My Favorite Neighborhood in Portland, Oregon

Today, I’m excited to take you on a tour of one of my favorite neighborhoods in northwest Portland—Bauer Highlands. Whether you’re considering a move or simply curious about life here, I’ve got all the details, from home styles to community vibes.

Location and Homes

Bauer Highlands nestles snugly within the Bethany neighborhood, just a stone’s throw from Findley Elementary School, renowned for its top-notch education. Built primarily between 2002 and 2006, this neighborhood boasts around 274 homes, predominantly two-story residences. You’ll find a mix of three to five-bedroom homes, with spacious layouts ranging from 2,200 to 3,000 square feet. Plus, there’s a handful of homes with daylight basements—a rarity that adds a unique flair.

Community and Convenience

Situated about 10 miles northwest of downtown Portland, Bauer Highlands offers easy access to major employers like Intel Hawthorne Farm Campus (8 miles away) and Nike World Headquarters (4 miles away). This makes it a prime location for professionals seeking a balance between work and leisure.

One thing I wish we had in our neighborhood is a walkable shopping center. It would be nice to be able to walk to coffee shops and restaurants. I think a 20-minute walk is reasonable, but we would have to walk about 30 to 40 minutes to go to the nearest shopping center or coffee shops.

Home Features and Pricing

The homes in Bauer Highlands are diverse, with eight distinct floor plans and multiple variations for each. This ensures a blend of style and individuality, steering clear of the cookie-cutter mold. Most properties feature three to four bedrooms upstairs, complemented by office spaces and half baths on the main floor—an ideal setup for families and remote workers alike.

In 2024, home prices in Bauer Highlands are particularly attractive, averaging around $270 per square foot. This pricing, lower than the broader 97229 zip code ($331 per square foot), reflects the trade-off of smaller lots for larger living spaces—a significant draw for potential buyers.

Living in Bauer Highlands

Living here isn’t just about the homes—it’s about the lifestyle. Residents enjoy a well-maintained neighborhood with streets named after European cities, adding a touch of international charm to daily life. The community’s layout and blocked off areas minimizes through traffic, ensuring a safe and peaceful environment ideal for families and pets.

The neighborhood’s homeowners association (HOA) is well-regarded, with reasonable fees and annual events like picnics that foster a strong sense of community spirit.

Another thing I would wish to change in this neighborhood is the mailbox location. I don’t know when, but they stopped putting individual mailboxes into homes. It’s a common thing in newer homes, to have everyone’s mailboxes placed in one area. So you’ll need to walk to get to your mailbox. It’s not a big problem, but sometimes I wish that the mail comes to my door.

Recreation and Nature

For outdoor enthusiasts, Bauer Highlands doesn’t disappoint. Sidewalk-lined streets invite leisurely walks and runs, while nearby green spaces offer ample opportunities for dog walks and quiet contemplation amidst nature. Despite the lack of a nearby shopping center within walking distance (a 30-40 minute stroll away), the abundance of greenery and hiking trails in the area more than compensates.

Personally, one of my favorite spots in Bauer Highlands is a serene green space where I often walk my dog. It’s a tranquil oasis filled with birdsong and the occasional sighting of local wildlife—a true haven from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Final Thoughts

Bauer Highlands is more than just a collection of houses—it’s a vibrant community offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and natural beauty. Whether you’re considering a move or simply intrigued by what life is like here, I hope this overview has provided you with valuable insights.

If you have any questions about Bauer Highlands or are considering a move, feel free to reach out. I’d be delighted to assist you in exploring this wonderful neighborhood further. I’d also love to hear your thoughts! Send me a message with any questions or feedback about Bauer Highlands.

Are you interested in making Bauer Highlands your home? Contact me today by filling out and submitting the form below for personalized assistance in finding your perfect property in this charming neighborhood.

Disclaimer: The content in any of Shawn Yu (Shawn Realty) Youtube videos or this website shall not be construed as tax, legal, insurance, construction, engineering, health & safety, electrical, financial advice, or other & may be outdated or inaccurate. Shawn Yu/Shawn Realty is a licensed principal real estate broker/brokerage doing business in Oregon. To contact Shawn Realty for selling, buying investing in Oregon, please email shawn@shawn-realty.com or call 503-515-4499.

Bauer Highlands Recent Sales (August 2024)