downtown Lake Oswego's Lake View Village

• Exclusive access to Oswego Lake for boating, fishing, and water sports

• Reputable eateries include Oswego Grill and the famous Kyra’s Bake Shop

Cons

• Significantly higher cost of living, 25.4% higher than the national average as of February 2024, per Salary.com

• Many homes for sale over $1M, per Realtor.com as of March 2024

• Traffic congestion during rush hour, especially on major routes like State Street and Boones Ferry Road

• Limited public transportation options

• Access to Oswego Lake contingent on membership in the Lake Oswego Corporation

West Linn

West Linn is a suburban city in Clackamas County, Oregon, approximately 15 miles south of downtown Portland. Situated along the Willamette River, it covers roughly 8.6 square miles. West Linn is known for its natural beauty, with lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic river views. One unique aspect of West Linn is its historic significance to Willamette Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the U.S. The city’s downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and services, so residents have convenient access to amenities and entertainment. 

Pros

• Proximity to stunning views of the Willamette River and nearby natural areas like Mary S. Young Park and Willamette Falls

• Highly rated schools, including Bolton Primary School, per GreatSchools.org as of 2024

• Tranquil and friendly neighborhoods, such as Robinwood and Barrington Heights

• Convenient access to amenities and shopping at places like West Linn Central Village and Market of Choice

• Three-time finalist of “Best Places to Live” by CNN® and Money Magazine®

Cons

• Higher cost of living, 25.3% more than the national average as of February 2024, per Salary.com

• Limited public transportation options 

• Traffic congestion during peak commuting times, especially on major thoroughfares like Willamette Drive and Highway 43

• Limited diversity in housing options, predominantly single-family homes and estates

• Considered a somewhat competitive housing market as of February 2024, per Redfin®

Happy Valley

Happy Valley is about 10 miles southeast of downtown Portland. The city is known for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful views of the Cascade Range, and community-oriented neighborhoods. The area offers undeveloped land and a range of housing, including single-family homes, townhouses, and newer developments. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun, including hiking, biking, and nature walks. Happy Valley’s proximity to major highways also gives residents convenient access to employers and amenities in nearby Portland and Clackamas County.

Pros

• Quintessential Pacific Northwest woodsy homes and neighborhoods 

• Stunning views of the Cascade Range and Mount Hood 

• Access to amenities and shopping at places like New Seasons Market

• Quality schools within the North Clackamas School District

• Active community engagement with events like the Happy Valley Farmers Market and summer concerts at Happy Valley Park

Cons

• Higher housing costs compared to other suburbs in the Portland metropolitan area, per Redfin in February 2024

• Limited public transportation options

• Traffic congestion during rush hour, especially on major thoroughfares like Sunnyside Road and 162nd Avenue

• Limited diversity in housing options, predominantly single-family homes and newer developments

• Limited nightlife and entertainment options 

Milwaukie

Milwaukie is a suburban city southeast of Portland in Clackamas County, Oregon, perched along the Willamette River. Milwaukie has a rich history, dating back to the early 19th century when it was a lumber town. Today, you can find remnants of its past in the historic buildings and landmarks scattered throughout the city, such as the Milwaukie Museum. The city's downtown area, known as Milwaukie Main Street, features a variety of locally owned businesses and hosts events attracting both residents and visitors alike. 

Pros

• Exciting arts and culture scene with events like the Milwaukie Poetry Series and First Friday art walk

• Reflects its rich history in landmarks like the Milwaukie Museum and the Milwaukie Ledding Library

• Convenient access to amenities and shopping at places like Milwaukie Main Street and the Milwaukie Farmers Market

• Quaint and picturesque neighborhoods with several housing options, including historic homes, newer developments, and waterfront properties along the Willamette River

• Proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities at places like Elk Rock Island
  
  

Cons

• Limited public transportation options

• Limited nightlife and entertainment options 

• A somewhat competitive housing market, according to Redfin in February 2024

• Traffic congestion during peak commuting times, especially on major thoroughfares like McLoughlin Boulevard and SE Harrison Street

• Potential for noise pollution from nearby highways and industrial areas

Which Portland Neighborhood Is Right for You?

If you’re looking for nightlife and proximity to the best food and clubs, staying within Portland’s city limits is probably the spot for you. If you’re looking for a larger home with a bit more suburban convenience, choosing from some of the best neighborhoods near Portland may be the right fit for you. Either way, there’s likely a Portland neighborhood that’s perfect for your lifestyle. 

Best Neighborhoods in Portland for Families and Individuals

From the picturesque streets of West Linn to the many amenities and green spaces of Sellwood-Moreland, the best family neighborhoods in Portland, Oregon, offer households of all sizes access to plenty of wonderful activities, services, and community atmosphere. Here are some of our top picks:

• Lake Oswego: Known for its quality schools, beautiful parks, and numerous amenities, this neighborhood offers an upscale suburban environment. 

• West Linn: Renowned for quality schools, picturesque neighborhoods, and access to outdoor hot spots, West Linn is a popular pick for everyone. 

• Sellwood-Moreland: This neighborhood has a little of everything, from dining and shopping to parks and schools. 

Explore our new construction homes in Wilsonville, OR, about 10–12 miles from these locations. 

Best Neighborhoods in Portland for Young Adults and Professionals

From the trendy cafes and boutiques of the Pearl District to the eclectic charm of the Alberta Arts District, here are some of the best neighborhoods in Portland for young adults and professionals neighborhoods that offer a mix of amenities, nightlife, and career opportunities:

• Pearl District: With its trendy lofts, upscale boutiques, and chic restaurants and bars, the Pearl District offers a contemporary vibe. 

• Hawthorne: Loved for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and nightlife, as well as its hipster vibe, this neighborhood is a popular destination. Hawthorne Avenue is a bustling spot featuring vintage stores, coffeehouses, and food carts.

• Nob Hill/Northwest District: This neighborhood is renowned for its historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and thriving dining scene. Cafes, bars, and galleries line Nob Hill's 23rd Avenue. Explore our new construction homes at Abbey Woods Terrace, just 11 miles from Nob Hill.

• Downtown Beaverton: Home of Nike®, the renowned shoe and clothing manufacturer, downtown Beaverton offers a mix of urban amenities and suburban charm, with a variety of dining options, shops, and cultural attractions, as well as easy access to public transportation for commuting to Portland. Check out our new construction homes at Abbey Woods Terrace, only 8 miles from Beaverton.

• Alberta Arts District: Buzzing with creative energy, a diverse community, and a lively atmosphere, you’ll find an array of galleries, boutiques, cafes, and music venues on Alberta Street, making this neighborhood a popular destination for young adults looking for an exciting urban experience.

• Downtown Hillsboro: Known for its historic downtown area, bustling farmers market, and cultural events, downtown Hillsboro offers a blend of shops, restaurants, and theaters, plus proximity to major employers like Intel.

Best Neighborhoods in Portland for Outdoor Adventurers

For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Portland, several neighborhoods and suburbs offer easy access to the beauty and recreational opportunities of the great outdoors. These neighborhoods and suburbs have ample outdoor spaces for those who enjoy spending their time in nature:

• Sellwood-Moreland: Situated along the Willamette River, this neighborhood is ideal for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Explore our new construction homes in Wilsonville, OR, about 10 miles from Sellwood-Moreland.

• Nob Hill: Close to Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States per the Forest Park Conservancy website, Nob Hill offers over 80 miles of pathways for hiking, trail running, and nature walks. Explore our new construction homes at Abbey Woods Terrace, just 11 miles from Nob Hill.

• Mount Tabor: Mount Tabor Park features hiking trails, picnic spots, and stunning city views from its volcanic cinder cone, perfect for hikers, runners, and nature lovers.

• Lake Oswego: Tons of opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and hiking in a picturesque setting are available for residents in this neighborhood. However, accessing the waters of Lake Oswego requires membership in the Lake Oswego Corporation. Explore our new construction homes in Wilsonville, OR, about 12 miles from Lake Oswego.

Best Neighborhoods in Portland to Buy a House

With 89 neighborhoods to choose from and houses on the market going for anywhere from $26K to $15M, choosing among the best neighborhoods in Portland to buy a house may seem like a big task. However, if you want to start fresh with a new construction home in Portland, OR, here are some idyllic communities to explore: 

• Northside: With stunning views of Mount Hood and the Columbia River and scenic trails, you can savor the beauty of the Pacific Northwest while enjoying the convenience of our one- and two-story home designs.

• Abbey Woods Terrace: With quality schools, convenient access to everyday amenities, and proximity to Portland, you can enjoy the best parts of suburban living while still being close to the city. Choose from traditional two-story single-family homes with options for personalized features.

• Frog Pond: With spacious single-family homes ranging from 1,921 to 3,650 square feet, quality local schools, and nearby trails, you can look forward to a lifestyle tailored to your needs and preferences. 

Portland Neighborhoods Conclusion

As you can see, when deciding on a home among the best neighborhoods in Portland, Oregon, you can pick from several incredible places. With this list of the best Portland neighborhoods handy, let the house hunting begin! 

Explore new construction homes in Portland, OR, today or browse more Pulte® blogs. 

Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer

Last Updated: 2/14/25