Oregon is a beautiful and diverse state, offering something for everyone. From scenic mountains and lush forests to picturesque coastlines and rolling hills, there’s no shortage of breathtaking places to call home. But if you’re on a budget, you may be wondering where the most affordable places to live in Oregon are. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the five most affordable cities in Oregon and break down what makes each of them so attractive. Read on to learn more about the cheapest places to live in Oregon!
Portland
Portland is one of the most popular cities in Oregon and is a great choice for those looking to live cheaply. There are many affordable neighborhoods throughout the city, making it an ideal spot for budget-conscious individuals. The cost of living in Portland is slightly higher than the national average, but there are still plenty of opportunities to save.
Rent prices in Portland vary depending on the area and the type of property. Generally speaking, rent in Portland is more affordable than other larger cities in the US. Depending on your budget, you may be able to find a studio or one-bedroom apartment for as low as $800-$1,000 per month. For those who are willing to spend a bit more, two-bedroom apartments can range anywhere from $1,200-$2,000 per month.
In addition to reasonable rent costs, Portland also offers a variety of transportation options that can help cut down on costs. The public transportation system includes both light rail and bus service, with fares ranging from $2-$5 per ride. For those who choose to drive, gas prices are lower than the national average and there are plenty of parking spots available in the city.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, Portland offers plenty of activities that won’t break the bank. Hiking trails, parks, and gardens are all free to explore and many of the city’s popular attractions can be accessed at little to no cost. With its abundance of cultural activities, diverse neighborhoods, and reasonable costs of living, Portland is an ideal destination for those seeking a cheap place to live.
Eugene
Eugene, Oregon is the second-largest city in the state and home to the University of Oregon. It’s known for its outdoor activities, like mountain biking, fishing, and kayaking, as well as the vibrant music and art scenes.
When it comes to affordability, Eugene is a great place to call home. The median home cost is just over $300,000, which is lower than many other parts of the state. Renters can find apartments from $850 a month and up. Utilities are also quite affordable, as electricity and natural gas rates are generally lower than the national average.
Residents of Eugene enjoy access to an array of public services and amenities, such as healthcare, public transportation, libraries, parks and recreation facilities, and more. They can also take advantage of the city’s thriving arts and culture scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, theatres, and music venues.
Overall, Eugene is an excellent choice for those looking for a safe, vibrant city with plenty of affordable housing and amenities. With its low cost of living and abundance of recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder that Eugene continues to be a popular destination for people looking to relocate to Oregon.
Salem
Salem is the capital of Oregon and offers some of the best and most affordable living in the state. With a population of just over 170,000, it is the third largest city in Oregon. It’s located in the heart of the Willamette Valley and provides easy access to both the Pacific Coast and Cascade Mountain Range.
Salem offers a variety of affordable housing options ranging from single family homes to apartments. The median home cost in Salem is $240,000 and the median rent is $1,050 per month. There are plenty of options for those looking for a budget-friendly option.
The city of Salem also offers an excellent quality of life. Salem is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering hiking trails, skiing, and snowboarding opportunities, as well as several parks and riverside activities. Plus, Salem has a vibrant arts and cultural scene with museums, galleries, theaters, and performing arts venues.
If you’re looking for an affordable place to live in Oregon that offers a great quality of life, then Salem should definitely be on your list.
Gresham
Located just 15 miles east of Portland, Gresham is a great option for those looking for an affordable place to live in Oregon. This city offers a variety of amenities, from parks and trails to a wide selection of dining and entertainment options. Plus, with its close proximity to Portland, you can enjoy the city life without having to live directly in it.
Gresham has seen some major growth over the past few years, resulting in increased development and housing. This includes both single-family homes and apartments, making it a great option for those looking to buy or rent. Additionally, the median home price in Gresham is about $260,000, making it one of the most affordable cities in Oregon.
With its low cost of living, great schools, and access to Portland, Gresham is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable place to live in Oregon.
Hillsboro
Located in Washington County, Hillsboro is a vibrant and growing city of over 100,000 people. It is the fifth largest city in Oregon and the second largest in the Portland metro area. In addition to its dynamic economy, Hillsboro boasts some of the most affordable housing in the state. The median home value is $319,500, which is substantially lower than other metropolitan areas in Oregon.
Hillsboro is also known for its diverse population, which makes it an excellent place to live for people from all walks of life. The city’s close proximity to Portland means that its residents have access to many of the amenities that come with living in the big city, but at a fraction of the cost. With its low cost of living, excellent quality of life, and diverse population, Hillsboro is one of the best and most affordable places to live in Oregon.
Beaverton
Located in the Portland metropolitan area, Beaverton is one of the most affordable places to live in Oregon. The city has a population of over 97,000 people and is known for its diverse range of industries. From high-tech to manufacturing, there are plenty of jobs available in this city. It’s also home to one of the best school systems in the state, making it an ideal place for families.
The cost of living in Beaverton is below the national average, making it one of the most affordable places to live in Oregon. Housing prices are fairly reasonable, with the median home price being around $290,000. In addition, transportation costs are low, as the city is well-connected by light rail and bus service.
Beaverton is a great place to explore nature as it offers many outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes for those who prefer an urban lifestyle. With its diverse economy and array of recreational activities, Beaverton is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a new place to call home.
Bend
Located in the high desert of Central Oregon, Bend is one of the most popular places to live in the state. It is a great place for those who love outdoor activities, as it offers plenty of opportunities to explore nature such as mountain biking, rafting, and skiing. The town is also home to great shopping, restaurants, and breweries, making it a perfect spot for people of all ages.
Despite its popularity, Bend is still relatively affordable compared to other parts of Oregon. The median home value is around $322,000 and the cost of living index is 98.2, which is slightly below the national average. Rent is also lower than other parts of the state at an average of $1,223 per month. With its stunning landscape, great recreation opportunities, and affordable cost of living, Bend is an excellent place to call home.
Medford
Located in the Rogue Valley of Southern Oregon, Medford is one of the state’s larger cities and is a great option for those looking for an affordable place to live. The cost of living here is much lower than other parts of the state, with median home prices well below $200,000. You can rent an apartment or house for less than $1,000 per month.
Medford is a great city for outdoors lovers, as there are many opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing. The city is close to numerous rivers, lakes, and parks for all kinds of recreational activities. It also offers plenty of culture and arts, with several museums and theaters. There are many restaurants and bars to explore, and plenty of shopping opportunities.
The public school system in Medford is good, and there are several higher education institutions here. The city has a low crime rate and is overall a safe place to live. It’s no wonder why so many people are considering moving to Medford and enjoying the low cost of living that this city has to offer!
Springfield
Located in Lane County, Springfield is one of the more affordable places to live in Oregon. It has an estimated population of 62,106 and a median household income of $47,244. With a cost of living index of 87, it is slightly lower than the U.S. average.
The city offers plenty of recreational activities to keep you busy. There are lots of parks and trails throughout the area, including nearby Hayden Bridge Park and Riverbend Park. You can also check out the local historical sites like the Gateway Mall and the Matthew’s House Museum.
The housing market in Springfield is quite affordable, with the median home price being around $220,000. There are plenty of options to choose from, including single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and apartments. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $882 per month.
The job market in Springfield is fairly strong, with major employers such as Walmart, ThyssenKrupp Aerospace, Bi-Mart, and Springfield Public Schools. It also hosts a variety of businesses ranging from small local shops to larger companies like Platt Electric Supply and Cascade Natural Gas.
Overall, Springfield is a great option for those looking for an affordable place to live in Oregon. It has lots of recreational activities and great job opportunities, making it an attractive place for families and young professionals alike.
Corvallis
Located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Corvallis is one of the cheapest places to live in Oregon. This city is known for its vibrant culture, ample outdoor activities, and outstanding education system. It’s also home to Oregon State University, a world-class research university with more than 25,000 students.
When it comes to affordability, Corvallis ranks high on the list. The cost of living in Corvallis is approximately 8% below the national average, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their money. In addition, median rent costs are lower than most other cities in the state, ranging from around $800 per month for a one bedroom apartment to $1,200 for a two bedroom.
The city offers a variety of recreational activities and attractions that are both fun and affordable. From biking and hiking trails to state parks, beaches, and art galleries, there’s something for everyone. Plus, Corvallis is close to a number of larger cities and towns, so you can take day trips or weekend getaways without breaking the bank.
Overall, Corvallis is an ideal destination for those looking for a high quality of life at a reasonable price. With its excellent schools, thriving economy, and wide range of affordable amenities, Corvallis offers something for everyone.
Final Words
Oregon is an incredibly beautiful and diverse state with plenty of affordable options for those looking for a new place to live. From the largest cities like Portland, Eugene, Salem, and Gresham to smaller cities such as Hillsboro, Beaverton, Bend, Medford, Springfield, and Corvallis, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a bustling metropolis or a small town atmosphere, Oregon has something for you. With affordable housing, excellent public transportation, and natural beauty all around, it’s no wonder why people flock to this great state.
