Why Buckman is the MOST UNDERRATED Neighborhood in SE Portland

If you’re looking for a Portland neighborhood that’s funky, vibrant, and full of character, let me introduce you to Buckman. I’m Aaron Cullen, a local Portland realtor, and I recently spent the day walking through this neighborhood to give you a feel for what it’s really like to live here.

Located in Southeast Portland, Buckman is one of those neighborhoods that makes you stop and take a second look. The homes here are incredible, think historic Craftsman and Victorian styles, many lovingly restored with all the charm preserved. In fact, I was just at an inspection for a client’s 1900-built home, and the amount of care the owners have put into it over the years was amazing. Whether you’re looking for a smaller, modest home or a larger two-story beauty, Buckman offers a wide range of housing options. Prices typically start in the upper $500s and can go up to just under $1 million for homes that are fully updated and move-in ready.

But Buckman is about so much more than homes. The lifestyle here is what really sets it apart. Colonel Summers Park is a community gem, it has a splash pad, pickleball courts, tennis areas, and plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors. Just steps away, you’ll also find a huge community garden where neighbors grow everything from flowers to vegetables, a clear sign of how connected and invested people are in this area.

Buckman’s location is another huge advantage. You’re just across the river from downtown Portland, giving you easy access to the city while still enjoying that neighborhood feel. To the south, you’ve got Ladd’s Addition, one of the most beautiful but more expensive neighborhoods in Portland. The best part? Buckman offers much of the same historic charm without that 30% price premium.

If you love food, coffee, and breweries, you’re going to love living near Hawthorne Boulevard, which borders Buckman. It’s one of Portland’s hippest commercial streets with restaurants, shops, and plenty of nightlife. Add in great public transportation and bike-friendly streets, and it’s easy to see why Buckman is such a sought-after place to live.

Schools are another highlight, Buckman Elementary School is well-rated, and families love being part of this community. Even if you don’t have kids, the schools help add to the strong neighborhood feel and sense of connection among residents.

Walking through Buckman, you’ll notice so many details that give the area its personality: shady streets lined with massive heritage trees, quirky roundabouts that slow traffic and add charm, and a real mix of people, from young professionals and artists to families and retirees. It’s that diversity that makes Buckman feel so alive.

If you’re considering a move to Portland, Buckman is definitely worth a closer look. It’s the perfect balance of historic charm, affordability, and vibrant community life.

 Want to learn more about Buckman or other Portland neighborhoods? Reach out to me today! Whether you’re planning to move next month or next year, I’d love to help you explore your options and find the perfect home.

And if you want to really experience Buckman, don’t miss my full neighborhood tour on YouTube: Why Buckman is the MOST UNDERRATED Neighborhood in SE Portland