Beaverton, Oregon is often seen as a dreamy destination with its beautiful scenery and mountains. But living there, especially on the west side of Portland, has its ups and downs.
This guide is here to give you the real scoop on Beaverton – the good, the bad, and everything in between. We’ll help you figure out if Beaverton is the right fit for you by showing you what life there is really like. So, if you want to know the true pros and cons of living in Beaverton, keep reading.
Who Is Moving To Beaverton?
Many individuals are choosing to relocate to Beaverton for several compelling reasons. One primary factor driving this migration is the abundant job opportunities, particularly in the tech sector.
Well known companies like IBM, Intel, NIke, and Columbia Sportswear have established their headquarters in or near Beaverton, attracting young professionals in Beaverton.
But it’s not just Nike, Intel and IBM – Portland is a big hub that attracts people from across the globe. Beaverton stands as one of the top choices for people looking to relocate anywhere in the Portland area. Beaverton in particular is an attractive destination because it mixes peaceful suburban living with easy access to city life.
It’s close to Portland, so residents can enjoy city perks while still enjoying a calm suburban vibe. This mix is perfect for people and families who want a relaxed yet exciting lifestyle in the Portland area.
What You Need To Know About Beaverton Before Moving Here?
Before making the big move to Beaverton, it’s important to understand that no city is flawless. There’s always a mix of good, bad, and maybe even some ugly aspects to consider. As a locally owned and operated moving company based in Beaverton, we’re here to give you the insider scoop on everything you need to know about life in our city.
Housing In Beaverton
Housing prices can vary greatly across different cities, even within the same region like the Pacific Northwest. Beaverton falls in the middle with a median home price of around $650,000.
Beaverton Sits More On The Expensive Side
Compared to Oregon’s average home values in the mid-$400s, Beaverton offers a competitive housing market. Its location and amenities make it an attractive choice for buyers, who often find they can get more value for their money in this suburb.
Neighborhoods in Beaverton
Beaverton consists of 13 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own housing market. In upscale areas like West Slope, Sexton Mountain, and Five Oaks, median home prices can range from $675,000 to over $825,000. More affordable neighborhoods such as Central Beaverton, Neighbors Southwest, and South Beaverton typically offer homes ranging from $386,000 to $658,000.
Here is a full list of all neighborhoods in Beaverton:
- Aloha
- Central Beaverton
- Denney Whitford/Raleigh West
- Five Oaks/Triple Creek
- Greenway
- Highland
- Neighbors Southwest
- Sexton Mountain
- South Beaverton
- Vose
- West Beaverton
Renting in Beaverton
For renters, median rent in Beaverton is around $1,500, slightly higher than Portland’s $1,700 and the statewide average of $1,200. The average rent in Beaverton is over $1,800, with communities like Five Oaks, Tanasbourne East, and Triple Creek averaging around $1,800. Studio apartments rent for about $1,400, one bedrooms for $1,600, two bedrooms for less than $1,900, and three bedrooms for around $2,400.
| Apartment Size | Average Rent in Beaverton |
| Studio | $1,400 |
| One Bedroom | $1,600 |
| Two Bedrooms | Less than $1,900 |
| Three Bedrooms | Around $2,400 |
And here’s the breakdown of median rent in Beaverton compared to Portland and the statewide average:
| Area | Median Rent |
| Beaverton | $1,500 |
| Portland | $1,700 |
| Statewide | $1,200 |
Additionally, here are some Beaverton communities and their average rents:
| Community | Average Rent |
| Five Oaks | Around $1,800 |
| Tanasbourne East | Around $1,800 |
| Triple Creek | Around $1,800 |
Job Market in Beaverton
Beaverton’s job market is strong, particularly in the high-tech manufacturing sector, earning it the nickname “Silicon Forest.” Here’s an overview of the popular industries and major employers in the area:
- High-Tech Manufacturing: Beaverton is home to approximately 300 high-tech companies, including industry giants like Intel and Tektronix. These companies provide stable, sustainable jobs and contribute significantly to the region’s economy.
- Sportswear and Apparel: Nike’s global headquarters is located in neighboring Hillsboro, but its presence greatly impacts Beaverton’s job market. Nike is a major employer in the area, offering opportunities in design, marketing, manufacturing, and other related fields.
- Food Manufacturing: Reser’s Fine Foods, a food manufacturer, is another significant player in Beaverton’s job market. The company provides employment opportunities in food processing, distribution, and related fields.
- Healthcare: Providence Health Systems operates in Beaverton, offering healthcare services through its various clinics and facilities. Additionally, Oregon Health Sciences University (OHSU) has a presence in Beaverton, providing primary care services and specialty clinics. Healthcare jobs are abundant in the area, with OHSU alone employing nearly 20,000 people.
- Education: The Beaverton School District, the third-largest district in Oregon, is a major employer in the area. With nearly 1,700 staff members, the district offers employment opportunities in education, administration, and support services.
Transportation In Beaverton
Beaverton makes getting around easy with its bike-friendly trails and public transportation options. There are four bike trails covering over 30 miles, including the popular Beaverton Loop. If it’s raining, you can take the MAX light rail, which connects Beaverton to Portland and its suburbs.
On weekdays, there’s also the WES Commuter Rail, linking Beaverton to Tigard, Tualatin, and Wilsonville. And if you prefer the bus, the TriMet bus system has over 600 buses on 80 lines, making it convenient to travel around Beaverton and Portland. However, it’s good to keep in mind that many people still prefer to drive, so expect some traffic, especially during rush hours.
Beaverton Is A Diverse City
Compared to some places in the U.S. where most people are from similar backgrounds, Beaverton stands out as a diverse community. Here, you’ll find people from all over the world living and working together.
This diversity adds vibrancy to the city, offering opportunities to experience different cultures, foods, and traditions. It creates a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can find their place and feel at home.
Schools In Beaverton
In Beaverton, there are lots of school choices for kids. They have both public and private schools, including special high schools for different subjects like science or the arts. The Beaverton School District looks after over 35,000 students in 46 schools. They make sure students have the latest technology and classrooms aren’t too crowded, with about 25 kids for every teacher.
The Beaverton Education Foundation helps out by raising money for school programs. Since it started in 1989, they’ve raised millions to support thousands of projects.
Living in Beaverton also means you’re close to colleges and universities in Portland. There are plenty of options for higher education nearby, including community colleges and trade schools.
Things To Do In Beaverton
If you’re contemplating a move to Beaverton but unsure if it suits your lifestyle, rest assured. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a foodie who loves exploring new restaurants and breweries, Beaverton has something for everyone.
In Beaverton you will find parks and hiking trails, along with a thriving brewery scene and diverse culinary options, Beaverton offers a vibrant and welcoming community for residents of all interests and preferences. Here are some of our favorites:
- Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area: Just 80 minutes away from downtown Beaverton, this stunning 4,000-foot canyon stretches 80 miles between Oregon and Washington, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
- Tualatin Hills Nature Park: Located in the Vendla Park neighborhood, this 222-acre park features sports facilities, community gardens, and summer camps for kids, making it a great destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Local Breweries: Beaverton boasts a vibrant brewery scene, with popular spots like Great Notion, Vertigo, and Uptown Beer offering a variety of craft beers and unique flavors.
- Bargarten Bavarian Social Haus: Indulge in authentic German cuisine and over 15 German beers at this cozy restaurant in the Vendla Park neighborhood, perfect for a casual night out or gathering with friends.
- Beaverton Farmers Market: Oregon’s largest agricultural market, the Beaverton Farmers Market features food vendors, fresh produce, and seasonal tastings, providing a vibrant and community-oriented shopping experience.
- Outdoor Recreation at Cooper Mountain Nature Park: Enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking at Cooper Mountain Nature Park, offering scenic trails and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Sports and Recreation at THPRD Facilities: Take advantage of the extensive sports and recreation facilities offered by the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District (THPRD), including swimming pools, sports fields, and fitness centers, providing opportunities for residents to stay active and healthy year-round.