Median Price
$529,000
Walk Score
25
Schools
Overall B — High marks for elementary options, middle of the pack for higher grades
Where it sits
Pleasant Valley is bounded by SE Foster Road to the north, SE 174th Avenue on the east, SE Clatsop Street to the south, and SE 112th Avenue on the west. Lying at the eastern edge of Portland where the city starts to meet open land, this neighborhood is defined by its blend of rural tranquility and suburban convenience. Pleasant Valley offers a peaceful, spacious character with creeks and green corridors threading through a patchwork of classic homes and newer development.
The Neighborhood
The housing stock in Pleasant Valley is a mix of mid-century ranches, newer two-story craftsman and traditional homes from the 2000s onward, along with a handful of older farmhouses that reflect the area’s roots. Lots are generally larger than closer-in neighborhoods, with mature trees and sizable yards, giving a semi-rural feel while still being part of Portland.
Day-to-day life here is shaped by residential side streets, the green corridors of Johnson Creek, and small commercial clusters on SE Foster and SE 122nd. A car is necessary for many errands, but those who live here appreciate the peace, backyard gardens, and ready access to parks and open space. The pace is relaxed, and neighbors know each other.
Parks, Trails & Green Space
Top 5 places to get outside
1. Powell Butte Nature Park — One of East Portland’s defining landscapes, this 600-acre nature park offers miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails with sweeping views of Mt. Hood. Meadows, forests, and wildflower fields make it a popular spot for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the horizon. _Known for its network of trails, scenic vistas, and open space._
2. Gilbert Primary Park — A neighborhood park with a playground, basketball hoop, picnic tables, and open lawn—the heart of many Pleasant Valley family outings. _Known for its play areas and summer picnics._
3. Springwater Corridor Trail (SE Flavel St Access) — The regional Springwater Corridor runs right along Pleasant Valley’s western boundary, providing a major biking and walking path into the city and out to Gresham and beyond. _Known for multi-use cycling and walking connections to SE Portland._
4. Leach Botanical Garden — Located just northwest of Pleasant Valley, this 16-acre botanical park features lush woodland, native plant collections, walking paths, and a historic manor house along Johnson Creek. _Known for its curated gardens, educational programs, and seasonal events._
5. Zenger Farm Wetlands — Zenger Farm is a working urban farm with wetlands, nature trails, and educational programming about sustainable agriculture. The public wetland trails wind through restored natural habitats full of birds and frogs. _Known for wetland ecology and community farming programs._
Coffee Shops
Top 5 places for a coffee
1. Morrow Coffee — A friendly, independent café tucked into a small strip on SE Foster, Morrow Coffee is locally owned and known for quality espresso drinks, bakery treats, and a comfortable, light-filled space. _Known for its specialty coffee and community atmosphere._
2. Jet Black Coffee Company (SE Foster Rd) — Located just at the northern edge of Pleasant Valley, Jet Black is a cozy spot for classic espresso, vegan pastries, and friendly service—a gathering place for locals. _Known for vegan-friendly options and house-roasted beans._
3. Café Zamora — A Latin-inspired coffeehouse not far from Springwater Trail, Café Zamora offers Guatemalan brews and fresh baked goods in a bright, welcoming setting. _Known for Guatemalan coffee and empanadas._
4. Rain or Shine Coffee House — A small, laid-back café at the corner of SE 122nd Ave and SE Holgate Blvd, offering locally sourced coffee and a relaxing patio. _Known for excellent cold brew and comfortable ambiance._
5. Jungle Room PDX — This quirky, plant-filled café doubles as a nursery and offers both coffee favorites and plenty of greenery, creating a unique spot to relax just west of Pleasant Valley. _Known for its indoor-jungle vibe and plant sales along with drinks._
Restaurants & Food Carts
Top 5 places for a bite to eat
1. El Viejon Mariscos y Asados — A family-owned spot for authentic Mexican seafood and grilled fare, offering fresh ceviche, tacos, and friendly service on SE Foster. _Known for seafood plates, grilled meats, and homemade salsas._
2. Taqueria Los Puñales — A colorful, locally run taqueria offering street-style tacos, burritos, and aguas frescas in a casual, welcoming space. _Known for tacos al pastor and quick, satisfying meals._
3. Sushi Kata Japanese Restaurant — A small, independent sushi spot on SE 122nd Avenue known for fresh rolls, bento boxes, and attentive service. _Known for sushi lunch specials and rolls made to order._
4. Best Baguette (SE 122nd Ave) — Portland's Vietnamese-French banh mi bakery and cafe offers fresh sandwiches, pastries, and bubble tea—quick and affordable. _Known for its banh mi sandwiches and house-made French rolls._
5. Gustav’s Bargarten Bavarian Grill — A locally operated gastropub with German-inspired fare, house sausages, Bavarian pretzels, and a range of regional and European beers. _Known for sausages, schnitzel, and festive indoor/outdoor seating._
Bars
Top 5 places for a drink
1. O’Malley’s Saloon & Grill — Longstanding neighborhood bar with pool tables, hearty pub grub, and rotating taps, known as a casual gathering spot for Pleasant Valley’s regulars. _Known for burgers, live sports, and a relaxed, local crowd._
2. Blue Room Bar — This indie watering hole near SE 122nd features creative cocktails, local beers, and a laid-back, unpretentious feel with trivia nights and live music. _Known for its creative drinks and friendly vibe._
3. 82nd Avenue Bar and Grill — A classic dive-style pub offering strong pours, generous portions, karaoke, and a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere. _Known for karaoke nights and happy hour specials._
4. The Zed (Brewery and Food Hall) — A newer addition just west of Pleasant Valley, The Zed is part brewery, part food hall, offering rotating craft brews, food carts, and spacious outdoor seating. _Known for small-batch beers and casual group gatherings._
5. Sidecar 11 — Neighboring Lents, Sidecar 11 is known for craft cocktails, original recipes, and a cozy, vintage-inspired interior perfect for date nights or small groups. _Known for craft cocktails and a retro vibe._
Things To Do
Top 5 things worth your time
1. Leach Botanical Garden Events — Frequent workshops, summer concerts, and guided walks highlight the gardens’ seasonal changes and natural beauty. _Known for garden tours, plant sales, and family-friendly programs._
2. Zenger Farm Family Days — Participate in hands-on farm tours, harvest days, and youth workshops that teach about gardening and local food. _Known for family events and educational programming._
3. Powell Butte Hikes — Regular organized hikes and nature walks introduce neighbors to local wildlife, birding hotspots, and stunning vistas of Mt. Hood and East Portland. _Known for guided hikes and wildlife viewing._
4. Pleasant Valley Farmers Market — A small, summer seasonal farmers market featuring local fruit growers, artisans, and ready-to-eat foods, held near Gilbert Primary Park. _Known for fresh Oregon produce and community vendors._
5. Live Music at O’Malley’s — Catch local bands, open mic nights, and special events at this Pleasant Valley staple, known for fostering neighborhood talent. _Known for live music and weekend events._
Community Resources
Local services & organizations
Pleasant Valley Neighborhood Association — Represents residents, organizes local events, and provides a voice in city planning.
East Portland Community Center — Full-service center offering fitness, swimming, classes, and youth programs, located just northwest in Mill Park.
Gates Park Community Garden — A public garden with plots and volunteer opportunities, supporting local food production.
Midland Library — The closest regional Multnomah County library branch with books, computers, and events for all ages.
USPS Lents Post Office — Nearest full-service postal location for Pleasant Valley residents’ mailing and shipping needs.
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Is It Right For You?
How Pleasant Valley 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…
- Anyone seeking a quieter, “almost country” residential feel inside city limits
- Gardeners, hikers, and those who value direct access to parks and natural space
- Families looking for larger lots and affordable homes compared to closer-in Portland
It might not fit if…
- Limited walkability; most errands require a car
- Fewer restaurant and nightlife options than more central neighborhoods
- Longer commute to downtown and much of Portland’s creative scene
Pleasant Valley FAQ
The questions we hear most about Pleasant Valley — and honest answers from people who know it.
Ask us anything →Pleasant Valley features a mix of mid-century ranches, 2000s suburban two-story homes, contemporary Northwest craftsman, and scattered older farmhouses, reflecting several waves of Portland’s residential growth.
With a Walk Score of 25 (Car-Dependent), most errands and activities in Pleasant Valley require a car. Some parks and small commercial clusters are accessible on foot, but everyday conveniences are spread out.
Pleasant Valley’s proximity to Powell Butte and the Springwater Corridor means residents have easy access to major trails, scenic views, and abundant wildlife, setting it apart from denser SE neighborhoods with fewer natural escapes.
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 Pleasant Valley?
We know this neighborhood in detail — what’s available, what’s coming, and what the data misses.