north portland (rental, houses, neighborhoods)

[swerl]

I was recently in Portland checking out neighborhoods, but did not get to see North Portland, and now a rental option has come up for me in that area. Would anyone be able to tell me about the general atmosphere of the area between Astor Elementary school and N. Willamette Blvd as a place to live in Portland? I don't have a good sense of what it's like there, or how far from good grocery stores, shops, etc.

[carpenterant]

All in all that's a very quiet neighborhood. It's near the University of Portland, so there'll be some college students living in the area, but also a mix of young families and first time homebuyers, and retirees. It's very residential feeling, with lots of small cottage style houses and bungalows.

You'll be three or so miles from grocery shopping, aside from drug store or convenience store type shops. But you'd also be in-between the St. Johns area, Kenton, and Killingsworth St area, where there are good restaurants and bars. It's certainly not smack-dab in the middle of the action, though.

North Portland has been slowly gentrifying over the years, so new businesses are growing and homes are being improved all over the area. It still has a very working class feel to it. Hope this is helpful.

[swerl]

Thanks for your reply carpenterant. Very helpful information.

[EricaZ]

I used to live and play close to that area. I enjoyed it, take the opportunity if you can.