Discovering Hazelwood: A Hidden Gem in East Portland

Portland is known for its vibrant, eclectic neighborhoods, each with its own unique personality. One such neighborhood that offers a perfect blend of convenience, diversity, and charm is Hazelwood, located in East Portland. Though it may not be as widely recognized as areas like Sellwood or the Pearl District, Hazelwood is quickly gaining attention from homebuyers looking for an affordable, family-friendly community with easy access to the best of what Portland has to offer.

And as a resident of Hazelwood, I couldn’t be more excited to share what I love about this neighborhood with you. Whether you’re new to the Portland area or just starting your home search, here’s why Hazelwood deserves to be on your radar.

HAZELWOOD

Affordable East Portland

Location and Accessibility

Hazelwood is located in East Portland, bordered by the Gateway, Mill Park, and Parkrose Heights neighborhoods. With its convenient location, Hazelwood offers quick access to major highways and public transportation. The neighborhood is served by both the I-84 and I-205 freeways, making commuting to downtown Portland or nearby areas a breeze.

For those who prefer public transit, Hazelwood is home to the Gateway Transit Center, a major hub for the MAX light rail system. From here, you can easily reach downtown Portland, the Portland International Airport, and other parts of the city without ever needing a car. This accessibility makes Hazelwood an attractive option for professionals who work in different parts of the metro area.

Real Estate in Hazelwood

One of Hazelwood’s biggest draws is its affordability. Compared to some of Portland’s trendier east-side neighborhoods, Hazelwood offers a range of reasonably priced homes, making it a popular choice for first-time homebuyers and families. The neighborhood features a mix of mid-century ranch-style homes, charming bungalows, and newer developments, providing a variety of options for buyers with different tastes and budgets.

Homes in Hazelwood are often situated on larger lots, giving homeowners more outdoor space compared to what you might find in more densely populated neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for a cozy starter home or something with a bit more room to grow, Hazelwood has properties that can fit your needs.

Parks and Recreation

One of the highlights of living in Hazelwood is its abundance of green spaces. Residents have easy access to several parks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Ventura Park is one of the neighborhood’s most popular spots, offering wide-open spaces, sports fields, playgrounds, and walking paths. It’s the ideal place for a weekend picnic, a game of soccer, or just enjoying a leisurely walk with your dog.

Another beloved local treasure is East Holladay Park, known for its community events and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to play basketball, let the kids enjoy the playground, or host a neighborhood gathering, this park is a great local hangout.

In addition, the Gateway Green park, a relatively new addition, provides a unique outdoor experience with its off-road biking trails, nature paths, and open spaces designed to connect people with nature right in the heart of East Portland. It's a hit with both mountain biking enthusiasts and families looking for new ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Shopping and Dining in Hazelwood

Hazelwood offers a wide range of shopping and dining options, catering to both everyday convenience and those looking to explore the neighborhood’s diverse culinary scene. Mall 205 and the Gateway Shopping Center are popular destinations for locals, featuring big-box stores, grocery stores, and retail shops. Whether you need to pick up essentials or browse for something new, these shopping centers provide plenty of options.

For dining, Hazelwood’s multicultural vibe shines through in its diverse array of restaurants. From delicious Mexican food to authentic Thai, Vietnamese, and more, the neighborhood’s dining scene reflects the diverse backgrounds of its residents. Local favorites include El Indio Mexican Restaurant, known for its classic Mexican dishes and margaritas, and Mi Cava &Cocina, with local, all-natural ingredients that bring a Mexican experience with Pacific Northwest fliar. These spots are perfect for indulging in authentic flavors without leaving the neighborhood.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, Heavenly Donuts is a neighborhood staple, serving up fresh, handmade donuts daily. And for coffee lovers, Jet Black Coffee Company & Black Rock Coffee Bar have convenient locations for grabbing your favorite cup of joe on the go.

Community and Schools

Hazelwood has a strong sense of community, with residents taking pride in their neighborhood and regularly organizing local events. From neighborhood clean-up days to summer block parties, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and meet your neighbors.

Families looking to settle down in Hazelwood will find that the neighborhood offers plenty of educational opportunities for children of all ages. The neighborhood is served by both the Portland Public School District as well as the David Douglas School District.

Future Development and Growth

As Portland continues to expand eastward, Hazelwood is experiencing a surge in new development. The neighborhood’s affordability and easy access to public transit make it an attractive option for new residents, and as a result, more businesses and amenities are moving in. With ongoing improvements to parks, infrastructure, and local services, Hazelwood is a neighborhood that’s primed for future growth.

The Gateway Urban Renewal Area, located just north of Hazelwood, is one example of the city’s commitment to revitalizing this part of Portland. The plan includes improved transportation infrastructure, increased housing density, and the development of more parks and open spaces, all of which will benefit Hazelwood residents.

Is Hazelwood Right for You?

If you’re looking for an affordable, family-friendly neighborhood with easy access to public transit, parks, shopping, and dining, Hazelwood could be the perfect fit. With its diverse housing options, growing community, and convenient location, Hazelwood offers all the amenities of city living without the high price tag often associated with Portland’s more well-known neighborhoods.

As a local real estate agent with deep knowledge of Portland’s neighborhoods, I’d love to help you explore everything my own neighborhood of Hazelwood has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for a change of scenery, I can assist you in finding the right home in this up-and-coming East Portland gem. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to schedule a neighborhood tour!