Why Is This Important?
Portland’s Central City is Oregon’s urban center, with the densest population of people and jobs in the state. People from across the country are drawn to the Central City’s mix of urban vitality, compelling public spaces, innovative employment opportunities, rich transportation network, signature cultural amenities — and its connection to the Willamette River. It stretches from the West Hills to SE 12th Avenue, and from the Lloyd and Pearl districts to Powell Boulevard and South Waterfront, as shown in the map below. Distinct from the Central Eastside, all the highlighted neighborhoods on the map below collectively form the Central City. Even though the Central City is a small part of the greater Portland area (only 3%), it's planned to have a big impact: by 2045, it's expected to hold about 25% of the city's new homes and jobs. Portland is experiencing a widening gap between the diverse housing needs of its residents and the city's ability to meet those needs, particularly in the Central City. This data provides insight into the trend of housing production (including housing units being built, completed, or where permits have been issued).