Welcome to the City of Roses: Portland, Oregon! Known for its stunning natural beauty, creative energy, and commitment to sustainability, Portland is a desirable destination for many. But life among the coffee roasters, food carts, and indie galleries doesn’t come cheap.
While finding an apartment near the action could result in higher rents, it is possible to work, play, and rent at a reasonable price. We’ve compiled a list of the most affordable neighborhoods in Portland to help you experience the city’s signature lifestyle without overspending.
The five cheapest neighborhoods in Portland in 2025 are:
Powellhurst-Gilbert
- Average Rent in Portland: $1,512
- Average Rent in Powellhurst-Gilbert: $1,045
- Median Home Value Powellhurst-Gilbert: $399,899
Powellhurst-Gilbert sits in the far east section of Portland. The neighborhood has lower rents compared to the heart of the city. It’s a laid-back pocket of quiet where modest apartment communities weave between mid-century homes.
Things to do in Powellhurst-Gilbert
Local eateries and markets reflect the neighborhood’s mix of cultures, from Asian to Eastern European influences. The area serves nature lovers well with small neighborhood parks as well as the larger Powell Butte Nature Park and Kelly Butte Natural Area. Though the area is more residential and less focused on nightlife or major cultural hubs, its affordability makes it a practical place to live.
Transportation
I-205 on Powellhurst-Gilbert’s west side and SE Powell Boulevard make getting to Downtown Portland a breeze. There are TriMet bus stops along major roads, or you can avoid traffic by taking the MAX Green Line that runs along I-205.
Centennial
- Average Rent in Portland: $1,512
- Average Rent in Centennial: $1,161
- Median Home Value in Centennial: $419,000
Centennial is an East Portland neighborhood that offers modest rents compared to the rest of the city. It has a classic suburban vibe, with homes perched on winding streets.
Things to do in Centennial
Daily shopping, casual dining, and a variety of businesses line SE Division street in the center of the neighborhood. Parks and community gardens amidst residential streets are easily walkable. Because the area is primarily residential, residents tend to head to Gresham or Portland for festivals and events.
Transportation
Centennial has a suburban feel, set apart from Portland’s major highways and transit corridors. Buses still run through the area, and SE Powell Boulevard, SE Division Street, and SE Stark Street get drivers to the city. While the MAX Light Rail doesn’t run directly through the neighborhood, the Blue Line is easily accessible along East Burnside Street, just north of Centennial.
Gateway
- Average Rent in Portland: $1,512
- Average Rent in Gateway: $1,217
- Median Home Value in Gateway: $413,000
Known locally as Hazelwood, Gateway puts excellent transit access and frequently visited stores within easy reach. This accessibility has made the area a good choice for renters who value convenience and connection.
Things to do in Gateway
Gateway mixes commercial areas with well-established neighborhoods, so chain retailers and local shops are just a short trip from home. Unwind in your favorite way, whether it’s hitting the golf course at Glendoveer Golf & Tennis or strolling past the outdoor sculptures in Ventura Park.
Transportation
Gateway contains the Gateway Transit Center, a large transit hub with a MAX station. Catch a train on the Red, Blue, or Green MAX Lines, or head to the bus terminal. The nearby I-84/I-205 interchange simplifies going downtown or getting around the Portland area.
North Tabor
- Average Rent in Portland: $1,512
- Average Rent in North Tabor: $1,320
- Median Home Value in North Tabor: $552,500
North Tabor is right above the famous Mt. Tabor, making it the perfect location for an outdoor-focused lifestyle with easy Portland access. While you can enjoy the quiet of being in the suburbs, the active atmosphere of the city is just a short trip away.
Things to do in North Tabor
North Tabor is a smaller neighborhood where residents can walk to local shops and eateries on Burnside and Glisan streets. Sitting just north of Mt. Tabor means the 176-acre park, filled with trails and panoramic views, is only a 20-minute walk away.
Transportation
North Tabor is served by the NE 60th Avenue MAX station (Blue/Red/Green Lines) and bus service to assist residents in commuting without a car. I-84 (Banfield Freeway) marks the northern boundary, giving drivers a straight shot to East Portland and downtown.
St. Johns
- Average Rent in Portland: $1,512
- Average Rent in St. Johns: $1,380
- Median Home Value in St. Johns: $449,000
Just across the Columbia River from Vancouver, WA, St. Johns attracts renters with its charming small-town vibe. This northern neighborhood is packed with local cafés, river views, community spirit, and never-ending events.
Things to do in St. Johns
North Lombard Street is the main corridor of stores, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s also home to community events and festivals, like the annual parade and farmers market. Just minutes away, University Park surrounds the University of Portland, and downtown is less than eight miles south.
With expansive parks and natural areas, green spaces are just a walk away. Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area, Pier Park, and Cathedral City Park are popular outdoor weekend destinations where residents hike or take their dogs.
Transportation
Though farther from downtown than some neighborhoods, St. Johns has bus service and access to major roads in the northern sector of Portland. The St. Johns Bridge offers a scenic drive over the Willamette River then straight into downtown.
Find Affordable Apartments in Portland on Apartments.com
Whether you’re searching for a studio in St. Johns or a two-bedroom near Lents, Apartments.com makes it simple to compare prices, amenities, and locations across Portland. With powerful filters for rent range, pet policies, and commute time, you can narrow your search to the neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and your budget. Start exploring thousands of verified listings today on Apartments.com to find the Portland apartment that feels like home.
This article was originally published on November 9, 2023.
FAQs
What is the best area to live in Portland, OR?
The best area to live in Portland, OR depends on you and your lifestyle. Renters looking to be in the middle of the action should look in Waterfront or Uptown Portland. For a quieter lifestyle, a suburb like Cedar Hills-Cedar Mill might be a better choice.
What part of Portland is the cheapest to live in?
The cheapest part of Portland is usually areas on the outskirts of the city. The East Portland area is a great place to explore neighborhoods since rents there are typically lower.
What salary do you need to live in Portland, Oregon?
The salary recommended to live in Portland, Oregon is around $99,000 a year. The cost of living is Portland is 16 percent higher than the national average, which increases the income needed to live comfortably.
