If you’re thinking about moving to Oregon but need some advice on which towns give you the most for your dollar, Travel + Leisure has you covered.
The lifestyle and travel magazine compiled a list of the “10 best places to live in Oregon, according to Real Estate Experts.”
To create the rankings, it used market data along with insights from real estate experts to highlight communities that offer a strong housing market, desirable amenities, and a high quality of life.
Here’s where the best places are to live in Oregon per Travel + Leisure:
#10 Hillsboro
At No. 10 on the list is Hillsboro, a suburb near the west Portland Metro area and home to tech giant Intel.
According to Travel + Leisure’s real estate experts, Hillsboro has become a popular spot for first-time buyers and retirees, with homes averaging around $538,000 in 2025.
The town boasts a strong job market and caters to those who love visiting the farmers’ market on the weekend and supporting the many shops and eateries that call it home.
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#9 Portland
Coming in at No. 9 is the Rose City. And is anyone even surprised?
Portland sits at the top of Oregon and is arguably the state’s most popular city.
Travel + Leisure’s real estate experts pointed to the city’s parks, creative culture, and easy access to rivers, mountains, and the coast as some of the reasons it remains a desirable place to live.
The city is also home to companies such as Nike and Columbia Sportswear, offering opportunities across a variety of industries.
The city’s average home price in 2025 hovered around $531,000.
Check out the top 10 hotels in Portland here.
#8 Three Rivers
Just south of Bend in Central Oregon, Three Rivers lives up to its name with three rivers (Deschutes, Little Deschutes, and Spring River) flowing right through it.
This unincorporated community is cherished by outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers who enjoy boating, bird-watching, and neighborhood gatherings.
With a range of neighborhoods and price points, it’s a versatile option for anyone looking to live in Central Oregon’s natural beauty.
#7 Cedar Mill
Cedar Mill was No. 7 on Travel + Leisure’s list, and while it has the highest average home value on the list at $835,000, that price point may be worth it to some Oregonians for the convenience and community the town offers.
Cedar Mill sits at the edge of Portland, separated by Forest Park, and is known for its farmers’ markets, local shops, a community library, and highly rated schools.
It has the convenience of the city and the charm of small-town living. Families love the safe, friendly vibe, while professionals appreciate the easy commute.
#6 Hood River
Hood River was No. 6 on the list and is a place where outdoor lovers thrive.
According to Travel + Leisure’s real estate experts, the Columbia River Gorge community stands out for its outdoor recreation, including windsurfing, hiking, and fishing.
Hood River has a thriving farm-to-table scene, boutique shops, and a welcoming downtown. It also has highly rated schools and breathtaking scenery that offers both beauty and belonging.
#5 Roseburg
At No. 5 on the list, Roseburg lies at the heart of Southern Oregon’s Umpqua Valley.
The town offers a little bit of everything: outdoor adventure, wine country, and neighborhoods that range from historic estates to riverfront properties.
With the Oregon coast just under two hours away, you can hike, raft, sip wine, or dip your toes in the ocean—all in a weekend.
#4 Newberg
Newberg, found just 25 miles south of Portland, came in at No. 4 on the list.
The small town is surrounded by rolling vineyards and a charming downtown full of restaurants and tasting rooms.
Travel + Leisure’s real estate experts compared Newberg to buying in Sonoma decades ago—an investment in both lifestyle and property value.
With starter homes often under $500,000, Newberg blends small-town charm with wine-country glamour while still being close to the big city.
#3 Salem
Salem was named at No. 3 on the list and was recommended as the perfect fit for people who want the Pacific Northwest lifestyle without Portland’s price tag.
Travel + Leisure’s real estate experts said the capital city offers a more affordable alternative to Portland, with an average home cost nearly 20% lower than Portland.
They also highlighted Salem’s wineries, nearby waterfalls, museums and historic landmarks such as the historic Elsinore Theatre.
#2 Bend
In the No. 2 spot on Travel + Leisure’s list is the Central Oregon town of Bend.
Bend can be called an outdoor lover’s paradise. Mt. Bachelor offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding slopes in the Pacific Northwest, and the Deschutes River attracts whitewater rafters and paddleboarders alike.
Bend also offers endless hiking options through pine forests, and the surrounding lakes bring fishing enthusiasts from all across the country.
Add in excellent schools, a buzzing craft beer scene, and a strong job market, and it’s easy to see why Bend continues to grow.
Homes averaged around $733,000 in 2025, but for Bendites, the lifestyle is worth the price.
Check out the top 10 hotels in Bend here.
#1 La Grande
La Grande was named the No. 1 spot on Travel + Leisure’s list.
The town’s historic district, classic homes, and generous lot sizes, with home values averaging $277,988, are just part of why real estate experts call it a “hidden gem.”
With the Blue Mountains right in your backyard, along with the town’s tight-knit community and affordability, La Grande can be a very fulfilling place to live in Oregon.
Written by Ginnie Sandoval. Sandoval is a news and travel writer for Pacific Northwest Crossing. She covers travel tips, news, destinations, places to eat, and hidden gems across the Pacific Northwest. She can be reached at pnwcrossing@ramsanmedia.com.