Why should I move to SW Portland | Portland Oregon's Best Neighborhood

When people think of Portland’s hottest neighborhoods, they often point to Hawthorne in the southeast or Alberta in the northeast but, the real gem lies in Southwest Portland. From Multnomah Village to the Southwest Hills, this area perfectly balances urban convenience with natural beauty, offering residents the best of both worlds.

If you’re considering moving to Portland or investing in the city’s most desirable communities, Southwest Portland should be at the top of your list.

Why Southwest Portland, Oregon Is So Desirable

Southwest Portland stretches from downtown and the waterfront all the way up through lush, tree-lined neighborhoods and Washington Park, home to the Oregon Zoo, International Rose Test Garden, and the Japanese Gardens. With its mix of charming historic homes, modern builds, and incredible access to green space, it’s no wonder this area is Portland’s most sought-after region.

You’ll also find some of the city’s best dining, boutique shopping, and top-rated schools—all within minutes of major employers like Nike, OHSU (Oregon Health & Science University), and the Beaverton tech corridor.

Exploring Multnomah Village: Portland’s Hidden Gem

At the heart of Southwest Portland is Multnomah Village, a charming, walkable district filled with locally owned shops, cozy cafés, and a strong sense of community.

Stroll down Capitol Highway and you’ll discover local favorites like Indigo Traders (famous for Turkish towels and artisan goods), Annie Bloom’s Books, and Level Beer’s tasting room. Families love the original toy store and the village’s annual Halloween trick-or-treat event that brings the whole community together.

Housing in Multnomah Village

The average home price here sits around $700,000, offering timeless Portland architecture; hardwood floors, wood-burning fireplaces, and generous backyards. Most homes were built between the 1940s and 1960s, giving the area an established, character-filled feel that’s hard to find in newer subdivisions.

You’ll also find friendly neighbors, quiet tree-lined streets, and access to top-rated schools, making Multnomah Village a favorite for families and professionals alike.

Parks and Outdoor Lifestyle

Outdoor lovers will thrive here. Just one block from the village is Gabriel Park, one of Southwest Portland’s largest green spaces. It features:

• A skate park

• Off-leash dog area

• Miles of walking trails

• A recreation center

• Weekend soccer games and community events

Nearby Spring Garden Park adds even more outdoor fun, with a splash pad, nature trails, and even views of Mount Hood.

The Southwest Hills: Luxury Living With Iconic Views

Drive just a few minutes north, and you’ll find yourself in the Southwest Hills, where elegance meets nature. Homes here start around $1 million and range from mid-century moderns with panoramic windows to luxurious contemporary builds and classic estates.

These hillside homes often come with forest views, large wooded lots, and the feeling of total privacy yet, you’re still just 10 minutes from downtown Portland and the Pearl District.

Families are drawn to this area for its exceptional public and private schools, including Bridlemile Elementary, Catlin Gabel, Oregon Episcopal School (OES), and Jesuit High School, some of the most respected in the region.

Exciting Growth and the Diamond Project

One of the most talked-about future developments in Southwest Portland is the proposed $2 billion Diamond Project, which could bring Major League Baseball to the Southwest waterfront. Plans include a 32,000-seat ballpark, shops, entertainment spaces, and waterfront access along the Willamette River.

Even without the stadium, this part of town continues to attract professionals, families, and investors seeking Portland’s unique blend of urban energy and Pacific Northwest tranquility.

Why Buyers Love Southwest Portland

Buyers consistently say they choose Southwest Portland because it offers everything Portland is known for; walkability, creativity, coffee culture, and natural beauty, without sacrificing space or quiet. You can enjoy a forest-like setting, yet still be just minutes from the city center.

It’s the kind of place where you can grab a latte from a local coffee shop in the morning, hit the trails at Gabriel Park in the afternoon, and be downtown for dinner, all within a few miles.

Watch the Full Tour of Southwest Portland

Want to see what makes Southwest Portland so special?
Watch Our full YouTube video: “A Full Tour of Portland’s #1 Hotspot: Southwest Portland” for an inside look at Multnomah Village, the Southwest Hills, and the homes that make this part of the city so desirable.

Thinking About Moving to Portland?

Whether you’re buying, selling, or relocating to the Portland area, we can help you navigate the city’s unique neighborhoods and find the perfect home for your lifestyle. Contact me today to schedule a consultation or start your Portland home search.