Living In St. Johns, Portland: A Complete Neighborhood Guide

St. Johns is a unique and vibrant neighborhood in Portland, Oregon, known for its small-town charm, historic architecture, and strong community spirit. If you're considering moving to Portland or just curious about different neighborhoods, St. Johns is definitely worth a look. This guide will cover everything you need to know about living in St. Johns, from its history and culture to its housing market and local amenities.

What Makes St. Johns Special?

St. Johns boasts a distinct identity, setting it apart from other Portland neighborhoods. It's like a small town nestled within a larger city, offering a blend of urban convenience and a close-knit community feel. Here are some key features that make St. Johns special:

• Historic Charm: The neighborhood has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, with many well-preserved buildings and landmarks.
• Community Focus: St. Johns has a strong sense of community, with numerous local events, farmers' markets, and neighborhood associations.
• Natural Beauty: Surrounded by Forest Park and the Willamette River, St. Johns offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
• Affordable Housing: Compared to some other Portland neighborhoods, St. Johns offers more affordable housing options.

A Brief History of St. Johns

Originally an independent city, St. Johns was annexed by Portland in 1915. Its history is deeply rooted in maritime activities and industry, thanks to its location at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. The iconic St. Johns Bridge, completed in 1931, is a symbol of the neighborhood and a testament to its history. The bridge is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. — Texans Vs. Cowboys Tickets: Your Guide To Game Day

Is St. Johns a Good Place to Live? (Pros and Cons)

Like any neighborhood, St. Johns has its pros and cons. Understanding these can help you decide if it's the right fit for you.

Pros:

• Affordability: Housing costs in St. Johns are generally lower than in many other Portland neighborhoods.
• Community: The strong sense of community makes it easy to connect with neighbors and get involved in local activities.
• Walkability: The neighborhood is relatively walkable, with many shops, restaurants, and parks within easy reach.
• Parks and Recreation: With Forest Park and the Willamette River nearby, outdoor recreation opportunities abound.
• Unique Character: St. Johns has a distinct, quirky character that appeals to many residents.

Cons:

• Distance from Downtown: St. Johns is located in North Portland, which is a bit further from downtown than some other neighborhoods.
• Limited Public Transportation: While there are bus lines, public transportation options are not as extensive as in more central areas.
• Industrial Influence: Being near industrial areas, there can be some noise and air quality concerns.
• Gentrification: Like many Portland neighborhoods, St. Johns is experiencing gentrification, which can lead to rising costs and changes in the community.

St. Johns Real Estate Market

The real estate market in St. Johns is diverse, with a mix of historic homes, Craftsman bungalows, and newer developments. As mentioned earlier, the housing costs are generally more affordable than in many other Portland neighborhoods, but prices have been rising in recent years due to increased demand. — Arc Raiders Server Status: Is It Down?

Types of Homes in St. Johns

• Historic Homes: Many beautiful historic homes are in the neighborhood, reflecting the area's rich history.
• Craftsman Bungalows: These charming homes are a common sight in St. Johns, known for their architectural details and cozy layouts.
• Newer Developments: There are also newer condos and townhouses available, offering modern amenities and design.

Renting vs. Buying

Both renting and buying are viable options in St. Johns. Renting can be a good choice if you're not ready to commit to a specific location or if you prefer the flexibility of renting. Buying, on the other hand, can be a good investment, especially in a neighborhood like St. Johns, where property values are expected to continue rising.

Things to Do in St. Johns

St. Johns offers a variety of activities and attractions for residents and visitors alike. Here are some of the highlights:

• St. Johns Bridge: Take a walk or bike ride across this iconic bridge for stunning views of the Willamette River and the surrounding area.
• Cathedral Park: Located under the St. Johns Bridge, this park is a popular spot for picnics, events, and enjoying the scenery.
• Pier Park: A large park with disc golf, trails, and picnic areas, perfect for outdoor recreation.
• Downtown St. Johns: Explore the charming downtown area with its local shops, restaurants, and businesses.
• Farmers' Market: The St. Johns Farmers' Market is a great place to buy fresh produce and local goods.

Local Restaurants and Bars

St. Johns has a growing food scene, with a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from. Some popular spots include:

• The Fixin' To: A Southern-inspired restaurant and bar with delicious food and a lively atmosphere.
• Tienda Santa Cruz: A local favorite for authentic Mexican cuisine.
• Occidental Brewing: A brewery with a German-style beer garden, perfect for enjoying a pint on a sunny day.

Parks and Recreation in St. Johns

St. Johns is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous parks and recreational opportunities. Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the United States, is located nearby, offering miles of hiking and biking trails. The Willamette River also provides opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing.

Key Parks in the Area

• Cathedral Park: As mentioned earlier, this park is a must-visit for its location under the St. Johns Bridge and its beautiful setting.
• Pier Park: A large park with disc golf, trails, and picnic areas, perfect for a day outdoors.
• Forest Park: While not entirely within St. Johns, Forest Park is easily accessible and offers a vast network of trails for hiking and biking.

Community and Culture in St. Johns

The strong sense of community is one of the defining characteristics of St. Johns. There are numerous community events throughout the year, including the St. Johns Parade and the Bizarre Bazaar. Neighborhood associations play an active role in shaping the community and addressing local issues. — Blues Vs. Maple Leafs: NHL Showdown

Community Events and Festivals

• St. Johns Parade: An annual parade that celebrates the community and its history.
• Bizarre Bazaar: A quirky and unique holiday market featuring local artists and craftspeople.

Schools and Education

St. Johns has a mix of public and private schools, serving students of all ages. The schools in the area are part of the Portland Public Schools district.

Transportation in St. Johns

While St. Johns is a bit further from downtown than some other neighborhoods, it's still relatively easy to get around. Public transportation options include bus lines, and there are also bike lanes and walking paths. The neighborhood is also car-friendly, with plenty of street parking available.

Public Transportation Options

• Bus Lines: Several bus lines connect St. Johns to other parts of Portland.
• Bike Lanes: The neighborhood has a network of bike lanes, making it easy to get around by bike.

Safety in St. Johns

Like any urban area, St. Johns has its share of safety concerns. However, the neighborhood is generally considered safe, and there are active community efforts to address safety issues. Residents often cite the strong community spirit as a factor in maintaining safety.

Community Safety Initiatives

• Neighborhood Watch Programs: Active neighborhood watch programs help to keep the community safe.
• Community Policing: A strong relationship between the community and local law enforcement helps to address safety concerns.

Cost of Living in St. Johns

The cost of living in St. Johns is generally lower than in many other Portland neighborhoods. Housing costs are a significant factor, but groceries, transportation, and other expenses are also relatively affordable.

Housing Costs

• Rent: Rental rates in St. Johns are typically lower than in more central areas of Portland.
• Home Prices: Home prices are also generally more affordable, although they have been rising in recent years.

FAQs About Living in St. Johns

Is St. Johns a walkable neighborhood?

Yes, St. Johns is a relatively walkable neighborhood, with many shops, restaurants, and parks within easy reach.

How far is St. Johns from downtown Portland?

St. Johns is located in North Portland, about 8 miles from downtown.

What are the schools like in St. Johns?

St. Johns has a mix of public and private schools, serving students of all ages.

Is St. Johns a safe neighborhood?

St. Johns is generally considered safe, with active community efforts to address safety issues.

What is the community like in St. Johns?

St. Johns has a strong sense of community, with numerous local events and neighborhood associations.

Conclusion

St. Johns is a unique and vibrant neighborhood that offers a blend of small-town charm and urban convenience. With its historic architecture, strong community spirit, and natural beauty, St. Johns is a great place to live. Whether you're looking for affordable housing, outdoor recreation opportunities, or a close-knit community, St. Johns has something to offer. If you're considering a move to Portland, be sure to explore all that St. Johns has to offer. Take the time to visit local businesses, explore the parks, and talk to residents to get a feel for the neighborhood's unique character.