Want Oregon’s coastal lifestyle without Portland’s high prices? Don’t give up on the dream. You can afford a house in the Beaver State if you know where to look.
Your perfect home could be a family-friendly house in Coos Bay or a starter home in Albany, Oregon’s fastest-growing tech hub. If you’re retiring, look at homes for sale in Klamath Falls to enjoy a low-cost outdoor lifestyle, with median home prices under $269,500.
After assessing hundreds of cities, we’ve ranked the 10 most affordable places to live in Oregon to help you find a home that fits your budget.
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Key takeaways
- Baker City is the most affordable city: Baker City’s cost of living is 18.4% lower than the national average. With a median home price of $265,000, it is the cheapest city to live in Oregon.
- Klamath Falls is the best city for young professionals: Nestled near Crater Lake, this outdoor hub offers tech and manufacturing jobs at Oregon Tech, plus farmers’ markets and wildlife refuges for weekend vibes.
- For families, Hermiston is a great choice: With strong schools like Hermiston High, the Watermelon Festival, and safe agricultural communities, Hermiston is ideal for raising kids on a budget.
- Retirees should consider Coos Bay: Retirees enjoy coastal trails, the Coos Art Museum, and community college programs in a relaxed maritime setting.
- Don’t forget Oregon’s “wildfire and quake tax”: Insurance premiums average $3,000–$5,000 yearly for fire coverage, plus $1,000+ for earthquakes via CEA, far above national norms—your affordable home could cost more long-term.
Cheapest Places to Live in Oregon in 2026
| City | Median Home Value | Median House Rent | Cost of Living Compared to State Average | Affordability score (out of 10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Baker City | $265,000 | $1,250 | 21% ⬇️ | 7.9 |
| 2. Pendleton | $309,900 | $1,500 | 13% ⬇️ | 7.7 |
| 3. Ontario | $322,500 | $1,115 | 13% ⬇️ | 7.5 |
| 4. Klamath Falls | $269,500 | $1,300 | 6% ⬇️ | 7.4 |
| 5. Hermiston | $273,000 | $1,750 | 12% ⬇️ | 6.7 |
| 6. Coos Bay | $298,750 | $1,695 | 12% ⬇️ | 6.6 |
| 7. La Grande | $342,000 | $1,500 | 10% ⬇️ | 6.6 |
| 8. Umatilla | $299,000 | $1,545 | 12% ⬇️ | 6.1 |
| 9. Albany | $410,000 | $1,565 | 5% ⬇️ | 5.8 |
| 10. Springfield | $413,030 | $1,572 | 4% ⬇️ | 5.7 |
How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in Oregon
To identify the cheap places to live in Oregon, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.
Data Sources
- Median Home Prices: We used Houzeo’s Oregon Housing Market report and double-checked the numbers with the Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS).
- Median Rent: We got the rent data from C2ER, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it’s accurate.
- Overall Cost of Living: We covered 6 big spending categories— housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods— from C2ER and Houzeo’s Cost of Living in Oregon Calculator. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.
We studied housing data from 2022 to 2025 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city’s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.
All our information is up to date as of 2025, ensuring you receive the most current insights.
Affordability Scoring
We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:
- Median Home Price (40%)
- Median Rent (35%)
- Cost of Living (25%)
This way, we can clearly show which Oregon cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our score breakdown to see how each city was ranked.
Image credits: All blog images are sourced from Freepik.
10 Cheapest Places to Live in Oregon
Baker City is the cheapest city in Oregon, which offers a quiet lifestyle with access to parks like Basil Item Park, mountain trails in the Elkhorn Mountains, and historic Victorian charm. Nestled near Anthony Lakes with proximity to outdoor adventures, it provides easy access to serene hiking and skiing spots.
- Geiser Pollman Park: This neighborhood features a peaceful residential vibe with single-family homes and large yards on Baker City’s southeastern edge. It appeals to buyers due to direct access to its walking trails, picnic pavilions, and Brooklyn Primary School.
- Quail Ridge: This area offers a family-oriented suburban atmosphere with townhouses and single-family homes on the city’s western outskirts. Buyers value its closeness to the 18-hole golf course and South Baker Intermediate School’s playgrounds.
- Sunridge Estates: This provides a quiet, established residential setting with maintained homes and condos along the southern boundary. Families choose it for proximity to Leo Adler Memorial Parkway’s biking trails and Baker Early Learning Center’s programs.
- Job Market: Baker City’s economy is supported by healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and government services. Key employers include Saint Alphonsus Medical Center-Baker City, Baker School District, Baker City Administration, Marvin Wood Products, and local retail chains like Safeway.
- Recreation: Popular spots feature Geiser Pollman Park’s walking trails and picnic areas, Quail Ridge Golf Course, and the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. Residents enjoy Elkhorn Mountains hiking, Anthony Lakes skiing, and downtown Art Walk festivals.
- Limited Healthcare Access: Baker City lacks local birthing facilities and major medical services, requiring 40-mile drives to La Grande for births or specialized care.
- Harsh Winter Isolation: Frequent Interstate 84 closures from snow and ice, combined with poor sidewalk plowing, isolate residents during long winters.
- Shopping Scarcity: No big-box stores like Walmart or Home Depot exist, with only one grocery store charging premium prices for basics.
- Lack of Entertainment: Few local nightlife or family attractions force 1-2 hour drives to larger cities for concerts or events.
Pendleton is one of the cheapest cities in Oregon. It offers a quiet lifestyle with access to parks, the world-famous Pendleton Round-Up rodeo, and authentic Western heritage sites like the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute. Nestled in the Blue Mountains foothills with short commutes, it has proximity to the Umatilla River.
- City Center: This neighborhood features a vibrant urban atmosphere with mixed residential-commercial buildings. It appeals to buyers due to its walkability to the Pendleton Convention Center, Family Aquatic Center, Blue Mountain Community College, and monthly First Friday Art Walk events.
- Cayuse/Tutuilla: This area offers a peaceful rural-suburban vibe with single-family homes and large lots amid rolling prairies on Pendleton’s eastern edge. Buyers value its open spaces, proximity to the Umatilla River trails, and Pendleton High School’s strong academic programs.
- Rieth/Nolin: This established neighborhood provides affordable family homes with golden hill views on the city’s northeastern outskirts. Residents choose it for quick access to the Pendleton Round-Up grounds, community parks, and York Elementary School’s playgrounds and after-school programs.
- Job Market: The economy is driven by manufacturing and healthcare. Key employers include Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (Wildhorse Resort & Casino), Keystone RV Company, Blue Mountain Community College, Pendleton Woolen Mills, and Saint Anthony Hospital.
- Recreation: Popular spots include Tamástslikt Cultural Institute exhibits, Pendleton Round-Up rodeo grounds, and Roy Raley Park’s sports fields. Residents enjoy Blue Mountain trails for hiking, Umatilla River fishing, and community events at the Pendleton Underground Tours
- High Crime Rate and Theft: Pendleton has one of Oregon’s highest crime rates at 44.88 per 1,000 residents, with property crime risks 1 in 24 and violent crime 1 in 293. Theft dominates with 3,404 incidents per 100,000 residents, far exceeding national averages and placing residents at high risk.
- Limited Urban Amenities: Beyond the Round-Up, entertainment and shopping options remain scarce, requiring drives to larger cities for diverse activities.
- Winter Road Challenges: Heavy snow closes regional highways frequently, complicating commutes and isolating the area during harsh Eastern Oregon winters.
Ontario offers a quiet lifestyle with access to parks, the Snake River, and proximity to the Owyhee Mountains for hiking. Situated on the Oregon-Idaho border near I-84, it provides easy access to Boise and local farms. If you’re seeking value, cheap homes for sale in Ontario can be a great choice.
- SW 3rd Street Area: This neighborhood features a quiet residential vibe with single-family homes and easy access to local amenities on Ontario’s southwest side. It appeals to buyers due to proximity to Ontario High School, the Snake River Greenbelt trails, and Four Rivers Cultural Center events.
- Alberta Avenue District: This area offers a suburban family atmosphere with ranch-style houses near the Oregon-Idaho border and commercial zones. Buyers value its closeness to Alameda Elementary School, Sutton Park playgrounds, and weekend farmers’ markets.
- Northeast Heights: This provides an elevated residential setting with modern homes offering views toward the Owyhee Mountains. Families choose it for access to Ontario Middle School, Riverside Park’s disc golf course, and proximity to I-84 commuting routes.
- Job Market: The city’s economy is centered on food manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and retail. Key employers include Saint Alphonsus Medical Center-Ontario, Walmart, McDonald’s, Frito-Lay, and local food processing plants like those in the Snake River Valley.
- Recreation: Popular spots include Riverside Park’s disc golf and playgrounds, Sutton Park trails, and the Snake River Greenbelt for walking. Residents enjoy Four Rivers Cultural Center events, Owyhee Mountains hiking, and Ontario Farmers Market gatherings.
- High Crime Rate: Ontario faces one of Oregon’s highest crime rates at 50.23 per 1,000 residents, with violent crime risk 1 in 138 and property crime 1 in 23. Residents encounter theft at 43 per 1,000 and motor vehicle theft 1 in 224, driven by border traffic and motel lot targeting.
- Gang and Drug Issues: Proximity to Idaho pushes gang activity and drug trade into the area, spiking assaults around industrial sites.
- Social Services Strain: Disparities with Idaho draw homeless populations, overwhelming limited local resources and contributing to public safety challenges.
Klamath Falls, an affordable place to live in Oregon, offers a quiet lifestyle with access to parks, Upper Klamath Lake, and the Cascade Mountains for hiking and fishing. Home to Oregon Tech and near Crater Lake National Park, it provides easy access to outdoor adventures and a growing job market.
- Downtown Klamath: This neighborhood features a charming urban vibe with craftsman and Victorian homes overlooking Main Street in central Klamath Falls. It appeals to buyers due to its walkability to city parks, community theaters, and Klamath Union High School events.
- Pacific Terrace: This area offers a quiet, established residential atmosphere with shade-tree-lined streets and family craftsman homes. Buyers value its proximity to Moore Park trails, picnic areas, and Klamath Falls City Schools programs.
- Hot Springs: This provides a scenic suburban setting with homes near natural hot springs and lake views on the city’s edge. Families choose it for access to Upper Klamath Lake boating, the Favell Museum of Western Art, and Henley High School.
- Job Market: Klamath Falls supports an economy focused on healthcare, education, manufacturing, and agriculture. Key employers include Sky Lakes Medical Center, Oregon Institute of Technology, Klamath Community College, Herald and News, and JELD-WEN.
- Recreation: Popular spots include Moore Park’s trails and picnic areas, Upper Klamath Lake for boating and fishing, and the Oregon Tech campus events. Residents enjoy Linkville Sports Complex fields, Favell Museum of Western Art, and proximity to Crater Lake National Park hikes.
- Elevated Crime Rate: Klamath Falls records 3,172 crimes per 100,000 residents, 50% above national averages, with violent crime odds at 1 in 194. Larceny affects 1 in 54 residents, while car theft risk stands at 1 in 209, exceeding Oregon statewide figures.
- Slow Police Response: Isolated location and limited patrols extend response times, particularly for nighttime incidents on rural highways.
- Economic Stagnation: Beyond healthcare and education, diverse high-wage jobs remain scarce, pushing many to commute to Medford.
Hermiston offers a quiet lifestyle with access to McKenzie Park’s playgrounds and trails, the annual Butterfield Ball rodeo, and the Umatilla National Forest nearby. Located along I-84 with the Columbia River close by and surrounded by potato farms, it provides easy access to fresh produce markets and manufacturing jobs.
- Highland Hills: This neighborhood features a quiet, family-friendly residential vibe with primarily single-family homes on Hermiston’s western side. It appeals to buyers due to access to Highland Hills Park’s playgrounds, sports fields, walking trails, and nearby Hermiston High School.
- Downtown Hermiston: This area offers an urban commercial hub atmosphere with apartments, townhouses, shops, and the historic Carnegie Library. Buyers value its walkability to the Hermiston Plaza shopping center, local parks, and community events at the Eastern Oregon Trade Center.
- Desert Sage: This provides a modern suburban setting with single-family homes and townhouses on the southeastern edge with landscaped yards. Families choose it for proximity to Desert Sage Park’s green spaces, playgrounds, and quick access to Umatilla River recreation areas.
- Job Market: Hermiston has an economy centered on food processing, data centers, agriculture, and healthcare. Key employers include Hermiston School District, Saint Anthony Hospital, Conagra Brands, Amazon data centers, and Umatilla Electric Cooperative.
- Recreation: Popular spots include Highland Hills Park’s sports fields and playgrounds, Desert Sage Park trails, and the Umatilla River for fishing. Residents enjoy Hermiston Rodeo events, McKenzie Park disc golf, and proximity to the Columbia River Gorge.
- High Crime Rate: Hermiston reports 41 crimes per 1,000 residents with property theft affecting 1 in 32 households, driven by growth around data centers and I-84 truck stops.
- Rapid Infrastructure Strain: Explosive population from Amazon facilities overwhelms schools like Hermiston High and clogs Powerline Road during rush hours.
- Air Quality Issues: Potato processing plants and farm dust create persistent haze, especially during harvest season along the Umatilla River valley.
- Limited Dining Variety: Beyond rodeo week, restaurant choices center on fast food chains with few local eateries open past 9 PM.
Coos Bay offers a quiet lifestyle with access to beaches, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, and the Coos Bay waterfront for boating and crabbing. Home to the Oregon Dunes and near Shore Acres State Park with dramatic shorelines, it provides easy access to coastal trails and fresh seafood markets.
- Eastside: This neighborhood features a quiet residential vibe with small, affordable homes and apartments on the eastern side of Coos Bay. It appeals to buyers due to its proximity to Eastside Elementary School, Millicoma Middle School, and walking trails at Millicoma Marsh.
- Empire District: This area offers a historic suburban atmosphere with charming older homes near the southern waterfront in Coos Bay. Buyers value its access to Empire Lakes for boating, the Coos Historical and Maritime Museum, and nearby beaches.
- Mingus Park: This provides a tree-lined residential setting with beautiful homes surrounding the central Mingus Park green spaces. Families choose it for playgrounds, picnic areas in Mingus Park, and closeness to downtown shops and the Coos Bay Library.
- Job Market: The economy is driven by healthcare, tourism, education, and timber processing. Key employers include Bay Area Hospital, Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians, Southwestern Oregon Community College, The Mill Casino, and North Bend Medical Center.
- Recreation: Popular spots include Mingus Park’s playgrounds and picnic areas, Empire Lakes for boating, and the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area trails. Residents enjoy Coos Bay waterfront crabbing, Shore Acres State Park gardens, and local seafood festivals.
- Property Theft Hotspot: Larceny strikes 1 in 18 residents while burglary affects 1 in 105, concentrated around downtown bars and Empire district harbor lots.
- Drug Trafficking Corridor: U.S. 101 positioning fuels assaults and overdoses near waterfront motels and the Oregon Dunes parking areas.
- Tourism Service Dependency: Seasonal casino and beach jobs create unstable employment beyond Bay Area Hospital shifts.
La Grande is one of the most affordable towns in Oregon. It offers a quiet lifestyle with access to parks and the Wallowa Mountains. Nestled in the Blue Mountains with trails at Mount Emily and proximity to the Grande Ronde Valley farms, it provides easy access to outdoor recreation and local arts scenes.
- Downtown La Grande: This neighborhood features a vibrant urban vibe with historic architecture and walkable streets in central La Grande. It appeals to buyers due to proximity to Max Square gatherings, Eastern Oregon University campus, and local restaurants.
- South Side: This area offers a family-friendly suburban atmosphere with spacious single-family homes and large yards south of downtown. Buyers value its access to Pioneer Park playgrounds, sports fields, and nearby elementary schools.
- Island City: This provides a serene residential setting with a mix of homes just northeast of La Grande near agricultural fields. Families choose it for Island City Park’s picnic areas, sports facilities, and quick drives to downtown amenities.
- Job Market: La Grande has a diverse economy anchored by education, healthcare, and manufacturing. Key employers include Eastern Oregon University, Grande Ronde Hospital, La Grande School District, Northwood Manufacturing, Outdoors RV Manufacturing, and Wood Grain Lumber.
- Recreation: Popular spots include Pioneer Park’s playgrounds and sports fields, Island City Park’s picnic areas, and Max Square for community gatherings. Residents enjoy Wallowa Mountains hiking trails, Mount Emily Recreation Area skiing, and the Grande Ronde Valley’s scenic drives.
- Smog from Wood Mills: La Grande’s bowl-like valley traps smoke from local lumber mills and home wood stoves, creating persistent air quality issues during fall and winter inversions.
- College Town Transience: Eastern Oregon University student turnover brings seasonal noise and parking chaos to nearby neighborhoods, frustrating long-term residents.
- Freight Train Disruptions: Frequent Union Pacific rail traffic blocks major streets multiple times daily, delaying commutes and emergency services across town.
- Drought Water Restrictions: Union County water scarcity leads to regular outdoor watering bans and high summer utility bills for green lawns.
Umatilla offers a quiet lifestyle with access to the Umatilla River for fishing, nearby parks like the Umatilla Marina, and family events at the McNary Dam area. Situated along the Columbia River near I-82 with vast farmlands and proximity to the Blue Mountains, it provides easy access to agricultural jobs and water recreation.
- Riverfront Area: This neighborhood features a quiet residential vibe with single-family homes along the Umatilla River in eastern Umatilla. It appeals to buyers due to proximity to Umatilla Marina boat launches, McNary Beach Park picnics, and Umatilla Elementary School.
- Powerline District: This area offers a family suburban atmosphere with ranch homes near Powerline Road and local farms on the city’s north side. Buyers value its access to Clara Brown Park playgrounds, community fishing ponds, and close walks to Hawthorne Elementary School.
- McNary Heights: This provides an elevated residential setting with modern homes offering Columbia River views near McNary Dam. Families choose it for trails at Hat Rock State Park, annual Landing Day festivals, and nearby McNary High School sports fields.
- Job Market: Umatilla’s economy revolves around agriculture, corrections, and energy infrastructure rather than traditional manufacturing hubs. Major employers consist of Two Rivers Correctional Facility, federal operations at McNary Dam, and farm work in the Columbia Basin potato and wheat fields.
- Recreation: Locals frequent the Umatilla Marina for water sports, Hat Rock State Park’s petroglyph hikes, and riverside paths at McNary Beach. Community highlights involve the annual Landing Day parade, celebrating pioneer history, and Clara Brown Park’s summer concerts.
- Flood-Prone River Location: Columbia River flooding risks low-lying neighborhoods annually, requiring elevated foundations and high flood insurance premiums.
- Extreme Summer Heat: Temperatures regularly exceed 100°F with no public pools or cooling centers, straining AC-dependent households.
- Isolation from Services: No local hospitals mean 30-mile drives to Hermiston for emergencies, with ambulance delays during I-82 traffic jams
Albany is an inexpensive city in Oregon to live in. It offers a quiet lifestyle with access to the Willamette River parks, historic downtown shops, and Timber-Linn Park trails. Situated between Corvallis and Salem near Highway 20, it provides easy access to Oregon State University events and local breweries.
- Monteith: This neighborhood features tree-lined streets with historic homes just north of downtown Albany. It appeals to buyers due to access to Monteith Riverpark trails, Bryant Park playgrounds, and local elementary schools.
- North Albany: This area offers a suburban residential atmosphere with spacious homes and green spaces in northern Albany. Buyers value its proximity to Timber-Linn Park trails, community sports fields, and quick drives to downtown shops.
- Clover Ridge: This provides a quiet, family-oriented setting with single-family homes and townhouses on the western edge. Families choose it for nearby parks, Clover Ridge Elementary School programs, and easy Highway 20 access.
- Job Market: Albany’s economy centers on manufacturing, healthcare, and education, with steady employment opportunities. Major employers include Samaritan Health Services, ATI (aerospace components), Greater Albany Public Schools, Linn-Benton Community College, and Target Distribution Center.
- Recreation: Key attractions feature Monteith Riverpark’s riverside trails, Timber-Linn Park’s disc golf and boating, and historic downtown’s antique shops. Locals head to Bryant Park picnics, Willamette River kayaking spots, and the annual Timber Carnival lumberjack contests.
- Persistent Meth House Issues: Albany neighborhoods like Waverly and Downtown face ongoing methamphetamine labs and related squatter problems, drawing frequent police sweeps.
- Train Blockage Delays: Union Pacific freight lines halt traffic across Geary Street multiple times daily, stranding commuters and delaying school buses.
- Smog Inversions: Willamette Valley winter fog traps vehicle exhaust and mill emissions, pushing AQI into unhealthy ranges for weeks.
- Homeless Encampments: Riverfront parks host semi-permanent tents, sparking sanitation complaints and needle cleanup demands from families.
Springfield is offers a quiet lifestyle with access to the Willamette River trails, Willamalane Park District’s splash pads, and the Bob Keesey Parkway for biking. Adjacent to Eugene with proximity to Autzen Stadium events and the McKenzie River, it provides easy access to college sports and outdoor adventures.
- Thurston: This neighborhood features a family-friendly suburban vibe with single-family homes and new developments south of Springfield. It appeals to buyers due to proximity to Thurston Elementary School, Thurston Middle School, and Bob Keesey Parkway bike trails.
- Washburne Historic: This area offers a charming historic residential atmosphere with vintage Craftsman homes near downtown Springfield. Buyers value its walkability to Washburne Historic District events, Island Park playgrounds, and Springfield High School.
- Gateway: This provides a convenient urban-suburban setting with apartments and townhomes near shopping in northwest Springfield. Families choose it for access to Gateway Mall stores, Camp Putt Adventure Golf Park, and Willamalane Park District fields.
- Job Market: The economy thrives on manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and education tied to the Eugene metro area. Major employers include PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center, University of Oregon support roles, Springfield School District, WinCo Foods distribution, and Franz Bakery.
- Recreation: Locals gather at Willamalane Park District’s pools and fields, Island Park’s riverfront paths, and Bob Keesey Parkway bike trails. Highlights feature the Thurston Light Opera theater season, McKenzie River fly fishing spots, and annual Springfield Thunder football games.
- Severe Wildfire Smoke: Springfield ranks 4th worst in the U.S. for particle pollution from wildfires, trapping soot and dust in the Willamette Valley for days during the summer season.
- Industrial Odors: Paper mills and wood processing plants release persistent chemical smells, especially noticeable in Thurston and Gateway neighborhoods on windy days.
- Willamette River Flooding: Low-lying areas near Island Park face annual inundation risks, mandating flood insurance and sandbag preparations each rainy season.
Pro Tip If you’re looking for something in the Pacific Northwest, Portland could be a great option. From Sellwood to St. Johns, you’ll find a wide range of affordable houses in Portland with strong rental potential
Lebanon and Independence are the cheapest and safest cities in Oregon. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.
Top 3 Cheapest Cities to Live in Oregon for Young Adults
When looking for the least expensive city to live in Oregon, you want more than just cheap rent. You want good jobs, a fun lifestyle, and a city where you can thrive. These Oregon cities deliver all three, with affordable housing and growing job markets.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Young Adults |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Klamath Falls | Nestled near Crater Lake, this outdoor hub offers tech and manufacturing jobs at Oregon Tech, and farmers’ markets and wildlife refuges for weekend vibes. Young pros balance adventure with everyday affordability. |
| 2. | Pendleton | Rodeo capital with wool mills and transportation gigs, featuring low transport costs and cultural events like the Round-Up for social scenes. Career starters seek history-rich, active communities. |
| 3. | Albany | A growing job market in manufacturing and retail at spots like Coastal Farm, with low health costs, and networking via local events. Slightly below national COL makes it a smart pick for ambitious young adults commuting to bigger hubs. |
Top 3 Inexpensive Places to Live in Oregon for Families
Oregon appeals to families with its natural beauty, outdoor access, and no sales tax. These three affordable towns in Oregon offer low living costs and family-friendly amenities like strong schools and parks.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Families |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Hermiston | Known for agricultural roots and the Watermelon Festival, Hermiston boasts top schools like Hermiston High and family events that build community ties. Homes for sale in Hermiston provide ample space for growing households. |
| 2. | Umatilla | With scenic Hat Rock State Park for hikes and bikes, plus strong schools and ag community programs, it’s perfect for an active family life. homes for sale in Umatilla suit multigenerational living. |
| 3. | La Grande | Eastern Oregon University supports quality education options, while Blue Mountains trails and community festivals offer endless family adventures. Homes for sale in La Grande make settling in easy. |
Top 3 Best Affordable Places to Live in Oregon for Retirees
Oregon offers retirees stunning landscapes, mild weather, and no sales tax. These affordable cities in Oregon provide low costs, quality healthcare, and relaxed pursuits like hiking, fishing, and community gatherings.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Retirees |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Baker City | Historic architecture and low utilities pair with senior-friendly jobs at The Recovery Village, plus Wallowa Mountains views for gentle outdoor days. Homes for sale in Baker City suit a serene pace. |
| 2. | Coos Bay | Maritime heritage shines with Coos Art Museum events and coastal trails, backed by local healthcare and community college programs. Homes for sale in Coos Bay embrace beachside tranquility. |
| 3. | Brookings | Azalea Festival and Samuel H. Boardman trails offer low-stress nature access, with reduced transport costs and strong community vibes. Homes for sale in Brookings offer coastal ease. |
3 Hidden Costs to Consider in Oregon
Even in the cheapest Oregon cities to live in, home prices are only part of the cost. Wildfires and earthquakes drive up insurance premiums sharply. Factor in fire and seismic coverage, along with property taxes, when looking for the cheapest area to live in Oregon.
- Wildfire Insurance: Homeowners now pay around $3,000–$5,000 yearly, with eastern and southern areas exceeding $8,000. Inland cities like Ontario generally have lower rates.
- Earthquake Insurance: Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t include quake damage. Policies from CEA or private insurers average $1,000–$2,500 per year, rising due to Cascadia Subduction Zone risks.
- Property Taxes: Oregon property taxes typically range from 0.90% to 1.07% of assessed home value, varying by county and adding to yearly ownership costs.
Quick Tip Oregon’s homestead exemption protects up to $150,000 in equity for a single owner (or $300,000 for couples) in your primary residence from creditors. However, it does not apply to second homes or investment properties.
Savings Breakdown: Cheapest Cities in Oregon to Live In
Housing costs vary dramatically across Oregon. Baker City residents save $1,890 monthly compared to Portland and $455 compared to Eugene. The following table breaks down these savings by median home price, monthly mortgage, property tax, insurance, and total monthly costs.
| City | Median Home Price | Avg. Monthly Mortgage | Insurance/taxes | Estimated Monthly Cost for a Single Person | Monthly Savings vs. Portland |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baker City | $265,000 | $1,340 | $320 | $1,085 | $1,890 |
| Eugene | $425,000 | $2,275 | $450 | $1,540 | $1,435 |
| Portland | $550,000 | $2,940 | $650 | $2,975 | – |
Affordable Living Beyond Oregon
Not sure if the cheapest places in Oregon to live will fit your budget? Here are a few surrounding states that offer major tax benefits, a strong job market, and excellent education options, just like Oregon.
Tax Benefits
Washington offers no state income tax with an average property tax of about 0.85-0.95%. Here are the top 3 cheapest places to live in Washington:
- Walla Walla: Homes around $380,000, rent under $1,400, and a strong community near wine country and agriculture.
- Yakima: Homes around $320,000, rent from $1,200, with career opportunities and family vibes.
- Kennewick: Homes near $380,000, rent from $1,400, offering river charm and outdoor access at low costs.
Robust Job Market
Idaho ranks in the top 10 for job growth in 2025, while the state’s cost of living is 8% lower than the national average. These are the top three cheapest places to live in Idaho:
- Pocatello: Homes around $290,000, rent near $1,100. The job market is supported by Idaho State University, manufacturing, and tech.
- Twin Falls: Homes around $310,000, rent near $1,050. The economy is led by agriculture, healthcare, and retail.
- Rexburg: Homes from $330,000, rent $1,000–$1,300. They offer jobs in education, food processing, and construction.
Education Excellence
California offers strong schools and universities at accessible costs in certain areas. Here are the cheapest places to live in California:
- Bakersfield: Homes around $350,000, rent near $1,500. Top K-12 districts and Bakersfield College for affordable higher ed.
- Visalia: Homes around $370,000, rent from $1,400. High-performing schools near College of the Sequoias.
- Merced: Homes near $390,000, rent $1,300–$1,600. Excellent ratings with the University of California, Merced access.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Oregon?
Baker City, Pendleton, and Ontario stand out as the most affordable cities to live in Oregon. These spots deliver more than low prices; they also feature stable job markets, abundant outdoor recreation, and a cost of living 10-15% below the national average.
Moving to Oregon brings key tax perks, with property taxes averaging 0.90-1.07%. Whether relocating or buying your first home, browse listings, compare prices, and submit offers online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the least expensive place to live in Oregon?
The cheapest place to live in Oregon is Baker City. It offers affordable housing at a median sale price of 265K.
» 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Oregon: Discover the other least expensive places to live in Oregon.
Where is the best place to live in Oregon?
The best place to live in Oregon is Salem, followed by Portland, Eugene, Corvallis, Bend, Medford, and Hillsboro.
What are the living expenses in Oregon?
The average cost to live in Oregon is 8% higher than the national average. However, utilities are 4% lower than the national average.
Where is the best place to retire in Oregon on a budget?
Baker City, Coos Bay and Brookings are among the best places to retire in Oregon on a budget. They offer affordable housing, small-town comfort, and easy access to medical care.
Which cities have the cheapest cost of living in Oregon?
Baker City (85.32) and Ontario (93.96) have the cheapest cost of living in Florida. Baker City's cost of living is 21% below the average, while Ontario's is 13% lower.
