Where Portland Renters Can Find the Newest Apartments

Portland’s skyline is changing fast, with nearly 32,000 new apartments built in the last decade — a surge that follows a nationwide trend. For renters exploring the city’s amenities and lifestyle, understanding which zip codes have seen the most construction can help narrow down housing options.

But where can renters actually find the most new apartments in Portland?

With its mix of city life, parks, and a friendly community, Portland is a city that appeals to young professionals and families alike. Although the cost of living here is 17% higher than the national average, many people don’t mind paying a little extra for what Portland has to offer. 

To help renters make the best choice, we’ve narrowed it down to the top five zip codes where construction has been especially active: 

Zip code 97209 leads Portland with 6,089 new apartments

Zip code 97209, which includes the Pearl District, parts of Old Town and Northwest Portland, leads the city in new apartment construction, adding 6,089 new apartments over the past decade. With walk and bike scores of 98, renters can complete most daily tasks or reach entertainment venues without the need of a car. 

For commuters, downtown Portland is accessible within minutes via TriMet bus lines, and major employers like Providence Health, Adidas, and tech firms in the Pearl and nearby Slabtown are within easy reach. 

4,112 new apartments added to zip code 97232, blending history with modern living

Situated just east of the river, zip code 97232 presents a blend of Portland’s historic character and urban amenities. With 4,112 new apartments added over the past decade, this area includes established neighborhoods like Sullivan’s Gulch, along with the Lloyd District.  

With a walk score of 92 and a perfect bike score of 100, downtown is about a 20-minute trip away via the MAX Blue and Red lines or buses and allows renters to commute to nearby employers such as Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, Nike, and various industrial hubs in North Portland. 

2,936 new apartments are available in North Portland’s zip code 97217

Welcoming 2,936 recently constructed apartments is zip code 97217, which covers North Portland neighborhoods like Kenton, Overlook, and Arbor Lodge. This area retains its distinct character while steadily expanding housing options for residents.

Here, renters can rely on the MAX Yellow Line or take a short drive to reach downtown in about 20–25 minutes. What’s more, the area provides convenient commutes to major employers including Intel, Kaiser Permanente, and various businesses on Swan Island.  

Zip code 97214 welcomes 2,538 newly developed apartments

Home to 2,538 new apartments in the last 10 years, zip code 97214 is located on Portland’s inner eastside, which includes neighborhoods like Hawthorne and Belmont.  

This zip code boasts a walk score of 91 and a bike score of 95, meaning it’s easy to get around, with downtown just 10–15 minutes away. Nearby major employers include Columbia Sportswear, Nike, and a growing number of tech and creative firms. 

1,982 new places introduced in Portland’s zip code 97201

Zip code 97201 has added 1,982 new apartments over the past decade. This area spans from the southern edge of downtown Portland to the West Hills and offers renters access to nearby natural areas.

Recent developments also place residents near waterfront trails and entertainment venues. With a public transit score of 82, the location offers accessible transportation via buses and light rail, providing convenient commutes of 5 to 10 minutes to major employers such as Wells Fargo and Precision Castparts.

Over the past decade, Portland has undergone a significant transformation in its urban landscape, driven by a surge in apartment construction — particularly in central neighborhoods like the Pearl District and Northwest Portland. However, since late 2022, development has slowed due to rising interest rates, inflation, and tighter regulations.

In response, developers are shifting focus to outer areas such as Southwest Portland where land is more available and zoning rules are less restrictive. These trends could reflect a broader shift in Portland’s housing market as it grapples with supply, demand, and affordability challenges.