
Your Guide To
Foster-Powell
A Bustling Neighborhood in SE Portland, Oregon
Where Community Spirit Runs Strong
Affectionately known as ‘FoPo’, Foster-Powell is a Southeast Portland neighborhood bursting with personality, affordability, and a strong sense of community. Originally developed as a streetcar suburb, it has transformed into a lively hub of small businesses, local art, and an increasingly diverse food scene. The neighborhood features a charming mix of bungalows, early 20th-century cottages, and newer infill homes, making it a welcoming spot for first-time homebuyers and longtime residents alike.
Locals love the ever-evolving energy along Foster Road, where international eateries, vintage shops, and community watering holes keep things exciting. The neighborhood is home to Essex Park, a favorite green space with playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic areas. Foster-Powell also boasts a growing collection of street art and murals that celebrate its creative and eclectic character. While it has a residential feel, it’s just a quick trip to Lents, Creston-Kenilworth, and Mt. Scott-Arleta, expanding the options for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
FoPo is the kind of place where neighbors look out for each other, local businesses feel like part of the family, and community events bring people together. With Foster Road and Powell Boulevard providing quick access to downtown, plus bike-friendly streets and nearby transit, getting around is easy. Whether you're drawn to its affordability, walkability, or its tight-knit, welcoming vibe, Foster-Powell is a neighborhood that continues to grow while holding onto its unique charm.
Homes for Sale in the Foster-Powell Neighborhood
.
Your Search, Your Way
Fun Facts
Parisian Inspiration:
In the early 20th century, Foster Road was Portland's widest street, featuring 17-foot-wide sidewalks modeled after Parisian boulevards.
Historic Footpath:
Foster Road, which forms the southern boundary of the neighborhood, was originally a footpath used by indigenous people traveling between the Willamette River and Johnson Creek.
Unique Shape:
It is the only triangular-shaped neighborhood in Portland, covering approximately 565 acres.
Parks
Although only 1% of Foster-Powell is dedicated to green space, the neighborhood offers several inviting parks. Essex Park, the largest in the area, features a playground, baseball field, basketball and tennis courts, and a splash pad, providing ample recreational opportunities for residents. Kern Park and Firland Parkway offer additional green spaces for relaxation and leisure activities. Laurelwood Park, a wedge-shaped park at SE 64th St. and Foster Rd., underwent a major renovation in 2021, enhancing its appeal as a community gathering spot. The 62nd Community Garden provides residents with space to cultivate their own gardens, fostering community engagement and sustainable living. These parks and green spaces, though limited in size, contribute to the neighborhood's charm and offer residents accessible areas to enjoy the outdoors.
Points of Interest
Foster-Powell is packed with unique spots that make it a lively and engaging neighborhood. The Portland Mercado brings a taste of Latin America with food carts, a coffee shop, and a specialty market. An Xuyen Bakery is a go-to for banh mi and pastries, while Carnelian Coffee offers micro-roasted beans and vegan treats. The historic George Morlan Plumbing has been a neighborhood fixture for decades, and now, The Classical Ballet Academy has set up in a theater on Foster, adding to the area's creative energy. Local favorites like Bar Maven and NWIPA provide diverse dining and nightlife, rounding out the mix of eclectic shops, cafes, and gathering spots that give Foster-Powell its unique charm.
Getting Around
With a Walk Score of 79, Foster-Powell is quite walkable, allowing residents to easily access local amenities on foot. Downtown Portland is approximately 19 minutes away by car, making it accessible for commuters. The neighborhood is served by six transit lines, providing ample public transportation options for residents. For cyclists, there are two miles of bike routes, including lanes and multi-use paths, averaging 1.9 miles of bike routes per square mile, facilitating biking throughout the area. This connectivity ensures that residents have multiple options for navigating both the neighborhood and the broader city.
Schools*
Elementary: Richmond, Winterhaven K-8, Opal Charter, Atkinson, Emerson, Arleta
Middle: Da Vinci, Mt. Tabor
High: Franklin, Benson
*School boundaries can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to verify school assignments for any home you’re considering.
Check out Portland Public Schools’ general school map here or use their school finder tool here to get specific information for a property address.
All information provided is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Readers are encouraged to independently verify details to ensure accuracy.
Your Guide to Portland’s Distinctive Districts & Metro Area
At Campbell Salgado Real Estate Group, we love getting to know neighborhoods like Foster-Powell that are full of energy, diversity, and charm.
From its unique triangular layout to its local gems like Portland Mercado, we’ve seen firsthand why people are drawn to this vibrant community.
Whether you’re looking to call FoPo home or thinking about selling, we’re here to offer expert advice and a smooth experience. With a personalized approach and years of experience in Southeast Portland, we help our clients make confident moves that match their goals. Let’s connect and talk about your next steps. Call or text us at 503-951-8547—we’re always happy to help.
Kim Campbell & Francisco Salgado