Living in Beaverton, Oregon offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Nestled just seven miles west of downtown Portland, Beaverton is a thriving city with a population of around 100,000 residents.
It is known for its lush green landscapes, excellent schools, and diverse community, making it an attractive place for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
Historical Background
Beaverton, Oregon, has a rich historical tapestry that dates back thousands of years, originally home to the Atfalati tribe of the Kalapuya people.
This semi-nomadic group inhabited the Tualatin Valley and referred to the area as Chakeipi, meaning “the place of the beaver,” which hints at the region’s abundant natural resources.
The early settlement of Beaverton by European-Americans began in the mid-19th century, catalyzed by the westward expansion and the Donation Land Act of 1850. The first significant land claim was made by Lawrence Hall in 1847, who established a grist mill that supported the burgeoning agricultural community.
Where is Beaverton?
Beaverton, Oregon, is located in the Tualatin Valley in Washington County, approximately seven miles west of downtown Portland.
This city is part of the larger Portland metropolitan area, making it a convenient suburban option for those who work in Portland but prefer a quieter residential setting.
Beaverton’s strategic location provides easy access to major highways such as U.S. Route 26 and Oregon Route 217, which facilitate efficient commuting to and from Portland and other neighboring cities. The city is also bordered by Hillsboro to the west and Tigard to the south, enhancing its connectivity within the region.
Climate and Weather
Beaverton, Oregon, experiences a temperate climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The average annual temperature in Beaverton is around 52°F (11.2°C), with average highs ranging from 46°F (8°C) in January to about 81°F (27°C) in August.
The city receives approximately 41 inches of rain per year, higher than the national average of 38 inches, contributing to its lush, green landscape. Snowfall is minimal, averaging just 2 inches annually, significantly below the national average of 28 inches.
Housing and Cost of Living
Beaverton, Oregon, is known for its relatively high cost of living, driven largely by housing expenses. As of 2024, the median home cost in Beaverton is approximately $508,700, which is significantly higher than the national average of $338,100 and about 8.6% more than the average Oregon home price of $468,400.
Renting is also costly, with the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment around $1,890 per month, compared to the national average of $1,430. Despite these higher costs, Beaverton’s housing market remains attractive due to the city’s amenities, employment opportunities, and quality of life.
Education
Beaverton, Oregon, is served by the Beaverton School District (BSD), the third largest district in the state, with an enrollment of over 39,000 students across 34 elementary schools, nine middle schools, six high schools, and several option and charter schools.
The district is recognized for its high academic standards and strong performance in standardized tests. BSD offers a variety of programs to meet diverse educational needs, including advanced placement courses, special education services, and career and technical education (CTE) programs in fields such as engineering, health sciences, and digital media.
Employment Opportunities
Beaverton, Oregon, offers a diverse range of employment opportunities, with a robust job market driven by major employers such as Nike, Intel, and Tektronix. The city is part of Oregon’s Silicon Forest, which is known for its concentration of tech companies. This has led to significant job growth in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and education.
As of 2024, Beaverton boasts a lower unemployment rate compared to the national average, indicating a healthy job market. In addition to large corporations, there are numerous opportunities in retail, hospitality, and small businesses, which contribute to the city’s vibrant economy.
Safety and Crime Rates
Beaverton, Oregon, presents a nuanced safety landscape with both strengths and areas for improvement. The city’s overall crime rate stands at 31 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the national average, placing Beaverton in the 44th percentile for safety among U.S. cities.
This means that 56% of cities in the country are safer than Beaverton, and 44% are more dangerous. Violent crimes occur at a rate of 3.13 per 1,000 residents, slightly below the national median of 4 per 1,000.
Property crimes, however, are more prevalent, with a rate of 27.9 per 1,000 residents. Beaverton residents have a 1 in 32 chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime.
The distribution of crime in Beaverton varies significantly across different neighborhoods. The southwest part of the city is generally considered the safest, with crime rates as low as 1 in 58 residents.
Conversely, the eastern neighborhoods experience higher crime rates, with a likelihood of 1 in 10 residents being affected. Notably, the rate of motor vehicle theft in Beaverton is among the highest in the nation, with a 1 in 261 chance of having a vehicle stolen.
Despite these concerns, Beaverton’s violent crime rate is lower compared to similar-sized cities, and the city’s police department actively engages in community policing and crime prevention initiatives to enhance safety.
Moving to Beaverton
Beaverton, Oregon, offers an appealing blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience, making it an attractive destination for those considering relocation.
Situated just seven miles west of downtown Portland, Beaverton provides easy access to the big city while maintaining a lower cost of living. The city is part of the Silicon Forest, home to over 300 high-tech companies, including Nike and Intel, which create a robust job market.
Housing options in Beaverton are diverse, with median home prices around $540,000 and average rental rates for apartments at approximately $1,750 per month. This affordability, combined with the city’s commitment to sustainability and environmental protection, enhances its appeal.
For those considering a move to Beaverton, hiring professional moving companies in Beaverton can significantly ease the transition. Moving companies can handle the logistics of transporting your belongings, allowing you to focus on settling into your new home.
They can also provide valuable insights into navigating the city and its transportation options, ensuring you get acquainted with the local transit system efficiently.
Whether you’re commuting for work, school, or leisure, Beaverton’s comprehensive transportation planning and infrastructure support a seamless experience for all residents.
About the Author/s
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.
