Kevin J. Anderson was born March 27, 1962 and raised in small-town Oregon, Wisconsin, south of Madison--an environment that was a cross between a Ray Bradbury short story and a Norman Rockwell painting.
Decades later, Oregon maintains its small-town atmosphere. Located just about seven miles from southern Madison, Oregon was ranked 99 in CNN Money's Best Places to Live in 2011. (Despite the slightly confusing name!) The 90 and Madison Beltlines are a great place to live by when you want to get away from the city. Nestled in a little over four square miles of space, Oregon packs a lot of leisure opportunities into a tightly knit package that's always ready to welcome someone new.
Moving to Oregon
Holding to the tradition of a Midwestern small town, Oregon provides a picturesque downtown scene with restaurants and shops lining a few beautiful blocks of historic significance. Breaking from that tradition, Oregon also provides a range of housing situations that attract commuters and locals alike. This scenic community keeps crime rates much lower than the country's average. They have also managed to safeguard property values. This combination of small-town security and pleasant amenities is sure to attract your attention!
Making a House Your Home
If you choose to buy or rent a house in Oregon, you can settle in one of the luxurious home rentals in Bergamont or choose the more open neighborhoods in the north or southeast of town. Property rentals range from very affordable to luxuriously worth it, with sizes and styles to match almost any preference. Nearly everything is within easy walking distance, wherever you choose to live in Oregon. Just keep in mind that it may take a little longer to secure the rental home you want.
Apartment Options
If you're looking for rental apartments, you can choose between two primary apartment complexes that offer a nice selection of affordability and style. Woodland Village combines style and comfort, while Pine Cove Apartments provide convenience and security. Security deposits, earnest fees and background checking fees are expected. Allow for some minor delays for processing applications and background checks, and keep in mind that utilities are not often included. Rental condos, on the other hand, are harder to find. You're actually more likely to find condos to buy than condos to rent. You will, however, be able to find houses made into apartments scattered around town.
Seasons
Winter can be rough in Oregon. Storms, blowing winds and piles of snow can complicate a winter move. Icy roads can make it difficult for moving vans, with parking situations becoming complicated by awkward snow piles. Early spring can be just as rough as winter, so the best time to move in is between late spring and early fall, before the snow starts to fly.
Oregon Neighborhoods
While Oregon is too tightly knit to break down into easily defined neighborhoods, there are some important distinctions. Still, anywhere in Oregon is a great place to live free of the big-city hassle without being restricted to traditional small-town opportunities.
Bergamont: With lots of space and elegant homes, this neighborhood specializes in serenity.
Downtown: For the active nightlife aficionado who wants to be in the thick of things, there may be homes and rental units available in the downtown area that will maximize access to the shopping and dining appeal of Oregon -- Pizza Pit and DeBroux's Diner are favorites.
Southeast: The southeastern portion of this tightly knit community provides convenient access to I-90, especially if you're on your way to the southern cities, like Janesville or Rockford, with dining and shopping options close by, whether you choose to make your home in an apartment or house. Be sure to check out Capital Creamery here.
North: The northern portion of Oregon provides convenient access for those who are on their way to Madison, with homes and apartments near a variety of amenities. The northern neighborhood also provides more park options, including Lerner Conservation Park.
Living in Oregon
When you live in Oregon, you don't need to leave your new community in order to enjoy an evening out or to make a day of fun for yourself and your loved ones. Dining options range from the coziness of the Firefly Coffeehouse to the fine dining experience of Mason's on Main. Visit Mulligan's Irish Pub & Grill to blow off steam or gather your gang at Oregon's own Pizza Pit.
Foxboro Golf Club offers a convenient treat for those who like the green, and the Oregon Community Sports Arena offers a slick rink for those who prefer the ice. For a little local flavor, visit the Oregon Museum housed in the old Oregon Lumber Company building. Toward the end of June, make sure to live it up at Summer Fest, where you can enjoy a wide variety of events and activities, including craft fairs, car shows, the carnival, a lofty hot air balloon ride and more. Oregon is sure a great place to live and play!