Best Cities in Oregon for Veterans 2025: Cost of Living & Quality of Life
Oregon's best cities for veterans ranked by cost of living, veteran population, amenities, and quality of life. Housing costs and city comparisons.
Best Cities in Oregon for Veterans 2025
Bottom Line Up Front
Portland ranks #1 for Oregon veterans—it offers the best job opportunities (Intel, Nike, Providence Health), direct access to Portland VA Medical Center, strong veteran community (20,000+ veterans), and excellent quality of life despite expensive housing ($537,200 median). Eugene takes #2, combining University of Oregon GI Bill opportunities, Roseburg VA access (40 min), outdoor recreation paradise, and more affordable housing ($485,000 median) with progressive college-town culture.
For affordability, Medford and Klamath Falls offer median home prices under $400,000, though they're smaller with limited tech/corporate jobs. Salem balances cost ($423,498 median), state government jobs with veteran hiring preference, and 45-minute access to Portland VA.
Oregon's challenge is expensive housing across the board—statewide median is $475,000, well above national average ($404,400). However, no sales tax saves $1,500-$2,500 annually, and 40%+ disabled veterans get property tax exemptions worth $300-$500+ annually. Portland's high median ($537,200) is offset by higher wages and job diversity.
Overall, Oregon cities excel for outdoor recreation, progressive culture, and quality of life, but you'll pay premium costs in desirable areas. Best for veterans prioritizing nature access, liberal values, craft beer culture, and environmental consciousness over maximum financial savings.
Ranking Methodology
Cities Ranked By:
- Cost of living (housing, utilities, groceries): 30%
- Veteran population & community: 20%
- Proximity to VA healthcare: 15%
- Job opportunities: 20%
- Quality of life (outdoor recreation, culture, schools, safety): 15%
Top 10 Cities Ranked
#1: Portland
Why It's #1:
Portland combines Oregon's strongest economy, best job market, direct VA medical center access, largest veteran community, and unmatched cultural amenities. Yes, it's expensive—but wages are higher, job diversity is unmatched, and access to outdoor recreation (Mt. Hood, Oregon Coast, Columbia Gorge) within 90 minutes makes it worthwhile. Portland's progressive culture, craft beer scene, food carts, and "Keep Portland Weird" vibe appeal to many veterans seeking alternative to traditional military towns.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $537,200
- Rent (2BR): $1,753/month
- 13% above Oregon average
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 116.8/100 (16.8% above national average)
- Groceries: 107/100
- Utilities: $190/month
- Transportation: $110/month
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 20,000+ (5-6% of metro population)
- VFW/AL posts: 15+
- Portland Vet Center: Hooksett Road location
- Student veteran chapters: PSU, PCC
VA Healthcare Access:
- Portland VA Medical Center: In city (SW US Veterans Hospital Rd)
- Multiple outpatient clinics: Fairview, Hillsboro, West Linn
- Best VA access in Oregon
- Full medical center with emergency, surgery, specialty care
Employment:
- Unemployment: 3.5%
- Major employers: Intel (22,000 employees—largest), Nike (world headquarters, 12,000), Providence Health, Legacy Health, OHSU, Daimler Trucks, Columbia Sportswear, Port of Portland (PDX airport), VA Portland Health Care
- Average salary: $72,000
- Veteran hiring: Excellent—Intel, Nike, Providence actively recruit veterans
Quality of Life:
- Weather: Mild, rainy winters (45°F), warm dry summers (80°F), 36" annual rain
- Crime rate: Moderate (higher than suburbs, lower than comparable cities nationally)
- Safest neighborhoods: West Hills, Hillsdale, Multnomah Village, Lake Oswego
- Higher crime: Old Town, downtown (avoid)
- Schools: Portland Public Schools variable (6-9/10 depending on neighborhood)—West Portland schools better
- Recreation: Forest Park (5,000 acres in city), Powell's Books, craft breweries (75+), food cart pods, Saturday Market, Mt. Hood (90 min), Oregon Coast (90 min), Columbia Gorge (40 min)
Pros:
- Best job market in Oregon (tech, healthcare, manufacturing, corporate)
- VA Medical Center in city (no driving for appointments)
- Largest veteran community and support network
- Unmatched culture (craft beer, food, arts, music)
- No sales tax saves $2,000+/year
- Access to nature (mountains, coast, forest, rivers within 90 min)
- PDX airport for travel
- Progressive values, LGBTQ+ friendly
Cons:
- Most expensive Oregon city ($537K median home)
- High cost of living (17% above national average)
- Homelessness visible downtown
- Traffic congestion
- Property crime higher than suburbs
- Rainy winters (though mild temps)
Best For: Veterans seeking career growth and high salaries, tech/healthcare professionals, veterans needing frequent VA care, progressive-minded veterans, outdoor enthusiasts, students using GI Bill (PSU, PCC)
#2: Eugene
Why It's #2:
Eugene combines college town energy (University of Oregon), outdoor recreation paradise, progressive culture, and more affordable housing than Portland. It's the perfect balance for veterans wanting Oregon's lifestyle without Portland's costs or crowds. GI Bill students thrive here with UO's strong veteran support, and the running/biking culture appeals to fitness-focused veterans.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $485,000
- Rent (2BR): $1,800/month
- 2% above Oregon average
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 112/100 (12% above national average)
- Groceries: 105/100
- Utilities: $175/month
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 8,000+ (5% of metro area)
- University of Oregon: 800+ student veterans
- Eugene Vet Center: Pearl Street location
- VFW/AL posts: 6
VA Healthcare Access:
- Roseburg VA Medical Center: 70 miles (75 minutes)
- Eugene VA Clinic: In city (Willamette Street)—primary care, mental health
- Portland VA: 110 miles (2 hours) for complex specialty care
Employment:
- Unemployment: 3.4%
- Major employers: University of Oregon, PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center, Bi-Mart (headquarters), Monaco Coach, Oregon Medical Group, Lane County government
- Average salary: $58,000
- Veteran hiring: Good—healthcare sector strong, university positions
Quality of Life:
- Weather: Similar to Portland (mild/rainy winters, dry summers)
- Crime: Low (safer than Portland)
- Schools: Eugene 4J School District rated 7-8/10 (good to excellent)
- Recreation: Running capital of the world (Hayward Field, Pre's Trail), biking trails (extensive), hiking (Spencer Butte, Mt. Pisgah), Oregon Coast (60 min), Willamette River, Saturday Market, craft breweries, college sports (UO Ducks football)
Pros:
- Excellent for GI Bill students (UO, Lane CC)
- Strong outdoor recreation culture
- More affordable than Portland
- College town amenities without big city problems
- Progressive, environmentally conscious culture
- Lower crime than Portland
- Access to coast (60 min)
Cons:
- 75 min to Roseburg VA (specialty care 2 hours to Portland)
- Smaller job market (limited corporate/tech)
- Lower salaries than Portland
- Very rainy winters
- College town can feel transient
Best For: Student veterans using GI Bill, outdoor athletes (runners, cyclists, hikers), families wanting college town culture, veterans seeking progressive values with small-city feel
#3: Salem
Why It's #3:
Salem is Oregon's capital, offering state government jobs with veteran hiring preference, central location between Portland and Eugene, more affordable housing than both, and small-city charm. Ideal for veterans seeking government careers and access to larger cities while avoiding their costs.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $423,498
- Rent (2BR): $1,417/month
- 11% below Oregon average
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 104/100 (4% above national average)
- Utilities: $170/month
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 12,000+ (7% of area population)
- Salem Vet Center: Capitol Street location
- VFW/AL posts: 8
VA Healthcare Access:
- Portland VA: 45 miles (50 minutes)
- Salem VA Clinic: In city (Capitol Street NE)—primary care, mental health
- Close enough to Portland for regular specialty care
Employment:
- Unemployment: 3.6%
- Major employers: State of Oregon (largest—veteran preference), Salem Hospital, Willamette University, Chemeketa Community College, Salem-Keizer School District,Kettle Foods
- Average salary: $54,000
- 2025 veteran hiring preference for state government jobs (5-10 points on exams)
Quality of Life:
- Crime: Moderate (lower than Portland, higher than suburbs)
- Schools: Salem-Keizer School District rated 6-7/10
- Recreation: Willamette River, Silver Falls State Park (30 min), Oregon Coast (60 min), wine country (nearby), state capitol building, riverfront parks
Pros:
- State government jobs with veteran preference
- More affordable than Portland/Eugene
- Central location (Portland 50 min, Eugene 60 min)
- 50 min to Portland VA
- Lower cost of living
- Access to wine country
Cons:
- Smaller job market (government-heavy)
- Less cultural amenities than Portland/Eugene
- Higher crime than smaller Oregon cities
- Not as progressive as Portland/Eugene
Best For: Veterans seeking state government careers, families wanting affordability and access to larger cities, veterans prioritizing cost over culture
#4: Bend
Why It's #4:
Bend is Oregon's outdoor recreation capital—skiing, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, climbing all within minutes. High quality of life, booming economy, and stunning natural beauty make it a top destination. However, it's Oregon's most expensive mid-sized city, and job opportunities are limited outside tourism/hospitality/construction.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $666,206
- Rent (2BR): $2,000+/month
- 40% above Oregon average (most expensive outside Portland metro)
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 128/100 (28% above national average)
- Groceries: 110/100
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 5,500+ (6% of area)
- Central Oregon Veterans Outreach (COVO): Veterans Village, housing assistance
- Bend Vet Center: Forbes Road location
- VFW/AL posts: 3
VA Healthcare Access:
- Bend VA Clinic: In city (Twin Knolls Drive)—primary care, mental health
- Portland VA: 160 miles (3 hours)
- Roseburg VA: 175 miles (3.5 hours)
- Community Care: St. Charles Health System (excellent local civilian option)
Employment:
- Unemployment: 3.2%
- Major employers: St. Charles Health System, Central Oregon Community College, Les Schwab Tire Centers (headquarters), Brightwood Corporation, tourism/hospitality sector, construction
- Average salary: $52,000
- Limited corporate/tech jobs
Quality of Life:
- Weather: High desert—300 days of sunshine, cold winters (20-40°F), warm summers (85°F), low humidity
- Crime: Very low (one of Oregon's safest cities)
- Schools: Bend-La Pine Schools rated 7-8/10
- Recreation: Mt. Bachelor skiing (30 min), mountain biking (world-class trails), Deschutes River (fishing, rafting), climbing (Smith Rock 30 min), hiking, Crater Lake (90 min), craft breweries (20+), outdoor lifestyle
Pros:
- Best outdoor recreation in Oregon (skiing, biking, hiking, fishing, climbing)
- Very safe, low crime
- 300+ days of sunshine (dry climate)
- Excellent schools
- Tight veteran community (COVO support)
- Booming economy
Cons:
- Most expensive housing in Oregon ($666K median)
- 3 hours to VA medical center (clinic only for primary care)
- Limited job opportunities outside tourism/healthcare
- Small city isolation (Portland 3 hours)
- Lower salaries
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts (skiing, biking, hiking), retirees with pensions/disability, remote workers, veterans who can afford $666K homes, veterans prioritizing recreation over career
#5: Corvallis
Why It's #5:
Corvallis is a college town (Oregon State University) with small-city charm, excellent schools, very low crime, and strong STEM job market. Ideal for GI Bill students, families, and veterans seeking safe, educated community. However, housing is expensive relative to city size, and job market is limited outside OSU and Hewlett Packard.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $537,254
- Rent (2BR): $1,773/month
- 13% above Oregon average (expensive for a small city)
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 120/100 (20% above national average)
- Ranked highest cost of living among Oregon cities in surveys
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 3,000+ (5% of area, mostly student veterans)
- Oregon State University: 1,000+ student veterans
- VFW/AL posts: 2
VA Healthcare Access:
- Portland VA: 85 miles (90 minutes)
- Eugene VA Clinic: 45 miles (50 minutes)
- Salem VA Clinic: 40 miles (45 minutes)
- No local VA clinic
Employment:
- Unemployment: 3.0%
- Major employers: Oregon State University, Hewlett Packard, Samaritan Health Services, CH2M Hill, NuScale Power
- Average salary: $62,000
- Strong STEM sector
Quality of Life:
- Crime: Very low (one of Oregon's safest cities)
- Schools: Corvallis School District rated 9/10 (excellent)
- Recreation: College town culture, OSU sports, hiking, biking, wine country nearby, Oregon Coast (60 min)
Pros:
- Excellent for GI Bill students (OSU)
- Very safe, low crime
- Best schools in Oregon (9/10 rating)
- Strong STEM job market
- Progressive, educated community
Cons:
- Expensive housing ($537K median—Portland prices in a small city)
- 90 min to Portland VA
- No local VA clinic
- Small city (limited nightlife/culture)
- Job market limited outside OSU/HP
Best For: Student veterans (OSU), families prioritizing schools and safety, STEM professionals (engineering, tech)
#6: Beaverton/Hillsboro
Why It's #6:
Portland's western suburbs offer Intel jobs, Nike headquarters access, safer neighborhoods than Portland, excellent schools, and same VA access—all at slightly lower housing costs. If you want Portland metro benefits without city problems, this is it.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $504,300 (Beaverton/Hillsboro combined)
- Rent (2BR): $1,900/month
- 6% above Oregon average
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 115/100
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 8,000+ (combined suburbs)
- Part of Portland metro veteran network
VA Healthcare Access:
- Portland VA: 20 minutes
- Hillsboro VA Clinic: In area
Employment:
- Unemployment: 3.3%
- Major employers: Intel (22,000 employees—largest Oregon employer), Nike (12,000), Columbia Sportswear, Tektronix, TriQuint Semiconductor
- Average salary: $75,000+
- Best tech job market in Oregon
Quality of Life:
- Crime: Low (safer than Portland)
- Schools: Beaverton School District rated 8/10 (excellent)
- Recreation: Access to all Portland amenities, suburban parks
Pros:
- Intel and Nike jobs (veteran recruiting)
- Highest salaries in Oregon
- Safer than Portland
- Excellent schools
- 20 min to Portland VA
- Suburban family-friendly
Cons:
- Still expensive ($504K median)
- Suburban sprawl (less walkable)
- Traffic to Portland
- Less culture than city
Best For: Tech professionals (Intel, Nike), families wanting excellent schools, veterans seeking high salaries, suburban preference
#7: Medford
Why It's #7:
Medford is Southern Oregon's largest city, offering the most affordable housing among desirable Oregon cities, access to Southern Oregon Rehab Center, proximity to wine country and outdoor recreation, and a growing economy. Good balance of affordability and quality of life.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $400,000
- Rent (2BR): $1,375/month
- 16% below Oregon average
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 103/100
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 5,500+ (7% of area)
- Jackson County VSO active
- VFW/AL posts: 4
VA Healthcare Access:
- Southern Oregon Rehab Center (White City): 10 miles
- Roseburg VA: 90 miles
- Grants Pass Vet Center: 30 miles
Employment:
- Unemployment: 3.8%
- Major employers: Asante Health System, Harry & David (headquarters), Lithia Motors, Rogue Community College, healthcare
- Average salary: $48,000
Quality of Life:
- Weather: Warmer/drier than Willamette Valley (90°F summers, 40°F winters)
- Crime: Moderate
- Schools: Medford School District rated 6/10
- Recreation: Crater Lake (80 min), wine country, Rogue River, hiking, Shakespeare Festival (Ashland 15 min)
Pros:
- Affordable housing ($400K median)
- Access to Southern Oregon Rehab Center
- Warmer, sunnier than Portland/Eugene
- Wine country and outdoor recreation
- Lower cost of living
Cons:
- Limited tech/corporate jobs
- 90 min to Roseburg VA Medical Center
- Smaller city amenities
- Lower salaries
Best For: Retirees, veterans using Southern Oregon Rehab Center, families wanting affordability, wine enthusiasts
#8: Gresham
Why It's #8:
Portland's eastern suburb offers the most affordable entry to Portland metro, good schools, diverse population, and full access to Portland jobs and VA while keeping housing costs lower. Working-class alternative to expensive Portland neighborhoods.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $450,000
- Rent (2BR): $1,650/month
- 5% below Oregon average
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 110/100
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 5,000+ (5%)
- Part of Portland metro network
VA Healthcare Access:
- Portland VA: 25 minutes
- Fairview VA Clinic: 10 minutes
Employment:
- Major employers: Mt. Hood Community College, Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center, Boeing (Gresham facility), Portland metro jobs
- Average salary: $56,000
Quality of Life:
- Crime: Moderate (higher than West Portland suburbs)
- Schools: Gresham-Barlow School District rated 6-7/10
- Recreation: Near Mt. Hood (60 min), Columbia Gorge (30 min)
Pros:
- More affordable Portland metro access
- 25 min to Portland VA
- Access to all Portland jobs
- Near Mt. Hood and Gorge
Cons:
- Higher crime than West suburbs
- Less desirable than Beaverton/Hillsboro
- Traffic to Portland
Best For: Budget-focused veterans wanting Portland access, working-class families, veterans commuting to Portland jobs
#9: Klamath Falls
Why It's #9:
Klamath Falls is Oregon's most affordable city, offering small-town living, outdoor recreation, and ultra-low housing costs. Perfect for retirees on fixed income who prioritize nature access over career opportunities.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $310,000
- Rent (2BR): $1,100/month
- 35% below Oregon average
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 95/100 (5% below national average)
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 3,200+ (8%—high percentage)
- Klamath County VSO
- VFW/AL posts: 3
VA Healthcare Access:
- Roseburg VA: 170 miles (3 hours)
- Community Care: Sky Lakes Medical Center (local)
- Very limited VA access
Employment:
- Unemployment: 4.2%
- Major employers: Sky Lakes Medical Center, JELD-WEN (windows/doors), Oregon Institute of Technology, Collins Products
- Average salary: $44,000
Quality of Life:
- Weather: High desert (300 days sun, cold winters)
- Crime: Low
- Schools: Klamath Falls City Schools rated 5-6/10
- Recreation: Crater Lake (50 min), lakes, hunting, fishing, hiking
Pros:
- Most affordable Oregon city ($310K median)
- High veteran percentage (tight community)
- Outdoor recreation (Crater Lake, lakes, hunting)
- Low crime
Cons:
- 3 hours to VA medical center
- Very limited job market
- Small town isolation
- Lower-rated schools
Best For: Retirees on fixed income, outdoor enthusiasts (hunting, fishing), veterans wanting ultra-low cost, remote living
#10: Springfield
Why It's #10:
Springfield is Eugene's blue-collar neighbor, offering more affordable housing with access to all Eugene/UO amenities. Working-class alternative to Eugene's college town premium pricing.
Housing Costs:
- Median home price: $420,000
- Rent (2BR): $1,550/month
- 12% below Oregon average
Cost of Living:
- Overall: 106/100
Veteran Community:
- Veteran population: 3,500+ (6%)
- Access to Eugene veteran resources
VA Healthcare Access:
- Eugene VA Clinic: 5 miles
- Roseburg VA: 70 miles
Employment:
- Major employers: PeaceHealth Sacred Heart, Weyerhaeuser, Platt Electric, manufacturing
- Average salary: $50,000
Quality of Life:
- Crime: Moderate (higher than Eugene)
- Schools: Springfield Public Schools rated 5-6/10
- Recreation: Access to all Eugene amenities
Pros:
- More affordable than Eugene
- Access to Eugene/UO resources
- 5 min to Eugene VA Clinic
- Manufacturing jobs
Cons:
- Higher crime than Eugene
- Lower-rated schools
- Less desirable than Eugene
Best For: Budget-conscious veterans wanting Eugene access, manufacturing workers, working-class families
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| City | Median Home | Rent (2BR) | COL Index | Veteran % | VA Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portland | $537,200 | $1,753 | 117 | 5-6% | In city (VAMC) |
| Eugene | $485,000 | $1,800 | 112 | 5% | Clinic in city; Roseburg 75 min |
| Salem | $423,498 | $1,417 | 104 | 7% | Clinic in city; Portland 50 min |
| Bend | $666,206 | $2,000+ | 128 | 6% | Clinic in city; VAMC 3 hours |
| Corvallis | $537,254 | $1,773 | 120 | 5% | 90 min to Portland |
| Beaverton/Hillsboro | $504,300 | $1,900 | 115 | 5% | 20 min to Portland VAMC |
| Medford | $400,000 | $1,375 | 103 | 7% | Rehab Center 10 min |
| Gresham | $450,000 | $1,650 | 110 | 5% | 25 min to Portland VAMC |
| Klamath Falls | $310,000 | $1,100 | 95 | 8% | 3 hours to Roseburg |
| Springfield | $420,000 | $1,550 | 106 | 6% | 5 min to Eugene clinic |
By Budget
Most Affordable Cities
- Klamath Falls: $310K median | 35% below Oregon average | High desert, remote
- Medford: $400K | 16% below average | Southern Oregon wine country
- Springfield: $420K | 12% below average | Eugene access
Mid-Range
- Salem: $423K
- Gresham: $450K
- Eugene: $485K
Premium Cities
- Beaverton/Hillsboro: $504K
- Corvallis: $537K
- Portland: $537K
- Bend: $666K (most expensive)
By Priority
Best for Job Opportunities
- Portland: Largest job market (tech, healthcare, manufacturing, corporate)
- Beaverton/Hillsboro: Intel, Nike, tech sector
- Eugene: University, healthcare, retail
Best for Veteran Community
- Portland: 20,000+ veterans, VA Medical Center, most resources
- Salem: 12,000+ veterans, capital city
- Eugene: 8,000+ veterans, UO student veteran community
Best for VA Healthcare Access
- Portland: VA Medical Center in city
- Beaverton/Hillsboro: 20 min to Portland VAMC
- Salem: 50 min to Portland VAMC
Best for Families
- Corvallis: Best schools (9/10), very safe, educated community
- Beaverton/Hillsboro: Excellent schools (8/10), safe, high salaries
- Eugene: Good schools (7-8/10), college town culture
Best for Retirees
- Klamath Falls: Ultra-affordable, outdoor recreation, high veteran %
- Medford: Affordable, warm weather, wine country
- Bend: If you can afford it—outdoor paradise, sunny, active lifestyle
Best for Outdoor Recreation
- Bend: Skiing, biking, hiking, climbing, fishing—world-class
- Eugene: Running/biking culture, coast access
- Portland: Mt. Hood, coast, gorge all within 90 min
Regional Analysis
Portland Metro (Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Gresham)
Characteristics: Urban, most jobs, best VA access, expensive, diverse economy
Best for: Career-focused veterans, tech/healthcare professionals, families with dual incomes, veterans needing frequent VA care
Willamette Valley (Eugene, Salem, Corvallis, Springfield)
Characteristics: College towns, moderate costs, good VA access, progressive culture
Best for: GI Bill students, families, state government workers, veterans wanting small-city progressive culture
Southern Oregon (Medford, Klamath Falls, Grants Pass)
Characteristics: Warm/dry, affordable, wine country, limited jobs, decent VA access (Medford)
Best for: Retirees, outdoor enthusiasts, wine lovers, budget-conscious veterans
Central Oregon (Bend)
Characteristics: Outdoor paradise, expensive, sunny, limited jobs, limited VA access
Best for: Outdoor athletes, retirees with money, remote workers
Financial Analysis
Home Ownership Costs (20-Year)
Portland ($537,200 home, 40% disabled veteran with property exemption):
- Purchase price: $537,200
- Down payment (10%): $53,720
- Monthly mortgage (30-year, 7%): $3,570
- Property tax (monthly, 1.07% rate): $479
- If 40%+ disabled (exemption $31,565 assessed): Save ~$28/month = $338/year
- Insurance: $175/month
- Total monthly: $4,224 (or $4,196 with exemption)
- 20-year cost: $1,013,760 (or $1,007,040 with exemption)
- 20-year savings from exemption: $6,760
Klamath Falls ($310,000 home, 40% disabled):
- Purchase price: $310,000
- Down payment: $31,000
- Monthly mortgage: $1,855
- Property tax (monthly, ~0.95% rate): $245
- If 40%+ disabled: Save ~$25/month = $300/year
- Insurance: $125/month
- Total monthly: $2,225 (or $2,200 with exemption)
- 20-year cost: $534,000 (or $528,000 with exemption)
- 20-year savings from exemption: $6,000
Savings living in Klamath Falls vs. Portland: $479,760 over 20 years (housing alone)
Climate & Weather
Mildest Weather
- Medford: Warmer, drier (90°F summers, 40°F winters)
- Portland/Eugene: Mild, rainy (45-80°F, 36" rain)
Best Weather
- Bend: 300 days sunshine, dry, cold winters
- Klamath Falls: High desert, sunny
What to expect across Oregon:
- Western Oregon (Portland, Eugene, Salem): Rainy winters (Oct-May), dry summers (June-Sept), 40-80°F range, 36-45" rain
- Central Oregon (Bend): High desert, 300 days sun, cold winters (20°F), warm summers (85°F), 11" rain
- Southern Oregon (Medford): Warmer/drier than Willamette Valley, 17" rain
Crime & Safety
Safest Cities:
- Corvallis: College town, very low crime
- Bend: Outdoor community, low crime
- West Portland suburbs: Lake Oswego, West Linn, Beaverton
Higher Crime (but manageable):
- Portland: Downtown and Old Town have issues; West Portland safe
- Gresham: Moderate crime
- Springfield: Higher than Eugene
Avoid: Portland's Old Town/downtown area for residence; fine to visit during day
What to Avoid
Eastern Oregon: Baker City, Pendleton, Ontario are 2-4 hours from VA care and have limited job markets. Only move here if retired and very self-sufficient.
Extreme reliance on VA without car: If you need frequent specialty care and don't have reliable transportation, avoid cities more than 60 minutes from Portland or Roseburg VA.
Moving to Oregon
One-Time Costs
- Moving truck (1,000 miles): $3,000-$5,000
- Deposit + first month: $3,506 (Portland 2BR)
- Utility hookups: $300
- Vehicle registration: $122 (2 years)
- Total: $6,928-$8,928
Best Time to Move
- Weather: May-September (avoid rainy season)
- Housing market: Winter (less competition, but rainy)
- Avoid: November-March (rain, dark, depressing)
Establishing Residency
- Oregon driver's license within 30 days
- Vehicle registration within 30 days
- Apply for disabled veteran property tax exemption by April 1 if 40%+ disabled
- Register to vote
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the best city in Oregon for veterans on a budget?
A: Klamath Falls ($310K median) or Medford ($400K). Klamath Falls is cheapest but very remote (3 hours to VA). Medford offers better balance with Southern Oregon Rehab Center 10 minutes away.
Q: Which city has the strongest veteran community?
A: Portland—20,000+ veterans, VA Medical Center in city, most VFW/AL posts, extensive support services.
Q: Is Portland safe for veterans and families?
A: West Portland (West Hills, Hillsdale, Multnomah Village) and suburbs (Beaverton, Lake Oswego) are very safe. Avoid Old Town and parts of downtown. Overall, Portland is safer than comparable US cities.
Q: Can I work at Intel or Nike as a veteran?
A: Yes. Both companies actively recruit veterans. Intel employs 22,000 in Oregon and offers veteran hiring programs. Nike has a Veterans Network employee resource group.
Q: Which city is best for veterans attending college?
A: Eugene (UO) or Corvallis (OSU). Eugene has 800+ student veterans, strong support, and college town culture. Corvallis offers excellent STEM programs.
Q: How far am I from VA healthcare in Bend?
A: Bend has a VA clinic for primary care and mental health. For specialty care, you'll drive 3 hours to Portland VA. Community Care with St. Charles Health System is available and excellent.
Q: Does living in Oregon offset the military retirement income tax?
A: For disabled veterans (40%+), property tax exemption ($300-$500/year) and no sales tax ($2,000/year savings) help. But Oregon still taxes military retirement at 4.75-9.9%, costing $2,000-$5,000/year. Financially, Washington state is better for military retirees.
Q: Which city has the best schools?
A: Corvallis (9/10 rating), followed by Beaverton/Hillsboro suburbs (8/10).
Q: Can I afford Bend on military retirement?
A: Median home is $666K—you'll need substantial down payment or dual income. Bend is for high earners, retirees with significant savings, or remote workers with Bay Area salaries.
Q: What's the cost of living difference between Portland and Klamath Falls?
A: Portland is 117/100 (17% above national avg), Klamath Falls is 95/100 (5% below national avg). Housing in Portland is $537K vs. $310K in Klamath Falls—$227K difference. Over 20 years, you save $480,000 in Klamath Falls (housing only).
Q: Are there jobs in Oregon for veterans?
A: Yes in Portland metro (Intel, Nike, Providence, VA, Boeing). Limited in smaller cities. Oregon veteran unemployment (3.9%) is slightly above national veteran rate (3.0%), so job market is competitive but opportunities exist.
Q: Should I choose Portland or Eugene?
A: Portland for careers, salaries, VA access, culture. Eugene for GI Bill students, outdoor recreation focus, lower costs, smaller city vibe. Both are great—depends on your priorities.
Last updated: 2025. Housing prices and cost of living reflect 2024-2025 market conditions. Oregon's no sales tax policy saves veterans $1,500-$2,500 annually regardless of city.