So you’re moving to Portland for college? You’re going to need to find a place to rest your head at night; and while dorms are a viable option, they’re not always a quiet homework space. When considering proximity to campus, there are plenty of affordable options such as Goose Hollow, the Alphabet District, Park Blocks, inner east side or the West Hills.
Starting at campus heading north, the Park Blocks in Southwest boast one of the most accessible neighborhoods in downtown. Right off the streetcar and just blocks from the MAX lines, it makes getting around without a vehicle easy. There are a variety of studios that start at about $735. If you look hard enough and have impeccable timing, you may even be able to find something for a bit less.
The Park Blocks area has plenty of restaurants and activities, plus you’re right near campus. It’s close enough to run straight from the shower to class in the winter without your hair freezing, but enough of a distance that you don’t have to deal with the eccentricities of student life all the time.
If you continue north and cross Burnside Street, you’ll find yourself in the beautiful and trendy Alphabet District. While it can get spendy, some apartments are decently priced and there are certainly rooms for rent to be found. There are a variety of buildings—both apartments and houses—so whether or not you want a roommate is your choice.
The Alphabet District also boasts tons of local businesses like bars, restaurants, boutiques and salons. That means your next employer could be just a brisk walk from home. Not only that, but the area is central to the MAX via the Providence Park stop and, depending on where in the area you live, could be extremely close to the streetcar which is free with a Portland State ID. The streetcar will even drop you off right on campus!
Moving across the river to the east side, you’ll find numerous options including the Hollywood District, Woodstock and Belmont. All of these areas offer easy access by public transit, as Portland has one of the best bus systems in the country. The Hollywood District even has access to the MAX Green Line, which will bring you straight to campus.
As you expand your search for living quarters over to the east side, be aware. You are leaving the downtown area, which might lead you to think rent should be cheaper. This is not always the case. Much of the residential offerings on the east side consist of sweet old houses and newly constructed apartments that claim to be eco-friendly. Both come with hefty price tags. If you’re just starting out on your own, these may only be an option if you don’t mind living with a roommate.
If good old Craigslist isn’t cutting it for your apartment search, then try out apps like Zillow or Trulia, both of which offer easy ways to search for a place to your specification.
Basement apartments in the city tend to run cheaper. Because of the often small windows and the location right on the street, these little gems can sometimes be spacious, affordable and hold a lot of old-school charm. Of course, it just depends on what you’re looking for.
Overall, Portland is a safe place. However, there are certain spaces that feel safer, more homey and supply easy carless access to Portland and campus life. Hopefully you’ve already downloaded your app of choice and are on your way to a place that’s just right for you and your needs.
