Moving to Oregon: Your Complete Guide
Oregon pairs a thriving Portland-metro tech and outdoor-industry scene with some of the most varied geography in the country — Pacific coastline, Columbia River Gorge, Cascade volcanoes, and high desert all within a few hours' drive. No sales tax, strong environmental stewardship, and a deep culture of small-business entrepreneurship make the state a favorite of remote workers and creative professionals. Our long-distance relocation team at MC Movers handles Oregon moves from anywhere in the country.
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Why People Are Moving to Oregon
Oregon pairs a thriving Portland-metro tech and outdoor-industry scene with some of the most varied geography in the country — Pacific coastline, Columbia River Gorge, Cascade volcanoes, and high desert all within a few hours' drive. No sales tax, strong environmental stewardship, and a deep culture of small-business entrepreneurship make the state a favorite of remote workers and creative professionals.
Pros of Moving to Oregon
The advantages that draw people to the The Beaver State
No State Sales Tax
Oregon is one of just five states with no sales tax — meaningful savings on big-ticket purchases, especially compared with neighboring Washington and California.
Stunning Outdoor Access
Pacific beaches, Mount Hood skiing, Crater Lake, Columbia River Gorge, and Smith Rock climbing are all within a day's drive of the Portland metro.
Outdoor & Tech Economy
Home to Nike, Intel's largest U.S. campus, Columbia Sportswear, and a dense ecosystem of outdoor-industry brands and tech startups.
Strong Local Culture
Farm-to-table food scene, craft beer capital of the U.S., and a deeply rooted small-business and farmers-market culture statewide.
Best Cities to Move to in Oregon
From metro hubs to college towns, Oregon offers diverse options
Portland
Cultural and tech hub with iconic food carts, craft breweries, and easy access to mountains and coast
Bend
High-desert recreation capital with explosive growth — skiing, mountain biking, and a booming tech/remote-work scene
Eugene
University of Oregon college town with strong running culture, arts scene, and lower costs than Portland
Salem
State capital offering affordable housing, government jobs, and an easy commute to Portland
Hillsboro
Portland-metro suburb centered around Intel's Silicon Forest campus — strong schools and job density
Ashland
Southern-Oregon arts town famous for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and four-season climate
Cons of Moving to Oregon
Considerations to factor into your decision
High Housing Costs
Portland-area median home prices remain well above the national average, and desirable close-in neighborhoods are especially competitive.
Gray, Wet Winters
West of the Cascades expect 150+ overcast days per year and a long rainy season — climate acclimation matters.
High Income Tax
Oregon has one of the highest state income-tax rates in the country (no sales tax offsets this, but high earners feel the tradeoff).
Wildfire Smoke
Late summer wildfire smoke has become a recurring air-quality issue across the state — AC and air purifiers are recommended.
Education in Oregon
Oregon is home to respected public and private higher-education institutions, with strong K–12 districts concentrated around the metros. Research district-level ratings before locking a neighborhood.
Higher Education
- University of Oregon (Eugene)
- Oregon State University (Corvallis)
- Portland State University
Healthcare in Oregon
Oregon residents have access to major hospital systems and specialty-care centers, with the densest options concentrated in the largest metros.
- OHSU (Oregon Health & Science University, Portland) — top-ranked academic medical center
- Providence Health & Services (statewide network)
- Legacy Health (Portland metro)
Is Oregon Right for You?
Oregon rewards people who can embrace the rainy season in exchange for exceptional access to nature, a strong food and craft-beverage culture, and no sales tax. Housing costs are the main tradeoff — focus your search on the metro submarket or secondary city that fits your budget.
Oregon is Best For:
Before making your move, visit a few neighborhoods and talk to locals. Each region of Oregon has its own character, cost structure, and community feel.
Professional Moving Services to Oregon
With over 30 years of experience, MC Movers makes your relocation to Oregon smooth and stress-free. Our local moving services are available once you arrive.
Personalized Service
We develop a moving plan tailored to your specific needs and stay in close contact from start to finish.
Transparent Pricing
Get a free quote covering every part of your move — packing, loading, transportation, and unloading.
Licensed & Insured
Fully licensed and insured so you can relax knowing your belongings are protected.
Reliable & Punctual
30+ years of experience moving clients across the United States — dependable service you can trust.
Moving to or from a State Near Oregon?
MC Movers also serves every neighboring state. Explore our relocation guides and get a free quote for interstate moves across the region.
Ready to Make Oregon Your New Home?
At MC Movers, we understand that relocating is a major decision. Our experienced team can help make your transition to Oregon smooth and stress-free.
Learn about what your move will cost, then contact us today for a free moving quote and let us help you start your new chapter in the The Beaver State.