Why People Are Moving to Oregon?

Oregon continues to attract new residents, though at a more measured pace than previous decades. The state saw population growth of about 0.3% to 0.5% from 2023 to 2024, with around 17,000 new residents moving in. While this growth has slowed compared to the boom years of the 1970s and 1990s, people still find compelling reasons to call Oregon home. Remote workers seek mountain views and outdoor access, retirees want walkable communities with cultural amenities, and families look for safe neighborhoods with good schools.

The state offers something for everyone. Portland offers urban energy and tech jobs, while college towns like Eugene and Corvallis buzz with youthful enthusiasm. Eastern Oregon communities, on the other hand, provide expansive landscapes and diverse agricultural opportunities. Migration now drives all of Oregon’s population growth, as the state has more deaths than births annually. New residents primarily come from California, Washington, and other western states, drawn by Oregon’s unique combination of natural beauty, progressive values, and high quality of life.

What Makes a Town Worth Living In?

A great town fits your needs, plain and simple. Safety is a top priority, with low crime rates and neighbors who look out for one another. Jobs in growing fields like tech or healthcare keep wallets happy. Living costs need to match your budget, and access to nature is a must in Oregon. A friendly community vibe ties it all together, and real estate should hold value, whether you are renting or buying.

Safe streets and friendly faces keep it calm.
Jobs in high-demand fields, such as technology or healthcare, offer steady pay.
Housing costs range from cheap to steep, depending on your pick.
Parks and trails are always close by.
Property values stay solid for buyers and renters.

Towns hit these marks differently. Families want good schools and parks. Retirees seek peace and low maintenance. Investors chase spots where property grows over time. Oregon’s got options for all of them, making it one of the best places to live in Oregon.

1. Bend

Bend sits in Central Oregon and draws folks who love the outdoors. The Deschutes River flows through town, and the Cascade Mountains offer summer hiking and winter skiing. A strong economy, featuring tech firms and craft breweries, keeps jobs plentiful and the vibe lively.

Population: 106,926 (2024), big enough for amenities, small enough for charm.
Median income: $88,792, above the national average, great for families.
Cost of living: 127, 27% higher than the national average.
Must-see spots: Deschutes River, Mt. Bachelor, High Desert Museum.

2. Corvallis

Corvallis thrives on Oregon State University’s energy, keeping the town young and full of ideas. It is easy to walk or bike around, and the schools are excellent. Families and university folks love the bright, cozy feel.

Population: 61,993 (2024), a vibrant college town with a community spirit.
Median income: $63,807, solid for a town of its size.
Cost of living: 108.7, 8.7% higher than the national average.
Must-see spots: Oregon State University, Avery Park, Peavy Arboretum.

3. Hood River

Hood River sits in the Columbia River Gorge with breathtaking views. Remote workers settle here for work-life balance, and windsurfers hit the river. Wineries add a laid-back charm.

Population: 8,350 (2024), small but full of character.
Median income: $77,975, comfortable for the area.
Cost of living: 114.3, 14.3% higher than the national average.
Must-see spots: Columbia River Gorge, Multnomah Falls, Hood River Fruit Loop.

4. McMinnville

McMinnville is situated in wine country, boasting a walkable downtown area. Portland’s an hour away, and the coast is close, making it easy to enjoy city or beach trips. Young families and retirees appreciate the quiet yet connected atmosphere.

Population: 35,255 (2024), growing steadily with new residents.
Median income: $70,060, holds up well for the region.
Cost of living: 117.6, 17.6% higher than the national average.
Must-see spots: Evergreen Aviation Museum, Willamette Valley Vineyards, Linfield University.

5. Lake Oswego

Lake Oswego is situated near Portland, yet it feels like a polished retreat, boasting upscale homes and a serene atmosphere. Schools are top-notch, and it is safe. Property here is a substantial, long-term investment.

Population: 40,029 (2024), suburban with a touch of elegance.
Median income: $140,441, among the highest in Oregon.
Cost of living: 133.7, 33.7% higher than the national average.
Must-see spots: Lake Oswego, George Rogers Park, Arts Council.

6. Ashland

Ashland’s in Southern Oregon, where the Oregon Shakespeare Festival draws creatives and retirees. Small businesses thrive, and the town has a liberal, artsy edge.

Population: 20,935 (2024), a small town with a big culture.
Median income: $71,782, steady for a creative hub.
Cost of living: 106.1, 6.1% higher than the national average.
Must-see spots: Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Lithia Park, Southern Oregon University.

7. Eugene

Eugene revolves around the University of Oregon and its outdoorsy spirit. Housing is affordable for a city of its size, and there is plenty of nature to explore. Young pros and families mix with students.

Population: 178,786 (2024), Oregon’s second-largest city, with youthful energy.
Median income: $63,836, on par with other college towns.
Cost of living: 106.6, 6.6% higher than the national average.
Must-see spots: University of Oregon, Willamette River, Autzen Stadium.

8. Salem

Salem, Oregon, is the capital and is centrally located. Government jobs keep the economy steady, and housing is more affordable than in bigger cities. Families and first-time buyers find it manageable.

Population: 177,432 (2023), big enough for variety, easy to navigate.
Median income: $70,666, solid with state jobs.
Cost of living: 99.9, nearly at the national average.
Must-see spots: State Capitol, Willamette River, Bush’s Pasture Park.

9. Medford

Medford’s in Southern Oregon with healthcare jobs leading the way. The sunny weather attracts retirees and professionals seeking a warmer climate. Real estate is growing.

Population: 85,098 (2023), growing with new opportunities.
Median income: $65,243, steady for the region.
Cost of living: 100.5, just above the national average.
Must-see spots: Rogue Valley, Pear Blossom Park, Harry & David.

10. Grants Pass

Grants Pass keeps costs low with rivers and forests nearby, perfect for nature lovers on a budget. Retirees settle here for mild weather and small-town charm.

Population: 39,149 (2023), small but growing slowly.
Median income: $54,118, modest but affordable.
Cost of living: 97.8, below the national average.
Must-see spots: Rogue River, Hellgate Jetboat Excursions, Grants Pass Museum.

11. Beaverton

Beaverton is tied to Portland’s metro area, with tech giants like Intel offering solid salaries. Its diverse, family-friendly vibe makes it great for kids, and transit makes city trips easy.

Population: 96,945 (2023), diverse and bustling.
Median income: $92,593, boosted by tech jobs.
Cost of living: 116.7, 16.7% higher than the national average.
Must-see spots: Tualatin Hills Park, Beaverton Farmers Market, Nike Campus.

12. Pendleton

Pendleton, in Northeast Oregon, blends cowboy heritage with modern amenities. Property prices are reasonable, and rural life has a contemporary twist.

Population: 16,841 (2023), small-town roots with character.
Median income: $62,378, fair for the area.
Cost of living: 85.6, wallet-friendly.
Must-see spots: Pendleton Round-Up, Umatilla River, Heritage Station Museum.

13. Enterprise

Enterprise offers a peaceful, remote lifestyle with the Wallowa Mountains as a backdrop. It is far from the hustle, and people come for calm and space.

Population: 2,024 (2023), tiny but full of charm.
Median income: $54,423, modest but living’s easy.
Cost of living: 80.0, one of the lowest around.
Must-see spots: Wallowa Lake, Hells Canyon, Enterprise Farmers Market.

Find Land and Property in Oregon With Whitney Land Company

Whitney Land Company has served rural property buyers across the Pacific Northwest for over 50 years. Based in Pendleton, our company specializes in helping people find their perfect piece of Oregon land for sale, from small residential lots to sprawling ranches.

Eastern and Northeastern Oregon offer unique opportunities for land ownership. Properties range from mountain timber parcels to irrigated farmland, with options in communities like Pendleton, Enterprise, Baker City, and Hermiston. The region offers more affordable land prices compared to western Oregon, while still providing stunning landscapes and access to a variety of outdoor recreational activities.

Our brokers bring firsthand knowledge of local water rights, zoning regulations, and development potential to every transaction. We are aware of which areas have established irrigation districts and which properties rely on individual wells or surface water permits. From small acreage suitable for a country home to large cattle operations, we match buyers with Oregon recreational land for sale that fits their goals and budget.