Which Are the Safest Neighborhoods in Portland for 2023?

Portland is often thought of as a beautiful West Coast city with stunning mountain vistas and delicious cuisine. Unfortunately, in recent times, crime and safety concerns have tarnished the city’s reputation. For those who are planning to visit or relocate to Portland, it is essential to know about the safest places to live. Here, we have compiled a list of the top ten safest neighborhoods in Portland, Oregon.

It’s no secret that Portland is grappling with several issues, including homelessness and the 2020 unrest. But, have these issues been blown out of proportion? Recent crime reports from the FBI reveal a startling fact – crime in Portland is 168% higher than the national average. This means that residents have a 1 in 16 chance of becoming a victim of any type of crime. Most of these incidents involve property and personal theft.

10 Safest Neighborhoods in Portland 

1. 1. Northwest District
   2. Goose Hollow
   3. Laurelhurst
   4. Eastmoreland
   5. South Portland
   6. Southwest Hills
   7. Kerns
   8. Irvington
   9. Sabin
   10. Hillsdale

1. Northwest District

If you’re looking for a safe neighborhood in Portland, the Northwest District is your best bet. This charming area is home to beautiful craftsman-style houses and is conveniently located near some of the best shopping and dining options in the city. In terms of safety, the Northwest District is one of the most secure areas in Portland, with a crime rate that is 15% lower than the average for the state of Oregon. However, it’s worth noting that living in the Northwest District comes at a premium, with a median home price of $598,786.

2. Goose Hollow

If you’re looking for a safe place to live in Portland, Goose Hollow is definitely worth considering. This neighborhood is situated in southwest Portland, near the Tualatin Mountains, and is adjacent to Old Town/Chinatown and the Pearl District. One of the benefits of living in Goose Hollow is its proximity to many of the city’s attractions and hiking spots. Although there is homelessness in the area, it’s not as prevalent as in other parts of the city. Goose Hollow is also home to some of Portland’s most fascinating hillside neighborhoods, which are definitely worth exploring.

3. Laurelhurst

Known for its vintage homes and serene surroundings, Laurelhurst is among the safest neighborhoods in Portland. The area boasts a natural park and a gilded equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, which serves as a WWI memorial. The neighborhood is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Portland. With a median home price of $848,030, Laurelhurst is undoubtedly one of the city’s most exclusive neighborhoods.

4. Eastmoreland

Located in the southeast of Portland, Eastmoreland is a charming and secure suburb known for its rolling hills and picturesque tree-lined streets. This part of the city is considered one of the most prosperous, with many homes featuring elegant Tudor and ranch-style architecture. The neighborhood boasts an impressive number of parks, golf courses, and hiking trails, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Additionally, Eastmoreland is home to Reed College, a prestigious private liberal arts institution. As of 2023, the median home price in Eastmoreland stands at $882,274, reflecting the area’s desirability and high standard of living.

5. South Portland 

With a population of approximately 5,100 and nestled between the Willamette River and West Hills, South Portland offers some of the most breathtaking local views. It boasts two historic bridges, namely the Marquam Bridge and the Sellwood Bridge. For those who seek a peaceful, pristine, and family-oriented environment, South Portland is an ideal location. The neighborhood is comprised of many smaller yet distinct neighborhoods, including South Waterfront and Lair Hill. The median home price in South Portland as of 2023 is $460,663, making it a desirable place to live.

6. Southwest Hills

If you’re looking for a safe and charming neighborhood in Portland, Southwest Hills is an excellent option. Situated under the Tualatin Mountains, this quaint neighborhood is home to 6,130 people and boasts a low crime rate of 2,105 per 100,000. This rate is 29% lower than the average in Oregon, making Southwest Hills a secure place to live. Multnomah County, where most of Southwest Hills is located, also offers some of the best hiking trails on the west coast. Keep in mind that Southwest Hills is one of Portland’s pricier neighborhoods, with a median home price exceeding $1 million.

7. Kerns

Located near downtown Portland, Kerns is a lively mixed-use community with a population of 5,600. This artistic neighborhood comprises commercial buildings, condos, and rental housing. Kerns boasts a dynamic brewery and art scene, with many buildings showcasing local murals and artwork. Although Kerns faces some challenges concerning property crime and drug activity, it is still considered a safe neighborhood compared to other areas in Portland.

8. Irvington

Irvington, situated in the Northeast part of Portland, is considered as one of the safest neighborhoods in the city. It boasts a population of approximately 9,000 people and is renowned for its grand mansions that are situated on vast plots of land. The peaceful and tranquil suburban ambiance of Irvington is ideal for families who prefer to be in close proximity to downtown. As far as safety is concerned, Irvington has an average crime rate just like most other neighborhoods in Portland, with property theft being the most common type of crime.

9. Sabin

Looking for a secure place to live in Portland? Consider Sabin, a small but bustling community located in the northeast section of Portland with a population of 3,192. Surrounded by popular areas such as Alberta Arts, Irvington, and North Portland, Sabin offers plenty of activities and amenities. Additionally, it’s just a stone’s throw away from Mississippi Ave near downtown, which is one of the most sought-after destinations in the city. Although there have been reports of property crime, Sabin is considered safe and often touted as an up-and-coming neighborhood.

Located in southwest Portland, Hillsdale boasts a population of 7,436 and is a safe and highly walkable neighborhood. Its bustling downtown is teeming with restaurants and shops, and the area is home to its own Farmer’s Market and a variety of award-winning breweries and pubs. With a crime rate slightly lower than the Portland average, most of Hillsdale’s crimes are related to property theft and minor drug activity. Families and young people alike will find Hillsdale to be an ideal place to call home.

Is Portland Safe Bottom Line

Portland’s crime rate is notably higher than the national average, primarily due to poverty and homelessness issues. Despite the rising safety concerns, there are still some secure and tidy areas both in and around the city. However, these neighborhoods may come at a steep cost, with a high living expense.

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