About Portland, Oregon
Portland is the largest city in Oregon and the 25th-largest in the United States, with a population of roughly 635,000 in the city proper and about 2.5 million in the greater metro area. Known for its bridges, forested hills, world-class food scene, and progressive culture, Portland sits at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers and serves as the economic, cultural, and creative hub of Oregon.
History of Portland
Portland was founded in 1843 and named after Portland, Maine, following a famous coin flip between two settlers who each wanted to name the city after their hometown (the other choice was Boston). The city grew rapidly as a Pacific port and became a major lumber center in the late 19th century. Portland played significant roles in the Oregon Trail migration, the Lewis and Clark expedition's return, and the development of the Pacific Northwest. The 20th century saw Portland transform from a working port city into a major tech, healthcare, and cultural center, particularly following the arrival of Intel, Nike, and other major employers in the region.
Neighborhoods in Portland
Portland is home to a mix of neighborhoods and districts, each with its own character.
| Neighborhood | Character |
|---|
| Downtown / Pearl District | The urban core with high-rises, major cultural institutions, the Pearl District's converted warehouses, and Powell's City of Books. |
| Southeast Portland (Hawthorne, Division, Sellwood) | Dense, walkable neighborhoods known for independent shops, restaurants, and the Lice Treatment Portland SE Gladstone clinic. |
| Northeast Portland (Alberta, Mississippi, Irvington) | Historic neighborhoods with strong community identity, arts districts, and a mix of Craftsman and Victorian homes. |
| North Portland (St. Johns, Kenton) | Former working-class neighborhoods now increasingly popular with families and artists. |
| Northwest Portland (Nob Hill, Forest Park) | Home to the 5,200-acre Forest Park, Victorian architecture, and the Alphabet District. |
| West Hills (Portland Heights, Council Crest) | Hillside neighborhoods with sweeping views of the city, Mount Hood, and Mount St. Helens. |
Notable attractions in Portland
Portland offers residents and visitors a variety of local attractions.
Powell's City of Books
The largest independent bookstore in the world, occupying an entire city block in the Pearl District.
Forest Park
One of the largest urban forests in the United States at over 5,200 acres, with 80+ miles of trails.
Portland Japanese Garden
Regularly cited as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside Japan, set in Washington Park.
International Rose Test Garden
The oldest continuously operating public rose garden in the U.S., with over 10,000 rose bushes.
Washington Park
A 410-acre park home to the Oregon Zoo, Portland Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and Hoyt Arboretum.
Powell Butte, Mount Tabor, and Council Crest
Three extinct volcanoes inside the city limits, each offering parks, trails, and panoramic views.
Portland at a glance
- Population: ~635,000 (city) / ~2.5M (metro)
- Median household income: $85,000
- Median home value: $555,000
Economy of Portland
Portland's economy combines technology (the Silicon Forest extends from Portland west through Hillsboro), healthcare (OHSU is the city's largest employer), athletic apparel (Nike is headquartered just southwest in Beaverton, with Columbia Sportswear, Adidas North America, and Keen also in the metro area), food and beverage (Portland is known nationally for its coffee, craft beer, and food cart culture), and creative industries including advertising, film, and publishing.
Our SE Portland clinic on Gladstone Road is convenient to Woodstock, Sellwood, Reed, Eastmoreland, and downtown. Free street parking. Same-day appointments almost always available.
