Oregon

Woodstock is going to be up and coming NOW because a New Seasons store is moving in right smack on Woodstock about 42nd.

Portland is one of the tightest rental locations in the country. Still, it's possible to get an offbeat place for well under a grand if you are flexible and would consider a basement apartment, an apartment in a home (MIL or such), or some other accommodation.

And, as you know, the advantages of living in the Portland metro area just can't be beat. Tri-Met has gone back to more service, and the cost of a bus pass is very very reasonable, considering. You can go just about anywhere except the outer burbs with much ease.

Here's something else to consider. The new MAX line to Milwaukie opens next year. If you haven't been to Milwaukie in years, you might consider making that a priority visit. I don't know how old you are or what perks might be available to you due to age or income status. But I know that a VERY ATTRACTIVE property is smack dab in the middle of Milwaukie city center, and they have a waiting list for beautiful apartments at $750 with income limits. This property is across the street from the very good library and a block from the new park along the riverfront. A block from the farmers market, and about three blocks from the new MAX station. A block from the transit center with buses going every direction. Smack in the middle of some restaurants and shops. The apartments are just a few years old with nice appliances. No pets, though. There is a walking/biking trail that is marvelous, all the way to Gladstone.

Other parts of Milwaukie can be attractive, too, and reasonable.

Sellwood, of course, is quirky and very sweet. However, house flippers are a real menace there as they tear down small settled homes and build huge plexes on the plots, with no parking. It's a battle.

I don't think you want to be east of 82nd. Rents may be a little cheaper out there, but there is increased gang activity and lack of city services.

Belmont/Tabor/Richmond neighborhoods are all booming. Just booming. Division street is now the hottest restaurant row in town. It's still possible to find housing there, but it will take a lot of footwork and craigslist time.

Hawthorne, of course, is everyone's favorite in S.E.

Oooo. St. John's. You might have an idea there. It's still the "little town that time forgot and the centuries cannot improve" as Garrison Keillor would say. Quaint, still. Funky to the extreme. St. John's is definitely not totally gentrified.

I think some time spent on craigslist would tell you an awful lot about what might be available. And taking a look at the Willy Week every week online would give you some clues about what's going on.

I didn't write anything about NW or SW. The Pearl has been usurped in trendiness by what is called the West End.

Oh, the Portland Streetcar is a great boon! Soon there will be a whole circular route 'round the inner city. Through the industrial close-in east side up through the Lloyd district, and up to Legacy Good Samaritan on the NW, and down to the waterfront where OHSU has a major presence.

What a great town.