10 Safest Neighborhoods in Portland

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Portland is the most bike-friendly city in the United States.

It is also home to the smallest park in the entire world.

Portland offers people amazing mountain views and fantastic food.

But Portland isn’t all peaches and cream when it comes to crime.

Portland, just like any other city in America, has issues with safety and crime.

However, it depends on the areas or neighborhoods you choose.

Portland’s population is 619,286.

The violent crime rate in Portland is 302.5 per 100,000 residents.

The property crime rate is 2623.4 per 100,000 residents.

For those considering moving here or visiting, this guide will inform you of the top ten safest neighborhoods in Portland.

10 Safest Neighborhoods in Portland

1. Goose Hollow

One of the safest neighborhoods in Portland is Goose Hollow.

This area made the top 10 list for several reasons.

The population in Goose Hollow is 2,142.

The crime rates in Goose Hollow are as follows:

• Assault: 133.3 out of 100,000 residents
• Robbery: 102.6 out of 100,000 residents
• Theft: 3,928.2 out of 100,000 residents

Goose Hollow is located just southwest of Portland and close to the Tualatin Mountains.

Goose Hollow also offers many hiking spots and other attractions in the neighborhood.

2. Northwest District

The Northwest District made the list of the top 10 safest neighborhoods in Portland.

The crime rate is 15% below the state’s average.

The population in the Northwest District is 11,455.

It is a neighborhood that is known for having some of the best restaurants and shopping centers in Portland.

The average cost of a home here is $598,786, and while it is expensive, it’s well worth it.

3. Eastmoreland

Coming in at number three on the list of the safest neighborhoods in Portland is Eastmoreland.

The population in Eastmoreland is 5,017.

The neighborhood has a pretty low crime rate.

For example, the theft crime rate is 19.87 per 1,000 people within a year.

Eastmoreland has a violent crime grade of an A and a property crime grade of a C.

Eastmoreland has numerous golf courses and parks in the area.

Reed College is also located in the neighborhood.

The average cost of a home in Eastmoreland is $882,274.

4. Laurelhurst

Laurelhurst is yet another safe neighborhood in Portland.

It is well-known for having a relaxed environment and superior homes.

The neighborhood has an abundance of natural parks.

In addition, Laurelhurst has a statue of Joan of Arc located at a WWI memorial.

You’ll also find some of the best landscaping in the entire state in Laurelhurst.

It is known as one of the priciest neighborhoods, hence the average cost of a home, which is $848,030.

The population of Laurelhurst is 4,549.

Some of the crime rates in Laurelhurst are:

• Assault: 50.8 per 100,000 residents
• Burglary: 660.8 per 100,000 residents
• Theft: 2,168 per 100,000 residents

5. South Portland

Also topping the list of the top safest neighborhoods in Portland is South Portland.

The population is 5,100 and has some amazing views.

A couple of the views include those of the Sellwood Bridge and the Marquam Bridge, both of which are historic bridges.

The following are some of the crime rates in South Portland:

• Violent crimes: 2.07 per 1,000 residents
• Property crimes: 13.04 per 1,000 residents

It’s an ideal location for those looking to live in a clean and quiet neighborhood.

It is also on the list for being one of the most family-friendly areas in Portland.

The average cost of a home in South Portland is $460,663.

6. Kerns

The population of Kerns is 5,600, and it is yet another safe neighborhood in Portland.

The neighborhood has a perfect combination of condos, commercial buildings, and rental housing.

The neighborhood has a vigorous art and brewery scene, full of buildings with beautifully painted artwork and murals.

Here is a look at some of the crime rates in Kern:

• Assault: 247.5 per 100,000 residents
• Robbery: 86.6 per 100,000 residents
• Theft: 6,113.1 per 100,000 residents

While Kern has experienced some problems with drug and crime activity, it’s still considered much safer compared to other neighborhoods in Portland.

7. Southwest Hills

Southwest Hills is another one of the safest neighborhoods in Portland and for very good reason.

It is a unique area with a population of 6,130.

The crime rate in Southwest Hills is 29% below the state’s average.

Crime in Southwest Hills occurs at a rate of 2,105 per 100,000 residents.

Southwest Hills is located just outside of Portland and offers some amazing hiking trails for everyone to take advantage of on the West Coast.

Southwest Hills is also known to be one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Portland, but it is well worth it.

The average cost of a home here is more than $1 million.

8. Sabin

Sabin is another excellent option for those looking for a safe neighborhood in Portland.

It is located northeast of Portland.

The population of Sabin is 3,192.

While it’s not a huge community, the area offers a lot of activities for those who consider themselves to be outgoing.

Sabin is located near North Portland, Irvington, and Alberta Arts, some of the most frequently visited areas.

In addition, Sabin is near Mississippi Ave. in downtown Portland, which is a well-known destination in the city.

The burglary crime rate in Sabin is 307.5 per 100,000 residents.

The robbery rate is 14 per 100,000 residents, which is relatively low.

9. Irvington

Another neighborhood making the list of Portland’s top safest neighborhoods is Irvington.

It has a population of 9,000 people.

It provides residents with a serene and quiet feel.

It’s ideal for residents looking to live near downtown Portland.

The chances of becoming a victim of a crime in Irvington is 1 in 26.

Yet, Irvington is still safer than 68% of cities in Oregon.

10. Hillsdale

Last on the list of safest neighborhoods in Portland is Hillsdale.

The population of Hillsdale is 7,436.

It’s extremely safe and walkable.

Downtown Hillsdale is busy and full of many shops and restaurants.

Hillsdale also has its very own Farmer’s Market in addition to top-notch pubs and breweries.

Your chances of becoming a victim of crime in Hillsdale are 1 in 28.

It is 74% safer than other cities in Oregon and slightly lower than Portland’s crime rate.

The majority of the crimes seen in this town are minor drug crimes and property theft.

5 Safety Tips for Traveling to Portland

Here are five safety tips to keep in mind when traveling to Portland.

1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

No matter where you travel, being aware of your surroundings is important.

The same applies to those traveling to Portland.

This is especially true at night.

You should always be aware of where you’re at and the people around you.

2. Make Sure Your Cell Phone Is Fully Charged

Ensuring that your cell phone is fully charged before you step out onto the streets is critical.

In the event of an emergency, your phone should always be of use to you.

3. Be Careful of Those Who Try to Piggyback

Whenever you enter a building, never allow anyone to piggyback behind you.

If you are uncomfortable communicating this to someone, you can notify law enforcement or security right away.

4. Always Trust Your Instincts

This tip is extremely important. You should always trust your instincts when traveling.

If something doesn’t feel or look right to you, it may not be.

5. Research and Plan Ahead of Time

Before you travel to Portland, be sure to research your trip.

Look up different areas and neighborhoods that you plan on visiting while you’re there.

Try to gain an understanding of the area’s safety reputation and any necessary precautions to take.

Portland Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Portland Safety Review

Safety Index:

69

• OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: LOW
• TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
• SCAMS RISK: LOW
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW