
Your Guide To
Portsmouth
This North Portland Neighborhood Comes with a Strong Local Spirit and Access to Nature
Where Community and Culture Thrive
Located in North Portland, Portsmouth is a neighborhood that blends community-driven energy with a welcoming, laid-back feel. Home styles here reflect the neighborhood’s history, with classic mid-century ranches, early 1900s cottages, and contemporary homes adding variety to the tree-lined streets. Portsmouth sits just south of the University of Portland, meaning residents enjoy college town perks like easy access to cultural events, sports games, and scenic riverfront walks. The neighborhood has one of the most diverse populations in Portland, creating a rich blend of cultures, languages, and cuisines, which can be seen in its local businesses, restaurants, and public events.
Beyond its strong sense of community, Portsmouth offers access to some of North Portland’s best green spaces. Columbia Park, Portsmouth Park, and Northgate Park give residents ample room to enjoy outdoor activities, whether it’s a relaxing picnic, a friendly game of soccer, or a shaded trail walk. Art lovers will appreciate public murals and sculptures that tell the story of Portsmouth’s past, present, and future, adding creative flair to the streets. Just minutes away, the Columbia Slough provides opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching, and exploring Portland’s natural wetlands, making it easy for residents to stay connected to nature.
Portsmouth continues to grow and evolve, with new businesses, revitalized parks, and engaged residents shaping its future. With a Walk Score of 62, it offers a balance of walkability and convenience, while the 10.9 miles of bike routes and easy access to transit options make commuting simple. Downtown Portland is just 16 minutes away by car, and major routes provide quick connections to nearby neighborhoods like St. Johns, University Park, and Kenton. Whether you’re drawn to its welcoming atmosphere, easy access to green spaces, or strong sense of community, Portsmouth stands out as one of North Portland’s most exciting places to call home.
Homes for Sale in the Portsmouth Neighborhood
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Fun Facts
Almost Its Own City
Back in 1883, real estate developers tried to make Portsmouth its own city, separate from Portland. While that plan never materialized, the neighborhood has always maintained its own unique identity and tight-knit community.
Oregon’s Largest Public Housing Community
Portsmouth is home to New Columbia, the largest public housing redevelopment in Oregon. Covering 82 acres, it’s a vibrant, mixed-income community with parks, walking trails, and even its own McCoy Park as a central gathering spot.
A Legacy of Leadership
The Charles Jordan Community Center was named after Portland’s first Black city commissioner, Charles Jordan. Today, it’s a hub for recreation, youth programs, and fitness classes.
Parks
With approximately 13% of the Portsmouth neighborhood dedicated to green space, residents have ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Columbia Park, nestled under a canopy of tall fir trees, offers baseball diamonds, picnic tables, tennis courts, and an indoor swimming pool, making it a favorite spot for both quiet walks and active recreation. Portsmouth Park provides a playground, soccer field, and softball field, enhancing the neighborhood's appeal for families and individuals alike. Northgate Park, another local favorite, features open green space, a splash pad for kids, and sports courts, making it a go-to spot for outdoor fun. Whether you're up for a game of tennis, a leisurely stroll, or a relaxing afternoon picnic, the parks in Portsmouth offer plenty of space to enjoy Portland's natural beauty.
Points of Interest
This neighborhood offers easy access to the Peninsula Crossing Trail, perfect for walking, biking, and connecting with nature. The Charles Jordan Community Center adds a community-focused touch, bringing people together through various programs and events. The Fishwife Restaurant, a beloved local seafood spot, has been serving up fresh, Pacific Northwest-inspired dishes for decades, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers. For those looking to unwind, Chill N Fill offers a welcoming atmosphere with a fantastic selection of craft beers on tap and bottles to-go. Local businesses and dining options enhance Portsmouth’s vibrant and community-oriented feel, making it a great place to explore.
Getting Around
With a Walk Score of 62, Portsmouth offers a balance between walkable spots and the convenience of driving when needed. Downtown Portland is just 16 minutes away by car, with several transit lines providing easy access to public transportation. For cyclists, 10.9 miles of bike routes make it easy to get around on two wheels. The neighborhood is served by César Chávez School (K–8), Rosa Parks Elementary School (K–5), and Clarendon Early Learning Academy (pre-K), ensuring educational needs are met within the community.
Schools*
Elementary: César Chávez School: (K-8), Rosa Parks Elementary School, Clarendon Early Learning Academy
Middle: César Chávez School: (K-8)
High School: Roosevelt High School
*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 appreciate the sense of community that makes Portsmouth such a great place to call home.
With its welcoming atmosphere, access to parks and trails, and strong neighborhood spirit, it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to this part of North Portland. Whether you’re looking for your first home, a place to grow, or a fresh start in a connected community, we’re here to help. Our local expertise and hands-on approach make buying or selling in Portsmouth a seamless experience. Let’s find the right home that fits your lifestyle and goals. Call or text us today at 503-951-8547 to get started.
Kim Campbell & Francisco Salgado