AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Portland, OR — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Portland neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,550/mo
Median Rent
652,503
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
OHSU (Oregon Health & Science University)
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Portland? What Renters Need to Know

Portland's cost of living is about 15% above the national average. Median rent is ~$1,550/month.

Quick Facts

Population 652,503
Median Rent $1,550/mo
Top Employer OHSU (Oregon Health & Science University)
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,550 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Portland median rent is $50 above the national median of $1,500/mo.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Portland is OHSU (Oregon Health & Science University), making the Pearl District area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Portland

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Pearl District

Score: 90/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 95
Avg Rent $2,200
Schools 6/10
#2

Alberta Arts

Score: 88/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 82
Avg Rent $1,800
Schools 6/10
#3

Hawthorne

Score: 85/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 85
Avg Rent $1,700
Schools 7/10

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#4

Sellwood

Score: 83/100
Safety A
Walk Score 72
Avg Rent $1,600
Schools 8/10
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#5

Lake Oswego

Score: 80/100
Safety A+
Walk Score 42
Avg Rent $2,100
Schools 10/10
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#6

Nob Hill

Score: 78/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 92
Avg Rent $1,700
Schools 6/10
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#7

Beaverton

Score: 75/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 52
Avg Rent $1,500
Schools 8/10
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#8

St. Johns

Score: 71/100
Safety B
Walk Score 65
Avg Rent $1,400
Schools 6/10
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See All 8 Portland Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Portland Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Portland renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Portland.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Portland properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Portland

What is the cost of living in Portland Oregon?

Portland's cost of living is about 15% above the national average. Median rent is ~$1,550/month. Oregon has no sales tax, which helps with daily expenses, though state income tax is among the highest in the country.

What are the best neighborhoods in Portland?

Pearl District is the walkable urban hub. Alberta Arts and Hawthorne are the creative, independent-shop corridors. Lake Oswego is the premier family suburb. Sellwood offers a quieter, charming alternative close to downtown.

Is Portland safe?

Portland's safety has been a concern post-2020. Lake Oswego and Sellwood remain very safe. The Pearl District and Hawthorne are generally safe. Downtown and some inner east side areas have seen increased property crime and homelessness.

How is public transit in Portland?

Portland's TriMet system is one of the best on the West Coast. MAX light rail connects the airport, downtown, and suburbs. Bus and streetcar service is extensive. Many residents bike — Portland is America's top cycling city.

Is Portland's housing market affordable in 2026?

Portland's market has cooled significantly from its peak. Rent prices dropped 5-8% from highs and have stabilized. New construction downtown is increasing options. It remains more affordable than Seattle or San Francisco.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.