$417,140Average Value$411Average Price per Sq Ft96Homes For Sale
A buzzing city center with riverfront parks, inventive restaurants and tons of culture
Hugging the scenic shores of the Willamette River, downtown Portland is only one square mile, but it packs a cultural punch. Trendy, eclectic and walkable downtown attracts upwardly mobile young professionals who appreciate the high-end high-rises as well as students at Portland State University who appreciate the relatively low rents. Getting around is easy, too. “The city has a wonderful light rail system, and we’re very pro-bike and pro-pedestrian,” says Walter Weyler, president of the Downtown Neighborhood Association.
The Willamette River courses past Downtown Portland, paralleling Interstate 5.
Downtown Portland hugs the west side of the Willamette River and has stunning views of Mt. Hood.
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Downtown apartment blocks and luxurious high-rises
The good news for prospective homebuyers: The real estate market in downtown Portland is not especially competitive. Renters rule the area, and housing inventory is heavy on apartments to meet the demand. Homebuying options are largely restricted to condos within high-rise towers or smaller scale apartment blocks — some from the early 1900s now listed on the National Register of Historic Places — as well as contemporary waterfront developments. Prices run the gamut: The median home price is around $350,000, ranging from under $250,000 on the low end to $2 million for luxury units with river views.
High-rise buildings form the iconic Downtown Portland skyline.
Condo developments by the Riverplace Marina offer stunning riverfront views.
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Lunchtime plaza lounging and festivals by the Willamette River
Once a bleak parking structure, Pioneer Courthouse Square is now a thriving gathering space that attracts more than 11 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited sites in Oregon. Nearby, the South Park Blocks green space spans 12 blocks, passing the Portland Art Museum, the Oregon Historical Society and the Portland Farmers Market at Portland State University. Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park, a 1.5-mile gem, runs between Northwest Glisan Street and RiverPlace Marina. It’s the perfect place for a picnic, people-watching or taking in some live music. “Several times a year there are major events like the Dragon Boat Festival, the Rose Festival and the Jazz Festival,” Weyler says. “These are festive affairs, and thousands of people come out to enjoy them.”
Tom McCall Waterfront Park in Downtown Portland features paths for scenic runs and bike rides.
Many come downtown on Saturday mornings for the Portland Farmer's Market at South Park Blocks
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Highly rated public schools and private academies
While the neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly, public schools are about a mile away. Students can start learning at Ainsworth Elementary School, followed by West Sylvan Middle School and Lincoln High School, each of which received an A-minus or better from Niche.
Alternatively, local private schools are an option. Founded in 1990, the International School of Portland is an independent K-5 school offering full immersion in Chinese, Japanese and Spanish cultures. Kids can then move on to Northwest Academy, named by Niche as Oregon’s No. 1 high school for the arts. Considering the private schools’ downtown location, teachers often expand classroom instruction into exploratory field trips to local museums and theaters.
Teens living in Downtown Portland usually attend Lincoln High School nearby.
Students attend Portland State University in Downtown Portland, OR.
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Zipping around Portland via MAX trains and bicycle lanes
A legion of office buildings soar above the city center, and folks who live downtown can quickly commute to work on foot. With numerous bike lines, bus routes and MAX light rail trains zipping through the neighborhood, visiting other parts of the city is no problem, either.
Dedicated bike lanes and sidewalks make Downtown Portland a pedestrian friendly community.
TRIMET buses and MAX light rail trains roll throughout Downtown Portland
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James Beard Award-winning restaurants and hip coffee shops
Packed with activities and nightlife, downtown Portland is bubbling with energy day and night. Foodies will find a lot to love in the neighborhood’s fertile dining scene, from brunch on a budget to delicious fine dining at spots such as Grassa and Higgin’s.
Residents can start their day at Case Study Coffee Roasters, a high-end java joint with a rich, wooden interior and floor-to-ceiling windows that let in lots of light, perfect for the ornamental greenery. Avid readers will find respite at Powell’s City of Books, often cited as the largest bookstore in the world, taking up an entire city block and housing more than a million new and used books. On Broadway, the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall — affectionately known as “The Schnitz” — is a grand Italian Renaissance-style venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in showbiz, including Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, Prince and Madonna.
Delicious handcrafted pasta from Grassa is a staple in Downtown Portland, OR.
Readers will love Powell’s City of Books, the largest new and used bookstore in the world.
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Downtown revitalization efforts
Like many cities in the U.S., Portland contends with issues related to housing insecurity. According to city officials, homelessness increased 65% from 2015 to 2023, leading to hundreds of illegal encampments across downtown and the rest of the city. Responding to the crisis, the city committed to hiring 300 new police officers and personnel, in addition to opening more shelters for community support.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Dan Walters,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Portland Center City Park
Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Lovejoy Fountain Park
Chapman Square
Keller Fountain Park
Burlingame Park
South Park Blocks
Forest Park
Terry Schrunk Plaza
Transit
Airport
Portland International
22 min drive
Subway
Galleria/Sw 10Th
Subway
Pioneer Square North
Subway
Pioneer Square South
Subway
Mall/Sw 5Th
Subway
Morrison/Sw 3Rd
Subway
Yamhill District
Subway
Oak/Sw 1St Avenue
Subway
Sw 5Th & Oak
Subway
Sw 6Th & Pine
Subway
Pioneer Place/Sw 5Th
Subway
City Hall/Sw 5Th & Jefferson
Subway
Sw 6Th & Madison
Subway
Psu Urban Center/Sw 5Th & Mill
Subway
Psu Urban Center/Sw 6Th & Montgomery
Subway
Sw River Pkwy & Moody
Subway
Sw Harrison Street
Bus
S River Pkwy & River Dr
Bus
SW Madison & 1st
Bus
SW Naito Parkway & Harrison
Bus
SW Harrison & 4th
Bus
Marriott-City Center
Bus
Ace Hotel
Bus
Hotel Rose
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Downtown Portland
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
8
4
Burglary
8
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
7
4
Larceny
8
4
Crime Score
7
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Downtown Portland Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Downtown Portland, Portland sell after 127 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Downtown Portland, Portland over the last 12 months is $335,000, down 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Floor-to-ceiling windows with a peaceful city view, luxury amenities, a 24-hour concierge & in-home laundry- Welcome to your new home at the Eliot! Whether you prefer to enjoy the space as a second home, or for full-time city living, the Eliot offers an uncompromising urban experience. Eliot 614 offers everything you need and nothing you don’t. With premium cabinetry, stainless appliances and
Modern and stylish studio nestled in Portland’s vibrant Cultural District! Enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings, and rich hardwood floors that make the space feel bright and spacious. The sleek kitchen boasts granite counters, quality appliances, and clever storage. In-unit laundry adds everyday ease. Ideal location near PSU, Streetcar, theaters, museums, and top dining—perfect for
Welcome to condo 703 featuring northeast views of Mt Hood and the cool side of the building. A large 1319 Sq. FT. unit with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It has just undergone a total, high-end remodel. The open kitchen features granite counters and top stainless steel appliances. A wine storage area, breakfast bar, and power recepticles inside the cupboards, are some of the gourmet touches.
Bernhild NieswandtThe Hanzlik Group David Hanzlik & Associates Inc
Spectacular 10th floor Sub-Penthouse with ever-changing 270 degree panoramic views of the city, river and marina, hills & parks. Luxury waterfront living at Strand North. If you’ve been searching for a home or 2nd home that combines modern elegance, great location, and effortless lock-and-leave convenience, look no further. Recently updated, light & bright open concept floor plan! One block to
Sophisticated Urban Living Meets Timeless ComfortStep into a residence that offers more than just a home — it offers an elevated lifestyle. This impeccably maintained, turnkey condominium has been lightly lived in and presents in pristine condition. The west-facing orientation floods the space with natural light and delivers breathtaking sunset views.The gourmet kitchen is a standout feature,
Sophisticated and Contemporary Elegance with Panoramic City and River Views. It is all about LOCATION, VIEW, AND UPDATES! Experience elevated urban living in this stunning corner unit perched on the 10th floor of a premier Portland waterfront building. Perfectly positioned to showcase sweeping views of the city skyline and just steps from the streetcar, parks, shops, and dining, near the Marina
Yvonne BlewettCascade Hasson Sotheby's International Realty
From floor to ceiling and bed to bath, elegant finishes impress at Park Avenue West. Thoughtful amenity details fashion the perfect balance of comfort and intention. Now leasing luxurious urban living with studio, one, and two-bedroom floorplans available. This is a brand new kind of urban life. One defined by quality and by esteem. A life uniquely rooted in downtown Portland. Enjoy
Hello and welcome to MW8 Apartments! Fall leasing 2025 has begun! If you are looking to experience all of the benefits of downtown, look no further. Our apartments are FURNISHED and OFFER PRICE PER BEDROOM OPTIONS. We are located just two blocks from the heart of campus at Portland State University. With nearby access to the Portland Streetcar, MAX Light Rail, TriMet bus stops, and the downtown
"Welcome to Harrison Tower your urban retreat among the hustle and bustle of Portland, Oregon. Right outside your front door you'll find coffee shops, restaurants, and bars so, grab your friends and explore all that Southwest Waterfront has to offer! Inside, our open layouts, premium finishes, and top-of-the-line kitchens are the perfect getaway to unwind and relax before hitting the town.
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Dan Walters,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
17,919
Median Age
35
Population Density
34 ppl/acre
Population under 18
12.4%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
17%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$38,234
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$73,101
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
92.3%
College Graduates
46.3%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
20.3%
% Population in Labor Force
56%
Below the national average
65.1%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
43''
Average Winter Low Temperature
31°F
Average Summer High Temperature
78°F
Annual Snowfall
3''
Area Factors
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
86/ 100
Walker's Paradise
Walk Score®
99/ 100
Rider's Paradise
Transit Score®
93/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
