If you’re thinking about moving to Oregon, bustling cities like Portland or Salem might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, Oregon’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 8 charming small towns in Oregon, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
1. Silverton, OR
Median sale price: $484,000
Homes for sale in Silverton | Apartments for rent in Silverton
Silverton is town located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. One of Silverton’s biggest attractions is the The Oregon Garden. This is a a stunning 80-acre botanical garden where locals and visitors enjoy peaceful walks through themed gardens. Silverton also serves as the gateway to Silver Falls State Park, famous for its scenic hiking trails and breathtaking waterfalls. Every summer, Silverton hosts the Homer Davenport Community Festival, a fun-filled event that celebrates the town’s heritage with parades, live music, and a carnival.
2. Florence, OR
Median sale price: $451,000
Homes for sale in Florence | Apartments for rent in Florence
Florence is located along Oregon’s coast, specifically where the Siuslaw River meets the Pacific Ocean. Known for its iconic Heceta Head Lighthouse, Florence is a favorite stop for travelers seeking coastal charm and natural wonders. The historic Old Town district, with its waterfront views and unique shops, is a popular spot for strolling, dining, and watching sea lions. Florence is also home to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where outdoor enthusiasts enjoy off-roading, hiking, and sandboarding.
3. Sandy, OR
Median sale price: $460,000
Homes for sale in Sandy | Apartments for rent in Sandy
Located just minutes from Mount Hood, Sandy is a popular base for skiers, snowboarders, and hikers looking to explore Oregon’s tallest peak. The town’s annual Sandy Mountain Festival brings the community together with live music, food vendors, and local artisans showcasing their crafts. Downtown Sandy is home to charming shops, cafes, and the Sandy Historical Society Museum, which highlights the area’s pioneer history. With its easy access to outdoor recreation and a welcoming small-town atmosphere, Sandy is an ideal place to experience the beauty of Oregon’s mountains.
4. Lincoln City, OR
Median sale price: $580,000
Homes for sale in Lincoln City | Apartments for rent in Lincoln City
Lincoln City is a coastal town located on Oregon’s dramatic coastline. The town is famous for its Finders Keepers event, where local glassblowers hide colorful glass floats along the beach for visitors to find and take home. Kite flying is also a big deal here, with the annual Lincoln City Kite Festival drawing enthusiasts who fill the skies with vibrant, colorful kites. For a relaxing afternoon, locals head to the Chinook Winds Casino Resort or explore the nearby Devils Lake, where boating and kayaking are popular.
5. Cottage Grove, OR
Median sale price: $380,000
Homes for sale in Cottage Grove | Apartments for rent in Cottage Grove
Cottage Grove, often called the “Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon,” is home to six historic covered bridges. The town’s connection to the silver screen runs deep, with films like Animal House and Stand By Me having been filmed here. Locals and visitors often explore the nearby Row River Trail, a scenic bike path that runs along lakes and through forests. Cottage Grove also hosts the annual Bohemia Mining Days festival, celebrating the town’s gold mining past with parades, live music, and historical reenactments.
6. Pendleton, OR
Median sale price: $297,000
Homes for sale in Pendleton | Apartments for rent in Pendleton
Pendleton is a town with a rich cowboy culture. It’s famous for the annual Pendleton Round-Up, one of the largest rodeos in the country, where visitors from across the world come to experience the best of rodeo competition. Beyond the rodeo, Pendleton is also known for the Pendleton Woolen Mills. These mills have been producing high-quality wool products since the early 1900s. A fun way to explore the town’s history is through the Pendleton Underground Tours. The tours provide a glimpse into the hidden tunnels beneath the city that once housed speakeasies and gambling dens.
7. Prineville, OR
Median sale price: $430,000
Homes for sale in Prineville | Apartments for rent in Prineville
Located near the Ochoco Mountains, Prineville is a gateway for hikers and mountain bikers looking to explore the nearby trails. Fun fact: Prineville is also home to two of Facebook’s massive data centers, part of the town’s unexpected connection to modern tech. The annual Crooked River Roundup, one of Oregon’s oldest rodeos, connects the community each summer with rodeo events, horse races, and plenty of Western flair. With its mix of natural beauty and deep-rooted traditions, Prineville is a town where the old West meets modern innovation.
8. Molalla, OR
Median sale price: $455,000
Homes for sale in Molalla | Apartments for rent in Molalla
Molalla, a town in the Willamette Valley, is deeply rooted in Oregon’s agricultural and logging history. The annual Molalla Buckeroo, a professional rodeo that takes place each July, is one of the town’s biggest draws. The event celebrates the area’s Western heritage with rodeo events, parades, and fireworks. For those who love the outdoors, Molalla River State Park has opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping along the scenic river. The town’s close-knit community is also reflected in local events like the Apple Festival, where locals enjoy fresh, locally grown produce.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center.
