13 Things to Know Before Moving to Oregon, 2022

Oregon is known for many things, primarily its access to incredible breweries, fantastic recreational activities, and unbeatable scenery. Nature enthusiasts flock to the Pacific Northwest for its epic natural scenery, and Oregon indeed exceeds any expectations in that realm. But, in addition to nature, the state also has a booming city life for those looking for something a little more fast-paced.

So if you’re ready to pack up and move to the Beaver State, here are 13 things to know before you go.

1. What's It Like Living in Oregon

Oregon is the ninth-largest and 27th-most populated state in the country, with a population of 4,246,155 spanning just short of 100,000 square miles. Located in the country's Pacific Northwest region, Oregon is situated with Washington to the north, Idaho to the east, California and Nevada to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

Oregon is known for being one of the most geographically diverse states. Oregon has nearly every type of landscape imaginable, including semi-arid shrublands, high deserts, mixed forests, dense evergreen forests, large bodies of water, and volcanoes.

2. Cost of Living in Oregon

Despite its recent uptick in popularity, Oregon is still a relatively priced state. The overall cost of living in Oregon is 113.1, lower than the US average of 100. Try our rent calculator to estimate how much to spend on rent.

Using the popular city of Portland, as an example, according to Payscale, the cost of living in Oregon is 29% higher, and the housing is 79% higher than the national average.

Here’s an idea of how much things cost when moving to Oregon, as reported by Payscale:

• Energy bill: $130.77
• Loaf of bread: $3.84
• Doctor’s visit: $118.57
• $2.78 for a gallon of gas

Large cities like Portland are the most expensive in the state. However, you can still find rent specials or team up with roommates if needed.

Portland

Portland is embraces its quirky vibe and support of the arts, stunning views, and trendsetting neighborhoods. The City of Roses is home to countless craft breweries, galleries, boutiques, and other local finds.

Research shows that the average estimated monthly cost (without rent) for a single person in Portland is $1,149.04. For a family of four, these costs bump up to $4,020.80.

The cost of living in Portland is still a bit higher than in other Oregon cities, as the average rent in Portland currently stands at $1,936 for a one-bedroom and $2,630 for a two-bedroom. That's above the national average of $1,101 for a one-bedroom.

Eugene

If you’re looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of Portland and enjoy the great outdoors, Eugene is a great city to check out. Due to its proximity to the Willamette Valley, there are countless opportunities for cycling, rafting, and kayaking.

Research shows that Eugene's average monthly net salary (after tax) is $2,861.03. Also, the cost of one meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages around $15.00.

Median rents in Eugene are $1,455 for a one-bedroom and $1,973 for a two-bedroom. While these rent prices are lower than Portland's, they are still slightly above the national average of $1,101 for a one-bedroom.

Salem

Salem is the state’s capital and agricultural epicenter. With a historic downtown, government buildings, and orchards galore, Salem is a unique blend of past and present.

Research shows that the average estimated monthly cost (without rent) for a single person in Salem is $965.55. For a family of four, these costs bump up to $3,356.31.

Median rents in Salem stand at $1,692 for a one-bedroom and $2,100 for a two-bedroom, slightly more expensive than Eugene and above the national average of $1,101 for a one-bedroom.

3. Taxes in Oregon

Oregon has a progressive income tax ranking amongst the highest in the country. Additionally, the property tax rates are about average. Thankfully, the state makes up for it with no sales tax.

4. Who’s Moving to Oregon?

According to Apartment List’s most recent migration report, the highest share of people moving to Portland, Oregon, are from Salem, Los Angeles, and Seattle. Renters living in Portland are considering moving elsewhere and are looking at Seattle, Salem, and Phoenix as options.

5. Oregon Job Market and Economy

Compared to other similarly sized metropolitan areas across the county, Portland has a healthier job market. The average annual salary in Portland is $58,240, slightly above the national average of $53,490. Thankfully, the unemployment rate is also 7.8%, which falls below the national average of 8.1%.

In recent years, a solid foundation for the tech industry has developed in Portland. The medical field is also wildly popular in this Pacific Northwest state. Significant employers in Portland include Intel Corporation, Oregon Health & Science University, Providence Health & Services, and Nike.

6. Public Transportation in Oregon

Oregon prides itself on being an environmentally friendly state, with Portland being a highly walkable and bikeable city. In addition, other forms of public transportation are available throughout the state, including bus, light rail, and commuter rail, especially throughout the metropolitan areas.

In more suburban areas, relying on public transportation might not be the best option. Often, you should anticipate relying on your own vehicle.

7. Weather in Oregon

In Oregon, the winters are freezing, snowy, and windy, while summers are long, warm, and wet. Throughout the year, the temperature typically varies from 13°F to 82°F and is rarely below -7°F or above 90°F.

Klamath Falls has been nicknamed the City of Sunshine, with nearly 300 days of sun annually. The hottest month in Klamath Falls is July, with temperatures hitting 83°F. Conversely, the coldest month in Klamath Falls is December, with the lowest overnight temperatures dropping to 23°F.

8. Oregon Attractions

Oregon is a playground for attractions, from national parks, museums, historical landmarks, etc.

National Parks

Oregon is only home to five national park sites, some of the most popular of which include:

Crater Lake National Park

The remnants of Mount Mazama make up Oregon's Crater Lake National Park, which is located in the state’s southern region. Here, you’ll find crystal clear waters surrounding the beautiful rim drive of this national park.

Lewis & Clark National Historical Park

On the northwestern portion of Oregon is the Lewis & Clark National Historical Park, where a replica Fort Clatsop, the fort Lewis and Clark built and endured winter months in, sits. In addition, there are over 14 miles of connecting hiking trails, following the footsteps of Lewis and Clark.

Notable Museums

In addition to its national park, Oregon is also home to countless museums. Of them, some of the most popular include:

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

The best museum in the state is the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry or OMSI. Located in downtown Portland, OMSI features everything from a long-running planetarium to a LEGO-themed exhibit.

Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum

East of Mcminnville is home to Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum is home to the beloved Spruce Goose. You’ll find an events center, vineyard, movie theater, aviation-themed water park, and a complete air and space museum within the grounds.

Things to Do

Here are some things you must do while living in Oregon.

Visit the International Rose Test Garden

Home to over 8,000 roses, the International Rose Test Garden is the oldest official, continuously operated public rose test garden in the country.

Check out the Portland Japanese Garden

Many believe that outside of Japan, the Portland Japanese Garden is the most authentic Japanese Garden. The gardens change along with the seasons, bringing tranquil beauty year-round.

9. Food Scene and Nightlife in Oregon

Oregon's melting pot of different cultures offers something for everyone and is quickly making its mark on the country as a foodie state. The state has many iconic foods, including Voodoo Doughnuts, the pinot noir of the Willamette Valley, and Tillamook Cheese.

You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and bars, many of which provide live entertainment in the evenings. Some of the state favorites can be found in Portland, including Sanctuary Club, Mingle Lounge, and Detox Nightclub.

There’s no shortage of shopping in Oregon. Some of the most popular shopping destinations include Oregon City Shopping Center in Oregon City, Pioneer Place in Portland, and Washington Square in Portland.

10. Major Annual Oregon Events

Oregon is home to countless festivals and events throughout the year, including some of the most popular:

Rose Festival - From late May through early June, the Rose Festival draws over 1 million people to venues throughout Portland. The festival began over a century ago and today includes three big parades amongst other fun activities for the whole family.

Pendleton Round-Up - The best rodeo in Oregon is found in Pendleton and takes place in September of each year. Four days of rodeo events include an American Indian Beauty Pageant, wagon train, parade, and live music.

In July, Oregon Country Fair - Veneta is known for the Oregon Country Fair, which began as a craft fair. Since then, it has evolved and hosted popular music such as the Grateful Dead.

Oregon Brewers Festival - In late July, at Portland’s Waterfront Park, you’ll find the biggest and best beer festival in the state, the Oregon Brewers Festival. The four-day event hosts 80 craft brewers.

World Naked Bike Ride - In June, over 10,000 nude cyclists take to the city streets for the World Naked Bike Ride. For Portland, this annual event showcases the city’s notorious off-beat culture.

Pickathon - One of the most eco-friendly and creative music festivals in the country is Pickathon, which has been going on since 1999. On a farm just south of Portland, Happy Valley, Pickathon hosts musical artists from various genres.

Waterfront Blues Festival - In Portland, the Fourth of July celebration doubles as the Waterfront Blues Festival. A huge firework display over the Willamette River amongst five days of live music are just some of the features to look forward to.

Cycle Oregon - Eastern Oregon hosts Cycle Oregon, the 8-day tour of the state, which pays tribute to the state’s love for its cycling community. The event doubles as a gathering and exercise event held each September.

Oregon State Fair - In Salem, you’ll find the Oregon State Fairgrounds, home to the Oregon State Fair each fall. In addition to traditional fair hallmarks, you’ll also see events specific to the state, like the blue-ribbon marijuana plant competition.

11. Sports in Oregon

There are three major league professional sports teams in Oregon, including the Portland Timbers (MLS), the Portland Thorns (NWSL), and the Portland Trail Blazers (NBA).

12. Top Universities in Oregon

In Oregon, they do not take higher education lightly. There are seven public universities and 18 private colleges found throughout the state. Some top-ranking include the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, Pacific University, George Fox University, and Portland State University.

13. What City in Oregon Should You Make Your Home?

Oregon's best city to move to depends on your lifestyle preferences, career aspirations, and budget.

Moving to Portland is ideal if you want unlimited access to world-class amenities and culture. The booming downtown areas, endless entertainment options, and low cost of living have made Portland a hotspot for migration in the last decade. However, keep in mind that it might be more expensive than other cities in Oregon because of its popularity.

If you’re looking for a college town with plenty of local breweries, check out Eugene. On the other hand, if you are more interested in wine, consider Hillsboro, with the largest winery in the country.

Final Thoughts

Ready to move to the Pacific Northwest to a place filled with fun and stunning beauty but unsure about the cost of living in Oregon? Hopefully, you’ve got a better idea and can start searching for some of the best places to live in Oregon.

Register for Apartment List to find your perfect neighborhood and apartment in Oregon.

FAQs: What to Know Before Moving to Oregon

What’s the weather in Oregon?

In Oregon, the winters are freezing, snowy, and windy, while summers are long, warm, and wet. Throughout the year, the temperature typically varies from 13°F to 82°F and is rarely below -7°F or above 90°F.

What’s the timezone in Oregon?

Oregon is in Pacific Standard Time (PST) or Pacific Daylight Time (PDT), depending on the time of year. This time zone is also Greenwich Mean Time - 7 (GMT-7), three hours behind New York City.

What to do in Oregon?

Oregon’s biggest draw is its pristine outdoors, beckoning hikers, bikers, and walkers. Checking out the nationally recognized sites, parks, and monuments is a great way to spend your time in this beautiful state.

What region is Oregon In?

Located in the country's Pacific Northwest region, Oregon is situated with Washington to the north, Idaho to the east, California and Nevada to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

What are the benefits of moving to Oregon?

Oregon's magnificent landscape, popular downtown, and countless breweries make it an attractive option for college students, millennials, and retirees looking for a desirable place to live, work and play. In short, moving to Oregon offers tons of benefits!

What are the pros and cons of living in Oregon?

The pros of living in Oregon include access to nature, no sales tax, and award-winning wineries. The cons of living in Oregon include the higher cost of living in popular cities, increased income tax, and fear of earthquakes. Every city has its pros and cons.

What’s the best neighborhood to move to in Oregon?

The seven best neighborhoods in Oregon are in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Corvallis, Bend, Beaverton, and Hillsboro.

What’s it like living in Oregon?

Oregon is known for many things, primarily its access to incredible breweries, great recreational activities, and unbeatable scenery. Nature enthusiasts flock to the Pacific Northwest for its epic natural scenery, and Oregon surely exceeds any expectations in that realm. But, in addition to nature, the state also has a booming city life for those looking for something a little more fast-paced.

What are the taxes in Oregon?

Oregon has a progressive income tax ranking amongst the highest in the country. Additionally, the property tax rates are about average. Thankfully, the state makes up for it with no sales tax.

What jobs are popular in Oregon?

A solid foundation for the tech industry has developed in Portland over more recent years. In addition, the medical field is also wildly popular in this Pacific Northwest state.

What universities are in Oregon?

Some of the top-ranking universities in Oregon include the University of Oregon, Oregon State University, Pacific University, George Fox University, and Portland State University.

What are things to do in Oregon?

There are plenty of things to do in Oregon, whether you like spending your time exploring year-round festivals or hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Of course, if you consider yourself a bit of a foodie, the options are nearly endless. Unfortunately, finding something to do in Oregon can be challenging because you have so many options.