Median Price
$615,000
Walk Score
42
Schools
B+
Where it sits
Far Southwest is tucked into the very southwest corner of Portland, bounded to the north by SW Pomona Street, to the south and west by Portland’s city limits (bordering Tigard and bordered by SW 49th Avenue), and to the east by I-5 and SW 35th Avenue. The neighborhood is known for its unique blend of rural quiet and city accessibility, shaped by large lots, mature trees, and the presence of Portland Community College’s Sylvania campus, giving the area a slightly college-town atmosphere within the city.
The Neighborhood
Most homes in Far Southwest are mid-century ranches, split-levels, and custom builds from the 1960s and 1970s, blending with some newer infill construction and a few remaining older farmhouses. Yards here tend to be larger than the city average, with many streets lined by tall Douglas firs and native landscaping. The housing is spaced out, giving the neighborhood a more private, residential feel.
Day-to-day life revolves around the PCC Sylvania campus and SW 49th Avenue, with scattered local cafes and essentials rather than bustling commercial strips. The pace is slow, and streets are often quiet except during class changes at PCC. While most errands require a car, the neighborhood’s parks and schools are easy to access on foot or by bike.
“Unique blend of rural quiet, city accessibility, shaped by large lots”
Parks, Trails & Green Space
Top 5 places to get outside
Lesser Park — A peaceful, wooded neighborhood park featuring play structures, picnic tables, and grassy areas ideal for family outings or quiet walks. Known for its mature trees and gentle walking loop.
Kerr Site Natural Area — A small but significant natural area with trails offering birdwatching, native plants, and the feel of a mini forest retreat within city limits.
Tryon Creek Headwaters — Though most of Tryon Creek State Natural Area lies just east, the western headwaters trickle through Far Southwest, with accessible paths and abundant wildlife viewing.
Sylvania Park (PCC Sylvania campus) — Maintained by the college, this open space features sports fields, tree-lined walkways, and community gathering spaces open for public use.
Holly Farm Park — At the northwest edge of the neighborhood, Holly Farm Park offers a playground, open lawn, and summer events, known as a hub for local families.
Coffee Shops
Top 5 places for a coffee
Unicorn Bake Shop & Espresso — A quirky café near PCC Sylvania, serving house-baked pastries, espresso drinks, and breakfast sandwiches. Known for its cozy vibe and student crowd.
Portland Coffee Roasters at Sylvania PCC — Located inside the PCC Sylvania campus, this spot serves locally roasted coffee and simple café fare for students and neighborhood residents.
Village Coffee — A friendly, independent shop just northwest of the neighborhood border (SW 45th Ave), known for hand-poured coffees, pastries, and relaxing seating. _Limited independent coffee options within boundaries; above three verified as local and open June 2026._
Restaurants & Food Carts
Top 5 places for a bite to eat
Thai Delicious — A local, family-owned Thai restaurant offering curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fries in an unfussy setting. Known for takeout and quick service.
Gyro House Mediterranean Grill — Casual Mediterranean spot serving gyros, shawarma, and falafel plates, popular for lunch and convenient to PCC Sylvania.
El Sol de Mexico — Neighborhood Mexican restaurant with classic tacos, burritos, and combination plates in a colorful space near SW Capitol Hwy.
Kaboodle Cafe — Offering American breakfasts, sandwiches, and salads, Kaboodle is a low-key, longtime spot favored by local families and PCC students.
Momo Palace — A Himalayan and Nepalese eatery with fresh momos (dumplings), soups, and curries, popular with residents for authentic flavors.
Bars
Top 5 places for a drink
Ickabod’s Bar & Grill — Neighborhood mainstay with classic pub fare, video lottery, and a relaxed vibe. Known for community events and generous happy hours.
Pints of Joy — A welcoming, independent taproom featuring a rotating PNW craft beer lineup, board games, and local cider in a casual setting.
Oregon Public House Annex — Just north of Far Southwest, this nonprofit pub reinvests profits in local causes. Known for its welcoming community feel and solid pub menu. _Fewer bar options within Far Southwest; above three verified local spots._
Things To Do
Top 5 things worth your time
Portland Community College Sylvania Performing Arts Center — Hosts concerts, theater productions, and community events open to the public. Known for accessible ticket pricing and diverse programming.
Tryon Creek naturalist walks — Guided hikes and educational programs start from western trailheads, focusing on local ecology and native species.
Monthly Art Walk at PCC Sylvania — Local artists and student exhibits held monthly in the Sylvania campus halls, open to the neighborhood.
Southwest Community Center drop-in classes — Located near the Far Southwest border, this center offers fitness, art, and swim programs for all ages.
Neighborhood garden tours — Annual community-organized tours featuring creative yards, native landscaping, and gardening demonstrations in Far Southwest homes.
Community Resources
Local services & organizations
Far Southwest Neighborhood Association — Represents residents, organizes events, and advocates on local issues.
SW Community Center — Closest city-run center for recreation, activities, and classes.
PCC Sylvania Campus Library — Offers library access to students and the public.
Holly Farm Park — Frequently used for neighborhood events and gatherings.
Portland Fire & Rescue Station 18 — Serving the southwest area for emergencies and safety information.
Help Us Keep This Current
Did we miss a favorite spot?
Is It Right For You?
How Far Southwest balances out.
Every neighborhood trades one thing for another. Each scale is drawn from real data — price, walkability, era, and architectural character.
Everyday comfortA trade-off to weigh
Who it suits
You’ll likely love it if…
- Homebuyers seeking larger lots and mid-century homes
- Families valuing quiet residential streets and access to parks
- Students or employees of Portland Community College Sylvania
It might not fit if…
- Car-dependency for most daily errands
- Limited nightlife/commercial activity
- Fewer walkable local dining and café options compared to inner neighborhoods
Far Southwest FAQ
The questions we hear most about Far Southwest — and honest answers from people who know it.
Ask us anything →The neighborhood is known for mid-century ranch homes, 1970s split-levels, and some custom builds, typically set on larger lots with mature landscaping.
With a Walk Score of 42, Far Southwest is considered car-dependent, though its parks and the PCC Sylvania campus are accessible on foot or by bike for most residents.
Yes! The neighborhood runs annual garden tours open to all residents, highlighting creative local landscapes and sustainable gardening, plus frequent events at the Holly Farm Park and PCC Sylvania campus.
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