Situated in the beautiful Tualatin Valley on the west side of the greater Portland area, Hillsboro is the fifth largest city in the state of Oregon and represents the county seat of Washington County. It’s known throughout the PNW for its unique mixture of innovative high-tech companies, farmlands, and gorgeous natural landscapes.
This article covers all the must-know information for anyone considering living in Hillsboro, Oregon. From the city’s history and major industries to its overall atmosphere and community activities and events, to the pros and cons of living there, keep reading to find out more about this beloved Oregon city!
About Hillsboro, Oregon
Located just west of the city of Portland, Hillsboro, Oregon offers residents a seamless blend of quiet suburban charm, cutting-edge innovation, and the beautiful nature that the state of Oregon is so well-known for. Hillsboro is the perfect destination for families looking to settle in a community-driven, yet exciting area, as well as for young professionals looking to secure their spot at the center of new technology.
Hillsboro has a rich history. The area was home to the Atfalati tribe of the Kalapuya people for thousands of years. Because of the PNW climate, the region was an agricultural heaven. European settlers founded the early community of Hillsboro in 1851. The area grew slowly but steadily in the following decades with the introduction of the Oregon and California railroad to the region in the 1870s. In fact, the population grew from 2,000 residents in 1910 to about 5,000 in 1950. The area continues to grow to this day, and is now home to some of the country’s biggest and brightest tech companies, including Intel. In fact, Hillsboro and the surrounding area are often referred to as the “Silicon Forest.”
Hillsboro also offers residents the natural landscapes that the PNW is so famous for. With sprawling, lush greenery, the area is located just a few hours from the Oregon coast to the west and Mt. Hood to the east, making it the perfect location for nature lovers who enjoy taking the occasional day trip. The community is also just 30 minutes away from the City of Portland, which you can easily access by the city’s light rail system.
Facts & Figures
Numbers can only tell you so much, and the only way to really know the city of Hillsboro is to come visit! That said, if you’re thinking about moving somewhere new, it’s always a good idea to read up on a few of the basic facts and statistics.
Here are some of the important facts and figures about Hillsboro, Oregon, at a glance:
- Size: 25.49 square miles
- Distance to Portland: 14-16 miles (about 25-30 minutes by car)
- Population: 109,128 people
- Population per square mile: 4,282 people
- Median age: approximately 34 years
- Female-to-male ratio: 100:97
- Average number of individuals per household: 2.72
- Median household income: $82,275
- Cost of living index: 130.8
- Median rent-per-month and home sale price: $1,453 / $468,400, respectively
- Crime index: 25
- Climate: warm and temperate
- Days of rain per year: 156
- Average annual temperatures: low of 32.1° in December and high of 81.4° in August
Hillsboro Neighborhoods
Hillsboro’s many neighborhoods vary from the hustle and bustle that may appeal to young professionals, to calm and family-centered suburban communities. For example, Orenco Station offers a high-density, metropolitan feel with a variety of restaurants and shops, access to lightrail, as well as comfortable and safe residential homes and apartments, while Brookwood is a quiet and friendly residential area, perfect for young families looking to settle down.
Hillsboro neighborhoods can also offer the best of both worlds, like Amberglen, which boasts a unique and seamless blend of suburban appeal, commercial business, and advanced education and health centers.
The Pros & Cons Of Living In Hillsboro, Oregon
As with any place, there are advantages and disadvantages of living in the city of Hillsboro. Each individual and family is unique, so keep in mind that what the next person dislikes about the city, you may adore, and vica versa. Keeping that caveat in mind, here are some of the most commonly cited pros and cons of living in Hillsboro, Oregon.
Pros
- If you enjoy a combination of urban amenities and rural landscapes, you’ll feel right at home. The city itself has a dense urban center, where you’ll find government buildings, boutique coffee shops and pubs, and centers of industry all clustered together. It doesn’t take long, though, once you leave this urban center, to find yourself in the middle of sweeping farmlands. If you love both the city and the country, there’s a bit of both in Hillsboro.
- There are lots of great job opportunities. Hillsboro is known as the center of high-tech innovation in Oregon. In addition to Intel, a variety of other tech firms have headquarters or campuses in Hillsboro. The city also has a thriving manufacturing industry, as well as employment opportunities in agriculture, social services, and education.
- Hillsboro’s population is more diverse than other Oregon cities and towns. It’s no secret that Portland and the greater PNW are home to some of the least diverse communities in the nation, despite the area’s reputation for inclusion and progressive politics. In terms of racial, ethnic, spiritual, and cultural diversity, Hillsboro consistently ranks at the top of Oregon’s cities.
- The area is very family- and pet-friendly. Hillsboro is a community-oriented place. There are always plenty of local activities and events to engage in and get to know your fellow residents. These include cultural arts programs, more than 1,600 acres of public park space, and lots of opportunities to get involved through volunteering and public service.
Cons
- You can’t avoid the rain. While summers in the PNW can be hot and dry, the rest of the year is pretty wet. Hillsboro gets an average of 156 rainy days annually. While this results in a beautiful forested landscape, it does mean dealing with lots of rain and clouds on a regular basis.
- It’s less walkable than other nearby cities. The city center of Hillsboro is one of the more walkable areas in the larger Portland metropolitan area. However, most Hillsboro residents don’t live right in the city. That means for most people, a car or bike is essential.
West Coast Moving & Storage Is Here to Help Make Your Move Smooth & Easy
If you’re planning a move to Hillsboro or another city in the PNW, you’re about to set off on an awesome adventure. Hillsboro is home to an abundance of economic and civic engagement as well as striking natural beauty. As you plan your relocation, West Coast Moving & Storage is here to handle all the hard work and logistical details of your move to ensure it goes as smoothly and efficiently as possible. That way, you can focus on your new adventure!
Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer, get your questions answered, and for a free consultation.