There’s something special happening in Lake Oswego this summer—and it starts with a milestone worth celebrating.
The Lake Oswego Recreation & Aquatics Center (LORAC) is marking its one-year anniversary, and if you’ve spent any time there, you already know it’s become more than just a facility—it’s a community hub. From early morning swims to family afternoons and fitness classes, LORAC has quickly woven itself into the fabric of Lake Oswego living.
And now, it’s setting the stage for something new.
To celebrate that sense of connection, the City of Lake Oswego Parks & Recreation Department is launching a pilot program that feels very “Lake Oswego summer”: a series of relaxed, community-focused evenings featuring live music and local food.
Think less “event” and more “effortless night out.”
These gatherings are designed to bring people together—neighbors, families, friends—over good music, great food, and that easy, lingering summer light (which we have so much of here in Lake Oswego with sunsets as late as 9:03 p.m.!). It’s the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stay a little longer, chat with someone new, and maybe even start imagining what it would feel like to live here full-time.
The one-year anniversary celebration is scheduled for Saturday, June 13 from 12:00–3:00 PM, and it offers a first glimpse at what this series could become. Expect live entertainment, local food vendors (including crowd favorites), and a welcoming, come-as-you-are vibe.
For buyers considering a move to Lake Oswego, this is exactly the kind of lifestyle moment that doesn’t always show up in listing photos—but absolutely defines what it means to live here. It’s not just about beautiful homes or proximity to the lake—it’s about community, connection, and having places where people naturally gather.
If this pilot program is a hit (and it’s hard to imagine it won’t be), it could become a staple of Lake Oswego summers moving forward.
So, whether you’re already a local or just starting to explore the idea of calling Lake Oswego home, this is one to put on your calendar.
Because sometimes the best way to understand a place… is to show up and experience it.
Looking to buy or sell in Lake Oswego? Let us help! With other 35 years’ living and working here as Realtors, we’d love to put our experience to work helping make your next move your best one!
June is packed with community events in Lake Oswego—from outdoor markets and live music to meaningful conversations and family-friendly celebrations. Here’s what’s coming up:
Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market (Weekly)
Saturday, June 6 | 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM 📍 Millennium Plaza Park, 200 1st Street 💲 Free
Celebrate 25 years of the beloved Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market! Shop fresh produce, artisan foods, baked goods, and local crafts while enjoying live music and family-friendly activities.
Clear out those hard-to-dispose-of items like furniture, appliances (non-freon), mattresses, and scrap metal. A great opportunity to responsibly declutter—just be sure to review accepted items before you go.
Breezeway Wine Flights
Saturday, June 6 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM 📍 Lake Oswego (Breezeway location) 💲 $35
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon tasting six curated wines paired with chef-prepared bites. This month features Chardonnays from around the world in a casual, drop-in setting.
Pride Lake Oswego Celebration
Sunday, June 7 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM 📍 Millennium Plaza Park 💲 Free
Join the 3rd annual Pride LO celebration, themed “Love Local.” This uplifting event highlights local LGBTQIA+ voices, businesses, and artists with music, community connection, and inclusive fun.
Oregon Humanities Conversation Project
Sunday, June 7 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM 📍 Adult Community Center, 505 G Avenue 💲 Free (registration required)
Take part in a thoughtful, small-group discussion on “What Does Freedom Depend On?” This 90-minute guided conversation invites participants to reflect, listen, and connect on meaningful topics shaping our communities.
Live Well Dance with Millennium Dance Band
Friday, June 12 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM 📍 Christ Church Parish, 1060 Chandler Rd 💲 $7 at the door
Step back in time with big band music from the 1930s–50s. This fun, all-ages dance night is perfect whether you’re hitting the floor or just enjoying the music.
Emerald Ash Borer Workshop
Saturday, June 13 | 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM 📍 Foothills Park Pavilion, 199 Foothills Rd 💲 Free
Learn how to identify and protect ash trees from the invasive emerald ash borer. This informative workshop covers prevention strategies and tree replacement options.
LORAC One-Year Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, June 13 | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM 📍 Lake Oswego Recreation & Aquatics Center, 17525 Stafford Rd 💲 Free
Celebrate one year of LORAC with tours, live music, family activities, fitness demos, food, and even open swim. A great way to experience this vibrant community hub.
Bookmobile Summer Launch Party
Saturday, June 13 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM 📍 Lake Oswego Public Library, 706 Fourth Street 💲 Free
Kick off summer reading with Rover the Bookmobile! Enjoy live entertainment, games, face painting, and a chance to explore and check out library materials.
Seed Library 101 & Plant Swap
Sunday, June 14 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM 📍 Lake Oswego Public Library 💲 Free
Learn how the library’s seed program works, then stick around for a community plant and seed swap. Great for gardeners of all levels.
A summer favorite! The swim park on Oswego Lake opens for the season, offering a fun and refreshing spot for eligible residents and swimming lessons for local kids.
Friday, June 19 | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Program at 2 PM) 📍 Lake Oswego High School 💲 Free
Celebrate Juneteenth with a meaningful event honoring history, culture, and the achievements of Black communities—while uplifting the voices of the next generation.
Lake Oswego Lobster feed and Charity Auction
Saturday, June 20 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM 📍 Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street 💲 Tickets
Event goers will enjoy a lobster feast while raising money for non profit organizatioins, community projects and the arts. It’s a joint fundraising effort by both the Lake Oswego Rotary and the Lakewood Center for the Arts.
Live & Local at LORAC
June 25 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM 📍 Lake Oswego Recreation & Aquatic Center, 17525 Stafford Road 💲 Free
Enjoy live music and local food in this relaxed, community-focused setting. This summer series will be held on the last Thursday of each month from May through September, each event featuring a rotating food truck and live local musician. This month’s cuisine features Beijing Bro, a locally owned Portland-based mobile food business serving bold, authentic Chinese street food.
Lake Oswego Festival of the Arts
Friday, June 26 – Sunday, June 28 | Hours vary by day and location 📍 Lakewood Center for the Arts 368 S. State Street | George Rogers Park, 611 S. State Street 💲 Free but donations encouraged
This year’s featured exhibit, “Wild & Luscious” is a vibrant celebration of art, earth and the flavors that sustain us through high-detail botanical painting of heirloom plants and wild foods. Enjoy a full sensory experience with curated galleries and outdoor booths featuring the work of over 600 artists; culinary demonstrations, kids’ activities, and live music.
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Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801
Recently we posted a blog comparing similarly priced homes in Corona Del Mar, California and Lake Oswego, Oregon to illustrate the value per dollar and quality of life that sets Lake Oswego apart.
This week we’d like to look at two homes in those same two locations that are similar in size but wildly different in price. Again, we think you’ll see an even bigger value gap with Lake Oswego coming out the winner.
A Different Price Tier—But an Even Bigger Value Gap
Proximity to top-rated schools like River Grove Elementary School
Easement rights to the popular Lake Grove Swim Park
And importantly:
A true single-family home feel with space to spread out
The Real Comparison: Price vs Lifestyle
This isn’t just a pricing difference—it’s a philosophical one.
In Corona del Mar, you’re buying into a location-driven premium
In Lake Oswego, you’re buying livability, flexibility, and space
And the numbers make that crystal clear:
👉Spend $3.3M → 1,296 sq ft near the beach 👉 Spend $711K → 1,424 sq ft + yard + studio + privacy
The Takeaway
When homes are this similar in size, the comparison becomes incredibly tangible.
You’re not just saving money in Lake Oswego— you’re getting:
More space
More functionality
More privacy
And paying a fraction of the cost per square foot
For buyers open to looking beyond coastal California, this is where Lake Oswego really stands out—not just as an alternative, but as a smarter value proposition in today’s market.
Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801
The Lake Oswego Farmer’s Market is now open for your sampling, shopping, experimenting, socializing pleasure.
The Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market is always keeping things fresh – even after 25 years! From the changing music lineup to the different kids’ activities, it’s the pleasant surprise at the end of the week that keeps the crowds coming.
This year there is a great mix of fresh faces joining (or returning to) the market. Here’s the lineup worth checking out.
Back after a break, Albinelli Blends is known for hand-blended balsamic vinegars and extra virgin olive oils that bring bold, layered flavor to everything from simple salads to standout summer dishes.
A veteran-owned and operated winery crafting expressive Willamette Valley wines, with each label telling a story and supporting fellow veterans transitioning into agriculture and farming careers.
High-quality, early harvest extra virgin olive oil sourced from family groves in western Turkey and bottled locally, crafted using traditional methods that highlight rich flavor and purity.
Transforming local organic waste into nutrient-rich vermicompost and compost teas. Their natural soil boosters help gardens grow stronger and healthier.
Award-winning, small-batch pepper jellies in more than 25 flavors, ranging from mild and fruity to seriously spicy. These are perfect for your cheese boards, marinades, and more.
A small, immigrant-women-owned bakery offering handcrafted cookies and traditional Persian sweets, with thoughtfully chosen ingredients and lower-sugar options.
Traditional Australian meat pies, sausage rolls, and desserts all handmade with local meats and vegetables. A longtime favorite in Corvallis and named one of Oregon’s top pies to try.
Returning after a two-season break, these beautiful and delicious pastries range from classic buttery croissants to creative sweet and savory seasonal flavors. Crafted with precision they’re worth an early stop at the market.
A woman-owned Oregon tea company crafting organic, loose-leaf blends from calming herbal teas to energizing yerba mate. These teas are designed for everyday ritual and wellness.
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Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801
As Lake Oswego real estate specialists, we’re often asked how our market compares to other high-demand areas—especially coastal California. And it’s a fair question. On the surface, a $4–5 million price point might seem comparable whether you’re shopping in Lake Oswego or Corona del Mar.
But when you dig a little deeper—beyond the headline price—the differences in what that investment actually buys you can be striking.
In fact, comparing two current listings at nearly identical price points reveals just how dramatically value can shift depending on location. From square footage and cost per square foot to lifestyle, privacy, and access to the water, the contrast is more than noticeable—it’s defining.
If you’ve ever wondered what your money really gets you in Lake Oswego versus one of Southern California’s most coveted coastal enclaves, this side-by-side breakdown puts it into clear perspective.
Same Price Point—Completely Different Value Story
Both homes are priced right around $4.8M. But what you actually get for that price couldn’t be more different.
Lake Oswego Waterfront (16871 Greenbrier Rd)
~6,000+ sq ft
4–5 bedrooms
True lakefront on Oswego Lake
Fully renovated, luxury finishes
Boat house + direct water access
Multiple decks, flat yard
Wine cellar, bar, flex spaces
Smart home features, dual laundry, oversized garage
Corona del Mar Village (505 Dahlia Ave)
2,200 sq ft
3 bedrooms / 3 baths
3,300 sq ft lot
Walkable village location near beach
Roof deck + patio
Updated but not new construction
Cost Per Square Foot: The Reality Check
Let’s break this down:
Corona del Mar: ~$2,180 per sq ft
Lake Oswego: ~$800 per sq ft (approx., based on 6,000+ sq ft)
👉 That means the California home is nearly 3X the cost per square foot.
How Much More Space Are You Getting?
This is where the gap really opens up:
Lake Oswego: 6,000+ sq ft
Corona del Mar: 2,200 sq ft
➡️ That’s roughly 3,800 MORE square feet in Lake Oswego ➡️ Or put another way: nearly triple the living space
And it’s not just extra square footage—it’s usable, lifestyle-enhancing space:
Dedicated entertaining areas
Multiple living zones
Flex rooms (gym, office, guest space)
Storage (often overlooked, but huge in daily life)
Lifestyle: Lakefront vs Coastal Proximity
This is where the comparison gets nuanced.
In Lake Oswego:
You’re not just “near” the water—you’re on it.
Private dock + boat house
Paddle, swim, or boat from your backyard
Calm, protected water (inside buoy line)
Expansive lake views and outdoor living spaces
In Corona del Mar:
You’re buying proximity and walkability.
Walk to beaches, restaurants, shops
Village lifestyle
Ocean access is public, not private
Both are desirable—but they’re fundamentally different experiences:
One is private, resort-style living
The other is urban-coastal convenience
Amenities: What $4.8M Buys You
Lake Oswego delivers:
Fully reimagined, high-end renovation
Gourmet kitchen + great room concept
Spa-level primary suite
Wine cellar + bar
Smart home automation
Multiple outdoor entertaining areas
Flat yard (rare for waterfront)
Boat house + storage
Corona del Mar offers:
Charming, updated interiors
Open floor plan
Roof deck
Patio living
Solid but relatively standard amenities for the price point
The Bottom Line
At the same price:
Lake Oswego = Space, privacy, and true waterfront luxury
Corona del Mar = Location, walkability, and coastal prestige
But strictly from a value perspective:
👉 You’re getting nearly 3X the space 👉 Paying ~65% less per square foot 👉 And gaining private, direct-access waterfront living
Final Thought
At the end of the day, both homes represent desirable lifestyles—but they prioritize very different things. Corona del Mar offers undeniable coastal charm, walkability, and a prestigious address. There’s a reason it commands the prices it does.
But if your focus is on space, privacy, and a true connection to the water, Lake Oswego stands in a category of its own. Where else can you find nearly 6,000 square feet, direct lakefront living, a boat house, expansive outdoor spaces, and high-end finishes—all at a comparable price point?
For many buyers, it’s not just about cost—it’s about value per dollar and quality of life. And that’s where Lake Oswego quietly but confidently makes its case.
If you’re considering a move or simply exploring what’s possible at this level of the market, we’re always happy to provide insight—not just on what’s available, but on how to think about value in a way that aligns with your lifestyle and long-term goals.
Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801
Funny Girl When: Wed–Sat at 7:30 PM | Sunday matinees at 2:00 PM (plus May 23 matinee) Where: Lakewood Center for the Arts – 368 S State St Details: A classic musical based on the life of Fanny Brice, featuring iconic songs like Don’t Rain on My Parade. Tickets:Purchase online via the Lakewood Theatre Company website (service fee applies). Special “WOW Nights” on May 13 & 27 offer discounted tickets for ages 25–35.
Saturday, May 2 (Morning)
50th Annual Lake Oswego Lake Run When: 6:30 AM – 12:00 PM • 10K at 8:00 AM • 5K at 8:15 AM • Kids Dash at 10:00 AM Where: Around Oswego Lake Details: A beloved community tradition celebrating its 50th year, with race options for all ages and fitness levels. Register:Advance registration required via Northwest Housing Alternatives website (tiered pricing based on date).
Saturday, May 2 (Mid-Morning)
Wildfire Safe Landscapes Workshop When: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Where: Waluga Park (15505 Quarry Rd, picnic shelter) Details: Learn how to create defensible space around your home and reduce wildfire risk. Includes a presentation and guided walk. Register:Required (limited to 30 participants) through the City of Lake Oswego.
Saturday, May 2 (Afternoon)
Breezeway Wine Flights When: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Where: Zupan’s Markets Lake Oswego Details: Sip six curated Oregon red varietals (beyond Pinot) paired with chef-crafted bites in a relaxed, social setting. Tickets: $35 – purchase online in advance.
Saturday, May 9 (Recurring Weekly)
2026 Lake Oswego Farmers’ Market When: 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM (Saturdays through Oct 31, excluding July 4) Where: Millennium Plaza Park – 200 1st St Details: Celebrating 25 years, this vibrant market features fresh produce, artisan foods, live music, kids’ programs, and local vendors. Register: No registration required—just show up and enjoy.
Saturday, May 9 & May 16
How To Write a Play (in 11 Easy Steps) When: 2:00 PM & 4:00 PM Where: Lakewood Center for the Arts Details: A fast-paced, comedic production about a high school drama club racing to create a play overnight. Tickets: $12–$15 via Lakewood Theatre Company box office or website.
Tuesday, May 12
Pints from the Past: Japanese American History When: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM (presentation begins at 7:00 PM) Where: Lake Theater & Café – 106 N State St Details: A powerful talk presented in partnership with the Japanese American Museum of Oregon, exploring the experiences of Japanese Americans during the 1940s. Tickets: Free (no registration required). Food and drink purchase encouraged.
Sunday, May 17
Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration When: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM Where: Lake Oswego (location typically city-hosted venue) Details: A community celebration honoring AANHPI cultures, traditions, and contributions. Register: Free
Wednesday, May 20
Windjammer Showcase When: 6:30 p.m. Where: The Headliner Club, 178880 SW McEwan Road, Lake Oswego Details: Talented Lake Oswego High School performers take to the stage bringing the tunes of James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Depeche Mode and more alive. Food and drink menu available so you can eat and drink while enjoying the performance.
Tuesday, May 26
World Cinema Series: The Way He Looks When: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM Where: Lake Theater & Café Details: A coming-of-age Brazilian film (Portuguese with subtitles), followed by a moderated discussion. Presented in partnership with the Lake Oswego Public Library. Tickets: Free (no registration required). Food and drink available for purchase.
Final Thought
From fun runs and farmers markets to theater, wine tastings, and cultural events, May is packed with ways to experience life in Lake Oswego. It’s exactly this kind of vibrant, community-driven lifestyle that makes the area so special—not just a place to live, but a place to truly feel at home. Let us show you around and take you one step closer to calling Lake Oswego home.
Our new listing at 540 2nd Street offers all the amenities of living in the popular First Addition neighborhood of Lake Oswego.
If you’ve ever watched It’s a Wonderful Life, you probably remember how George Bailey dreamed of leaving his small town—only to realize in the end that everything he truly needed was right there all along.
That’s exactly how many people feel when they discover the First Addition Neighborhood (FAN) in Lake Oswego. It’s one of those places that just clicks—and once you’re there, it’s hard to imagine living anywhere else.
Here’s why so many people love calling First Addition home—and a great example of what living here can actually look like if you move into our new listing at 540 2nd Street.
1. Storybook Charm
From cozy cottages to classic picket fences, First Addition has that rare, small-town feel that’s getting harder to find. It’s not just charming—it’s nationally recognized, having been named one of the 10 Best Cottage Communities by Country Living.
2. Truly Walkable Living
This is a neighborhood built for walking. Think tree-lined streets, front porches where neighbors actually say hello, and shops, restaurants, and everyday essentials just a few blocks away. It’s no surprise it was named one of 10 Great Neighborhoods in America. And that walkability isn’t just a nice idea—it’s real.
Take our new listing, for example at 540 2nd Street: a rare opportunity right in First Addition where you can step outside and be just minutes from restaurants, shops, and even the Lake Oswego Farmers Market.
3. A Refreshingly Eclectic Mix
No cookie-cutter homes here. You’ll find everything from English cottages and Craftsman bungalows to Prairie and Ranch-style homes.
That variety also shows up in the way homes function. This featured property is a great example—it offers something you don’t see every day:
A ground-level space with its own private entrance, zoned for commercial use
Perfect for a home office, small business, or studio
Or easily used as a guest suite, in-law space, gym, or bonus living area
It’s that kind of flexibility that makes First Addition especially appealing for today’s lifestyle.
4. Everything Close to Home
Within just about 120 acres, First Addition packs in a lot:
A top-rated public library
A neighborhood park
A post office
A community pool
And homes here are designed to make the most of that lifestyle. In our new listing, you also get access to shared courtyards for outdoor seating, adding even more space to relax and connect.
5. Alleys That Add Character
One of the more unique features? The alleyways. Many homes have garage access from behind, which keeps the streets pedestrian-friendly.
This listing includes a detached one-car garage, fitting perfectly into that classic First Addition design.
6. Rich History
Dating back to 1888, the neighborhood is filled with mature trees, established gardens, and a sense of history you can feel.
Inside our new listing, though, you still get modern comfort—like an updated kitchen with new stove and dishwasher, plus an open-concept main level filled with natural light and a cozy fireplace.
7. A Track Record That Speaks for Itself
One of the things that stands out most about First Addition is how well it holds—and grows—its value.
When I first wrote about this neighborhood back in 2013, home prices ranged from $175,000 to $1.25 million.
Fast forward thirteen years, and this year’s sales have ranged from $490,000 to $3.425 million.
That kind of appreciation doesn’t happen by accident. It’s driven by everything we’ve talked about here—location, walkability, charm, and a strong sense of community. It’s one more reason First Addition continues to be one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Lake Oswego.
8. An Easy Commute
With transit options nearby, getting into Portland is simple. Many residents can walk to the transit center and be downtown in about 30 minutes. Or hop on Highway 43 and be in downtown Portland in 20. And you can be on I-5 headed north or south in just about 6-10 minutes.
Of course, in this new listing, the ideal setup for professional office or retail space means your commute could just be a few steps away.
9. Close to Forest Hills Elementary
Forest Hills Elementary is within walking distance for many residents, and its fields and playground are a favorite gathering spot for families.
10. A Built-In Shopping District
From groceries to coffee to everyday services, everything you need is close by.
That’s part of what makes this particular home so appealing—you can truly live a car-light lifestyle here.
11. A Strong Sense of Community
First Addition isn’t just beautiful—it’s connected. Neighbors know each other, local businesses are part of the fabric, and the neighborhood association keeps that sense of community strong.
A Home That Fits the Lifestyle
This 2-bedroom, 2-bath home is a great example of what makes First Addition so special:
Flexible live/work or multi-use layout
Bright, open main living space
Two spacious upstairs bedrooms for privacy
Separate-entry lower level with endless possibilities
Low-maintenance living with HOA covering exterior, utilities, and common areas
It’s rare to find something that blends location, flexibility, and ease of living this well. All this at a listing price of $750,000.
Why It Matters
First Addition isn’t just about homes—it’s about how life feels.
It’s walking to coffee. It’s running into neighbors at the market. It’s having a home that adapts to your life, not the other way around.
And when a property comes along that truly reflects that lifestyle—like this one—it’s worth taking a closer look.
If you’re curious about this home or what else might be available in First Addition, we’d be happy to help you explore your options.
While every neighborhood in Lake Oswego offers its own amenities, like the walkability of the First Addition or the views and often larger lot sizes in Skylands, Dellwood Drive in the Palisades neighborhood has always been one of those “highly desirable” streets.
Why?
Just drive down it and you’ll fall in love with the character of the homes, different architectural styles, the larger lot sizes, tree canopy and beautifully landscaped yards.
What you might not realize is that homes on this street also have deeded rights to the Palisades lake easement (read more about easements here).
An exquisite state-of-the-art remodel, this stunning traditional 4-bedroom, 4 bath home blends timeless character with modern updates. Situated on beautifully landscaped grounds complete with a pool and hot tub, outdoor fireplace, and elevated lounge space, it is a true entertainer’s dream! Indoor living mirrors the home’s exceptional outdoor appeal, with vaulted ceilings and exposed wood beams in the family room and kitchen. Quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, double ovens, a fireplace, and a sunlit breakfast nook framed by bay windows complete the space.
The main level also features a living and dining room with fireplace, three bedrooms, including one with a private en-suite and two that share a full bath.
Upstairs, the spacious primary suite is a serene retreat with vaulted wood-beamed ceilings, peaceful views of the backyard, and a spa-like bathroom with tub and heated tile floors.
A private laundry area and direct access to a separate upstairs office provide an ideal setup for remote work or creative pursuits.
Off the garage, a well-designed mudroom, additional full bath, and secondary laundry room add everyday convenience. A wine fridge and extra built-in refrigerators make entertaining effortless.
In addition, this home sits in the highly coveted Palisades neighborhood. While being one of the Lake Oswego’s largest neighborhoods with more than 4,000 residents and 1,700 homes, it doesn’t feel like it because of the low density thanks to the preponderance of single-family homes, not condominiums or apartments.
Palisades residents have lots to brag about and the Greentree Pool is towards the top of the list. A family-friendly swimming pool open to residents within the school boundaries of Hallinan or Westridge Elementary, proves to be a popular summer hangout for families. Membership is capped at 150 to ensure everyone who joins enjoys a spacious and relaxing environment. Currently there is a waitlist, but you can get your name on it by signing up here.
Other jewels in the neighborhood include Greentree Park as well as the trails running through the 50 forested acres of Cooks Butte and Rassekh Park featuring a large skatepark, unique playground and covered picnic spots.
Residents here fall either in the Hallinan or Westridge Elementary School boundaries, with both schools feeding into the recently updated Lakeridge Junior High and Lakeridge High School. As with all Lake Oswegans, Palisades children enjoy the excellent education that has earned the Lake Oswego School District a consistent top ranking according to Niche as the best school district in Oregon.
Located on the south side of Lake Oswego, residents enjoy easy access to shopping at New Seasons Market and recreation at the new Lake Oswego Recreation and Aquatic Center. Luscher Farms is also nearby with community gardens as well as Hazelia Fields and a large outdoor dog park.
A variety of architectural styles, Douglas Fir Pine trees, an active neighborhood association…the list goes on as to why the Palisades neighborhood is considered such a desirable place to call home.
If you’d love the opportunity learn more about the Palisades neighborhood or to tour our listing on Dellwood, please give one of us a call. We’re happy to show it to you and answer any questions you may have.
This new listing at 19113 Terry Avenue is a perfect example of why the River Grove neighborhood is so popular among homebuyers. It is currently pending after just one day!
If you’re exploring neighborhoods in Lake Oswego, River Grove is one that consistently stands out—especially for buyers looking for that classic Lake Oswego lifestyle with a slightly more approachable entry point, a natural setting, and a laid-back, community feel.
So what makes River Grove so appealing?
A Peaceful, Tree-Filled Setting One of the biggest draws is the natural beauty. Homes here are often surrounded by tall trees and lush greenery, creating a sense of privacy that’s harder to find in newer developments. It feels established, peaceful, and very “Pacific Northwest.”
Character You Can’t Replicate River Grove is a great fit for buyers who want something with personality. You’ll find a mix of ranch-style homes, mid-century designs, updated Craftsman and Colonial properties, along with some newer construction thoughtfully blended in. Lots tend to be larger than you’ll find in some other neighborhoods like Westlake or Westridge. It’s not cookie-cutter—and that’s exactly the point.
Convenience That Makes Daily Life Easier Location is another big win. With quick access to I-5, River Grove is a great option for commuters heading into Portland or surrounding areas. You’re also just minutes from shopping and everyday amenities, including Bridgeport Village, plus fitness options like 24 Hour Fitness, The Bay Club, and LA Fitness. It’s easy to run errands, meet friends, or fit in a workout without going far.
Lake Access = A Major Lifestyle Perk One of the standout features in this neighborhood is that many homes come with deeded rights to the Lake Grove Swim Park. In the summer, it becomes a go-to spot for families—swimming, relaxing, and connecting with neighbors. If lake access is important to you, it’s definitely worth checking whether a specific property includes these rights.
Check Out Our New River Grove Listing
If you’ve been curious about what living in River Grove actually looks like, this new listing at 19113 Terry Avenue is a perfect example of why buyers love this neighborhood. It actually went pending after just one day!
This charming Lake Oswego home has incredible curb appeal and a large, level backyard that feels private and full of possibility—something River Grove is known for. Inside, hardwood floors run throughout, creating a warm and cohesive feel, while the open living room and inviting fireplace make it easy to picture everyday life here.
The kitchen blends style and function with quartz countertops and gas appliances, and the flexible floor plan includes a fourth bedroom that easily works as a home office or workout space—ideal for today’s lifestyle.
One of the true standouts is the detached 15×11 backyard studio with electricity. Whether you’re working from home, creating, or just want a quiet retreat, it’s a rare and valuable bonus space.
Thoughtful updates—including a newer heater, appliances, fireplace, roof, and garage doors—add peace of mind. And the location is hard to beat, just minutes from the brand-new River Grove Elementary School, making it an ideal fit for buyers who want both convenience and community.
Top-Rated Schools Like much of Lake Oswego, River Grove benefits from access to the highly regarded Lake Oswego School District, consistently ranked #1 in Oregon. The new River Grove Elementary is a standout, featuring modern design, innovation spaces, and covered outdoor play areas.
A More Accessible Price Point (for Lake Oswego) For many buyers—especially first-time buyers—River Grove offers a more attainable entry into the Lake Oswego market: • Typical home values often range from $900K–$1.5M+ • Entry-level opportunities can fall in the $600K–$800K range
Compared to other Lake Oswego neighborhoods, it’s a compelling balance of value and lifestyle.
A Note on Septic Systems One consideration: many homes in River Grove use septic systems rather than city sewer. Be sure to have inspections completed and plan for maintenance every 3–5 years. The upside? No monthly sewer bill.
Final Thought
For many buyers, River Grove checks all the right boxes—natural beauty, character-filled homes, strong schools, lake access, and a more approachable price point.
And if you’re looking for a home that truly captures that lifestyle, our new listing on Terry Avenue is absolutely worth a closer look.
If you’d like to explore River Grove or any Lake Oswego neighborhood, we’d love to help. With 35+ years of experience as Lake Oswego specialists, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re looking for one more reason to love living in Lake Oswego, April delivers in a big way.
While Arbor Day is officially celebrated nationwide on the last Friday of April, here in Lake Oswego we take it a step further—we celebrate trees all month long.
A City That Truly Loves Its Trees
Lake Oswego has been recognized as a Tree City USA for 37 consecutive years, a designation from the Arbor Day Foundation that reflects a deep commitment to preserving and caring for our urban forest. This year, the city also received its 9th Growth Award, thanks in part to the addition of its very first Urban Forester—an investment in keeping our tree canopy healthy for generations to come.
It’s one of those details that might not show up on a listing sheet—but it absolutely shows up in how it feels to live here.
Tree-lined streets, lush parks, and a true connection to nature are part of everyday life.
What to Do During Arbor Month
April is packed with ways to get outside, connect with the community, and experience Lake Oswego’s natural beauty:
Or simply explore parks like George Rogers Park and Foothills Park and enjoy the season
There are even fun, kid-friendly activities like the Gnomes & Bees scavenger hunt and the global City Nature Challenge, where you can explore your own backyard and contribute to real environmental data. You can find a complete schedule of events here.
It’s More Than Just Events
Arbor Month is a great reminder of what makes Lake Oswego special.
It’s not just the homes—it’s the lifestyle. It’s a community that prioritizes green space, invests in its environment, and creates opportunities for people to connect with nature and each other.
Whether you’re planting a tree, walking a trail, or just enjoying the view out your window, you’re part of something intentional here.
A Good Way to End the Month (and Start Something New)
If you’ve been thinking about making a move—into Lake Oswego or within it—this is the kind of lifestyle you’re stepping into.
And honestly, it’s hard to put a price on that.
If you’re curious what it looks like to call this community home, we’d love to help you explore your options.
Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801
I feel pretty lucky—I live where I work and I love where I live. As a Realtor in Lake Oswego, Oregon, I get to share that enthusiasm with clients every day. Through this blog, with the help of my freelance writer wife, Genita, I’d like to share that enthusiasm with you. Be sure to visit my website.
Due to the changing nature of activities in response to COVID-19, I am suspending this section of the blog temporarily but wish every mom out there a Happy Mother’s Day today!