Rugged coastlines, lush forests and hip cities make life in Oregon seem like paradise. But before you call the movers, let’s chat. Moving cross-country is no joke, and Oregon has its quirks. The question is, will Oregon live up to your dreams? Or should you scratch it off your list? Read on to find out.
The Pros of Living in Oregon
Outdoor Paradise
Living in Oregon is a dream for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged coastlines, you’ll never run out of opportunities for adventure. Hiking, camping, fishing and water sports are just a few of the endless recreational activities Oregon has to offer. The state boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country, such as Crater Lake National Park, the Columbia River Gorge and the Painted Hills.
Explore the region’s outdoor adventures in our National Parks of the West Coast guide.
Vibrant Cities
While Oregon is renowned for its natural beauty, it also has a thriving urban scene. Portland, the state’s largest city, is a hub of culture, arts and entertainment. Known for its quirky vibe, amazing food scene and eco-friendly ethos, Portland offers a unique blend of big-city amenities and small-town charm. Other cities like Eugene, Bend, and Ashland have their own distinct personalities and attractions, catering to various lifestyles and interests.
Environmentally Conscious
Oregon has long been a leader in sustainability and environmental conservation efforts. From progressive recycling programs to initiatives promoting renewable energy, the state is committed to protecting its natural resources. Living in Oregon means being part of a community that values eco-friendly practices and prioritizes preserving the beauty of the great outdoors for future generations.
Craft Beer and Wine Scene
Oregon is a mecca for craft beer and wine enthusiasts. With over 300 breweries and countless vineyards dotting the state, you’ll never run out of unique and delicious libations to explore. From the famous Willamette Valley wine region to the booming craft beer scene in Portland and beyond, Oregon offers a truly satisfying experience for those who appreciate quality brews and vintages.
Whether you’re drawn to its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities or eco-friendly lifestyle, Oregon has something to offer for everyone.
The Cons of Living in What Oregon Is Really Like
The Rain Is No Joke
You’ve probably heard jokes about the near-constant rain in Oregon. Well, they aren’t really jokes — it does rain a ton here, especially in western Oregon. The winter months can be an endless cycle of gray skies and drizzle that just wears you down after a while. If you struggle with seasonal affective disorder, the gloomy weather may hit you hard.
Cost of Living Is High
Living in Oregon’s most desirable areas like Portland, Eugene and Bend doesn’t come cheap. Housing costs are well above the national average and keep rising rapidly. From rent to mortgages to the nickel-and-dime expenses, your dollar won’t stretch as far here. Unless your income is keeping pace, the high cost can feel suffocating. That said, living in Oregon is less expensive than in neighboring California.
Traffic Can Be Brutal
The combination of growth in Oregon’s cities and the state’s lack of robust public transit means traffic congestion is a serious issue, especially around Portland. Even smaller cities like Bend see roads grind to a halt during rush hours and tourist seasons.
The Homelessness Crisis
Like many West Coast cities, Oregon is grappling with a large homeless population. Downtown areas of Portland, Eugene, and Salem have high visible rates of homelessness and crime.
Distance From … Everything
While Oregon has amazing natural beauty, it’s also quite isolated from other major metro areas. A trip to Seattle, San Francisco or even Boise requires a decent road trip. If you crave the amenities and connections of a big city, the relatively small scale of Oregon’s urban centers may leave you wanting more.
Oregon’s Climate and Geography
A Diverse Landscape
Oregon is a state of striking contrasts. From the rugged Pacific coastline to the volcanic peaks of the Cascade Range, you’ll find an incredible diversity of landscapes packed into one relatively small corner of the country.
The western third is heavily forested with towering conifers and lush rainforests. Meanwhile, the eastern part transitions into a high desert plateau, complete with sagebrush plains and dramatic river gorges carved by millennia of erosion.
Wild Weather Swings
This geographic variety leads to some equally wild weather patterns. The western valleys have a mild, maritime climate with plentiful rain showers and moderate temperatures year-round. But cross over the Cascades, and you’ll find a much drier, continental-type climate with scorching summers and snowy winters.
You’ll want to pack layers if you’re moving to Oregon. A typical spring day could easily swing from frosty mornings to t-shirt weather by afternoon as Pacific storm systems roll through. And be prepared for the occasional “snow day” even in the valleys if an Arctic front blows down from the north.
Four Distinct Seasons
Despite the changeable weather, Oregon enjoys four distinct seasons that many transplants find refreshing. Summers are sunny and warm but rarely sweltering. Autumns bring a blaze of colorful foliage. Winters can be wet and chilly in the west, snowy in the mountains.
Spring is often the most unpredictable season, with an invigorating mix of rain showers and sunny breaks. But whenever those first blooms appear, you know renewal and outdoor adventures are just around the corner.
Top Cities and Regions to Live in Oregon
Looking to move to the verdant Pacific Northwest? Oregon has plenty of desirable cities and towns to choose from. Let’s dive into some of the top spots worth considering.
Portland Metro Area
The Portland metro area is one of the most popular and livable regions in Oregon. Portland itself is a vibrant city with a thriving arts, food and craft beer scene. Surrounding suburbs like Beaverton, Hillsboro and Tigard offer more affordable housing options with easy access to urban amenities.
Willamette Valley
For a more laidback vibe, the Willamette Valley is hard to beat. Cities like Salem, Corvallis, and Eugene offer a blend of small-town charm and cultural attractions from museums to performing arts venues. The valley’s mild climate and fertile soil also make it an agricultural hub known for its wineries and farms.
Bend and Central Oregon
If you love the great outdoors, Bend could be your dream town. This fast-growing city sits along the Deschutes River and is surrounded by mountains, forests, and lakes perfect for hiking, fishing and skiing. The sunny climate and endless recreational opportunities make Central Oregon a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts.
Oregon Coast
For those looking for a more relaxed seaside lifestyle, look no further than the scenic Oregon Coast. Towns like Cannon Beach, Seaside, and Newport offer that quintessential beach town vibe with rugged coastlines, lighthouses, and fresh seafood galore. Just be prepared for cooler temps and more rain.
What Is Living in Oregon Really Like? FAQs
The Weather Is Diverse
Oregon has a surprisingly diverse climate for a single state. The Willamette Valley has a mild, Mediterranean-like climate perfect for vineyards and agriculture. Meanwhile, the coast is cool and rainy – bringing perpetual greenery. But head east over the Cascades and you’re in a highly deserted country with sun and tumbleweed.
Outdoor Recreation Reigns Supreme
Oregonians love the Great Outdoors. Hiking, camping, fishing, climbing, mountain biking — you name it, people here do it year-round. With incredible scenery from coastlines to mountain peaks, there’s always a new trail or river to explore. The outdoor culture is a huge draw.
City Versus Small Town Vibes
Portland and Eugene offer that classic Pacific Northwest urban vibe — artsy, alternative and into craft everything. But much of Oregon is rural farmland and small towns where life moves at a slower pace. It just depends on if you prefer the conveniences and action of a city or a quieter, country-like existence.
The Cost of Living
As previously mentioned, Oregon — especially the Portland metro area — has a relatively high cost of living compared to national averages. Housing is expensive, and you’ll pay more for things like groceries and dining out. But hey, there’s no sales tax. Rural areas are much more affordable.
Unplugging Is Easy
One joy of Oregon is the ability to quickly escape into pristine nature away from crowds and urban commotion. Within an hour’s drive from almost anywhere, you can find yourself surrounded by forests, mountains, rivers or coastline. It’s the perfect antidote for decompressing from life’s stresses.
Still considering a move to Oregon? With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and relative (West Coast) affordability, it’s no wonder so many people are choosing to call this Pacific Northwest gem their home.
Working with a professional moving company like United Van Lines can take the hassle out of cross-country moves to Oregon. Our customized, full-service moving packages can cover all your moving needs. United’s experienced agents can manage storage, packing, unpacking, car shipping, debris removal and more.
Want to know more about living in Oregon? Check out our city and state guides. Ready to make a move? Our blog is filled with helpful moving checklists, tips and tricks for settling in your new abode and our digital moving magazine, House Key, is designed to simplify and streamline every step of your move.
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