Median Price
$445,000
Walk Score
54
Schools
B
Where it sits
Russell is located in Northeast Portland and is generally bounded by NE Halsey Street to the south, NE 122nd Avenue to the east, Interstate 84 and the Parkrose neighborhood to the north, and NE 102nd Avenue to the west. This neighborhood balances residential calm with established parks and convenient access to the city’s eastside arteries. Russell is known for its "quiet, friendly blocks with a love of green space and a strong sense of local community."
The Neighborhood
Russell offers a mix of housing styles ranging from classic 1960s-70s ranches, split-levels, and some mid-century modern builds, to newer infill construction on quiet, tree-lined streets. Lots tend to be generous compared to inner neighborhoods, giving residents more yard and garden space. Nearby apartment and townhouse developments blend with older, established homes.
Daily life here tends to revolve around neighborhood parks, local shops, and the convenience of major thoroughfares like Halsey and 122nd Avenue. Residents enjoy creekside pathways, playgrounds, and recreation center amenities, while busy intersections offer groceries, coffee, and eateries within a walk or short drive. Russell has a friendly, residential pace with easy access to the rest of NE Portland.
Parks, Trails & Green Space
Top 5 places to get outside
John Luby Park — A spacious neighborhood park with a playground, picnic tables, open grassy areas, and shady trees. Locals use it for dog walks, birthday parties, and summer evenings outdoors.
Thompson City Park — Located just north of Russell’s bounds, this park features big fields, tennis courts, and accessible paths, drawing families for after-school fun and weekend sports.
Russell Park — A smaller pocket park prized for its lovely landscaping, walking loop, and benches. It’s a favorite for morning birdwatchers and those seeking a peaceful spot to read or relax.
Glendoveer Golf & Tennis / Trail — While primarily a sports facility, the adjacent 2-mile wood chip walking trail is a beloved outdoor destination for walkers and joggers from across Northeast.
Halsey HydroPark — A unique utility corridor green space along NE Halsey with community art installations, native plantings, and room to roam.
Coffee Shops
Top 5 places for a coffee
Jet Black Coffee Company — A cozy coffee shop and neighborhood meeting place serving house-roasted beans, pastries, and espresso drinks. The friendly baristas and reliable WiFi make it a regular stop for Russell residents.
Cafe Red — Tucked near NE 122nd, Cafe Red offers locally roasted coffee, teas, and daily baked treats in a bright, inviting setting. Their outdoor seating is a draw in warmer months.
Hidden Rose Coffee — A newer addition to the area, this independent spot is known for its quality pour-overs, seasonal flavor options, and quiet corners perfect for remote work or catching up with friends.
River City Coffee — Just west in neighboring Parkrose, River City Coffee draws a loyal local crowd for its strong brews, comfortable chairs, and local art on the walls.
Mocha Moves Coffee Cart — A longtime fixture at local events and recently parked along Halsey, this mobile coffee vendor offers espresso and breakfast bites for those on the go.
Restaurants & Food Carts
Top 5 places for a bite to eat
Tov Coffee & Tea House — An Egyptian-themed cafe with a full menu of Mediterranean breakfast and lunch specialties, sweet pastries, and Turkish coffee. Residents appreciate the unique ambiance and friendly staff.
Bistro 23 — A staple for fresh, locally sourced salads, wood-fired pizzas, and scratch-made lunches. Its bright, modern setting welcomes both solo diners and families.
Chef Naoko Bento Cafe — A Japanese eatery offering bento boxes, sushi, and comfort dishes, all made from organic and seasonal ingredients. Popular for quick bites and takeout.
Pho Dalat — Family-run Vietnamese spot with a focus on pho, noodle bowls, and banh mi. Friendly service and rich, aromatic broths keep regulars coming back.
El Burrito Loco — A beloved Mexican food cart with fresh, flavorful tacos, burritos, and tortas made to order. Outdoor seating and friendly faces give it a lively, neighborly feel.
Bars
Top 5 places for a drink
Glendoveer Golf & Grill — A casual spot connected to the golf course, offering local beers, pub fare, and big windows with views of the green. Locals stop in after evening walks or a round of golf.
Lisa’s Gentlemen’s Club & Lounge — A longstanding bar and lounge with pool tables, video poker, and a friendly local crowd. Known for its relaxed, no-fuss atmosphere in the Russell area.
Players Sports Bar & Grill — Located just at the neighborhood’s edge, Players is a go-to for catching the game, with ample TVs, classic bar eats, and a rotating tap list.
Happy Daze Pub — A welcoming, small neighborhood bar known for its jukebox, regulars, and unpretentious style.
The Observatory Lounge — A newer spot focused on craft cocktails and small plates, quickly making a name for its creative drinks and chill happy hour.
Things To Do
Top 5 things worth your time
Glendoveer Golf & Tennis Center — A top destination for public golf, tennis courts, and walking trails, with year-round lessons and family events.
Russell Neighborhood Association Events — Seasonal neighborhood gatherings, clean-up days, and summer picnics foster local connection and draw out Russell’s strong community spirit.
East Portland Community Center — A major facility just south of the neighborhood, featuring a pool, gym, fitness classes, and a range of programs for all ages.
Gardening at John Luby Park — Russell residents maintain an active schedule of gardening days at this local park, making it a wonderful spot for green thumbs and volunteers.
Local Makers Market (seasonal) — This rotating pop-up market showcases local artists, food vendors, and musicians—check neighborhood social media for dates and locations within Russell and adjacent neighborhoods.
Community Resources
Local services & organizations
Russell Neighborhood Association — The official voice for Russell residents, organizing clean-ups, block parties, and community advocacy.
East Portland Community Center — Accessible to Russell neighbors, this center provides public meeting space, fitness programs, and youth activities.
Midland Regional Library — The closest full-service Multnomah County Library branch, offering books, computer access, and community events.
Russellville Grange Hall — A historic meeting site near the neighborhood, often used for local events, clubs, and private gatherings.
Parkrose Post Office — Serving Russell and nearby neighborhoods for all postal needs, PO boxes, and retail services.
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Is It Right For You?
How Russell 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…
- Those who want a quieter, residential neighborhood while staying close to city conveniences
- Families looking for homes with larger lots and mature trees
- People who value access to parks and walkable green spaces
It might not fit if…
- Fewer trendy shops or nightlife options compared to inner neighborhoods
- Some main roads can see higher traffic flow at peak times
- Walkability is moderate—most errands may require a car or bike
Russell FAQ
The questions we hear most about Russell — and honest answers from people who know it.
Ask us anything →You’ll find mostly mid-century ranch homes, split-level houses from the 1960s–70s, and a scattering of newer infill homes. Many feature large lots, attached garages, and established landscaping.
Russell has a Walk Score of 54, reflecting moderate walkability—parks and some local shops are walkable for many residents, but most errands are easiest by car or bike.
Russell stands out for its direct access to several large parks (John Luby, Thompson City Park), numerous smaller green spaces, and the popular Glendoveer walking trail, making it one of Northeast Portland’s greener corners.
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