Laurelhurst, illustrated

Southeast Portland

Laurelhurst

Median Price

$958,000

Walk Score

80

Schools

A-

Craftsman BungalowMid-century RanchClassic ArchitectureHistoricGreen & Leafy

Where it sits

Laurelhurst is bounded by NE 44th Ave and NE 32nd Ave to the west and east, Burnside Street to the north, and Stark Street to the south, straddling both Northeast and Southeast Portland with a prominent historic enclave at its core. With its iconic stone gateposts, meandering streets, and sweeping canopy of old-growth trees, Laurelhurst is often described as "Portland’s garden suburb," known for a stately, serene feel just steps from bustling main streets.

The Neighborhood

Laurelhurst’s housing stock is a blend of early 20th-century elegance and Portland craftsmanship, featuring stately Craftsmans, Old Portland Foursquares, Tudor Revivals, and a handful of midcentury ranches. Most homes sit on larger-than-average lots and have been lovingly restored, giving the streets a cohesive, storybook vibe beneath towering elms and maples.

The pace here is gently residential, but locals are rarely far from a coffee, park, or neighborhood bistro. NE Glisan and Burnside mark the edges with destination dining and cozy shops, while smaller cafes and bakeries dot the leafy interiors. Bike and foot traffic are steady, especially around Laurelhurst Park, making daily errands and dog walks feel like part of the neighborhood’s daily ritual.

Stately, serene feel just steps from bustling main streets

Top 5 places to get outside

  • Laurelhurst ParkThe neighborhood’s namesake, this historic city park offers rolling lawns, a duck-filled pond, shade-drenched paths, picnic spots, tennis courts, and a beloved playground beneath the city’s largest elms.

  • Cooper's ParkTucked at the edge of Laurelhurst near NE Sandy Blvd, this pocket park features quirky public art installations and a grassy play area for younger kids.

  • Oregon ParkLocated just across the NE border, this friendly community park is ADA-accessible and offers picnic areas, basketball courts, and a lively playground.

  • Da Vinci Arts Middle School TrackAfter hours, neighbors use the school’s running track and open fields for jogging and casual ball games.

  • Sandy Boulevard ParkwayA linear strip of landscaped boulevard, providing shady walking and biking corridors connecting Laurelhurst to nearby neighborhoods.

Top 5 places for a coffee

  • Crema Coffee + BakeryA longtime neighborhood staple serving Stumptown coffee, baked goods, and light fare in a sunlit space close to the park.

  • Upper Left RoastersRoasting their own beans on-site, this airy cafe offers expertly crafted espresso drinks and inventive toast plates in a bright, modern setting.

  • Oblique Coffee RoastersAn independent roastery just south of Laurelhurst, Oblique features single-origin pours, vegan pastries, and a warm, vintage-inspired vibe.

  • Heart Coffee on BurnsideModern, stylish, and locally loved, Heart’s original location pours standout coffee with Scandinavian aesthetics and a meticulous approach to espresso.

  • Fleur de Lis Bakery & CafeLocated at Laurelhurst’s northern edge, this classic bakery-cafe is known for its French-style pastries, quiches, and great people-watching.

Top 5 places for a bite to eat

  • Laurelhurst MarketA hybrid butcher shop and restaurant, this local landmark delivers expertly grilled steaks, inventive salads, and a lively bar—all with a bustling, upscale-casual feel.

  • Pasture PDXA whole-animal butcher and sandwich shop, Pasture PDX specializes in house-cured meats and creative deli-style lunches with a responsibly sourced ethos.

  • Pambiche Cocina & Repostería CubanaJust beyond the park’s northeastern boundary, Pambiche serves vibrant Cuban plates, scratch-made pastries, and tropical cocktails in a colorful, mural-filled building.

  • Ken's Artisan PizzaWidely beloved for wood-fired, blistered-crust pies, Ken’s is a family-friendly spot offering inventive toppings and a welcoming, energetic dining room.

  • The SudraA plant-based Indian-fusion café located close to Laurelhurst, offering bold bowls, curries, and inventive spice combinations in a relaxed atmosphere.

Top 5 places for a drink

  • Sandy HutAn iconic midcentury dive known for heavy pours, neon lights, and a classic jukebox—“The Handy Slut” holds a central place in neighborhood lore.

  • Migration BrewingLocated just east of Laurelhurst, this community-focused brewery brings rotating taps, outdoor tables, and a friendly local crowd.

  • Angel FaceA cozy, softly lit neighborhood bar with a French touch, known for its creative cocktails and welcoming staff.

  • Laurelhurst Theater BarAttached to the historic movie theater, this bar serves local beers and classic concessions, with tables for enjoying a pint before your film.

  • The Tonic LoungeA staple on NE Sandy, Tonic Lounge combines classic bar energy with regular live music shows and a casual, eclectic crowd.

Top 5 things worth your time

Local services & organizations

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How Laurelhurst 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

PaceBalanced
QuietLively
EraHistoric
New buildEstablished
LotsSpacious
CompactSpacious
PriceHigh-end
AccessiblePremium
CharacterEclectic
ModernTraditional
Getting aroundWalkable
Car-firstWalk & bike

Who it suits

You’ll likely love it if…

  • Lovers of historic homes and garden-filled, walkable streets
  • Quick commutes to downtown or access to public transit
  • Families seeking top-rated schools and safe neighborhood atmosphere

It might not fit if…

  • Higher-than-average home prices and competitive bidding
  • Limited nightlife and late-night food options
  • Street parking can be scarce, especially near the park and event nights

Laurelhurst FAQ

The questions we hear most about Laurelhurst — and honest answers from people who know it.

Ask us anything

Laurelhurst is best known for its early-20th-century Craftsman, Old Portland Four Square, and Tudor Revival homes, many of which retain original details like leaded windows, woodwork, and lush gardens.

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Interested in Laurelhurst?

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