Where Is Sylvan Located?

Sylvan is located in west Portland, nestled along Highway 26 between Downtown Portland and Beaverton. The neighborhood sits in the hills above the city, giving it a noticeably different feel from Portland’s flatter, more grid-style neighborhoods.

Its location makes Sylvan especially appealing to people who want quick access to Downtown Portland, Beaverton, and Hillsboro while living in a more private, wooded environment.

What It’s Like to Live in Sylvan

Living in Sylvan feels peaceful and removed, even though you’re only minutes from the city. Homes are surrounded by trees, streets are quieter, and many properties feel hidden from view. It’s common for homes to sit on sloped lots or back directly into forested green space.

Sylvan attracts professionals, executives, downsizers, and people relocating from larger cities who value privacy and nature over walkability. The neighborhood feels residential and calm, with very little through traffic and a strong sense of separation from the busier parts of Portland.

Things to Do in and Around Sylvan

Sylvan is ideal for people who enjoy outdoor recreation and low-key weekends.

Residents enjoy:

• Immediate access to forested trails and green space

• Proximity to Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the country, for hiking and trail running

• Scenic drives and walking routes through wooded neighborhoods

• Quick access to Downtown Portland for cultural events, dining, and entertainment

• Easy trips west to Beaverton and Hillsboro for shopping and services

Life in Sylvan is less about nightlife and more about quiet mornings, nature, and easy access to everything else when needed.

Local Restaurants and Dining Options

Sylvan itself is primarily residential, so most dining happens just outside the neighborhood.

Residents typically enjoy:

• Casual cafés and everyday dining options along Highway 26

• Quick access to dining scenes in Northwest Portland, Downtown Portland, and Beaverton

• A mix of upscale restaurants, neighborhood favorites, and casual takeout within a short drive

Many residents appreciate that they can enjoy top-tier dining nearby without living directly in a busy commercial district.

Schools Serving the Sylvan Area

Sylvan is served by Portland Public Schools, with schools located throughout West and Northwest Portland. Families who choose Sylvan often value the quieter residential environment paired with access to citywide educational and extracurricular opportunities.

The area’s location also provides convenient access to private schools and specialty programs throughout the Westside.

Commute and Travel Times

Sylvan’s location along Highway 26 makes commuting straightforward.

Approximate travel times include:

• Portland International Airport: about 20 to 25 minutes

• Downtown Portland: about 10 minutes

• Beaverton: about 10 to 15 minutes

For many residents, Sylvan offers one of the best balances between privacy and commute efficiency in the metro area.

Housing Market in Sylvan

Sylvan’s housing market is defined by space, privacy, and architectural variety. Homes range from mid-century moderns to contemporary custom builds and larger estate-style properties.

Median Home Price

• The median home price in Sylvan typically sits in the mid-to-upper $700,000 range, depending on home size, condition, and lot characteristics.

What You Can Expect at Different Price Points

• Low to mid-$600,000s:
  Smaller homes, townhomes, or older properties that may need updating. These homes often offer wooded surroundings and privacy at a lower entry point.

• $700,000 to $900,000:
  Well-maintained homes with generous square footage, multiple living areas, and forested views. This is a common range for move-up buyers in Sylvan.

• $900,000 and above:
  Larger custom homes, modern builds, or properties on sizable lots. These homes often feature expansive decks, large windows, and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

Sylvan homes tend to appeal to buyers prioritizing environment and privacy over walkability.

Average Rent in Sylvan

Rental options in Sylvan are more limited than in flatter, higher-density neighborhoods, but demand remains steady.

Typical rent ranges include:

• Single-family homes: approximately $2,800 to $4,200 per month

• Townhomes or smaller rentals: approximately $2,200 to $3,200 per month

Renters are often drawn to Sylvan for its quiet setting and proximity to major employment centers.

Who Sylvan Is a Great Fit For

Sylvan is especially appealing for:

• Buyers who value privacy, trees, and a quiet setting

• Professionals commuting to Downtown Portland or the Westside

• People relocating from dense urban environments

• Homeowners seeking a long-term, low-traffic neighborhood

• Renters looking for a peaceful alternative to city living

It’s a lifestyle choice focused on environment and comfort rather than nightlife or walkability.

Final Thoughts on Sylvan

Sylvan offers one of the most unique living experiences in the Portland metro area. With its forested surroundings, hillside homes, and excellent access to both Downtown Portland and the Westside, it delivers a lifestyle that feels private, calm, and intentionally removed—without sacrificing convenience.

For anyone considering a move to West Portland who wants nature, space, and accessibility, Sylvan is a neighborhood well worth exploring.

See more about Sylvan

Want to learn more about the Sylvan neighborhoods and homes?

Homes for sale in Sylvan: https://jamiemeushawrealestate.com/properties/place-West%20Haven-Sylvan,%20OR/

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