10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Oregon

Oregon is known for its lush green landscapes, outdoor recreation, vibrant arts scene, and delectable cuisine. Its mountains, beaches, forests, and urban areas provide a wide range of activities and areas to explore for individuals, couples, and families of all ages.

Oregon’s many cities and towns each offer something different, depending on each person’s lifestyle and preferences. In the state’s more prominent cities, you’ll find bustling streets full of shops and events. The smaller towns offer a quiet, quaint ambience with close-knit communities, while its rural areas present lakes, rivers, wildlife, and miles of open land.

There are some factors to consider before moving to Oregon. Take a look at the facts below:

  1. Taxes: Oregon has the second highest state tax rate in the U.S., but it does not have a sales tax.
  2. Climate: In the majority of the state, it rains for several months of the year. The temperature, however, remains moderate, with just a few peaks in cold and hot weather in winter and summer months. 

Here are 10 cities with the most affordable cost of living in Oregon:

1. Portland

HOMEiA Score: 96/100

  • Cost of Living: 26% above the U.S. national average. And 19% higher than the Oregon average
  • Home price to income ratio: $523,100/$85,876 = 6.09. The U.S. average is 5.8.
  • Income to rent ratio: $85,876/$18,360 = 4.68. In Portland, 53.3% of residents own their homes.
  • Population/Area: Portland has a population of 630,498 (2023) spread over a 145.09-square-mile area. The population density is 4,346 per square mile. The population in Portland grew by 8% from April 2010 through July 2023.
  • Safety rating: Portland has 7.49% violent crimes per 1,000 residents, above Oregon’s statewide median rate of 3.42% and the U.S. national median rate of 4%. It has 64.56% property crimes per 1,000 residents, above Oregon’s statewide median of 29.35% and the U.S. national median of 20%.

In Portland, taste your way across the city as you visit more than 500 different food carts, try local craft beer, attend a festival on the waterfront or spend a day at the Oregon Zoo or the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI). Portland has a variety of seasonal events throughout the year, in addition to urban forests with hiking trails for all levels.

 

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Portland MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $85,876

Portland Housing Costs
Median Home Value$523,100
Annual Spend for Homeowners$28,308
Annual Spend for Renters (Rent & Utilities)$18,360
10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Oregon

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Geographically, Oregon boasts dramatic Pacific coastlines as well as volcanic mountain ranges. Its climate spans from rainforests along the coast to semi-arid conditions in the central and southeastern regions. The Beaver State is home to both Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the U.S., and Mount Hood, the second-most-climbed mountain in the world…

B. Employment Prospects

  • The unemployment rate in Portland is 3.90% (June 2024), below the overall Oregon and national unemployment rate of 4.10%.
  • The poverty rate is 12.20%, which is equal to the Oregon poverty rate and above the national poverty rate of 11.10%.
  • The major employers in Portland include Providence Health & Services, Intel, Oregon Health & Science University, Nike, Legacy Health and Kaiser Permanente.
  • The Portland area has an average commute time of 24.8 minutes.

C. Healthcare 

Portland is known for its excellent hospital care, with facilities including Adventist Medical Center, Kaiser Foundation Hospital Westside Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center, Legacy Emanuel Hospital and Health Center, Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital and Health Center, Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center, Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital and Oregon Health and Science University.

D. Education

  • The Portland School District includes 86 public schools and 136 private schools.
  • Portland is also home to Portland State University, The University of Portland, Reed College and Lewis & Clark College.
  • Over the 2018-2022 period, the high school graduation rate in Portland was 93.40%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
  • The population of adults over 25 years of age with a college degree was 52.50%, above the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
Known as the Rose City, Portland offers outdoor recreation, fine dining, family activities, restaurants and shows perfect for a date night, and places to take a casual stroll and breathe in the fresh Pacific Northwest air.

Fun facts about Portland:

  • Here you’ll find Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the U.S.
  • Readers can peruse Powell’s Books, the largest independently owned bookstore in the world.
  • In the International Rose Test Garden, visitors can walk along rows of roses and take in the scent and views of the city.
  • Portland offers several bike trails, outdoor craft markets and dog-friendly restaurants.

2. Bend

HOMEiA Score: 96/100

  • Cost of Living: 11% above the U.S. national average. And 5% above the Oregon average
  • Home price to income ratio: $576,900/$82,671 = 6.98. The U.S. average is 5.8.
  • Income to rent ratio: $82,671/$19,788 = 4.18. In Bend, 61.2% of residents own their homes.
  • Population/Area: Bend has a population of 104,557 (2023) spread over a 35.05-square-mile area. The population density is 2,983 per square mile. The population in Bend grew by 36% from April 2010 through July 2023.
  • Safety rating: Bend has 1.55% violent crimes per 1,000 residents, below Oregon’s statewide median rate of 3.42% and the U.S. national median rate of 4%. It has 16.15% property crimes per 1,000 residents, which is below Oregon’s statewide median of 29.35% and the U.S. national median of 20%.

Bend, located in Oregon’s High Desert, is the perfect place for winter recreation. Ski the iconic Mt. Bachelor and try snowshoeing or snowboarding. Then check out the city’s vibrant food scene.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Bend MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $82,671

Bend Housing Costs
Median Home Value$576,900
Annual Spend for Homeowners$25,524
Annual Spend for Renters (Rent & Utilities) $19,788
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B. Employment Prospects

  • The unemployment rate in Bend is 3.70% (June 2024), below the overall Oregon and national unemployment rate of 4.10%.
  • The poverty rate is 9.50%, below the Oregon poverty rate of 12.20% and the national poverty rate of 11.10%.
  • The major employers in Bend include Central Oregon Community College, Summit Medical Group, OSU-Cascades and Lonza.
  • The Bend area has an average commute time of 17.1 minutes.

C. Healthcare 

Bend residents have access to nearby healthcare, including Charles Medical Center, which is the largest hospital in Central Oregon and the only location offering a Level II Trauma Center.

D. Education

  • The Bend-La Pine School District includes 33 public schools, two charter schools and 19 private schools.
  • Bend is also home to Central Oregon Community College.
  • Over the 2018-2022 period, the high school graduation rate in Bend was 95.90%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
  • The population of adults above 25 years of age with a college degree was 48.40%, above the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
Bend is known for its wildlife, water and snow recreation activities, hiking, camping, shopping and dining.

Fun facts about Bend:

  • Mt. Bachelor offers year-round recreation opportunities.
  • You’ll find 30 different breweries there.
  • It is known for its food carts, sit-down restaurants, dog-friendly spots and coffee shops.
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3. Medford

10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Oregon

HOMEiA Score: 97/100

  • Cost of Living: 6% below the U.S. national average. And 10% less than the Oregon average
  • Home price to income ratio: $355,600/$65,647 = 5.42. The U.S. average is 5.8.
  • Income to rent ratio: $65,647/$14,568 = 4.51. In Medford, 54.7% of residents own their homes.
  • Population/Area: Medford has a population of 85,098 (2023) spread over a 25.74-square-mile area. The population density is 3,306 per square mile. The population in Medford grew by 14% from April 2010 through July 2023.
  • Safety rating: Medford has 3.81% violent crimes per 1,000 residents, above Oregon’s statewide median rate of 3.42% and below the U.S. national median rate of 4%. It has 41.82% property crimes per 1,000 residents, above Oregon’s statewide median of 29.35% and the U.S. national median of 20%.

In Medford, take a hike with wildflowers and stunning views at Table Rocks–known as Oregon’s “Islands in the Sky”–taste local wines along the Rogue Valley Region, go whitewater rafting on the Rogue River or sample one of the many Southern Oregon restaurants.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

MEDFORD MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $65,647

Medford Housing Costs
Median Home Value$355,600
Annual Spend for Homeowners$20,976
Annual Spend for Renters (Rent & Utilities) $14,568

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B. Employment Prospects

C. Healthcare 

Medford residents can receive care at Providence Medford Medical Center, a full-service community hospital.

D. Education

  • The Medford School District includes 14 elementary schools, three middle schools, three high schools, one online virtual school, four charter schools and seven private schools.
  • Medford is also located near Southern Oregon University.
  • Over the 2018-2022 period, the high school graduation rate in Medford was 90.70%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
  • The population of adults above 25 years of age with a college degree was 35.50%, above the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
From parks to children’s museums to shopping and more, there’s something for everyone here.

Fun facts about Medford:

  • It is home to Roxy Ann Peak, a 30-million-year-old dormant volcano.
  • Medford has 200 days of sunshine per year.
  • The city is located near Crater Lake, the ninth deepest lake in the world.
  • It is the eighth largest city in Oregon.
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4. Eugene

HOMEiA Score: 97/100

  • Cost of Living: 9% above the U.S. national average. And 4% above the Oregon average
  • Home price to income ratio: $406,000/$61,481 = 6.60. The U.S. average is 5.8.
  • Income to rent ratio: $61,481/$15,228 = 4.04. In Eugene, 47.8% of residents own their homes.
  • Population/Area: Eugene has a population of 177,899 (2023) spread over a 43.74-square-mile area. The population density is 4,067 per square mile. The population in Eugene grew by 14% from April 2010 through July 2023.
  • Safety rating: Eugene has 3.80% violent crimes per 1,000 residents, above Oregon’s statewide median rate of 3.42% and below the U.S. national median rate of 4%. It has 33.83% property crimes per 1,000 residents, above Oregon’s statewide median of 29.35% and the U.S. national median of 20%.

Known as “Track Town USA,” Eugene is home to the U.S. Olympic Trials for track and field and the home of the legendary Steve Prefontaine. Eugene has a thriving arts scene, several sporting event venues, worldly cuisines and high-end shopping.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Eugene MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $61,481

Eugene Housing Costs
Median Home Value$406,000
Annual Spend for Homeowners$23,556
Annual Spend for Renters (Rent & Utilities)$15,228
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B. Employment Prospects

  • The unemployment rate in Eugene is 4.10% (June 2024), which is equal to the overall Oregon and national unemployment rate.
  • The poverty rate is 19.30%, compared to the Oregon poverty rate of 12.20% and national poverty rate of 11.10%.
  • The major employers in Eugene include the University of Oregon, Eugene School District and PeaceHealth Medical Group.
  • The Eugene area has an average commute time of 18.6 minutes.

C. Healthcare 

The Oregon Medical Group offers 10 clinics in the Eugene and Springfield area. In addition, the PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center University District is a hospital located near the University of Oregon and Northwest Christian University.

D. Education

  • The Eugene School District includes 37 public schools and 31 private schools.
  • Eugene is also home to the University of Oregon, Bushnell University and Lane Community College. 
  • Over the 2018-2022 period, the high school graduation rate in Eugene was 94.60%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
  • The population of adults over 25 years of age with a college degree was 44.20%, above the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
Eugene is known for the University of Oregon, whose mascot is the Duck. You will see yellow and green throughout the city in support of its school pride.

Fun facts about Eugene:

  • Eugene is the birthplace of Nike, created by Phil Knight in 1964.
  • The popular TV show The Simpsons is based on parts of Eugene and its nearby town, Springfield.
  • Skinner Butte, a popular hiking spot, includes 100 acres of stunning views.
  • Eugene has bustling nightlife, with concert venues, bars and nightclubs.
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5. Ontario

10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Oregon

HOMEiA Score: 98/100

  • Cost of Living: 4% below the U.S. national average. And 9% less than the Oregon average
  • Home price to income ratio: $174,900/$39,750 = 4.40. The U.S. average is 5.8.
  • Income to rent ratio: $39,750/$8,868 = 4.48. In Ontario, 52.5% of residents own their homes.
  • Population/Area: Ontario has a population of 11,866 (2023) spread over a 5.17-square-mile area. The population density is 2,295 per square mile. The population in Ontario grew by 4% from April 2010 through July 2023.
  • Safety rating: Ontario has 8.95% violent crimes per 1,000 residents, above Oregon’s statewide median rate of 3.42% and the U.S. national median rate of 4%. It has 59.84% property crimes per 1,000 residents, above Oregon’s statewide median of 29.35% and the U.S. national median of 20%.

Ontario is an excellent place for nature lovers, with river canyons, sweeping views and river recreation sites.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

ONTARIO MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $39,750

Ontario Housing Costs
Median Home Value$174,900
Annual Spend for Homeowners$15,828
Annual Spend for Renters (Rent & Utilities) $8,868

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B. Employment Prospects

  • The unemployment rate in Ontario is 4% (June 2024), compared to the overall Oregon and national unemployment rate of 4.10%.
  • The poverty rate is 21.40%,  compared to the Oregon poverty rate of 12.20% and national poverty rate of 11.10%.
  • The major employers in Ontario include Home Depot, Kraft Heinz and Amazon.
  • The Ontario area has an average commute time of 14.7 minutes.

C. Healthcare 

The Saint Alphonsus Medical Center provides care to Ontario residents and communities in eastern Oregon and southwestern Idaho.

D. Education

  • The Ontario School District includes seven public schools and one private school.
  • Over the 2018-2022 period, the high school graduation rate in Ontario was 79.90%, compared to the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
  • The population of adults above 25 years of age with a college degree was 16.70%, compared to the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
With museums, parks and shopping, there’s a wealth of activities here.

Fun facts about Ontario:

  • Four Rivers Cultural Center & Museum features concerts, lectures, events and a Japanese garden.
  • The Four Rivers Farm and Garden Trail is a self-guided loop where visitors and locals can check out farms, nurseries, orchards and even try some fresh food!
  • Ontario features rodeos, scenic bikeways, rafting and more for outdoor enthusiasts and those who just like to get out and explore. 

6. Salem

HOMEiA Score: 98/100

  • Cost of Living: 1% below the U.S. national average. And 6% lower than the Oregon average
  • Home price to income ratio: $349,500/$67,540 = 5.17. The U.S. average is 5.8.
  • Income to rent ratio: $67,540/$14,688 = 4.60. In Salem, 54.9% of residents own their homes.
  • Population/Area: Salem has a population of 177,432 (2023) spread over a 48.45-square-mile area. The population density is 3,662 per square mile. The population in Salem grew by 15% from April 2010 through July 2023.
  • Safety rating: Salem has 5.01% violent crimes per 1,000 residents, above Oregon’s statewide median rate of 3.42% and the U.S. national median rate of 4%. It has 36.89% property crimes per 1,000 residents, above Oregon’s statewide median of 29.35% and the U.S. national median of 20%.

As Oregon’s capital, Salem has so much to see and do. From performances at art venues to parks, vineyards, festivals and fairs, you’ll always have something new to try.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Salem MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $67,540

Salem Housing Costs
Median Home Value$349,500
Annual Spend for Homeowners$22,140
Annual Spend for Renters (Rent & Utilities)$14,688
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B. Employment Prospects

  • The unemployment rate in Salem is 3.90% (June 2024), compared to the overall Oregon and national unemployment rate of 4.10%.
  • The poverty rate is 14.60%, compared to the Oregon poverty rate of 12.20% and national poverty rate of 11.10%.
  • The major employers in Medford include Akzo Nobel Coatings, Inc., the State of Oregon, Oregon State Parks, The Doctor’s Clinic and Salem Health.
  • The Salem area has an average commute time of 22.7 minutes.

C. Healthcare 

Salem Health is comprised of 12 different locations, including the Salem Hospital and Salem Clinic.

D. Education

  • The Salem-Keizer School District includes 16 public schools. It is the second largest school district in Oregon. Salem also includes 30 private schools.
  • Salem is further home to Willamette University, Corban University and Chemeketa Community College.
  • Over the 2018-2022 period, the high school graduation rate in Salem was 88.50%, compared to the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
  • The population of adults above 25 years of age with a college degree was 31.00%, compared to the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
In Salem, you’ll find a mix of farmer’s markets, hiking and biking trails, one-of-a-kind amusement parks and unique food options.

Fun facts about Salem:

  • Featuring 16 exhibits and a 20,000-foot outdoor area, the Gilbert House Children’s Museum includes art, science and discovery.
  • Salem’s Riverfront Park, located downtown, features a hand-carved carousel, playground, outdoor amphitheater and river bike trail.
  • Enchanted Forest, which is located just a few miles outside of Salem, is a local amusement park that showcases traditional nursery rhymes. You’ll find plays, rides and an experience like no other. 
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7. Beaverton

HOMEiA Score: 98/100

  • Cost of Living: 16% above the U.S. national average. And 11% above the Oregon average
  • Home price to income ratio: $494,700/$88,899 = 5.56. The U.S. average is 5.8.
  • Income to rent ratio: $88,899/$19,956 = 4.45. In Beaverton, 50.3% of residents own their homes.
  • Population/Area: Beaverton has a population of 96,945 (2023) spread over a 19.7-square-mile area. The population density is 4,921 per square mile. The population in Beaverton grew by 8% from April 2010 through July 2023.
  • Safety rating: Beaverton has 3.13% violent crimes per 1,000 residents, below Oregon’s statewide median rate of 3.42% and below the U.S. national median rate of 4%. It has 27.90% property crimes per 1,000 residents, below Oregon’s statewide median of 29.35% and above the U.S. national median of 20%.

Beaverton, while very close to Portland, also offers the feeling of a smaller town. It boasts 30 miles of hiking trails, international cuisine, wineries, farms and events.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Beaverton MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $88,899

Beaverton Housing Costs
Median Home Value$494,700
Annual Spend for Homeowners$27,552
Annual Spend for Renters (Rent & Utilities)$19,956
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B. Employment Prospects

  • The unemployment rate in Beaverton is 3.50% (June 2024), below the overall Oregon and national unemployment rate of 4.10%.
  • The poverty rate is 10.70%, below the Oregon poverty rate of 12.20% and national poverty rate of 11.10%.
  • The major employers in Beaverton include Nike, VTech, and the Open Connectivity Foundation.
  • The Beaverton area has an average commute time of 24.3 minutes.

C. Healthcare 

Beaverton residents have many healthcare options to choose from, including Pacific Health Medical Group, The Portland Clinic and a secondary location of Oregon Health and Science University.

D. Education

  • The Beaverton School District includes 56 public schools, five option schools, nine option programs and two charter schools.
  • Over the 2018-2022 period, the high school graduation rate in Beaverton was 94.50%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
  • The population of adults above 25 years of age with a college degree was 48.30%, above the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
Beaverton is nestled between several parks, which brings residents and visitors close to nature while also being close to city activities and events.

Fun facts about Beaverton:

  • It is a great place for foodies, with Beaverton Restaurant Week and several local eateries.
  • It has a strong job market, with several high-tech employers located there.
  • It is a great place to explore wineries and historic landmarks.
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8. Astoria

HOMEiA Score: 98/100

  • Cost of Living: 7% above the U.S. national average. And 1% above the Oregon average
  • Home price to income ratio: $383,600/$69,463 = 5.52. The U.S. average is 5.8.
  • Income to rent ratio: $69,463/$12,888 = 5.39. In Astoria, 51.9% of residents own their homes.
  • Population/Area: Astoria has a population of 9,986 (2023) spread over a 9.95-square-mile area. The population density is 1,004 per square mile. The population in Astoria grew by 5% from April 2010 through July 2023.
  • Safety rating: Astoria has 4.71% violent crimes per 1,000 residents, above Oregon’s statewide median rate of 3.42% and the U.S. national median rate of 4%. It has 34.08% property crimes per 1,000 residents, which is above Oregon’s statewide median of 29.35% and the U.S. national median of 20%.

Astoria is a charming coastal city with breathtaking ocean views, fresh seafood, beach access and great places to get a bite to eat or relax and enjoy your surroundings.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Astoria MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $69,463

Astoria Housing Costs
Median Home Value$383,600
Annual Spend for Homeowners$21,228
Annual Spend for Renters (Rent & Utilities)$12,888
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B. Employment Prospects

  • The unemployment rate in Astoria is 3.70% (June 2024), below the overall Oregon and national unemployment rate of 4.10%.
  • The poverty rate is 12.10%, below the Oregon poverty rate of 12.20% and above the national poverty rate of 11.10%.
  • The major employers in Astoria include Clatsop Community College, Astoria Pacific Seafoods, the City of Astoria and Columbia River Maritime Museum.
  • The Astoria area has an average commute time of 19.3 minutes.

C. Healthcare

The Astoria area is served by the Columbia Memorial Hospital, Coastal Family Health Center and more.

D. Education

  • The Astoria School District includes four public schools and two private schools. 
  • Astoria is also home to Clatsop Community College.
  • Over the 2018-2022 period, the high school graduation rate in Astoria was 91.10%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
  • The population of adults above 25 years of age with a college degree was 31.70%, below the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
Astoria is known for its charming atmosphere, museums and beaches.

Fun facts about Astoria:

  • Popular movies were filmed there, including The Goonies, Free Willy, Short Circuit, Into the Wild, The Ring, Green Room and Kindergarten Cop.
  • Visitors and residents can see an actual shipwreck at Fort Stevens State Park.
  • The Astoria Riverwalk includes 6 miles of trail where you can walk or ride a bike.

 

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9. Corvallis

HOMEiA Score: 98/100

  • Cost of Living: 5% above the U.S. national average. And 1% lower than the Oregon average
  • Home price to income ratio: $436,000/$61,610 = 7.08. The U.S. average is 5.8.
  • Income to rent ratio: $61,610/$15,780 = 3.90. In Corvallis, 41.0% of residents own their homes.
  • Population/Area: Corvallis has a population of 61,087 (2023) spread over a 14.46-square-mile area. The population density is 4,225 per square mile. The population in Corvallis grew by 12% from April 2010 through July 2023.
  • Safety rating: Corvallis has 2.15% violent crimes per 1,000 residents, below Oregon’s statewide median rate of 3.42% and the U.S. national median rate of 4%. It has 43.44% property crimes per 1,000 residents, which is above Oregon’s statewide median of 29.35% and the U.S. national median of 20%.

In Corvallis, you’ll find hiking trails, farmer’s markets, local artisan shops, family-friendly events and college sports.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Corvallis MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $61,610

Corvallis Housing Costs
Median Home Value$436,000
Annual Spend for Homeowners$24,276
Annual Spend for Renters (Rent & Utilities)$15,780

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B. Employment Prospects

  • The unemployment rate in Corvallis is 3.30% (June 2024), below the overall Oregon and national unemployment rate of 4.10%.
  • The poverty rate is 26.40%, above the Oregon poverty rate of 12.20% and the national poverty rate of 11.10%.
  • The major employers in Corvallis include Samaritan Health Services, Oregon State University and OSU Open Source Lab.
  • The Corvallis area has an average commute time of 16.9 minutes.

C. Healthcare

In Corvallis, residents can find primary and urgent care at Corvallis Clinic and Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center.

D. Education

  • The Corvallis School District includes 14 public schools and seven private schools. 
  • Corvallis is also home to Oregon State University.
  • Over the 2018-2022 period, the high school graduation rate in Corvallis was 96%, above the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
  • The population of adults over 25 years of age with a college degree was 60.40%, above the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
Corvallis is known for its artistic downtown area, its pride for the Oregon State Beavers and surrounding nature areas.

Fun facts about Corvallis:

  • It is known as the Heart of the Valley, located near the cities of Albany and Philomath.
  • The McDonald-Dunn Forest, which includes the Peavy Arboretum, includes several trails and tree species.
  • Catch a baseball or football game in town, or even cheer on the Oregon State University gymnastics team.
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10. Hood River

HOMEiA Score: 98/100

  • Cost of Living: 6% above the U.S. national average. And 1% above the Oregon average
  • Home price to income ratio: $492,500/$70,791 = 6.96. The U.S. average is 5.8.
  • Income to rent ratio: $70,791/$15,816 = 4.48. In Hood River, 52.3% of residents own their homes.
  • Population/Area: Hood River has a population of 8,346 (2023) spread over a 3.4-square-mile area. The population density is 2,455 per square mile. The population in Hood River grew by 16% from April 2010 through July 2023.
  • Safety rating: Hood River has 0.96% violent crimes per 1,000 residents, below Oregon’s statewide median rate of 3.42% and the U.S. national median rate of 4%. It has 39.51% property crimes per 1,000 residents, which is above Oregon’s statewide median of 29.35% and the U.S. national median of 20%.

In Hood River, you can explore windsurfing, paddling, kayaking, golf and local orchards. There are so many places to explore in the Columbia River Gorge.

A. Median Household Income, Median Home Value, Annual Spend for Homeowners, and Annual Spend for Renters:

Hood River MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2022): $70,791

Hood River Housing Costs
Median Home Value$492,500
Annual Spend for Homeowners$25,596
Annual Spend for Renters (Rent & Utilities)$15,816

 

B. Employment Prospects

  • The unemployment rate in Hood River is 3.10% (June 2024), below the overall Oregon and national unemployment rate of 4.10%.
  • The poverty rate is 9.70%, below the Oregon poverty rate of 12.20% and the national poverty rate of 11.10%.
  • The major employers in Hood River include Providence Health-Columbia Gorge, Cardinal IG, Hood River County School District and Insitu.
  • The Hood River area has an average commute time of 19 minutes.

C. Healthcare 

Hood River residents can find care at the Hood River Memorial Hospital and Columbia Gorge Family Medicine.

D. Education

  • The Hood River School District includes five elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school, one option school and four private schools.
  • Hood River is also home to the Columbia Gorge Community College.
  • Over the 2018-2022 period, the high school graduation rate in Hood River was 85.50%, below the U.S. national average of 89.10%.
  • The population of adults above 25 years of age with a college degree was 42.90%, above the national average of approximately 34.30%.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle
Hood River is known for its water sports, breweries, wineries and proximity to Multnomah Falls.

Fun facts about Hood River:

  • You can take a sailing trip, rent a paddle board or ride a sternwheeler.
  • There are several galleries, museums and art centers to explore.
  • Tour the local craft breweries or wineries while taking in spectacular views.
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Conclusion

Oregon is well-known for its vibrant green landscapes, outdoor recreation and variety of activities. During its rainy season, residents can choose from indoor options ranging from plays to sporting events, or head out to the mountains to ski or snowboard. During the summers, residents will enjoy water activities, hiking, biking, fairs and festivals. The state offers a bounty of options, no matter what city you decide on.

Ashley Locke has lived in Oregon for nearly all her life, and has spent time in nearly every part of the state. She has spent the last 19 years working as a marketing writer, creating content from brochures to websites to ads and profile stories. One of her favorite things about living in Oregon is the ability to travel to the beach, the mountains or the forest in one day. When she isn’t writing, she is exploring with her two children and golden retriever, baking, dancing or making homemade crafts.

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HOMEiA is a city guide site where visitors can find detailed information about communities of interest. HOMEiA’s City Guides, created in partnership with local writers, are curated lists of the best, safest, and most affordable places to live. The guides feature the HOMEiA Score, a proprietary index that rates communities on such factors as housing costs, education and employment.

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