Median Price
$669,000
Walk Score
36
Schools
B+
Where it sits
Homestead is nestled in Portland’s southwest hills, bordered by SW Marquam Hill Road and SW Sam Jackson Park Road to the north, SW Terwilliger Boulevard to the east, SW US Veterans Hospital Road to the south, and SW 13th Avenue on its western edge. This neighborhood is synonymous with Portland’s “medical hill,” home to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and surrounded by densely wooded hillsides, giving it a tucked-away, serene character just minutes from downtown.
The Neighborhood
Homestead's housing stock is an eclectic mix—mid-century modern homes perched along wooded hillsides, classic ranches from the 1950s and 1960s, and a handful of contemporary infill properties. Many homes enjoy expansive forest views, while smaller apartments and condos near OHSU cater to students and medical professionals.
Daily life here is quieter than in many Portland neighborhoods, with little through-traffic. Marquam Hill Road and SW Terwilliger Boulevard see the most activity, with walking trails, pocket parks, and a handful of small cafes and eateries primarily serving the local medical community. Mature trees and winding streets lend a retreat-like atmosphere.
Parks, Trails & Green Space
Top 5 places to get outside
Marquam Nature Park — A sprawling urban forest with over seven miles of hiking trails, this park serves as Homestead’s backyard. Known for lush native woods, it provides connections to the Marquam Trail and views over downtown Portland.
Council Crest Park — Perched just west of Homestead, Council Crest is the city’s highest point. It offers open lawns, panoramic mountain vistas, and picnic spots, making it popular for sunset walks.
Carter Bridge (Terwilliger Trail Access) — This pedestrian bridge links Homestead to the Terwilliger Trail, inviting residents to walk, run, or bike through scenic woodlands stretching into downtown and farther south.
Duniway Park — Located just north, at the edge of Homestead, Duniway offers an all-weather track, sports fields, and rain gardens. It’s a hub for local runners and organized sports.
Sam Jackson Park Road Green Spaces — Informal green buffers and gardens line this heavily treed road. These quiet corners serve as resident retreats amid the busy medical campus.
Coffee Shops
Top 5 places for a coffee
Elephants Deli at OHSU — Located within the OHSU main hospital, this wallet-friendly Portland institution serves Stumptown coffee, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and quick lunch fare. Known for fresh, local ingredients and bustling with medical staff and students.
CHH Café at Center for Health & Healing — Within OHSU’s South Waterfront expansion, the CHH Café pours local brews and offers light snacks and fresh pastries—convenient for both hospital visitors and Homestead residents on the move.
Cafe on the Hill — A cozy breakfast and lunch spot on Marquam Hill. Frequented by staff and students, this welcoming spot is known for rich Portland-roasted coffee and house-made muffins.
Star Rover Coffee — Located just east of the neighborhood near SW Gibbs Street, this independent shop specializes in single-origin espresso and creative toast options, drawing locals from both Homestead and the edge of Lair Hill.
Restaurants & Food Carts
Top 5 places for a bite to eat
Mac Hall Bistro (inside OHSU) — A cafeteria-style eatery offering diverse, rotating menus including Mediterranean, Asian, and Northwest fare. Popular with medical professionals and visitors alike.
Gator’s Pub & Eatery — Located at the base of the hill along Barbur Boulevard, this laid-back pub offers burgers, sandwiches, and classic comfort food, with a solid local following.
Daily Café at OHSU CHH — This South Waterfront sibling to the Homestead-based cafes serves nourishing bowls, salads, and sandwiches in a casual setting. Known for its convenient, healthy lunch options.
Bars
Top 5 places for a drink
Gator’s Pub & Eatery — A classic neighborhood bar on the edge of Homestead. Known for a casual vibe, rotating taps, a full cocktail menu, and hearty American fare.
The Old Barn Tavern — Near the western border, this longtime local tavern is favored for its Oregon beers, pool tables, trivia nights, and neighborly feel.
Things To Do
Top 5 things worth your time
OHSU Aerial Tram — Portland’s only public aerial tram, whisking riders between the South Waterfront and OHSU’s Marquam Hill campus. Known for spectacular views of the downtown skyline and mountains.
Marquam Hill Trailhead — Direct access to Marquam Nature Park and the 4T Trail (Trail, Tram, Trolley, Train), which lets residents explore Portland’s urban and wild sides in one loop.
Council Crest Summits — A classic local hike or picnic destination, Council Crest rewards visitors with panoramic city and mountain scenes.
South Waterfront Farmers Market — Just down the hill, this seasonal market offers local produce, flowers, and prepared foods—an easy Saturday outing for Homestead residents.
Homestead NA Community Meetings — The Homestead Neighborhood Association hosts quarterly meetings and seasonal socials, creating connections and keeping residents informed about local issues.
Community Resources
Local services & organizations
Homestead Neighborhood Association (HNA): — The official group for resident advocacy, community events, and local issues.
OHSU Campus & Shuttle Service: — Extensive shuttles, information desks, and wayfinding resources for locals and medical visitors.
OHSU Farmers Market: — Open seasonally, this open-air market at the OHSU commons features local produce and prepared foods.
Nearest Post Office: — Portland Downtown Station, just north on SW 5th Avenue, handling all mail and package services.
Homestead Little Free Libraries: — Several resident-maintained book exchanges dot the neighborhood, often near trailheads.
Help Us Keep This Current
Did we miss a favorite spot?
Is It Right For You?
How Homestead balances out.
Every neighborhood trades one thing for another. Each scale is drawn from real data — price, walkability, era, and architectural character.
Everyday comfortA trade-off to weigh
Who it suits
You’ll likely love it if…
- Access to hiking trails and green space
- Medical professionals and OHSU affiliates
- Quiet, low-traffic living close to downtown
It might not fit if…
- Hilly terrain and winding roads can challenge daily commutes
- Limited nightlife and restaurant diversity
- Modest Walk Score—most errands require driving
Homestead FAQ
The questions we hear most about Homestead — and honest answers from people who know it.
Ask us anything →A: Homestead’s homes range from classic mid-century moderns and 1950s ranches nestled into the hillsides to contemporary apartments and condos near OHSU. Many properties highlight large windows, decks, and woodsy views.
A: Homestead has a Walk Score of 36, indicating car-dependency for most errands. While it's excellent for walks into nature, destinations like grocery stores and restaurants are more limited within walking distance.
A: Yes—residents can leverage the OHSU Aerial Tram to the South Waterfront, connecting with streetcar and MAX transit options for an efficient, car-free commute downtown.
Explore more
All neighborhoods
Portland's small town in the city.
Eclectic, green, and deeply local along Johnson Creek
Large lots, urban gardens, and a patchwork of pocket parks
Interested in Homestead?
We know this neighborhood in detail — what’s available, what’s coming, and what the data misses.