About the Area
Cedar Mill is a charming, unincorporated suburb in Washington County, nestled in the Portland metropolitan area just north of U.S. Route 26 (Sunset Highway) and west of downtown Portland. Spanning about 3.7 square miles with a population of around 17,000–18,000, it offers a dense yet peaceful suburban feel where most residents own their homes. Originally named for a historic cedar sawmill established in the 1850s along Cedar Mill Creek, the neighborhood blends residential neighborhoods with lush greenery, rolling hills, and a strong sense of community. It’s conveniently positioned for families and professionals who want easy access to nature, top-tier amenities, and major employers without sacrificing a quiet, wooded lifestyle.
Vibes
Cedar Mill radiates a welcoming, family-oriented suburban vibe with a relaxed, nature-infused energy. Tree-lined streets, hillside homes, and pockets of preserved wetlands give it a peaceful, almost rural feel—yet it’s anything but isolated. Residents enjoy a tight-knit community atmosphere, frequent local events like farmers markets, and a mix of young professionals, families, and long-time locals. It’s the kind of place where you can hike wooded trails in the morning and grab coffee or dinner at a neighborhood spot in the evening, all while feeling safe, connected, and close to everything Portland has to offer!
Education Excellence
Cedar Mill is known for its outstanding schools. Families benefit from highly rated Beaverton School District options, including Sunset High School, located right in the Cedar Mill area and praised for its strong academics and programs. For private education, St. Pius X Catholic School (PreK–8) is conveniently located in the heart of Cedar Mill on NW Saltzman Road, offering a faith-centered environment focused on academic excellence, community, and moral development.
Proximity to Major Employers
The neighborhood’s location makes it ideal for tech and corporate professionals. It sits just a short drive (about 3 miles) from Nike World Headquarters in Beaverton, with easy access to the sprawling campus that serves as the global hub for the iconic brand. Cedar Mill is also conveniently close to Intel’s campuses in the Hillsboro area (roughly 9 miles away), placing residents near one of the region’s largest tech employers and the heart of Oregon’s “Silicon Forest.”
Parks and Recreation
Nature lovers thrive here with abundant green spaces. Cedar Mill Park offers soccer fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas, while the Cedar Mill Creek Greenway and Overlook Park feature scenic trails and the area’s charming Cedar Mill Falls waterfall. The neighborhood connects directly to the massive Forest Park—one of the largest urban forests in the United States—with over 5,200 acres and 80+ miles of hiking and biking trails. Smaller neighborhood parks and greenways add even more opportunities for daily walks and outdoor play.
Shopping and Dining
Everyday convenience meets variety along NW Cornell Road and nearby centers like Milltown Shopping Center and Timberland Falls. Residents enjoy quick access to grocery stores, boutiques, and coffee shops. Popular dining spots include Grand Central Bakery (for fresh breads, sandwiches, and pastries), LaChona for flavorful Mexican cuisine, and newer additions like 808 Grinds for authentic Hawaiian fare, along with ramen spots, pizza places, and casual taverns. For bigger shopping excursions, Cedar Hills Crossing is a quick drive away with dozens of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Quick Commute to Downtown Portland
Cedar Mill offers one of the easiest west-side commutes into downtown Portland—just 7–8 miles away. Driving times are typically 12–15 minutes off-peak via multiple convenient routes, including U.S. 26 (Sunset Highway), Barnes Road, or Cornell Road connections. For transit users, the nearby Sunset Transit Center (a 5-minute drive) provides seamless access to the MAX Blue and Red light-rail lines, TriMet buses (like the 48-Cornell), and park-and-ride options, making trips to downtown, the Portland Zoo, or even the airport fast and stress-free. Whether you drive or take public transit, getting to the city is quick and flexible.