Are you considering a move to Oregon? Deciding where to move is never easy, especially if you are moving with children. Finding the most suitable place to raise a family should always be a priority. With that in mind, I have decided to talk about the best family cities in Oregon. Hopefully, I will shed some light on their qualities, helping you decide where to move with your loved ones!
Top family cities in Oregon
Where to begin? With so many great places, it is hard to decide on the best one. Nevertheless, I’ll try to do my best and show you all the beauties of the Beaver State. Looking at Oregon real estate listings will be much easier once you have a destination in mind.
Before we go into detail, I want to point out two fantastic counties for families:
- Umatilla County
- Morrow County
Let’s see what secrets they hide!
Umatilla County
Umatilla County has a population of around 75,000 residents. It got its name from the Umatilla River. Even though there is a city named Umatilla, the county seat is Pendleton. However, the biggest city is Hermiston. Here are the top family cities in Oregon, Umatilla County.
Pendleton
If you are looking for suburban life, this is the place for you. With around 16,000 people living in Pendleton, it is considered as a small, cozy town. A perfect surrounding for raising children. Schools are above average, but that’s not everything you’ll find there.
If you are looking for a place to relax after a long day, there are many bars and fantastic restaurants. This diverse city has it all! If you decide to move to Pendleton, do not miss the Farmers Market. It is opened in May and lasts until the end of October.
Hermiston
If I had to choose one word to describe Hermiston, I would say – comfortable. Even though it is the biggest city in Umatilla County, it offers the same suburban feel. An important fact to know is that many families own their homes. Hermiston is also known by all kinds of fundraiser events. The collected money goes to schools and hospitals, to further improve the quality of life. The traffic is not overwhelming, which is perfect for raising a family. As a fast-growing town, it surely belongs to some of the best family cities in Oregon.
Milton-Freewater
Milton-Freewater is a small, agricultural town. The land is rich for farming, and there are many opportunities for running a food-related business. Although it is an ethnically diverse town, the community is strong and close. A safe place for raising a family, that is for sure.
If you are a nature lover, you will fall in love with Oregon in no time!
There are only around 7,000 residents, so if you are looking for a bigger place, you might want to reconsider this option. Nevertheless, it deserves its place on the list of top family cities in Oregon.
Morrow County
Morrow County has around 11,000 residents. It is much smaller than Umatilla County, but that doesn’t make it any less desirable for living. Its small, beautiful cities are a perfect destination for anyone looking for a safe and pleasant community.
Heppner
This small town of barely 1,500 residents is the seat of the county. The main reason why it ended up on my list of top family cities in Oregon is its community. Neighbors are kind, and the entire atmosphere is private and happy. It is imperative that your kids grow in a positive surrounding, as it will greatly reflect on their life in the future. That is precisely what Heppner has to offer!
Irrigon
As close as it can be, Irrigon is almost on the river. Larger than Heppner, but only by a little. Easy-going and quiet, it is the place you are looking for to move with your loved ones. If you live in a community this small and tight, you must expect one thing – everyone knows everyone! Not much time will pass, and you’ll feel like a true local!
Boardman
Welcome to the largest city in Morrow County! Boardman has around 3,300 residents. Even if you are just passing by, you’ll feel welcome. I know there is no place like home, but if I could name one, I would choose this place. The Boardman community is friendly and hospitable. The neighborhood is peaceful and everyone is a member of one large family. Knowing that your kids always have someone to take care of them is reassuring.
Hillsboro
At the end of our list of top family cities in Oregon, we go to Washington County. Not everyone is looking for a small town to raise their family. If you are searching for a bigger place, what better city to choose than Hillsboro. The population is a little over 100,000 residents.
Moving to a large city has many benefits, but the relocation will be more complicated. That’s why it’s safest to hire professionals when moving to Hillsboro. But, why should you choose this city?
Many young families move here to work. The school system is great, and everyone is living a modern life. Nevertheless, if you are looking for nightlife, Portland is a quick trip away. Its geographical location is nearly perfect since it is located between the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains. Green forests are all around the city. The community is family oriented, and it truly sounds like a destination from a dream!
Beaver State awaits!
So, what do you think about these picks for the best family cities in Oregon? Does this sound like something you are looking for? I hope that I have at least shown you what to look for when searching for a family-oriented city. Relocation always comes with many problems and stressful situations. However, it will be much smoother if you know you are moving to the right destination for your family. Choose wisely!
Contributed by Lisa Roberts.
