If you're planning a move to Portland, Oregon, one thing becomes clear fast: choosing a neighborhood here is no small task. With more than 90 distinct neighborhoods and suburbs each offering its own lifestyle, personality, and real estate market Portland can feel overwhelming for anyone trying to figure out where to live. Your daily commute, the type of home you buy, weekend activities, school choices, and even the overall energy of your life will depend heavily on where you decide to settle.

That’s why in our latest video, we break down the Top 10 Neighborhoods People Moving to Portland Are Actually Choosing in 2025 based on lifestyle, value, local amenities, and real feedback from relocating clients. If you prefer visuals, maps, and street-level tours, be sure to watch the full video but here’s a complete written breakdown to help you begin your search.

1. Tigard: The Underrated Suburban Gem

Tigard has become one of the most quietly popular suburbs for new Portland residents. Offering suburban comfort with big-city convenience, Tigard sits near Washington Square Mall, Bridgeport Village, and a revitalized downtown that’s full of local shops and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts love the 79-acre Cook Park along the Tualatin River, and commuters appreciate the easy access to transit via the Tigard Transit Center. Families choose Tigard for its parks, schools, and friendly community feel. Many people moving from California or other large states are surprised to find a vibrant, accessible suburb that feels anything but sleepy.

2. Sellwood–Moreland: Small-Town Charm Inside the City

For those who want Portland city living with a warm, walkable, small-town vibe, Sellwood–Moreland is a top contender. Antique shops, local cafés, craft breweries, and boutique restaurants give this area its signature charm. Residents enjoy riverfront access at Sellwood Riverfront Park, wildlife viewing at Oaks Bottom Refuge, and miles of outdoor recreation along the Springwater Corridor. It’s one of the most beloved neighborhoods for people seeking community, walkability, and classic Portland character.

3. Beaverton: Suburban Life With Big-City Energy

Beaverton continues to boom, drawing professionals, families, and tech workers alike. With major employers nearby, fast transit options, abundant shopping, and some of the most diverse dining in the metro area, Beaverton blends suburban living with a surprisingly energetic atmosphere. Its food cart pods, Cedar Hills Crossing, Tualatin Hills Nature Park, and the Patricia Reser Center for the Arts create a dynamic environment with something for everyone.

4. Concordia / Alberta Arts District: Portland’s Creative Heart

If you picture vibrant murals, artisan coffee, food trucks, quirky boutiques, and a nonstop stream of creativity, you're picturing Alberta Arts. This neighborhood is pure Portland. Concordia offers historic homes and tree-lined streets, while Alberta brings the energy with local shops, the famous Last Thursday street fairs, and iconic businesses like Pine State Biscuits and the original Salt & Straw. For people who want culture, personality, and walkability, this area is hard to beat.

5. Sherwood: Peaceful Living Near Wine Country

Sherwood blends peaceful suburban living with quick access to Oregon wine country. Many relocating families gravitate here for its highly rated schools, larger homes, and strong sense of community. The town hosts events like the Robin Hood Festival and offers a quiet, welcoming environment just close enough for an easy commute into downtown Portland.

6. South Waterfront: Modern, Upscale, Riverfront Living

South Waterfront is ideal for people who love contemporary, high-rise living with stunning views of the Willamette River and Mt. Hood. Walkable paths, trendy restaurants, and easy access to downtown via the streetcar make it one of Portland’s most modern neighborhoods. Direct access to OHSU via the aerial tram also makes it desirable for medical professionals, retirees, and anyone seeking a car-optional lifestyle.

7. Eastmoreland: Elegant, Historic, and Timeless

Eastmoreland offers stunning historic homes, tree-lined streets, and a peaceful, prestigious atmosphere. Known for its architectural beauty and lush surroundings, it attracts buyers who want quiet streets and a classic Portland feel. Neighborhood highlights include Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, Eastmoreland Golf Course, and beautiful Berkeley Park. Its proximity to Reed College adds an academic charm that sets it apart.

8. Laurelhurst: The Crown Jewel of East Portland

Laurelhurst is one of Portland’s most iconic and desirable neighborhoods. With winding streets, beautiful historic homes, and a central location, it offers both convenience and elegance. Laurelhurst Park—one of the most photographed parks in the city—sits at its heart, making it a favorite for dog walkers, families, and outdoor lovers. Its accessibility to downtown, Hollywood District, Hawthorne, and Belmont adds to its appeal.

9. Lake Oswego: Portland’s Luxury Lakeside Suburb

Lake Oswego is known for its upscale homes, top-rated schools, lake access, and vibrant local shopping districts. It’s one of the most competitive and prestigious suburbs in Oregon, attracting buyers who want luxury, stability, and long-term value. Whether you're drawn to the lake lifestyle or hillside neighborhoods with panoramic views, Lake Oswego delivers a refined living experience that consistently ranks among the best in the state.

10. West Linn: Hillside Estates and Scenic River Views

West Linn offers sweeping views, large homes, top schools, and a peaceful environment perfect for buyers seeking scenic beauty and a tight-knit community. With stunning hillside properties and easy access to the Willamette River, it provides a luxurious but grounded suburban atmosphere. Many people relocating to Oregon for space, nature, and tranquility fall in love with West Linn almost immediately.

Watch the Full Neighborhood Tour on YouTube

This guide gives you a detailed overview, but our full YouTube video offers even more insights with visuals, maps, and real street walk-throughs, making it an essential resource if you're trying to decide where to live in the Portland area.

Thinking About Moving to Portland? Let Us Help You Find the Right Neighborhood

Choosing the right neighborhood is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when relocating to Portland. Your lifestyle, budget, commute, preferred home style, and even your personality play a major role in finding the perfect fit.

Our relocation-focused team specializes in helping out-of-state buyers navigate Portland’s market with confidence. When you reach out, you get a real local expert, not a call center, and personalized guidance through schools, commute routes, neighborhoods, and the entire buying process.

If you're planning a move to Portland or simply exploring your options, Aaron is ready to help you make the transition smoother, easier, and more informed.

Reach out today and start your Portland relocation journey with confidence.