Portland offers a variety of neighborhoods ranging from urban‑core lofts to leafy, quiet residential areas. Whether you’re after walkability and nightlife or tree‑lined streets and calmer surroundings — there’s likely a neighborhood that fits your style. We’ve compiled a list of the best places to rent in Portland based on the following factors:
- Rental availability
- Average rent relative to other neighborhoods in the city
- Proximity to points of interest like work hubs, universities, downtown areas, shopping centers, or major parks
- Niche.com’s neighborhood report cards
The five best neighborhoods in Portland, OR for renters are:
1. Goose Hollow
2. Pearl
4. Laurelhurst
5. Richmond
Goose Hollow
• Average 1-bedroom rent in Portland: $1,507/month
• Average 1-bedroom rent in Goose Hollow: $1,603/month
• Average 1-bedroom square footage: 644
Why Goose Hollow is good for renters
Goose Hollow offers a mix of apartment-living convenience and close proximity to downtown, making it easy to access work, restaurants, and public transit. It tends to attract renters who want a city lifestyle without being deep in its core. Many buildings in the area provide a variety of floor plans, giving flexibility depending on what you prioritize.
Keep in mind
Because Goose Hollow mixes older and newer buildings, available units vary widely in size, condition, and price — meaning you may need to shop around to find what works best.
Pearl District
• Average 1-bedroom rent in Portland: $1,507/month
• Average 1-bedroom rent in Pearl District: $1,861/month
• Average 1-bedroom square footage: 727
Why Pearl District is good for renters
Pearl District is known for its trendy vibe — art galleries, boutiques, cafés, and easy access to nightlife. City renters who enjoy a lively environment, walkability, and a high-density neighborhood often gravitate here. It’s a good option for those who want to be in the mix of the city’s social scene and close to central Portland amenities.
Keep in mind
Because of the demand and buzz, rental prices tend to be higher, and availability can fluctuate. Units may be smaller or more expensive relative to outer neighborhoods.
Sullivan's Gulch
• Average 1-bedroom rent in Portland: $1,507/month
• Average 1-bedroom rent in Sullivan's Gulch: $1,490/month
• Average 1-bedroom square footage: 670
Why Sullivan's Gulch is good for renters
Sullivan’s Gulch offers a more residential feel while still being fairly central. It balances quiet streets with easy access to the city’s core and transit lines. If you want a calmer neighborhood but still want to stay connected to the city, this neighborhood offers a good compromise.
Keep in mind
While the neighborhood is well-connected by bus and light rail, some rentals may sit farther from major stops, so it’s worth checking commute routes before signing a lease.
Laurelhurst
• Average 1-bedroom rent in Portland: $1,507/month
• Average 1-bedroom rent in Laurelhurst: $1,341/month
• Average 1-bedroom square footage: 609
Why Laurelhurst is good for renters
Laurelhurst is often favored by those who appreciate green spaces, charm, and a quieter neighborhood atmosphere. With tree-lined streets and a more residential feel, it suits renters who prefer calm over hustle but still want access to city amenities within reasonable distance. It’s a solid pick for those seeking comfort and a neighborhood that feels more like home.
Keep in mind
Rentals in Laurelhurst often prioritize character over convenience, so features like smart home tech, elevators, or secure package lockers may be harder to come by.
Richmond
• Average 1-bedroom rent in Portland: $1,507/month
• Average 1-bedroom rent in Richmond: $1,475/month
• Average 1-bedroom square footage: 566
Why Richmond is good for renters
Richmond offers a balanced neighborhood feel: a mix of residential calm, easy access to local shops and cafés, and reasonable proximity to the parts of Portland that draw people citywide. If you’re looking for a midlevel option — not too quiet, not too hectic — Richmond can offer a nice middle ground.
Keep in mind
While Richmond has a cozy, residential vibe, some areas are less walkable than central Portland neighborhoods, so running errands or accessing transit may require a short drive or bike ride.
Ready to Make the Move?
If Portland has caught your eye, take the next step with Apartments.com! Whether you’re looking for a short-term lease or hoping to settle long-term, Apartments.com offers tools to help you filter by price, amenities, and floor plan, letting you tailor your search to what matters most.
No matter what neighborhood you choose, there are options waiting — and your perfect place may be just a few clicks away.
FAQs
Is Portland a good place to live?
Yes — Portland is a strong option for renters who value a mix of urban convenience, access to green spaces, diverse neighborhood vibes, and walkability. With neighborhoods that run from energetic and bustling to calm and residential, there's flexibility depending on what you want your lifestyle to look like.
Is Portland an expensive place to live?
Portland tends to be moderately expensive compared with many U.S. cities. Rent and cost of living are above the national average, especially in popular or central neighborhoods, but there are still more affordable and balanced options depending on location and unit type.
What’s the average rent in Portland, OR?
The average rent in Portland is about $1,507/month for a one-bedroom apartment, which is 8% lower than the national average.
Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s December 2025 reports.
