West Haven-Sylvan, OR

Perched in the wooded hills between Beaverton and Portland's west side, West Haven-Sylvan gives you a leafy, quiet neighborhood feel with fast access to the city. Most of the area sits in unincorporated Washington County with a small section in Multnomah County. Tall Douglas firs, winding streets, and scenic ravines shape the setting. You will find a great mix of housing styles here, from established mid-century houses on quiet residential streets to newer townhomes, condos, and apartments around Barnes and Miller roads.

Commuting from here is remarkably easy. The neighborhood sits right where Highway 26 meets Highway 217, putting you minutes from downtown Portland, Nike World Headquarters, and the Silicon Forest in Hillsboro. If you prefer public transit, the Sunset Transit Center offers MAX light rail service on the Blue and Red lines, along with park-and-ride lots and extensive bus connections. Providence St. Vincent Medical Center sits right on Barnes Road, while shopping and dining options are just down the street in Cedar Hills, Cedar Mill, or over the hill in Northwest Portland.

When looking at homes, keep in mind that many properties have a Portland mailing address even though they are governed by Washington County and served by the Beaverton School District. The hillside terrain also calls for a close look during inspections. Take time to check retaining walls, foundation drainage, mature trees, and how rainwater moves across the lot during wet winter months. If a home is close to the highway or the hospital, it is also worth visiting during rush hour to see how the traffic sound carries.

Green spaces and parks are a huge part of what makes the area appealing. The Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation District manages local favorites like Mitchell Park, where you will find sports courts, a playground, and wooded walking paths that connect toward Roger Tilbury Memorial Park. West Sylvan Park is another popular spot for tennis and picnics under the trees. West Haven-Sylvan brings together the beauty of the Oregon woods, excellent schools, and unbeatable highway and transit access, making it a fantastic spot for anyone moving to the west side.