City of Porland
Known for its vibrant culture, progressive values, and stunning natural surroundings, this city offers an unmatched quality of life for those who appreciate creativity and outdoor adventure. A thriving arts scene, world-class food and coffee culture, and a deep commitment to sustainability make it a hub for innovation and self-expression. Residents enjoy easy access to miles of biking and walking trails, lush green spaces, and the nearby mountains and coastline for weekend getaways. The city’s diverse neighborhoods each have their own unique character, from historic districts to modern high-rises, providing a range of lifestyles to suit different preferences. With a strong emphasis on community, public transportation, and a forward-thinking mindset, it’s an ideal place for those looking to blend urban living with a deep connection to nature.

NEIGHBORHOODS & DISTRICTS

The meandering Willamette River flows right through the city of Portland, creating a natural east-west orientation. Burnside Street serves as the dividing line between north and south. With few exceptions, most streets throughout the city follow the district quadrants of SE, SW, NE, or NW.

Downtown District
Bounded by West Burnside on the north, Willamette River on the east, and freeways to the south and west, downtown Portland is one of the vintage districts. Remaining a powerhouse of activity through the decades, it still serves as the financial, governmental, cultural, and entertainment heart of the city. Retail activity is equally brisk in shops large and small. Tom McCall Waterfront Park follows the winding riverfront, offering an oasis for community celebrations or just a relaxing retreat. Key downtown attractions include the Portland Art Museum, Portland Performing Arts Center, and the Oregon History Center.

Dunthorpe
Nestled along the Willamette River, this exclusive neighborhood offers a peaceful, luxurious lifestyle surrounded by lush greenery and scenic beauty. Known for its spacious estates, tree-lined streets, and top-rated schools, it provides an ideal setting for those seeking privacy and elegance while remaining close to city amenities. Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor recreation, including walking trails, river activities, and nearby nature parks. With a strong sense of community and a commitment to maintaining the area’s natural beauty, this neighborhood offers a tranquil retreat just minutes from downtown. Its combination of prestige, serenity, and convenience makes it a highly desirable place to call home.

Eastmoreland
With its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and close-knit community, this charming neighborhood offers a peaceful yet well-connected lifestyle. Known for its classic architecture and beautifully maintained gardens, it provides a picturesque setting that feels both elegant and welcoming. Residents enjoy easy access to lush green spaces, including a renowned golf course and nearby parks perfect for walking, jogging, or simply relaxing. The neighborhood’s proximity to excellent schools, local cafes, and vibrant shopping districts makes it an ideal place for families and professionals alike. Combining a quiet, residential atmosphere with the convenience of being just minutes from downtown, it’s a highly sought-after place to call home.

Hawthorne Boulevard
Filled with character, creativity, and a lively atmosphere, this vibrant district offers an eclectic and walkable lifestyle. Known for its mix of historic homes, independent boutiques, vintage shops, and diverse dining options, it attracts those who appreciate a unique blend of old and new. Residents enjoy easy access to coffee shops, live music venues, and locally owned businesses that contribute to the neighborhood’s distinct charm. With tree-lined streets, bike-friendly roads, and nearby parks, outdoor recreation is always within reach. A hub for artists, professionals, and families alike, this energetic area embodies the city’s spirit of individuality and community, making it an exciting place to live.

Irvington
Elegant and historic, this neighborhood offers a perfect blend of classic charm and modern convenience. Known for its beautifully preserved early 20th-century homes, wide tree-lined streets, and strong sense of community, it provides a peaceful yet well-connected lifestyle. Residents enjoy easy access to nearby parks, top-rated schools, and local cafes, making it an ideal place for families and professionals alike. With a walkable and bike-friendly layout, getting to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions is effortless. Its timeless beauty, welcoming atmosphere, and close proximity to downtown make it one of the city’s most desirable places to live.

John’s Landing
Set along the scenic Willamette River, this charming neighborhood offers a perfect mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. With stunning waterfront views, tree-lined streets, and a variety of housing options, it provides a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle. Residents enjoy easy access to walking and biking trails, riverfront parks, and local cafes, creating a strong sense of community. The area’s proximity to downtown makes it ideal for professionals seeking a short commute while still enjoying a quieter, more residential setting. Whether strolling along the river, dining at locally owned restaurants, or exploring nearby shops, life here balances city amenities with a laid-back atmosphere.

Ladd’s Addition
Named for a pioneer Portland businessman, this quaint district with a wide selection of older homes is experiencing a surge of revitalization and renewal activity. Enjoying a “close in” location in the southeastern section of Portland, Ladd’s Addition features a landmark centerpiece: the garden at the center of Ladd’s Circle. A dormitory at Reed College was also named after this prominent Portland figure.

Laurelhurst
With more than 80 percent of the homes constructed before 1940, Laurelhurst is a long-established residential district of East Portland. Developed in the early part of the 20th century, the area features many lovely older homes graced by mature greenery and meticulous landscaping. Many residents in this neighborhood have raised their children and are welcoming grandchildren to well-kept “generational” homes. The district is bounded by NE 32nd, Banfield, NE 44th, and Stark.

Lloyd Center
This district is named for the Lloyd Center retail destination, one of the original large shopping centers that was constructed in the United States. Today, this district offers its residents the beauty of tree-lined residential neighborhoods, excellent shopping close to home, and many fine recreational amenities in close proximity to Portland’s downtown attractions. The Lloyd Center area is located “just across the river” from the downtown district with its considerable amenities.

Multnomah
The southwestern district of Multnomah is characterized as a friendly community with the feeling of a small town. Sprawling parks, generous lots, and well-maintained homes combine to give the neighborhood a very pleasing appearance. A number of antique shops and dealers add to the quaint, village-like atmosphere.

Northwest Portland
Charming and attractive, the northwestern section of Portland features the elegance of
well-preserved Victorian homes that blend with small shops and restaurants for a true “neighborhood” feeling. Those who desire a home with a rich sense of warmth and history may find the ideal address.

Northwest 23rd District
Extending from West Burnside northward, this district melds into the northwestern industrial area. North from Burnside is a cluster of restaurants, shops, bookstores, and boutiques. Today, the district around the center just north of Interstate 84 bustles with shopping, entertainment, and lodging.

Old Town & China Town
Spanning the streets between West Burnside and Union Station close to the Willamette River, this vintage area preserves treasures from yesterday. Recent improvements have enhanced the historic appeal and spurred new business. Chinatown offers a variety of wonderful Asian restaurants. The twin lions at the entrance to Chinatown on Fourth Avenue are familiar landmarks.

Pearl District
As bohemian as it is charming, Pearl District is home to the nation’s largest new and used bookstore and a major brewery. Former warehouses in states of disrepair have been transformed into attractive commercial centers. The revitalized neighborhood has become a magnet for the talented and gifted. Artists and writers appreciate the fine art galleries and antique shops, gathering often at the neighborhood cultural center.

Portland Heights/Council Crest
Graced by a terrain that features sloped hillsides, the outstanding vistas of Portland Heights and Council Crest have inspired developers to build some truly magnificent homes and elegant manors over the decades. Many historic mansions and estates that are valued in the multi-million-dollar range are nestled in this lushly wooded area, offering upscale seclusion. Many homes command exceptional views from the higher elevation of gentle hills.

Sellwood
The Sellwood area is probably best known for its outstanding collection of antique stores and dealers. In fact, Sellwood Antique Mall is touted as the largest emporium for collectibles in Portland. Somewhat isolated from the rest of the city, Sellwood is a district located near the Willamette River. Along with the Westmoreland District, this neighborhood is situated between the river and McLoughlin Boulevard or Highway 99E. Sellwood Bridge connects the district with the west side of the river.

Southeast Portland
Past the long-established neighborhoods of older homes shaded by enormous trees, southeastern Portland becomes a district of attractive residences that vary greatly in size, price range, and architectural styles. Primarily modest housing harmonizes with convenient shopping centers and small businesses in this bustling area. Interstate 205 is the approximate eastern edge of the district, while the principal highway through the area is SE 82nd Avenue.

West Hills
As the City of Portland grew and matured, many affluent residents sought out the higher elevation of the hillsides to the west of downtown for their elaborate estates. The lower reaches claim a somewhat smaller share of mansions, and these have primarily been converted over the decades into lovely apartments or commercial establishments. The gentle hills still showcase magnificent older homes that blend with elegant new construction. Some of the famous points of interests in Portland are located in this area, including the Japanese Garden, the World Forestry Center, and the International Rose Test Gardens.