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McLoughlin

McLoughlin

Suburban Neighborhood in Oregon City, Oregon

Clackamas County 97045

$496,267 Average Value
$293 Average Price per Sq Ft
8 Homes For Sale

Historic heart of Oregon City

The McLoughlin neighborhood has been at the heart of Oregon City since the city was established in 1829. Named for town founder John McLoughlin, commonly known as the “Father of Oregon,” the neighborhood comprises historic residential areas and Oregon City’s quaint but vibrant downtown shopping district. While residents enjoy living right next to the Willamette River and are surrounded by trails and views of the Oregon Coast and Cascade Ranges, the neighborhood is only 13 miles from Portland and 21 miles from Vancouver – perfect for commuters. “If you like history, then you'll love living here,” says Tim Powell, Chair of the McLoughlin Neighborhood Association, historic review board member and a 34-year McLoughlin resident. It goes back to the 1870s, so it’s one of the oldest neighborhoods in Oregon, and it’s also the first platted, where they designed the neighborhood based around plan, and it still stands today.”

The historic McLoughlin House stands as a testament to the area’s pioneer heritage.
The historic McLoughlin House stands as a testament to the area’s pioneer heritage.
McLoughlin at sunset showcases scenic riverside views and the area’s charming small-town vibe.
McLoughlin at sunset showcases scenic riverside views and the area’s charming small-town vibe.
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Portland-esque downtown district and the nation’s only vertical street

The neighborhood’s major selling point — apart from its array of lovely and historic houses — is Oregon City’s downtown. The downtown area, which is separated from the residential section by a high bluff, can feel like a miniature Portland, with its range of boutiques, restaurants and breweries. Mom and pops like Oregon City Records, White Rabbit Books and Gifts and its bevy of antique stores give downtown its quirky, eclectic vibe. Bistro Cubano and Ingrid’s Scandinavian Food offer casual but diverse dining options, and for fine dining, head to Nebbiolo Restaurant and Wine Bar, which pairs locally sourced entrees with craft cocktails and an international wine selection. Casual night club Trail’s End Saloon has regular live music, while Scottish-style pub The Highland Stillhouse has the best scotch selection in the south suburbs and a killer Cottage Pie. “Parking is a challenge, but that’s what keeps the big guys out,” Powell adds. “It’s mostly small, locally owned businesses.” Those looking for a little bit of excitement can always head up north to Portland just a short drive away. For more retail therapy, head to Oregon City Shopping Center, which offers 26 stores. History buffs can explore the district’s 16 designated historic sites, including Oregon City founder’s residence, Dr. John McLoughlin, part of the National Park System and the first National Historic Site west of the Rockies. The End of the Oregon Trail Interpretative Center is also a hub for history lovers to take a deep dive into the story of The Oregon Trail through interactive exhibits. “This was the actual trail, and now it’s a museum,” says Powell. “And we have excellent relationships with the native tribes and work with them constantly for developments.” One of the area’s biggest draws for locals and tourists is the Oregon City Municipal Elevator – one of only four operating municipal elevators in the world. Opening in 1915, the 130-foot-high elevator is one of only four operating municipal elevators in the world. “We have the only vertical street in the country,” says Powell, explaining that because of the geography of the town, this is an easy way for residents to travel to the upper and lower parts of town. “You ride down the elevator, and you come out onto Main Street, and you're right in downtown. People come here to ride the elevator, and the view is incredible. You can see Mt. St. Helens, and on a clear day, you can see the peak of Mt. Rainer in Washington.”

Downtown Oregon City, near McLoughlin, offers vibrant shops and historic charm.
Downtown Oregon City, near McLoughlin, offers vibrant shops and historic charm.
Friends chat and sip coffee at Black Ink Coffee, a cozy café near McLoughlin.
Friends chat and sip coffee at Black Ink Coffee, a cozy café near McLoughlin.
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McLoughlin's own Niagra Falls

Residents can walk or jog along the McLoughlin Promenade, which offers excellent views of Willamette Falls and local landmarks like Singer Creek Falls. Willamette Falls is Oregon’s own Niagara, as it’s the second-largest waterfall in the country and seventh-widest in the world. Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak along the Willamette River to reach the natural waterfall. Or hop on the West Bridge Trailhead to trek around the river along the 187-mile Willamette River Water Trail. In the summer, a popular local spot is the Oregon City Swimming Pool, right in the heart of the neighborhood. For a deep dive into nature, hit the 236-acre Newell Creek Canyon Nature Park, only 2 miles south of McLoughlin. The emerald oasis boasts hiking and biking paths immersed in mossy maple forests, wildlife and the Boring lavas. And Powell says the city is working to expand its outdoor opportunities for residents. “The most attractive thing to me is I can walk from here to Portland and never get off a trail,” he says. “We’re working on a trail master plan that goes all around the city., so if you’re a commuter on a bike, you'd never have to get on a busy street.”

The Willamette River offers beautiful views of McLoughlin, a neighborhood rich with history.
The Willamette River offers beautiful views of McLoughlin, a neighborhood rich with history.
Willamette Falls, just minutes from McLoughlin, showcases stunning natural beauty.
Willamette Falls, just minutes from McLoughlin, showcases stunning natural beauty.
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Historic homes in every direction

This walkable neighborhood boasts over 300 historically significant properties, from 100-year-old Portland bungalows to Queen Annes from the 1800s to rustic mid-century ranch-style houses. “It’s a conservation district, so we have hundreds of homes dating back to the late 1800s to 1900s,” Powell says. “Visually, there’s a checkerboard effect of homes; we have so many different types of architecture, so you can take a 20-minute walk and see 100 years of history.” Of course, residents can also find spacious modern Craftsman-style homes. Its picturesque streets are lined with towering oaks and evergreens and modest but carefully maintained yards and gardens. While many McLoughlin homes are historic and built in the late 1800s, most were built in the 1920s, ranging from $280,000 to $850,000. Homes on the higher end have waterfront views, are three- to five bedrooms or are on multiple acres. And according to Oregon City Mayor Denyse McGriff, a McLoughlin resident since 1988, it’s also a tight-knit, warm and welcoming neighborhood. “From my perspective, when I was looking for a house to buy, I wanted a neighborhood with a lot of character,” says Oregon City Mayor Denyse McGriff, also a McLoughlin resident since 1988. “Most people around McLoughlin have been there longer than I have, and our children grew up together, and that adds to the camaraderie. We all know each other, so when something happens, the neighborhood is there for you.”

A clean McLoughlin street with beautiful homes.
A clean McLoughlin street with beautiful homes.
This striking red bungalow stands out as a classic beauty in McLoughlin.
This striking red bungalow stands out as a classic beauty in McLoughlin.
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McLoughlin schools make the grade

Oregon City School District serves the area, and local students attend John McLoughlin Elementary, Gardiner Middle and Oregon City High School. John McLoughlin received a C-plus from Niche, and Gardiner received a C. The elementary school has a kindness club, a regular culinary competition and book fairs. Earning a B-minus from Niche, Oregon City High offers a ski and snowboarding club, career fairs and basketball teams.

Students in Hazel Grove-Westling Farm attend John McLoughlin Elementary School.
Students in Hazel Grove-Westling Farm attend John McLoughlin Elementary School.
Oregon City High’s students score well above state averages on state tests.
Oregon City High’s students score well above state averages on state tests.
The front entrance to Gardiner Middle School is on Williams St in Oregon City.
The front entrance to Gardiner Middle School is on Williams St in Oregon City.
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A tight-knit community

McLoughlin has an active neighborhood association that puts on events for the community, such as concerts in the Park Series, fundraisers at the Oregon City Public Library, and an annual fall block party. “Our goal is to get people involved in land use and the community,” Powell says. “We sell snow cones at concerts in the park, and we’re an active community and want those here to be as involved as possible.” The city itself also hosts a range of events for all neighborhoods, including a Memorial Day Parade and the annual First City Celebration, celebrating Oregon City’s status as the first incorporated city west of the Rockies. “We also have the largest antique fair, which takes up the entire downtown with hundreds of booths,” Powell says. “We have car shows, and in the summer, we have concerts downtown and at the end of the Oregon Trail. There’s always something going on.”

Shoppers enjoy unique treasures at White Rabbit Gifts, located near McLoughlin.
Shoppers enjoy unique treasures at White Rabbit Gifts, located near McLoughlin.
History buffs will appreciate the town’s rich past, which they can explore at the local Museum of the Oregon Territory.
History buffs will appreciate the town’s rich past, which they can explore at the local Museum of the Oregon Territory.
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Making your way around McLoughlin

Interstate 205 and State Routes 224, 213 and 99E get residents easily around the region, including the Portland International Airport, a 7-mile drive from the neighborhood. Public transportation is convenient via TriMet buses, a service through Oregon City, and a free connector shuttle.

McLoughlin's Amtrak station is a convenient stop for exploring both Portland and Eugene.
McLoughlin's Amtrak station is a convenient stop for exploring both Portland and Eugene.
Bus stops can be found throughout the McLoughlin neighborhood.
Bus stops can be found throughout the McLoughlin neighborhood.
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Andrew Moreno
Written By
Andrew Moreno
Brian Lee
Photography Contributed By
Brian Lee
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Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Jennifer Larson, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Parks in this Area

Transit

Airport

Portland International

29 min drive

Bus

16th & Jackson

Bus

16th & Taylor

Bus

Division & 9th

Bus

5th & Washington (Oregon City)

Bus

9th & Washington

Bus

Main & 8th St

Bus

5th & Monroe

Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime McLoughlin US
Homicide 2 4
Sexual Assault 3 4
Assault with Weapon 3 4
Robbery 3 4
Burglary 4 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 4 4
Larceny 3 4
Crime Score 3 4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

Demographics and Home Trends

Home Trends

Median Price (12 Mo)
$509,900
Median Single Family Price
$522,950
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$293
Number of Homes for Sale
8
Last 12 months Home Sales
39
Months of Supply
2.50
Median List Price
$549,949
Median Discount From 1st List Price
2%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
0%

Home Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
1,122
Median Year Built
1923
Avg. Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,882
On par with the national average
1,935
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,280
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
6,969

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Jennifer Larson, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Average Home Value




Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
5,138
Median Age
41
Population Density
7 ppl/acre
Population under 18
21.6%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
18.6%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$69,852
On par with the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$85,594

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
93.9%
On par with the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
30.5%
Advanced Degrees
9%
On par with the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
66.4%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
41''
Average Winter Low Temperature
34°F
Average Summer High Temperature
82°F
Annual Snowfall
2''

Area Factors

Bikeable

Bike Score®

63 / 100

Very Walkable

Walk Score®

79 / 100

Some Transit

Transit Score®

48 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
NEIGHBORHOOD
McLoughlin
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