PDX Movers Logo
Quotecall
The beautiful Oregon coastline with โ€œMoving to & Living in Oregonโ€ text overlay.
Mike Devenport
March 10, 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Living in Oregon ๐ŸŒŠ ๐ŸŒ‡ | What to Expect When Moving to Oregon!

Last Updated On: 8th February 2026, 07:55 pm

Living in Oregon feels like a dream, whether you're exploring the rugged Oregon coast, meandering the artistic cities, or hiking through dense forest or up a massive mountain. Known as the Beaver State, Oregon's vibe is easy going and rooted in outdoor adventure, with a creative touch that's totally unique.

Once home to a handful of native tribes and later shaped by pioneers journeying west along the famed Oregon Trail, those now interested in moving to Oregon will find a place brimming with endless adventure and a high quality of life.

Table of Contents

Is Oregon a Good Place to Live?

Is Oregon a good place to live? If youโ€™re drawn to scenic coastlines, majestic forests, and vibrant culture, Oregon might be your dream home. From hiking the lush Columbia River Gorge and savoring fresh-caught salmon to enjoying Portlandโ€™s coffee scene, living in Oregon offers endless inspiration.

Families benefit from top-rated schools, while tech hubs in Hillsboro provide diverse career paths. However, prepare for high housing costs, persistent rain in western areas, and traffic congestion. Wildfire risks, occasional earthquakes, and steep income taxes also pose challenges, yet for many, Oregonโ€™s breathtaking landscapes and welcoming communities more than compensate for these real drawbacks.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Travel Portland (@travelportland)

What Is Oregon Known for?

Oregonโ€™s unique brand of creativity thrives in everything from the iconic โ€œKeep Portland Weirdโ€ motto to the killer microbreweries that decorate the state. Powellโ€™s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world, entices bookworms, while the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland lures theater fans from around the globe.

Wine lovers delight in world-class Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley, and adventurous spirits marvel at Crater Lakeโ€™s vivid blue waters. Sample quirky flavors at Voodoo Doughnut or decadent scoops at Salt & Straw, both emblematic of the regionโ€™s flair for surprising tastes and heartfelt hospitality.

Whether youโ€™re wandering farmersโ€™ markets brimming with artisan cheeses or cheering on the beloved Portland Trail Blazers, the community spirit and cultural fervor make living in Oregon a truly magical experience.

Where Is Oregon?

Where is Oregon located? Those living in Oregon enjoy a locale situated in the awe-inspiring Pacific Northwest, bordered by California to the south, Washington to the north, the Pacific Ocean on the west, and Idaho on the east.

The Columbia River defines much of Oregonโ€™s northern boundary, while the Snake River separates it from Idaho. Oregon also shares a southeastern corner with Nevada, showcasing diverse landscapes that range from coastal beaches and lush valleys to the eastern high desert. Salem Oregon serves as the state capital, and Portland - the biggest city in Oregon - lies in the fertile Willamette Valley near the Columbia River.

What Region Is Oregon?

Oregon belongs to the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, formally the Cascadia bioregion, that encompasses the land situated against the Pacific Ocean and encompassed by the Rocky Mountains.

What Are the 7 Regions of Oregon?

Living in Oregon lets you experience 29 distinct regions, each with its own personality, landscape, and local flair.

Hereโ€™s an overview of the primary 7 regions of Oregon and the most popular tourism regions in Oregon:

  • Oregon Coast: The breathtaking Oregon Coast is home to beaches dotted with rocky cliffs, quaint fishing towns, and fresh seafood around every corner.
  • Willamette Valley: Rolling hills lined with wineries, family farms, and laid-back towns known for good food and friendly faces.
  • Portland Metro: Urban Portland neighborhoods filled with quirky coffee shops, bike-friendly streets, and a passion for creativity.
  • Mt. Hood & The Gorge: Dramatic waterfalls, scenic trails, and Oregonโ€™s highest peak - a playground for outdoor lovers.
  • Central Oregon: Sunny high desert country featuring rugged landscapes, world-famous rock climbing, and plenty of craft beer.
  • Southern Oregon: Home to Crater Lakeโ€™s striking blue waters, Ashlandโ€™s renowned Shakespeare Festival, and miles of scenic rivers.
  • Eastern Oregon: Wide-open spaces, authentic cowboy culture, and quiet towns where the night skies put on a dazzling show.

Transportation in Oregon

View of Portland OR with Mt. Hood looming in the background.

Plans on moving to Oregon? You might be curious about public transportation in Oregon, which you'll be happy to hear is quite good!

The major highways in Oregon include Interstate 5, which spans north/south from California to Washington, thus passing through Oregon, and I-84 that runs through the gorgeous Columbia River Gorge.

For those living in Portland or soon moving, TriMet runs the MAX Light Rail, streetcars, and extensive bus routes, while Eugeneโ€™s Lane Transit District offers the EmX bus rapid transit line. Rideshare apps are popular in larger cities, but rural areas often rely on personal vehicles.

Airports in Oregon

Portland International Airport (PDX) is the primary hub, offering both domestic and international flights. Regional gateways like Redmond (RDM), Eugene (EUG), and Medford (MFR) connect travelers to popular destinations, including the Oregon wine country and coast.

How Many Airports Are in Oregon?

According to the Oregon Department of Aviation, there are about 97 public-use airports statewide, ranging from major commercial terminals to small municipal strips serving private and charter flights.

How Many People Live in Oregon?

What is the population of Oregon? As of the latest 2020 Census, there are 4,237,256 people happily living in Oregon! This is a fairly significant rise of 10.6% since 2010, making Oregon the current 27th most populated state in the U.S.

The Oregon population density is just 44.1 people per square mile, so while there's a handful of dense cities, a majority of the state is rural land perfect for outdoor recreation. 19.6% of the Oregon population is under the age of 18 and 19.6% of the population is over the age of 65, showing that there's a lot of age diversity here, from young families to content retirees!

Additional Oregon Demographics

  • Oregon sex ratio: 50.2% female, 49.8% male
  • Oregon median age: 40.1 years
  • Oregon racial demographicsโ€‹: 85.6% White alone (72.8% White, non-Hispanic), 2.4% Black/African American, 1.9% American Indian/Alaska Native, 0.5% Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, 5.2% Asian, 14.9% Hispanic/Latino, 4.4% two or more races.
  • Oregon median household income: $80,426year
  • Oregon educational attainment: 91.7% of residents living in Oregon have a high school diploma, while 36.2% have a college degree or higher.
  • Oregon foreign-born population: 9.7%

What Famous People Are From Oregon?

Oregonโ€™s diverse heritage has shaped many notable figures, including cartoonist Matt Groening, childrenโ€™s author Beverly Cleary, comedic actor Ty Burrell, track legend Steve Prefontaine, comedian Kaitlin Olson, scientist Linus Pauling, and figure skater Tonya Harding. From their roots in Portland, Coos Bay, and beyond, these icons reflect the stateโ€™s creative energy, competitive spirit, and pioneering mindset.

What Are the Largest Cities in Oregon?

City of Bend Oregon

The state's largest city in terms of population is Portland. The twelve largest cities in Oregon with populations over 50,000 include:

City County Population
Portland, OR Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas 652,503
Eugene, OR Lane 176,654
Salem, OR Marion, Polk 175,535
Gresham, OR Multnomah 114,247
Hillsboro, OR Washington 106,447
Bend, OR Deschutes 99,178
Beaverton, OR Washington 97,494
Medford, OR Jackson 85,824
Springfield, OR Lane 61,851
Corvallis, OR Benton 59,922
Albany, OR Linn, Benton 56,472
Tigard, OR Washington 54,539

How Many Cities Are in Oregon?

There are 241 fully incorporated cities in Oregon, in addition to 135 CDP's, so whether you seek big city living or complete solace, you can have it all when living in Oregon!

Cities in Oregon Map:

Here's a map of the 12 most populous cities in Oregon, all with populations over the 50,000 threshold.

Best Places to Live in Oregon

If you have plans on living in Oregon, here's some insight into what makes some of the best cities in Oregon so special:

Best Places to Live in Oregon for Retirees

  • Hood River: This riverside gem combines small-town living with a buzzing windsurfing culture along the Columbia River Gorge. Retirees love its mild climate, sweeping mountain views, and locally owned shops that keep daily life cozy and connected.
  • Ashland: Home to the famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashlandโ€™s arts and culture scene invites retirees to explore creativity all year. A walkable downtown, scenic parks, and first-rate healthcare facilities help make the golden years truly sparkle.
  • Brookings: Nicknamed the โ€œBanana Beltโ€ of the Oregon Coast, Brookings offers a warmer climate and gorgeous ocean vistas. Its friendly neighborhoods, laid-back pace, and easy access to fishing, hiking, and beachcombing draw retirees seeking sunshine and serenity.

Best Places to Live in Oregon for Families

  • Sherwood: Located perfectly between wine country and Portland, Sherwoodโ€™s excellent schools, leafy parks, and low crime rate charm families who crave that suburban lifestyle. Neighborhood gatherings and a vibrant farmerโ€™s market help kids and parents feel right at home.
  • Corvallis: With the Oregon State University, Corvallis blends academic energy with a supportive community spirit. Families here enjoy top-ranked schools, miles of biking paths, and plenty of cultural events that spark creativity and curiosity.
  • Bend: Embraced by a high-desert panorama, Bend is known for skiing at Mt. Bachelor, rafting the Deschutes River, and miles of scenic trails. Strong public schools and welcoming neighborhoods round out a family-oriented lifestyle rooted in outdoor fun.

Best Places to Live in Oregon for Young Adults

    • Portland: Oregon's largest city buzzes with technology start-ups, innovative restaurants, and a never-ending arts and music scene. Green transportation choices, an advanced bike infrastructure, ethnically diverse neighborhoods, and a do-anything creative vibe attract young professionals who want opportunity and adventure.
    • Eugene: A dynamic college town and vibrant city, Eugene keeps the energy flowing with indie music venues, progressive ideals, and a strong bike culture. From cheering on the Ducks to exploring local breweries, young adults find both affordability and excitement around every corner.
    • Beaverton: Just west of Portland, Beaverton is home to global brands like Nike and an emerging startup scene. Young professionals enjoy commuter-friendly MAX light rail, diverse restaurants, and a parks network that offers the best of both work and play.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Travel Oregon (@traveloregon)

What Is the Cost of Living in Oregon?

With a prime location on the West Coast, living in Oregon is highly sought after, and it's easy to see why, so how does this influence the cost of living? According to the Missouri Economic Research & Information Center, the cost of living in Oregon is 112, meaning it's 12% more expensive than the national average. With this, it's the 38th most affordable state in the U.S.

So how much do you need to earn to comfortably afford living in Oregon? The MIT Living Wage Calculator suggests that two working adults with one child each earn at least $25.24/hour to meet the economic demands of the Beaver State. That's an average combined annual income of over $105,000.

While the average cost of living in Oregon is 12% more than the national average, here's a breakdown of the individual metro areas:

  • Cost of living in Eugene & the Springfield OR Metro: 109.2 (9.2% higher than the national average)
  • Cost of living in Portland & the Vancouver-Hillsboro OR-WA Metro: 120.2 (20.2% higher than the national average.

Average Cost of Utilities in Oregon

According to Doxo, the average household in Oregon spends $402/month on utilities, in addition to:

  • $215/month on auto insurance
  • $135/month on health insurance
  • $112/month on phone bills
  • $130/month on cable & internet
  • $98/month on life insurance

While the average electricity bill in Oregon is $179/month, so keep all of this in mind to best budget while living in Oregon!

Taxes in Oregon

Oregonโ€™s tax system stands apart: zero state sales tax keeps shopping simple, but income taxes climb to 9.9%. Property taxes hover around 0.9%, and estates worth more than $1โ€ฏmillion face an additional levy. Thoughtful planning helps balance these costs, letting you enjoy the unique perks of living in Oregon.

Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Oregon?

Living in Oregon doesn't always have to come with a big price tag. A handful or affordable cities in Oregon include:

  • Ontario Oregon: Where the average household bills add up to $1,647/month and the median home price is $304,000.
  • La Grande Oregon: Where the average household bills add up to $1,717/month and the median home price is $295,000.
  • Baker City Oregon: Where the average household bills add up to $1,741/month and the median home price is $322,000.
  • Klamath Falls Oregon: Where the average household bills add up to $1,765/month and the median home price is $314,000.
  • Florence Oregon: Where the average household bills add up to $1,824/month and the median home price is $381,000.

The Oregon Housing Market

Oregon real estate is generally a bit competitive, and the Oregon median home price is $504,500, compared to the U.S. median sale price of $424,647. This is a 3.2% increase since last year, so moving to Oregon is still a popular choice.

Homes for sale in Oregon typically only stay on the market for 56 days, with lots of lovely cities and charming towns to discover your dream home.

Average Rent in Oregon

While the rental market will of course vary by location, the average rent in Oregon as a whole is $1,745/month. This is an almost exact figure to the national average rent and a good bit less than neighboring California, showcasing promising affordability for those interested in moving to Oregon and renting.

The most expensive cities in Oregon to rent include:

  • West Linn: Average rent of $2,815/month
  • Lake Oswego: Average rent of $2,086
  • Corvallis: Avaree rent of $1,959
  • Sherwood: Average rent of $1,953
  • Happy Valley: Average rent of $1,892

Monmouth is the most affordable city in Oregon for renters at $1,309/month.

What Is the Weather Like in Oregon?

Rocky beach in Oregon.

Living in Oregon means youโ€™ll get to enjoy a unique and beautiful climate - one that varies widely depending on where you live. To illustrate, weโ€™ve pulled data from three representative locations across the state: The climate in Portland (in northwestern Oregon), Eugene (in the southern Willamette Valley), and Bend (in the high desert of Central Oregon) to gauge the general weather in Oregon.

Western Oregon generally leans toward a Mediterraneanโ€style climate with warm summers and mild, wet winters, while areas east of the Cascades feature colder, drier conditions. Hereโ€™s a closer look at Oregon weather:

Oregon Winter Weather

Winters in Oregon differ drastically by region: Portland and Eugene often see drizzle and occasional lowland snow, whereas Bend and the mountain regions endure much colder conditions (and considerably more snowfall).

Does it snow in Oregon? Absolutely, especially at higher elevations like Mt. Hood, which receives around 171" of snow on average. Along the western side of the state, cities such as Portland typically get just a few snow days in winter (e.g., around 2โ€“3" per month in January or December), whereas Bend can see upwards of 6โ€“8" in a single month.

In January, average highs in western Oregon hover in the mid- to upper 40s (46โ€ฏยฐF in Portland, 48โ€ฏยฐF in Eugene), while Bendโ€™s high averages around 42โ€ฏยฐF, often dropping into the 20s at night, illustrating the stateโ€™s winter temperature range.

Oregon Spring Weather

Springtime in Oregon feels like natureโ€™s grand reawakening, particularly in the lush Willamette Valley. Although rain tapers off slightly compared to winter, places like Portland and Eugene still average around 4" of monthly rainfall in March or April. Bend, on the other hand, only sees around 1.5โ€“2" this time of year, with plenty of mild, sunny days.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Visit Oregon (@visitoregonofficial)

As the season progresses, temperatures climb steadily, edging into the 50s and 60s by late spring (e.g., mid- to upper 50s in March rising into the 60s by May). Wildflowers often bloom across Oregonโ€™s varied landscapes, from coastal forests to high-desert canyons.

Oregon Summer Weather

Wondering what is the average temperature in Oregon during summer? From around June through August, typical daytime highs in Portland and Eugene are comfortably in the 70-80โ€ฏยฐF range (e.g., Portland averages 74โ€ฏยฐF in June and 82โ€ฏยฐF in July, while Eugene hits about 75โ€ฏยฐF in June and 84โ€ฏยฐF in July). In the high desert around Bend, expect warmer, drier days often in the low 80s, with significant drops at night.

Although you might get the occasional June shower on the west side, Oregon summers are relatively dry overall - places like Portland and Eugene average well under an inch of rain in July and August, and Bend sees even less, highlighting the stateโ€™s typical summer dryness.

Oregon Fall Weather

Autumn in Oregon is a delight, especially in the vineyards of the Willamette Valley and along forested mountain highways. Daytime temps generally slip from the 70s down through the 60s in September and October, and crisp mornings hint at winterโ€™s approach. Western Oregon begins to see more frequent rainfall by late October (Portland jumps from about 0.5" in August to over 4" in October), while Bend experiences a drier, cooler shift, ideal for stargazing and astrophotography.

Whether youโ€™re drawn to the coastโ€™s gentle drizzle or the high desertโ€™s cooler, clear nights, Oregonโ€™s fall weather showcases yet another facet of this stateโ€™s remarkable climate variety.

Things to Do in Oregon

Oregon is paradise for nature lovers and has an amazing food scene. The entertainment is incredible, and the many Oregon attractions can keep anyone busy. To match your adventure list with a place to stay, BetterTrips helps you book rentals across Oregon, From coastal getaways to high-desert escapes.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Travel Portland (@travelportland)

Here's a handful of the best Oregon things to do:

Crater Lake National Park โ€“ Klamath County

Gaze upon Americaโ€™s deepest lake and one of the most iconic Oregon landmarks, perfect for unforgettable road trips and a must on any list of the best places to visit in Oregon.

Columbia River Gorge & Multnomah Falls โ€“ Near Portland

Experience a wonderland of cascading waterfalls and scenic hikes, making this Oregon tourist attraction a top pick when searching what are some fun things to do in Oregon for nature lovers.

Cannon Beach & Haystack Rock โ€“ Oregon Coast

Feel the salty breeze on a wide sandy shore dominated by towering Haystack Rock, an Oregon famous landmark thatโ€™s a dream destination for all who are living in Oregon or just visiting.

Mount Hood & Timberline Lodge โ€“ Government Camp

Ski, hike, or simply marvel at Oregonโ€™s tallest peak, showcasing places to visit in Oregon that deliver year-round adventure and some of the best things to do in Oregon in any season.

Powellโ€™s City of Books โ€“ Portland

When pondering things to do in Oregon when it rains, lose yourself in the worldโ€™s largest independent bookstore - a bibliophileโ€™s paradise smack in the heart of the Rose City.

Oregon Shakespeare Festival โ€“ Ashland

Soak up culture, creativity, and top-tier theater performances at this vibrant festival, one of the best places to visit in Oregon for anyone seeking a touch of Shakespeare under the stars.

Willamette Valley Wine Country โ€“ Western Oregon

Sip world-class Pinot Noir and wander vineyard-lined back roads. This lush region ranks high among Oregon attractions for wine aficionados and scenic weekend escapes alike.

Smith Rock State Park โ€“ Terrebonne

Scale volcanic cliffs or hike sweeping canyon views at the birthplace of modern sport climbing, an Oregon landmark that unveils rugged beauty fit for adrenaline junkies and casual explorers.

Painted Hills (John Day Fossil Beds) โ€“ Eastern Oregon

Marvel at ancient red-and-gold clay mounds in a surreal desert landscape, proving things to do in Oregon can be wonderfully otherworldly in this hidden geologic gem.

Silver Falls State Park โ€“ Near Sublimity

Hike the Trail of Ten Falls to walk behind roaring cascades, offering one of the best things to do in Oregon for waterfall chasers and day-trippers alike.

Wallowa Mountains & Joseph โ€“ Northeast Oregon

Revel in alpine splendor, Old West charm, and a thriving arts scene in Joseph, a high-country haven that challenges any notion of โ€œdoes it snow in Oregon?โ€ with epic powder each winter.

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area โ€“ Florence to North Bend

Zoom across towering sand hills or stroll serene coastal shores in a unique landscape that proves thereโ€™s more to living in Oregon than just forests and mountains. This vast expanse of sand dunes showcases Oregon tourist attractions where adrenaline junkies can rent ATVs, while quieter explorers might search for wildlife or enjoy ocean sunsets along the southern Oregon Coast.

Astoria & Fort Clatsop โ€“ Northwest Oregon

Tour the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies and explore Lewis & Clark history, mixing small-town maritime vibes with places to visit in Oregon that brim with heritage.

Bend & Central Oregon โ€“ Deschutes County

Enjoy high-desert sunshine, craft breweries, and endless outdoor pursuits central to the appeal of living in Oregon for those craving both a laid-back vibe and constant adventure.

Cape Perpetua & Thorโ€™s Well โ€“ Near Yachats

Witness crashing waves, whale sightings, and a โ€œdrainpipeโ€ to the sea on this dramatic stretch of the Pacific coast, easily among the best places to visit in Oregon for epic ocean spectacles.

Alvord Desert & Steens Mountain โ€“ Southeastern Oregon

Escape to an untamed paradise of cracked earth, stargazing, and rugged peaks, proving what are some fun things to do in Oregon spans from lush forests to stark desert solitude.

Hood River Fruit Loop โ€“ Hood River

Follow orchard-lined roads for fresh pies, award-winning cider, and jaw-dropping views of Mt. Hood, combining local charm with all the flavors of living in Oregon.

Whale Watching in Depoe Bay โ€“ Depoe Bay

Spy migrating gray whales up close or from scenic overlooks in the self-proclaimed โ€œWhale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast,โ€ a bucket-list treat among Oregon famous landmarks.

Map of Oregon Things to Do

Find all the amazing things to do in Oregon with this interactive map and plan your next adventure in the Beaver State!

Oregon Sports Teams

Does Oregon have any professional sports teams? Absolutely - the Portland Trail Blazers dominate NBA hoops at the Moda Center, while the Portland Timbers (MLS) and Thorns (NWSL) fuel a passionate soccer culture at Providence Park. Beyond pro leagues, sports in Oregon highlight fierce college rivalries, with the Oregon Ducks and Oregon State Beavers often stealing headlines. Minor league baseball thrives in Hillsboro and Salem-Keizer, giving fans living in Oregon more ways to cheer on Oregon sports teams year-round.

Is Oregon Safe?

City of Eugene Oregon

The total crime rate in Oregon is 3,278 crimes per 100,000 people, so compared to the national crime rate of 2,324 crimes per 100,000 people, that puts Oregon at 41% higher than the national average. You have a 1 in 31 chance of being a victim of a crime while living in Oregon according to FBI statistics, but you also must consider specific areas and circumstances, as there's plentiful safe places to call home here.

What Are the Safest Cities in Oregon?

A few of the safest cities in Oregon include:

  • Philomath, OR: Crime rate โ‰ˆโ€ฏ67.3% lower than the national average
  • Molalla, OR: Crime rate โ‰ˆโ€ฏ65.2% lower than the national average
  • Canby, OR: Crime rate โ‰ˆโ€ฏ57.2% lower than the national average
  • Talent, OR: Crime rate โ‰ˆโ€ฏ53.1% lower than the national average
  • Milwaukie, OR: Crime rate โ‰ˆโ€ฏ52.8% lower than the national average

What Are the Most Dangerous Cities in Oregon?

While the most populous cities tend to be the most dangerous, this is common with any state, and a majority of crimes are condensed to certain areas. That said, here's 5 of the mosts dangerous cities in Oregon:

  • Coos Bay, OR: 173% higher than the national average
  • Portland, OR: 183% higher than the national average (learn more about the Portland OR crime rate)
  • Ontario, OR: 114% higher than the national average
  • Klamath Falls, OR: 38% higher than the national average
  • Lincoln City, OR: 61% higher than the national average

What Is the Murder Rate in Oregon?

The Oregon murder rate is 4.5 per 100k, less than the national average murder rate of 6.3 per 100k.

The Oregon Economy

The economy of Oregon thrives on technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism - sectors fueling an Oregon GDP that surpassed $262โ€ฏbillion last year. While chip giants power the biggest industries in Oregon, agriculture shines with produce like hazelnuts and hops. The state's wine country also influences the Oregon economy, as do cranberries harvested from the Southern Oregon coast.

Post-pandemic job growth propels opportunities across rural and urban areas, reducing the Oregon unemployment rate below 4.5%. High-profile employers include Intel (Intel Oregon Jobs), Nike (Nike Careers), and Providence Health (Providence Oregon Jobs), each offering diverse jobs in Oregon. According to the Oregon Employment Department, ongoing workforce initiatives aim to keep the Oregon economy ranking strong with future-ready talent and innovation.

What Is the Average Income in Oregon?

According to the U.S. Census, the median household income in Oregon is $80,426, while the average per capita income is $44,063 (both in 2023 dollars). According to the BLS, the median hourly wage across all occupations is $24.04.

The mean hourly wage in the Portland metro area is a slightly higher $34.79.

Education in Oregon

Oregonโ€™s K-12 system, overseen by the Oregon Department of Education, often ranks in the lower half nationally, yet of the 197 school districts in Oregon, those like Lake Oswego lead the best schools in Oregon.

Among the best high schools in Oregon, the International School of Beaverton and Grant High School stand out, while top-rated Portland Public Schools features some of the best middle schools in Oregon, including Winterhaven School.

At the college level, the University of Oregon is celebrated for its business and journalism programs, Oregon State University excels in STEM, and Portland State University anchors urban research. Meanwhile, Portland Community College provides accessible pathways, illustrating the diverse strength of colleges in Oregon.

Fun Facts About Oregon

  • Crater Lakeโ€™s bottomless beauty: Nearly 1,949 feet deep, Crater Lake is Americaโ€™s deepest lake, formed in the caldera of a once-mighty volcano - think of it as a sapphire gem carved by ancient forces.
  • Massive โ€œhumongous fungusโ€: Beneath an unsuspecting forest lurks the worldโ€™s largest known organism, a honey mushroom spanning 3.5 square miles - read more about this giant fungus defying all expectations.
  • โ€œDuneโ€ got its spark here: Frank Herbert found inspiration for his sci-fi epic while roaming the towering sands near Florence, a coastal wonder that brought Arrakis to life.
  • Portlandโ€™s coin flip past: A two-out-of-three heads toss spared modern-day โ€œPortlandโ€ from being called โ€œBoston.โ€ Check out the cityโ€™s quirk-filled origin story for more.
  • Americaโ€™s only two-sided flag: From a state seal to a golden beaver, Oregonโ€™s official flag design proudly flaunts two distinct faces.
  • Ghost town galore: Boasting more ghost towns than any other state, Oregon hosts haunting remnants of bygone gold rush days.
  • Infamous exploding whale: Dynamite plus a beached whale made for Oregonโ€™s wildest cleanup in 1970. Relive the smelly spectacle via historic footage.
  • Last Blockbuster on Earth: Bendโ€™s Blockbuster store stands as a retro paradise for VHS and DVD nostalgia, proudly outliving its once-global chain.
  • Hazelnut hotspot: Oregon cultivates 99% of Americaโ€™s hazelnuts, and the delicious filbert is even the official state nut.
  • Boring & Dull Day: Each August 9, Oregon honors its playful partnership with Dull, Scotland - read about the tongue-in-cheek holiday that leaves visitors anything but bored.

Pros and Cons of Living in Oregon

Crater Lake in Oregon.

Moving to Oregon? Here's a few notable pros and cons of living in Oregon!

Pros of Living in Oregon

  • Unparalleled scenery: From wave-battered beaches to snow-capped volcanoes, natureโ€™s drama unfolds at every turn, creating countless excuses to explore.
  • No sales tax: Shop guilt-free knowing that your total at checkout doesnโ€™t come with an extra bite out of your wallet.
  • Outdoor adventure culture: Whether itโ€™s skiing Mt. Hood, kayaking along the breathtaking beaches, or mountain biking near Bend, Oregonians embrace an active, outdoor-focused lifestyle.
  • Vibrant local pride: Small businesses thrive thanks to a โ€œshop localโ€ mindset, and neighborhoods foster warm, close-knit connections.

Cons of Living in Oregon

  • Rainy gray days: Western Oregon in particular is famous for its drizzle, which can feel gloomy if you crave frequent sunshine.
  • High housing costs: Popular areas like Portland and Bend often come with a steep price tag, so it pays to research local real estate trends.
  • Traffic challenges: Major metro areas endure congested roads during peak hours, sometimes testing your patience on the daily commute.

Make Living in Oregon a Reality!

If living in Oregon is in your future, you'll need a moving company who you can trust. As the top Portland movers, our essential moving services are here to ensure a stress free transition.

Whether you're a long-time local looking to change things up or excited about moving to Oregon for the first time, our team can't wait to be a part of your transition. Call anytime at 503-746-8795 for your free moving quote and make living in Oregon a reality today!

Mike Devenport
Mike Devenport is a veteran of the West Coast moving industry and the owner of PDX Movers. Since founding the company in 2008, he has overseen thousands of successful residential and commercial relocations. Mikeโ€™s insights are built on years of solving complex logistical challenges across the Pacific Northwest, with a mission to make moving a stress-free experience for every Oregonian.
Read more by Mike Devenport

Request Your Free Quote

Search by Category

Search for More Helpful Resources

Monday - Sunday:ย 24/7

Request Your Free Quote

ยฉ 2026 PDX Movers. All Rights Reserved.
U.S. DOT #2353055, ODOT #161428, TxDMV:  #009938124C
cross-circle