neighborhood knowledge

My partner and I (along w/our 11 mo. old daughter and 2 dogs), are planning to move across country to Portland, so as to be closer to family in Boston. We plan to rent before buying a home so that we can learn more about the area and its various neighborhoods. We wondered if anyone would be willing to offer some insight into which neighborhoods are known for what. We currently live in a very family friendly, historic neighborhood where many people seem to really appreciate the neighborhood feel. It is also walking distance to our beach and downtown. We hope to find something similar. Any thoughts?

neighborhood knowledge

Check out Munjoy Hill. It was once run-down, but is undergoing a resurgence as people move back into the city.

neighborhood knowledge

Munjoy Hill is an excellent suggestion, located on the eastern side of the downtown peninsula. The western side of the peninsula (known as the west end) also meets many of your criteria. I much prefer the housing stock in the west end which has many brick townhouses giving this neighborhood an historic feel.

As it turns out, due to a fire in 1866, most of the older homes, circa 1775-1825, are located off the downtown peninsula yet within the city limits of Portland. Stroudwater and Deering Center are two neighborhoods that have wonderful old houses.

One final plug for my neighborhood, Morrill%26#39;s Corner. Located in the area surrounding the intersection of Stevens Ave. and Forest Ave., you will find on Stevens Avenue an elementary school, a middle school and a high school - Deering, reputed to be the best of Portland%26#39;s 4 HS%26#39;s. Given this concentration of public schools, in addition to some sectarian schools also located on Stevens, this neighborhood and the adjacent neighborhood to the south (Deering Center) is full of life brings to mind the image of the picture perfect New England town.

Hello Marcy,

There are several neighborhoods in Portland all having there own charateristics and history. Munjoy Hill is certainly a neighborhood that has transformed over the years as has the West End neighborhood. Walking to downtown should be easy enough but walking to the beach may be an issue(unless it is East End beach, which is really not a great beach). I sent you a message, feel free to contact me.

East End is the way to go.... walking distance to nice walking paths along the water/bay, also historic, and walking distance to down town. It was once run down, but now you%26#39;ve got great restaurants (the Front Room, Blue Spoon, and Bar Lola) and a nice neighborhood feel. The West End is nice as well, a bit classier in my mind, and a slightly older population (we%26#39;re comparing college students/recent grads in the east end to young professionals in the west end). West End is closer walking distance to downtown Portland...

Good luck finding a place, there are tons of apartments in both areas! If you need any other ideas about streets/blocks to live on, send me a message. I%26#39;ve lived in both neighborhoods (I live on the West End now)... Take care!