Thinking about moving to Oregon? The state offers stunning coastlines and growing cities like Portland, Eugene, and Bend. However, before making such a move, it’s important to understand the average cost of living in Oregon. This knowledge helps you plan your budget and lifestyle better.
The key fact is this: Oregon’s cost-of-living index is 112.0. That means it is 17% higher than the national average. Therefore, Oregon is one of the more expensive states in the West, after California. Let’s break down the expenses you can expect for housing, utilities, and daily life in Oregon.
TL;DR: Average Cost of Living in Oregon 2025
- Cost-of-living index: 112.0, 17% above US average.
- Median rent: $1,893/month.
- Median home price: $496,876.
- Recommended annual salary: $72,000–$86,000.
- Monthly budget needed: Singles $2,722 | Families $5,995.
- Highest costs: Housing and transportation.
- Cheapest expenses: Utilities (12% below national average).
- Cheaper than: California, Washington.
- Pricier than: Idaho, Utah, Colorado.
- Childcare: Daycare $950/month; Private K-12 $7,500/year.
- Top metro areas: Portland, Eugene, Salem, Bend.
What is the Average Cost of Living in Oregon in 2025?
The average cost of living in Oregon means you need a decent budget. Singles need about $2,722 each month. Families of four should plan for nearly $6,000. A yearly income between $72,000 and $86,000 is ideal.
Here are the average monthly expenses:
- Rent: $1,893 (higher in Portland, lower in smaller cities).
- Utilities: $185.
- Groceries: 6% above the national average ($425–$475/month).
- Transportation: 23% above the US average.
- Healthcare: $7,900–$9,000 per year for families.
- Daycare: $950 per month.
For example, housing costs in Bend and Corvallis are higher. However, grocery prices remain stable. Meanwhile, rural Oregon tends to be more affordable but offers fewer job opportunities.
Housing and Rental Market in Oregon
Oregon’s housing market remains the largest factor impacting the average cost of living in the state. On average, monthly rent is about $1,893, while the median home price is just under $497,000. These costs pose challenges for many residents, especially first-time homebuyers trying to enter the market.
When compared to Oregon:
- Washington’s average rent is 16% higher at around $2,195.
- California’s rent is significantly steeper, at 47% more, or about $2,800.
- Idaho’s rent is just slightly lower than Oregon’s by about 2%, averaging $1,851.
- Utah offers more affordable rents, roughly 29% less, around $1,336.
- Colorado’s rent is 15% cheaper than Oregon’s, sitting at about $1,605.
Looking at home prices:
- Washington homes are priced about 31% higher than in Oregon, with a median of $650,000.
- California’s housing market is much pricier, with an 83% increase over Oregon, averaging $909,400.
- Idaho and Utah’s home prices are nearly on par with Oregon, around $500,000, just 1% higher.
- Colorado’s median home price is about 9% higher than Oregon’s, at approximately $543,106.
Within Oregon, Portland is the most expensive housing market, especially in westside neighborhoods. Eugene and Salem tend to offer more budget-friendly options. Meanwhile, Bend is rapidly growing in popularity among remote workers, driving prices upward quickly.
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Utilities and Other Living Expenses in Oregon
Utility costs in Oregon are quite reasonable. The average monthly utility bill is about $185, which we use as the baseline.
When compared to Oregon’s utility costs:
- Washington utilities are about 8% higher than Oregon’s.
- California utilities are 53% higher than Oregon’s.
- Idaho utilities are 10% lower than Oregon’s.
- Utah utilities are about 8% higher than Oregon’s.
- Colorado utilities are about 3% lower than Oregon’s.
Groceries in Oregon cost around 6% more than the national average. Portland’s specialty stores increase prices somewhat. Compared to Oregon, grocery prices in Idaho and Utah are noticeably lower, while California’s are higher.
Transportation costs in Oregon are high, with residents paying about 23% more than the national average. Using Oregon as a baseline:
- Washington’s transportation costs are roughly the same as Oregon’s.
- California’s transportation expenses are about 34% higher than Oregon’s.
- Idaho’s transportation costs are around 9% lower.
- Utah’s transportation costs are lower due to tax breaks.
- Colorado’s transportation costs are about 15% lower than Oregon’s.
Oregon’s healthcare spending is near the national average, with family insurance costing between $7,900 and $9,000 annually. Oregon also keeps healthcare inflation lower than that of Washington or California.
Salary and Job Market in Oregon
To live comfortably, you’ll need $72,000 to $86,000 per year in Oregon. Tech jobs in Portland offer higher pay. Eugene and Salem tend to pay less.
When comparing salaries needed to afford the average cost of living, Oregon falls in the middle. Washington requires about $85,000 annually, while California demands the highest, at over $100,000. In contrast, Idaho and Utah are more affordable, with salary needs of $65,000 and $73,000, respectively.
Colorado sits between these, with an average required income of $80,000. This shows that Oregon’s income requirements are moderate compared to those of its neighbors and coastal states.
Childcare costs are moderate. Daycare averages $950 per month. Preschool is about $826. Private K-12 schools charge $7,500 yearly.
Is the Average Cost of Living in Oregon Worth It?
Many say Oregon’s lifestyle is worth its cost. Housing and transportation are expensive, which can be tough for families. However, savings on utilities and healthcare help balance expenses.
Also, Oregon offers rich culture, nature access, and job growth. Therefore, it often balances cost with lifestyle better than Washington or California.
Regional Insights
If you’re moving, here’s what to know by area:
- Portland Metro: Highest living and housing costs; vibrant culture.
- Eugene: University town; affordable rentals; artsy vibe.
- Salem & Willamette Valley: Government jobs; agriculture; modest prices.
- Bend & Central Oregon: Outdoor living; rising home and rent prices.
New residents should research local policies and job markets. Consulting relocation experts helps find neighborhoods that fit your budget.
Final Thoughts on Oregon’s Cost of Living
The average cost of living in Oregon places it among the West’s pricier states. While cheaper than California and Washington, it is costlier than Idaho, Utah, and Colorado.
Housing and transportation remain the steepest expenses. Meanwhile, utilities and healthcare are more affordable. Oregon offers a quality lifestyle at a premium price.
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FAQs About Oregon’s Average Cost of Living
Is Oregon expensive to live in?
Yes, the average cost of living in Oregon is 17% above the national average, driven by housing and transportation.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Oregon?
A secure lifestyle generally requires an annual salary of $72,000–$86,000 for most regions.
How does Oregon compare to neighboring states?
Oregon’s living expenses are higher than Idaho, Utah, and Colorado, but lower than Washington and California.
What is the average rent in Oregon?
The average rent in Oregon is about $1,893 per month, with higher costs in major cities and lower rents in smaller towns.
How much are utilities in Oregon?
Utilities in Oregon average around $185 per month, which is about 12% below the national average.
