Top LOOKS for Oregon
Moving to Oregon: What It’s Like to Live in the Beaver State
Oregon appeals to people who want natural beauty and a slower but creative pace of life. It’s a state where urban life and outdoor living mix pretty easily. It's common for locals to work remotely in the morning and head up the mountain trail in the afternoon.
The state’s mix of moderate climate and strong independent culture makes it a long-standing favorite for both transplants and lifelong residents. Many movers come from California and Washington, drawn by lower housing costs (outside Portland) and a sense of balance between nature and opportunity.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Oregon added roughly 40,000 new residents in 2023, reversing a short pandemic-era decline. Most growth occurred in the Portland metro, Bend, and the Willamette Valley.
Cost of Living in Oregon
Oregon sits just above the national cost-of-living average, driven by housing in Portland and Bend. But compared to California or Washington, it still offers relative value, especially in smaller cities and inland regions.
- Home prices: The statewide median home price is about $475,000, with Portland near $550,000, Bend around $700,000, and Eugene, Salem, and Medford typically between $375,000–$425,000.
- Rent: Expect about $1,800 for a one-bedroom in Portland and $1,200–$1,400 in mid-sized cities.
- Taxes: Oregon has no state sales tax, but income taxes range from 4.75% to 9.9%.
- Utilities: Moderate year-round, thanks to the state’s mild climate.
- Transportation: Gas prices run higher than average; public transit is strong in Portland but limited elsewhere.
The overall trade-off: you’ll pay for quality of life, but you’ll also get one of the most naturally beautiful and livable states in return.
TL;DR: Oregon Regions at a Glance
Region-----------------------What Works-----------------------Good Fit For
Portland Metro-----------------Culture, walkability, jobs-------------Creatives, professionals
Willamette Valley---------------Affordability, greenery---------------Families, college towns
(Salem, Eugene, Corvallis)
Central Oregon-----------------Outdoors, sun, growth--------------Remote workers, retirees
(Bend, Redmond)
Southern Oregon---------------Scenic, moderate cost, arts---------Retirees, small-business owners
(Medford, Ashland)
Oregon Coast------------------Beauty, small-town pace------------Remote workers, retirees
Eastern Oregon----------------Space, value, frontier vibe-----------Ranchers, off-grid seekers
Where in Oregon Should You Live?
Portland Metro
Portland remains Oregon’s largest and most recognizable city. It's creative, progressive, and surrounded by world-class nature. Despite rising costs, it continues to attract those looking for an independent business culture and neighborhood character.
What Works: Walkability, culture, and access to outdoor recreation.
Watch Out For: Housing cost and gray winter weather.
Willamette Valley
The Willamette Valley, anchored by Salem, Eugene, and Corvallis, is lush and slower-paced. It’s the heart of Oregon wine country and home to several major universities.
What Works: Affordability and beautiful scenery.
Watch Out For: Fewer large employers and frequent rain.
Central Oregon
Bend and Redmond have exploded in popularity with remote workers, retirees, and entrepreneurs. The region offers more than 300 sunny days a year and easy access to skiing, rivers, and trails.
What Works: Sunshine, small-city vibe, and outdoor access.
Watch Out For: Rising housing costs and limited rental inventory.
Southern Oregon
Medford and Ashland balance affordability and culture. Ashland’s Oregon Shakespeare Festival adds arts depth, while Medford serves as the practical hub of the region.
What Works: Scenic surroundings and creative communities.
Watch Out For: Smoke season from regional wildfires.
Oregon Coast
From Astoria to Brookings, the Oregon Coast offers small-town living with endless ocean views. Costs vary widely, but many coastal towns remain affordable for remote professionals.
What Works: Beauty and community spirit.
Watch Out For: Rain, wind, and limited housing inventory.
Eastern Oregon
Rural communities like Baker City and Pendleton offer space, open landscapes, and low costs. These towns attract those who want self-sufficiency or a return to slower rhythms.
What Works: Affordability and mountain scenery.
Watch Out For: Sparse amenities and long winters.
Best Cities in Oregon to Consider
Portland
Creative, sustainable, and full of personality.
Bend
Outdoor mecca with modern amenities.
Eugene
College town energy and community-driven feel.
Salem
Affordable, central, and family-friendly.
Ashland
Artsy, scenic, and vibrant.
Medford
Affordable base with easy outdoor access.
Corvallis
Progressive university town with strong schools.
Newport
Coastal charm and small-town quality of life.
Is Oregon Right for You?
Oregon fits people who value balance — work that connects with purpose, and a lifestyle grounded in nature. It’s progressive, environmentally conscious, and deeply community-minded. The trade-offs are real (rain, housing costs, wildfires), but the rewards — freedom, beauty, and creative energy — keep drawing people in.
FAQs About Living in Oregon
Q: Is Oregon affordable?
A: Parts of it are. The coast and Willamette Valley remain moderate, but Portland and Bend are expensive.
Q: What are the safest areas in Oregon?
A: West Linn, Sherwood, and Corvallis often top state safety rankings.
Q: Does it rain all the time?
A: Mostly west of the Cascades. The east and central regions are surprisingly sunny and dry.
Q: Do I need a car?
A: In most places, yes. Portland has solid transit, but elsewhere you’ll rely on driving.
Q: How’s the job market?
A: Moderate growth. Tech and creative industries cluster around Portland; healthcare and education lead elsewhere.
Q: How bad is wildfire smoke?
A: In some years, it’s significant. mostly in southern and central areas. Communities have adapted with alert systems and air filtration programs.
Ready to Find Your Oregon Fit?
Whether you’re drawn to Portland’s creativity, Bend’s sunshine, or the quiet pace of the coast, Oregon offers a mix of beauty and belonging that’s hard to replicate.
- Take the LookyLOO Quiz to find your best-fit Oregon cities and save them in your Movebook.