Explore the best places to live in Oregon, including beautiful cities and charming towns ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a laid-back lifestyle.
Oregon has always been synonymous with abundant natural beauty. From its rugged coastline dotted with small villages to dramatic Mount Hood, the Beaver State offers a cornucopia of awe-inspiring, picture-perfect vistas at every turn. No wonder it’s hailed as an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise — the state’s mild weather and four distinct seasons create the perfect conditions for enjoying an endless list of year-round activities like kayaking, skiing, swimming, and fishing. Unsurprisingly, access to outdoor recreation is one of the reasons people choose to move to Oregon. The laid-back lifestyle, good job prospects (the state’s unemployment rate is currently 3.4 percent, a little less than the nation’s average), and many universities and colleges add to the state’s allure with new residents.
Here are 10 of the best places to live in Oregon—from small towns to big cities—according to longtime Oregon-based real estate agents and experts.
01. Portland
Set against iconic Mount Hood, Portland’s allure with newcomers lies in its stunning natural setting, bustling creative community, and robust job market. With two rivers running through the city and the Pacific Ocean (plus many lakes) about an hour away, Portlanders have plenty of opportunities to get outside and stay active year-round.
“The short distance to rivers, mountains, and beach recreation is the envy of every West Coast city. Portland is one of a kind — an intimate, engaging, and inspiring city to call home,” Temara Presley, a broker with John L. Scott Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International, explained. She suggested that those who’d like to invest in real estate here should be patient, noting that the market is busy, but inventory is low, with a median home value of $532,323. Popular neighborhoods include Irvington, Alberta in Northeast Portland, Eastmoreland, Ladd’s Addition in Southeast Portland, and Slabtown in the northwest.
02. Salem
Located about 47 miles south of Portland at the heart of the Willamette Valley, Salem—Oregon’s capital—draws visitors and new residents with its small-town vibe, bustling farm-to-table dining scene, parks, gardens, wineries, and outdoor activities. Salem is an excellent city for first-time homeowners, as the median home value is $441,000.
“While Salem is the capital city, our inventory tends to be much more affordable than our larger neighboring communities,” Ashleigh Fordham, an agent at Windermere Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International, stated. Notable neighborhoods include Fairmont Hills for beautiful architecture and city views, and Bush Park for its historic homes and lush park with 90 acres of hiking trails and gardens.
03. Bend
Central Oregon is a prime destination for outdoor activities, and Bend serves as an excellent base to explore the region’s natural beauty. “Each season brings different opportunities, like snow skiing, golfing, camping, hiking, and mountain biking,” stated John Ropp, an agent at Windermere Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International. With a population of just over 100,000 and being the fastest-growing city in the state, Bend is also known for its craft beer scene, boasting over 30 breweries.
“Many people are relocating here, especially those who can work from home and enjoy the outdoor lifestyle right outside their door,” Ropp added. The median home value is $726,400, and sought-after neighborhoods include Midtown and the Westside for their proximity to the Deschutes River, downtown, and the Old Mill shopping district.
04. Corvallis
Home to Oregon State University, Corvallis is a culturally diverse community known for its young demographic, with an average age of 27. It’s surrounded by farms, vineyards, and rivers. The median home value in Corvallis is $565,000. “The city is vibrant, with many sought-after neighborhoods centered around good schools and the university for potential investment,” noted broker Hong Wolfe from Windermere Real Estate.
05. Lake Oswego
This charming suburb of Portland is known for its top-notch education, safe neighborhoods, and strong community vibe. With its vibrant arts and culinary scenes, Lake Oswego also offers all the amenities of city life, including restaurants, wine bars, art museums, and shopping. Neighborhoods like First Addition and Evergreen are prized for their proximity to downtown and great schools.
06. Cannon Beach
With the iconic Haystack Rock rising from the Pacific Ocean, Cannon Beach is a picture-perfect small town that caters to those seeking tranquility and classic Oregon coastal living, just an hour and a half from Portland. Due to its popularity as a vacation destination, homes come at a premium, with a median home value of $900,000. Nearby villages like Arch Cape offer a quieter alternative while retaining their own charm.
07. Grants Pass
Grants Pass is located along the Rogue River in Southern Oregon, offering abundant outdoor recreational options for nature lovers. The town has a historic downtown area with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Housing prices are relatively affordable, with median home prices in the low $400,000s, though inventory remains a challenge.
08. Eugene
Eugene, known as Track Town USA and home to the University of Oregon, offers city amenities with a small-town feel. With over 170,000 residents, Eugene provides excellent sports and cultural events, along with ample access to outdoor recreation. Families, professionals, and retirees can all find appealing neighborhoods to suit their lifestyle.
09. Hood River
Located on the Columbia River, Hood River is celebrated for its windsurfing conditions and picturesque wineries. Just an hour east of Portland, this small town balances easy access to urban amenities while providing a tranquil lifestyle. With a median house value of $695,000, the area features charming craft and modern-style homes.
10. McMinnville
McMinnville, known as “Mac” among locals, is situated in Oregon’s wine country, boasting beautiful vineyard views and a plethora of wineries. This town features excellent restaurants, boutique shops, historic theaters, and art galleries, attracting weekend visitors from Portland and Salem. With a strong sense of community and walkable neighborhoods, McMinnville caters to diverse housing preferences, from historic homes close to downtown to charming country estates just outside the city.
