Neighborhood spotlight: st Johns

Funky, Historic, and Full of Heart at the Edge of Portland

Welcome to St. Johns: Portland’s northernmost neighborhood and one of its most fiercely beloved. Nestled where the Willamette and Columbia Rivers meet, St. Johns feels like its own little town—because it once was. With its iconic bridge, small-town charm, and creative soul, this neighborhood is where Portland’s grit meets indie spirit.

For June’s neighborhood spotlight, we’re taking a deep dive into this unique corner of the city: its blue-collar roots, affordable (but climbing!) real estate, eclectic mix of homes, and some seriously under-the-radar gems. Whether you’re cruising down Lombard, sipping coffee near Cathedral Park, or watching cargo ships drift by, St. Johns is the kind of place that quietly gets under your skin—and stays there.

A Brief History of St. Johns

Before it was a Portland neighborhood, St. Johns was its own city. Incorporated in 1902 and annexed by Portland in 1915, this area was named after settler James John, who envisioned it as a working-class hub on the water. True to his vision, St. Johns grew up around shipping, shipbuilding, and manufacturing—industries that still shape its character today.

Despite the annexation, St. Johns has always held onto its independence. Its distance from the city center (about 10 miles north of downtown) means it evolved with its own pace and personality—and that small-town vibe is still alive and well.

Of course, the neighborhood's most famous landmark is the St. Johns Bridge, completed in 1931 and often called the most beautiful bridge in Portland. With its soaring Gothic towers and deep green hue, it’s the unofficial symbol of the neighborhood and a favorite of photographers and locals alike.

Real Estate in St. Johns: Affordability Meets Character

St. Johns has long been a haven for first-time buyers, artists, and those priced out of inner Portland. But as the city has grown, so has interest in this once-sleepy corner. Fortunately, it still offers more bang for your buck than many other areas, especially considering the charm factor.

Housing Style Highlights:

• Mid-century ranches: Practical, affordable, and often with great yards.

• Craftsman bungalows: Classic Portland charm—wood siding, front porches, built-ins galore.

• Victorians and four-squares: Especially near the town center, reflecting the area’s early 20th-century roots.

• New construction townhomes + modern infill: These are popping up more frequently, especially east of Lombard.

Market Snapshot (as of Spring 2025):

• Median home price: $444,000

• Average days on market: 16

• Inventory: Moderate, with more new construction than you’ll find in most of Portland’s historic neighborhoods.

St. Johns is still considered a relative “deal” for Portland, but prices have steadily increased over the past few years. It's especially attractive for buyers who want community vibes, creative energy, and room to grow.

Architectural Flavor

The architecture in St. Johns is refreshingly eclectic. You’ll find modest 1940s cottages next to updated Craftsman homes, and quirky color palettes are part of the charm. Some homes have sweeping views of the river or Forest Park, while others sit on quiet, tree-lined streets with deep yards and chickens in the backyard.

Because St. Johns was its own city for years, its street grid and lot sizes don’t always follow typical Portland patterns—expect a little more variation and surprise, in the best way.

Where to Eat, Sip, and Shop in St. Johns

This neighborhood may not have the density of Nob Hill or Division, but what it does have is heart. You’ll find locally owned businesses, creative menus, and a sense that everyone knows your name—or at least your coffee order.

Restaurants + Eateries:

• Signal Station Pizza – Housed in a former gas station, this casual spot has great pies, cold beer, and a fun patio.

• Bahm Mi Up – Delicious and fresh Asian comfort food (I LOVE their chicken Pho on a cold night)..

• John Street Cafe – Charming little spot for a delicious brunch

• Stormbreaker Brewing – local brewery with pub food (and cocktails too!)

• Sparrow Bakery – all I can say is Ocean Rolls (you won’t be disappointed)

Coffee + Treats:

• Cathedral Coffee – Cozy, inviting, and a community favorite. Great for writing, chatting, or meeting your real estate agent 😉

• Sparrow Bakery – all I can say is Ocean Rolls (you won’t be disappointed)

• Daydreamer Coffee – cafe that offers creativity , community and connection with lots of events!

  
  

Favorite Local Shops/Vintage and Fun Spots:

• Rōm – stylish adventure wear (+ shoes, accessories, gifts) with Portlander must-haves!

• Two Rivers Bookstore – A cozy and community-minded independent bookstore offering a well-curated mix of fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, and local authors. Plus a yarn lovers paradise!

• Wonderwood Mini Golf – A magical, immersive indoor mini golf course that feels like a mix of enchanted forest and art installation. Equal parts fun and Instagram-worthy.

AMAZING + ECLECTIC VINTAGE SPOTS:

• Hound & Hare Vintage – A beautifully curated collection of vintage clothing, home goods, and quirky treasures. Thoughtfully sourced and super stylish.

• Vinyl Resting Place – A charming little record shop for crate-diggers and music nerds.

• Blue Moon Camera – A destination in its own right. This analog photo store has cult status among film photography lovers.

There’s also a great Saturday Farmers Market from May to November in St. Johns Plaza, where you can meet local farmers, grab a tamale, and stock up on produce and plants.

Cathedral Park + River Views

Cathedral Park is hands-down one of the most scenic spots in all of Portland. Nestled under the soaring arches of the St. Johns Bridge, it’s a popular site for picnics, weddings, and community events. The river views, gothic bridge towers, and sweeping lawn make it feel more like a movie set than a city park.

You’ll also find:

• Boat launches

• Dog-friendly green space

• Summer concerts + festivals

• Access to the Willamette River for kayaking or paddleboarding

If you're an early riser, grab a coffee and walk down to the river—it’s magic.

Getting Around: You Might Want a Bike and a Car

St. Johns is a bit more car-dependent than inner Portland, but that’s changing.

• Bikeable streets and proximity to the North Portland Greenway Trail make it a great place for cyclists.

• TriMet buses run directly downtown and to major hubs, though commuting times can be a bit longer.

• Driving to downtown: About 25 minutes in light traffic.

• Neighborhood walkability: Very walkable once you’re in the heart of St. Johns; shops, parks, and restaurants are all within a few blocks.

St. Johns Vibe Check

If you had to sum it up in a word: authentic.

It’s proud, local, creative, and a little bit scrappy. You’ll see rainbow crosswalks, punk flyers, kids on skateboards, and retired couples gardening in their front yards. There’s room for families, artists, students, and small business owners.

It’s slower-paced than much of Portland—but not sleepy. It’s community-driven, with just the right amount of weird. And it’s one of the last places in Portland that still feels like a neighborhood where you can plant roots and grow.

Thinking About a Move to St. Johns?

Whether you’re drawn to the charm, the pricing, or the idea of a riverside view from your porch swing, I’d love to help you explore your options in St. Johns. This neighborhood has so much soul—and I’d be thrilled to help you call it home.

Stay tuned for next month’s neighborhood spotlight, and let me know your favorite St. Johns spots! I always love adding new local favorites to the list.