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Cedar Hills, OR

Cedar Hills is a planned suburban community in Oregon's Washington County, part of the Portland metropolitan area, known for its post-war residential development and access to urban amenities.

About the city

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

Cedar Hills is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located in Washington County, Oregon, United States . Its full official name is simply Cedar Hills, Oregon. It is not an incorporated city, so it does not have a municipal government or official status as a capital or administrative center. Instead, it functions as a defined neighborhood and statistical area within the Portland metropolitan area and is subject to the rules of the Homes Association of Cedar Hills . Washington County, where it resides, is a significant part of the Portland metro area, known for being a hub for technology companies (dubbed the "Silicon Forest") and for its mix of urban and suburban residential communities.

Date of Foundation and Age

The development of Cedar Hills began in 1946, making it a post-World War II planned community . The first 50 homes were under construction by April of that year . At the time of its completion in 1961, it was considered the largest single housing tract development in the western United States . As of 2026, the neighborhood is 80 years old. The project was launched by developers who envisioned a large, self-contained suburban community with its own shopping center, schools, and parks .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Cedar Hills is located in the Tualatin Valley at the geographic coordinates 45°30′17″N 122°47′54″W . It is situated south of U.S. Route 26 and west of Oregon Route 217 . The area lies approximately 84 to 86 meters (276–282 feet) above sea level . Geographically, it is a suburban residential area situated on relatively flat land within the Portland basin, surrounded by the cities of Beaverton and Portland.

Type of City and Economic Specialization

Cedar Hills is primarily a residential suburb and a bedroom community. Its economy is intrinsically linked to the larger Portland metropolitan area. While it has its own local shopping center, Cedar Hills Crossing, the employment base for its residents is diverse. According to 2023 data, the largest employment sectors for Cedar Hills residents are Health Care & Social Assistance, Manufacturing, and Retail Trade . The area serves as a residential base for many people who work in Portland's urban core, the high-tech companies in the "Silicon Forest" of Washington County, and other professional services in the region .

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population of Cedar Hills was 8,379 . By 2023, estimates placed the population at 8,515 . The population density is approximately 4,442.74 per square mile . The community is classified as a small-to-medium sized CDP. The median age is 39.2, and the median household income is relatively high at $106,919 . The largest ethnic group is Non-Hispanic White (69.6%), with a significant Hispanic population of 15.7% .

"Visiting Card" of the city (Briefly)

Cedar Hills is a classic example of an early post-war American suburb, offering a quiet, planned residential environment with tree-lined streets and its own community association. Its proximity to major highways, the Sunset Transit Center, and the amenities of both Beaverton and downtown Portland make it a convenient and desirable place to live for families and professionals in the Pacific Northwest.

Geography

Water Features (Lakes)

While not located on a major river or ocean, Cedar Hills is home to a significant man-made lake.

Parks and Natural Areas

Cedar Hills and its immediate vicinity are served by the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District (THPRD), which maintains several parks and recreational facilities.

Climate and weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Cedar Hills experiences a warm-summer Mediterranean climate (Csb) characteristic of the Willamette Valley. This climate is defined by cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers.

Average Temperatures by Month

The weather is moderate year-round. The warmest months are July and August, with average daily highs reaching around 29°C (84°F). The coolest month is December, with average highs of 7.4°C (45.3°F) and lows dropping to 2.0°C (35.5°F) .

Month Min Temp (°C / °F) Max Temp (°C / °F)
January 2.8 / 37.1 8.7 / 47.6
February 3.1 / 37.5 10.3 / 50.5
March 4.7 / 40.4 13.5 / 56.3
April 6.4 / 43.6 16.6 / 61.9
May 9.2 / 48.6 20.9 / 69.5
June 11.6 / 52.9 23.9 / 75.1
July 13.8 / 56.9 28.7 / 83.7
August 14.0 / 57.3 29.0 / 84.2
September 11.8 / 53.3 24.9 / 76.9
October 8.0 / 46.4 17.7 / 63.9
November 4.9 / 40.8 11.1 / 52.0
December 2.0 / 35.5 7.4 / 45.3

*Data source: Tomorrow.io Weather *

Precipitation and Humidity

Cedar Hills receives a significant amount of rainfall, especially in the winter months.

Sunshine and Daylight

The area experiences significant seasonal variation in daylight. The sunniest months are July and August. In late February, for example, sunrise is around 6:52 AM and sunset around 5:55 PM, providing about 11 hours of daylight .

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Cedar Hills for pleasant, dry weather is during the summer months, from June through September. This period offers the warmest temperatures and the least amount of rainfall, ideal for exploring the numerous parks and outdoor attractions in the region . Spring (April-May) and fall (October) can also be enjoyable but are more likely to see rain.

Specific Weather Events

The predominant weather pattern from November through March is persistent cloud cover and rain, with occasional atmospheric river events bringing heavy precipitation.

Landmarks

[Architectural Monument: The Historic Cedar Hills Sign]

While not a statue, the tall neon sign of the original Cedar Hills Shopping Center, built in the 1950s, became a beloved local landmark for decades . It symbolized the post-war optimism and the new suburban community. Although the original shopping center has changed, the sign remains a point of reference in the neighborhood's history.

[Parkland Gem: Commonwealth Lake Park]

This park, centered around the man-made Commonwealth Lake, is the premier natural landmark within Cedar Hills . It's not a monument in the traditional sense, but it serves as the community's central green space. A paved trail loops around the lake, making it a favorite spot for walking, jogging, fishing, and bird watching, providing a serene escape within the suburban landscape.

[Nearby Icon: The "Stone House" in Forest Park]

A popular attraction for hikers from Cedar Hills is the historic stone structure, often called the "Stone House," located in the Macleay Park area of Forest Park . Officially a restroom structure built in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), it was damaged by a flood in the 1960s and abandoned. Now, its picturesque ruins along a creek are a famous hiking destination, steeped in local lore and a favorite subject for photographers .

Transport

Main Airports

Cedar Hills is primarily served by one major international airport.

Main Highways

Two major highways border and provide access to Cedar Hills.

Public Transportation System

Cedar Hills is well-integrated into the regional public transit network operated by TriMet.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Cedar Hills, while an unincorporated community in Washington County, is part of the vibrant and diverse culinary landscape of the Tualatin Valley, just west of Portland . The area is recognized as a global dining hotspot, with its food scene heavily inspired by the region's Japanese, Korean, Mexican, and Indian communities .

Diverse Dining in the Tualatin Valley

The greater area surrounding Cedar Hills offers a rich tapestry of dining experiences. For those seeking the flavors of the Tualatin Valley, a visit to the nearby city of Beaverton's historic downtown "Restaurant Row" is a must. Here, you can find local favorites like Nak Won, known for its Korean barbecue and rich, spicy soups . Another standout is Hapa Pizza, an award-winning Asian-fusion pizzeria that serves innovations such as pork belly kimchi or tofu in yellow Thai curry pizza .

Within Cedar Hills itself, the dining options reflect this diversity. A local favorite mentioned in community reviews is a spot at 2895 SW Cedar Hills Blvd, highly recommended for its teriyaki, shoyu chicken, or kalbi chicken, often paired with a "really good" mac salad . For authentic Mexican food, residents and visitors can visit Victorico's Mexican Food, a local chain with a location at 3260 SW Cedar Hills Blvd, offering classics like a Small Cheese Quesadilla . For a quick and healthy meal, Evergreens at the same address serves a variety of customizable salads with playful names like "Game of Ketones" .

Local Pubs and Eateries

The area is also home to establishments that are staples of the Pacific Northwest. McMenamins, a regional chain known for its unique, historic properties and craft beer, has a presence in the area, offering a variety of food and drink options from burgers to its own brews . For a trendy dining experience, The Observatory offers small plates and craft cocktails in an intimate setting .

Regional Craft Beverages

The Tualatin Valley AVA, located within the renowned Willamette Valley AVA, is a producer of world-class wines, particularly Pinot Noir . While Cedar Hills itself may not have vineyards, the surrounding area boasts acclaimed wineries like Ponzi Vineyards and Raptor Ridge Winery, which offer tastings and tours with stunning views of the Chehalem Mountains .

For those interested in something beyond wine and beer, the nearby city of Forest Grove is home to SakéOne, the first American-owned premium sake producer. They offer guided tastings of multiple styles of rice wine brewed on-site .

Museums

A Unique Museum in the Vicinity

While Cedar Hills does not have major museums within its immediate boundaries, the Tualatin Valley region is home to a truly unique attraction. The Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals is located in the nearby city of Hillsboro. Housed in the original midcentury ranch home of renowned rock collectors Richard and Helen Rice, the museum boasts a collection of over 20,000 specimens, including fossils, crystals, petrified wood, and minerals—some of which famously glow in the dark . It is a must-visit for rockhounds and budding geologists.

Arts and Culture Nearby

For contemporary arts, the Patricia Reser Center for the Arts in Beaverton serves as a hub for visual and performing arts. The center hosts galleries, holiday shows, and a variety of performances throughout the year .

Sport and Sports Legends

Proximity to Major Sports in Portland

As a community within the Portland metropolitan area, Cedar Hills is close to the city's major professional sports teams and venues. Residents and visitors are just a short drive from downtown Portland, where they can enjoy a rich sports culture.

Outdoor Recreation in the Tualatin Valley

For those who prefer participating in sports over spectating, the Tualatin Valley offers numerous outdoor opportunities. The region is characterized by its green spaces, wetlands, and wildlife preserves . The Tualatin Hills Nature Park in Beaverton features a paved Oak Trail that winds through forest and wetlands, making it accessible for all. Nearby, the Cooper Mountain Nature Park offers trails overlooking the valley and Chehalem Mountains, and even features "listening trumpets" that amplify the sounds of nature . For longer excursions, the roughly 14-mile Hagg Lake Loop in Scoggins Valley Park near Forest Grove is ideal for hiking or cycling with views of the Coast Range .

Universities and Educational Institutions

Cedar Hills is strategically located near several of Oregon's most prominent institutions of higher education, all within a short driving distance.

Major Universities Nearby

Healthcare Facilities and Services

Cedar Hills and its surrounding area are well-served by a range of healthcare facilities, from urgent care centers to specialized hospitals.

Specialized Hospital

Urgent Care and Primary Care

The community has access to multiple urgent care and primary care clinics for non-emergency medical needs.

Major Medical Centers Nearby

For more complex medical needs, residents of Cedar Hills are close to world-class medical centers in the Portland metro area. These include Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) Hospital, renowned for its research and specialized care, and Providence St. Vincent Medical Center, consistently ranked among the best hospitals in Oregon. These institutions provide advanced care in cardiology, oncology, neurology, and other specialties.

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