18 Best Places To Live In Oregon

One of the best cities to live in Oregon, Portland, boasts a population of 650,000 with a vibrant spirit, boasts stunning natural beauty akin to Willamette River or Forest Park, alongside a thriving arts scene, craft breweries, and quirky coffee shops.

While the median household income of $78,000 paints a comfortable picture, the average rent sits around $1,800. From exploring farmers' markets to catching live music, Portland offers something for everyone, making it a top contender for Oregon living. Furthermore, the housing types and options are also limitless in this metropolitan.

Dubbed "Oregon's Best Place to Raise a Family," Bethany boasts a close-knit community feel despite its 6-square-mile size and 20,000 residents. Families flock to its highly-rated schools, like Springville K-8, and enjoy affordable living (median income of $143,548) compared to nearby Portland.

Charming Bethany Village bustles with shops and cafes, while parks like Kaiser Woods offer nature escapes. With easy access to Portland's vibrant scene and the Oregon Coast's beauty, Bethany truly offers something for everyone.

Sitting beside bustling Portland and beautiful natural space, this city offers charm in just 5 square miles. Its 10,000 residents enjoy a suburban feel with top-rated schools and a median income exceeding $84,132.

Rent averages around $1,500, but access to parks, a community center, and shopping centers like Cedar Hills Crossing sweetens the deal. Hike Forest Park, relax by Commonwealth Lake, or unwind at local bars and restaurants – all within reach of this idyllic Oregon gem.

Located between stunning forests and the Willamette River, Lake Oswego offers a vibrant suburban haven just south of Portland. Its 405-acre namesake lake and over 600 acres of parkland provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, while its charming downtown boasts delicious restaurants, coffee shops, and local artisans.

With a population of around 40,000, it boasts a strong sense of community, top-rated schools, and a median household income exceeding $120,000. While rent sits around $2,000 which is above the national average making it one of the most expensive places to rent in the United States, residents enjoy a high quality of life, making it a desirable Oregon gem.

Framed by majestic oaks near Portland, Oak Hills offers suburban tranquility with easy city access. This 2.5-square-mile community boasts a population of 10,415 and a friendly, family-oriented vibe. Residents enjoy top-rated schools, a strong sense of community, and a dense network of parks and coffee shops.

While the median household income of $95,738 is above the state average, the average rent remains moderate at around $1,793, making it an attractive option for young professionals and families seeking a safe and enriching environment. From community events to exploring nearby nature, Oak Hills offers a wealth of activities for all.

One of the popular Portland suburbs, Cedar Mill boasts a dense suburban feel and entices residents with its 5 square miles and close-knit community of 19,000.

Families and young professionals favor its highly-rated schools, median household income exceeding $160,000, and easy access to nature trails and parks. While rent averages around $1,900, residents enjoy a vibrant downtown with cafes, shops, and the annual Cider Festival, all just a short commute to the city's buzz.

West Linn offers a charming suburban escape with a small-town feel. This Willamette Valley gem boasts stunning riverfront views, ample green spaces, and a close-knit community. Its 7.6 square miles house nearly 27,000 residents, enjoying a median household income exceeding $130,000.

While average rent hovers around $2,000, diverse neighborhoods cater to various budgets. Hike through Mary S. Young Park, explore historic Willamette, or catch a concert at the outdoor amphitheater - West Linn offers something for everyone.

Bordering Portland from the southern side, Raleigh Hills offers a vibrant suburban haven with a small-town feel. This 2.5 square mile community boasts a population of 6,700 and a median household income exceeding $119,473.

The average rent is higher than the national average but residents enjoy a low crime rate, excellent schools, and a plethora of parks, restaurants, and shops. Golfers can tee off at the renowned Portland Golf Club, while families bond at the splash park or community events. Whether seeking urban convenience or suburban charm, Raleigh Hills delivers.

Bathed in sunshine and nestled in the Siskiyou foothills, Ashland, Oregon, packs a charming punch. This vibrant town of 21,000 boasts a dense suburban feel and a median household income that reflects its success.

Explore Lithia Park's walking trails, catch a world-renowned Shakespeare performance, or savor culinary delights in its bustling downtown. While rent leans higher, its natural beauty, thriving arts scene, and excellent schools make Ashland a coveted Oregon gem. This area features different cottage-style houses that look beautiful during the winter season while covered in snow.

Oregon's state capital offers a blend of small-town charm and urban amenities. Resting in the Willamette Valley, amidst rolling vineyards and fertile farmlands, it boasts a population of around 177,000 residents spread across 48 square miles.

The median household income sits at $67,000, with an average rent of $1,450. From exploring the historic downtown to indulging in the bounty of local farms, winemakers, and microbreweries, Salem's got something for everyone. Hike through Willamette Valley's natural beauty, delve into the Oregon State Capitol's rich history, or catch a show at the Elsinore Theatre – all within easy reach.

Located where the Deschutes River carves through the Cascade Mountains, Bend offers an outdoor enthusiast's dream within 33 square miles.

With a population of over 100,000, it boasts a vibrant community while maintaining a small-town feel. Despite a median household income exceeding $74,000, rent averages around $1,800. Hike, bike, ski, paddleboard, or craft your beer; Bend caters to every active spirit.

In Oregon's heart, Corvallis charms with its small-town feel with a population of just 60,000 residents nestled in the Willamette Valley. Despite its size, it boasts a vibrant downtown with a coffee culture, a thriving arts scene, and a median household income exceeding $60,000.

Rent averages at $1,800, offering relative affordability. Hike forested hills, explore nearby mountains, or bike along the riverfront. Nature lovers, families, and young professionals all find their niche in this dynamic community.

Sitting on the scenic coast, boasting long sandy shores and the iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is one of the gems of Oregon. This charming town of 1,500 offers a laid-back vibe despite its artistic spirit and vibrant art scene.

While the median income sits comfortably at $63,509, rent remains moderate just around $1,000 making it one of the cheapest places to rent in the United States and also allowing residents to enjoy beach walks, tide-pooling, and stunning hikes in nearby Ecola State Park. Art galleries, delicious local restaurants, and unique shops add to the allure of this picture-perfect coastal escape.

Grants Pass, cradled by the Rogue River in Southern Oregon, offers a vibrant small-town charm with big-city access. Its 40,000 residents enjoy a mix of urban amenities and outdoor adventures, all within a 25-square-mile haven.

Affordable living (median household income: $51,000, average rent: $1,500) makes exploring easy, from rafting the Rogue to hiking Redwood National Park, just an hour away. Art galleries, farmers markets, and historic downtown add cultural flair, making Grants Pass a gem for nature lovers and community seekers. 

Straddling the Willamette River near Oregon's coast, Eugene with a population of 175,000 offers outdoor adventure and cultural buzz in a compact 42.9 square miles.

Hike forested hills, bike on extensive trails, or kayak the river, all before catching a show at the Hult Center. Foodies savor farm-to-table delights, while art lovers enjoy galleries and murals. With a median household income of $61,400 and average rent at $1,760, Eugene makes this vibrant lifestyle accessible.

Located between Columbia River and majestic Mount Hood, Hood River with a population of just 8,300 and, an area of 5 sq mi is an Oregon gem for outdoor enthusiasts. This vibrant town boasts a strong community feel, dense suburban charm, and a median household income of $70,400.

With windsurfing, skiing, hiking, and biking at your doorstep, adventure awaits. Foodies relish farm-to-table fare and craft breweries, while families enjoy excellent schools and parks. While average rent sits at $2,300, the active lifestyle and stunning scenery might just be worth it.

Imagine a charming town nestled amidst rolling vineyards, an hour from both Portland's buzz and the Oregon coast's serenity. That's McMinnville, a town of 34,600 residents where the pace is relaxed and the lifestyle leans outdoorsy. Its 6.7 square miles are packed with parks, wineries, and historic downtown streets.

The median household income sits at around $65,000, and rent averages around $1,700, making it an attractive option for families and young professionals alike. Hike, bike, or kayak, then unwind with world-class Pinot Noir or explore the art scene. McMinnville offers a taste of everything Oregon has to offer, in one quaint, friendly package.

Nestled between Portland and rolling hills, Happy Valley offers suburban charm with big-city access. This Clackamas County gem, spanning 6.4 square miles and home to over 25,000 residents, boasts a relaxed lifestyle and a safe community.

The median household income exceeds $130,000, and residents enjoy a comfortable living, though average rent reflects Oregon's rising costs. Explore nature trails, unwind at parks, or indulge in coffee shops and local eateries. Whether you're seeking family-friendly activities or quiet escapes, Happy Valley delivers.