Living in Oregon
Oregonians are a miscellaneous lot, from cattle ranchers to green-industry innovators
and commercial fishermen to organic winemakers. Nonetheless, certain shared values
transcend our diversity, namely, our deep appreciation for the environment, tolerance
for others and compassion for neighbors in need. The people of Providence are part
and parcel of this milieu, living out the Providence mission in Oregon's small towns
and big cities.
Hood River is a historic city in the Columbia River Gorge 60 miles east of
Portland. The community of 6,600 is named for its incredibly scenic location between
Mount Hood and the Columbia River. Residents enjoy a variety of outstanding recreational
opportunities, from skiing to windsurfing. Hood River is also a major agricultural
area, with fruit orchards and vineyards in the hills and valleys above the river.
Medford is nestled in the magnificent Rogue River Valley just 30 miles from
the California border. Medford has a metro population of just over 200,000 and is
the largest city in southern Oregon. The area is famed for its endless outdoor recreation
opportunities in the surrounding mountains and rivers as well as such cultural attractions
as one of the world's largest Shakespeare festivals.
Milwaukie, a suburb of Portland located on the banks of the Willamette River,
began as a river port and mill town and still has a commercial grist mill with a
functioning waterwheel. The family-friendly community of 21,000 has a large water
park complex, a public boat launch on the Willamette, and easy access to more than
100 parks in Clackamas County.
Newberg is a college town of 22,000 nestled in the Chehalem Valley 25 miles
southwest of Portland. Newberg residents cherish their proximity to the big city
as well as the distinct sense of place created by a buffer of forest and farmland
around Newberg. Yamhill County is home to more than 20 award-winning wineries, earning
the area another distinction: the Napa Valley of Oregon.
Portland is unbeatable if you love world-class art, culture, higher education
and other big-city amenities, but love Mother Nature just as much. Popular Science
magazine named Portland the greenest city in America. No city of comparable size
has cleaner air and water, according to Earth Day Network. Portland has the largest
urban park in America. Any Portlander will tell you the best coffee and microbrews
are here, too.
Seaside is nestled on the beautiful Oregon Coast 70 miles west of Portland.
Located at the end of the Lewis and Clark trail, Seaside is known for its magnificent
seascapes, lush forests and sunny, moderate summer climate. This family-friendly
community is one of Oregon's most popular tourist destinations thanks in part to
its well-organized community events from Whale Watch Week to frequent art and food
festivals.
Links for more about living in Oregon
Oregon
Hood River
Medford
Milwaukie
Newberg
Portland
Seaside
