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Living in Ashland Oregon - EVERYTHING You Need to Know

What is Living in Ashland Oregon Like?

Are you thinking of moving to and living in Ashland, Oregon? Ashland, Oregon, is an excellent town in Southern Oregon. It's 12 miles SE of Medford, Oregon, and 230 miles south of the largest city in Oregon, Portland. The town is located inside the Medford-Ashland metropolitan area and has a population of just over 21,000 residents.
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The world-famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival is held in Ashland each year. People from all over the country visit Ashland, Oregon, to enjoy this wonderful festival each year. Living in Ashland, Oregon, is incredible if you want outdoor recreation. Situated at the base of the Siskiyou and Cascade mountain ranges, Ashland offers its residents and visitors plenty of trails, hiking, and other outdoor recreation. And with Mt. Ashland Ski Area nearby, living in Ashland is excellent if you are looking for year-round activities. Ashland is definitely a cultural hot spot, with award-winning galleries, theaters, and restaurants bursting from its seams. 

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Other attractions and things to do for those visiting or living in Ashland, Oregon area, include: Agate Reservoir County Park and TouVelle State Recreation Site are great parks and fun for the whole family. Are you a golfer? Oak Knoll Golf Course, Bear Creek Golf Course, and the Quail Point Golf Course are great spots to enjoy a round of golf for those visiting or living in Ashland. Museums more your things? The Science Works Hands-on Museum, the Schneider Museum of Art, the Pacific Northwest Museum of Natural History, and the Jacksonville Museum of Southern Oregon History are great to check out if you want to learn more about the history of the region.

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If you are looking for endless activities, good weather, and amazing culture, visiting or living in Ashland, Oregon, would be for you! Scroll down to learn about the cost of living in Ashland, schools, neighborhoods, pros & cons, and even get answers to some FAQs about living in Ashland, Oregon. By the end of this article, you'll see how special a place Ashland, Oregon is!

Are You Considering Buying a Home in Ashland Oregon?

Would you like to buy a home in Ashland, Oregon? Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in the Ashland area. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Ashland, Oregon, to help you navigate your home buying journey, CLICK HERE. To start receiving emails with homes that match your criteria in Ashland, CLICK HERE and sign up for Listing Alert. With a little info on what, where, and how much, you'll get newly listed homes matching your criteria sent to your inbox as they hit the market. This can give you a big leg up in your home search.

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The first step in the home-buying process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Todd Davidson is an experienced mortgage broker and can help you get the best financing option for your home purchase. Not quite ready yet? Todd can help you put together a plan to get you there. Whether you're thinking a few months or a year or more if you want to buy a home, reach out to Todd and he can help. CLICK HERE to email Todd and set up a call to get the process started or just call him at 971-275-2465. 

Todd Davidson Headshot.JPG

Todd Davidson

Mortgage Broker

What is the Cost of Living in Ashland Oregon?

If you're having thoughts about moving to Ashland, Oregon, or any place, the cost of living would definitely be a big factor in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in Ashland, Oregon, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. If you were to live in Ashland, Oregon, and rent, you would need to make $50,000 a year. To live in Ashland, Oregon, and buy a home, you would need to make $70,000 a year. Rental amount is based on current low end cost of studio or one bedroom, purchase is based on recent low end sales of a three bedroom and monthly payment with 20% down.

Cost of Living

Living in Ashland Oregon Tips/Info/Blog Posts

Helpful Tips for Moving to Oregon and Buying a Home

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REALTOR CONNECT > CLICK HERE

DOWNLOAD FREE HOMEBUYERS GUIDE > CLICK HERE

FOR A ONE ON ONE HOME BUYING ZOOM/CALL  > CLICK HERE

OREGON BOOKS AND OTHER RESOURCES > CLICK HERE

Public Schools in Ashland Oregon

If you are moving to or live in Ashland, Oregon, your kids will attend school in the Ashland School District. The district operates five schools in the area, including three elementary schools (Bellview Elementary, Helman Elementary, and Walker Elementary), one middle school (Ashland Middle School), and one high school (Ashland High School). The schools in Ashland are known for their focus on the arts and their emphasis on environmental education and sustainability. The district has received national recognition for its green initiatives, including using solar power and implementing composting programs in school cafeterias.

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Ashland High School is known for its theater program, offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and has a solid athletic program. For 2022 Ashland High School had a 91% graduation rate, well above the state average. Niche.com rates Ashland School District an A-, with almost all criteria receiving a B or better. If you plan to move to Ashland, Oregon, and have school-aged kids, they will get an excellent education!

Kids getting off a school bus

Top Neighborhoods in Ashland Oregon

Ashland, Oregon, is known for its beautiful neighborhoods and unique architecture. With a good variety of neighborhoods, most of which are walkable and in close proximity to parks and outdoor recreation, you should have no problem picking out a great neighborhood if you're thinking about moving to Ashland, Oregon:

Railroad District

Located just south of downtown, the Railroad District neighborhood in Ashland, Oregon, is known for its charming, tree-lined streets, historic homes, and vibrant arts and culture scene. The neighborhood is home to various galleries, shops, restaurants, and the Ashland Art Center, which features a gallery, artist studios, and a community art classroom. The Railroad Park neighborhood is a highly desirable place to live in Ashland, thanks to its historic charm, walkability, and proximity to the downtown area.

Lithia Park

The Lithia Park neighborhood in Ashland, Oregon, is a few blocks from the city center. The defining feature of the neighborhood is its namesake park, Lithia Park. The 93-acre Lithia Park features hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a Japanese-style garden. With abundant green space and parks, the Lithia Park neighborhood residents have plenty of outdoor recreation and relaxation opportunities. 

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The Lithia Park neighborhood is known for its charming Victorian and Craftsman homes. The neighborhood has a strong sense of community, with many events and festivals that bring residents together throughout the year. Overall, Lithia Park is a highly desirable neighborhood in Ashland, Oregon, known for its natural beauty, historic homes, and strong sense of community. It's an ideal place to live for those who value access to outdoor recreation and a laid-back, small-town lifestyle. If you're looking for a very desirable, walkable, and beautiful Ashland neighborhood, then Lithia Park should be at the top of your list!

Lithia Park in Ashland Oregon

Above the Blvd

Located on the western side of town, the Above the Blvd neighborhood in Ashland is known for its stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains, as well as its proximity to a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. The neighborhood is characterized by a mix of architectural styles, ranging from historic homes to more modern designs.
Residents of Above the Blvd enjoy easy access to a number of amenities, including Ashland's vibrant downtown area, which is just a short drive away. The neighborhood is also located close to the Southern Oregon University campus, making it a popular choice for students and faculty members.

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In addition to its convenient location, Above the Blvd is home to a number of parks and open spaces, including Lithia Park and the Ashland Creek Greenway. These areas offer hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. If you're looking to move to Ashland, Oregon, Above the Blvd deserves a look!

Emigrant Lake in Ashland Oregon

Quiet Village

Known for its quiet streets, well-maintained homes, and beautiful scenery,  the Quiet Village neighborhood in Ashland, Oregon, has much to offer. The neighborhood's location, near downtown, Lithia Park, and Emigrant Lake, make it a popular neighborhood for those living in Ashland. The neighborhood is also known for having more modestly priced homes than other areas of the city, so if you are considering a move to Ashland, Oregon, give Quiet Village a look!

If moving to Ashland, Oregon, and you'd like to buy a home in one of these fabulous neighborhoods, CLICK HERE to sign up for LISTING ALERT to be the first to know when a home matching your criteria gets listed for sale in Ashland, Oregon. To connect with a local realtor, CLICK HERE. One of the most important decisions you'll make when moving to Oregon, is picking an experienced realtor who can help you get the house you want at the best price. At living in Oregon, we work with the best realtors throughout the state and can help you get the right realtor to make your move and home purchase as easy as possible.

Living in Ashland Oregon Pros & Cons

Living in Ashland Oregon Pros

  1. Natural beauty: Ashland is in the Rogue Valley, surrounded by the stunning Siskiyou and Cascade mountain ranges. The area boasts many outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing.

  2. Cultural scene: Ashland is home to the famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which attracts visitors from around the world. The city also has a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues.

  3. Climate: Ashland has a mild climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The area also receives plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

  4. Small-town feel: Despite being a popular tourist destination, Ashland has maintained a small-town feel. The city has a tight-knit community with friendly locals and a low crime rate.

  5. Education: Ashland is home to Southern Oregon University, a public liberal arts college offering various undergraduate and graduate programs. Public schools in Ashland, Oregon, are among some of the best in the state.

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Living in Ashland Oregon Cons

  1. Cost of living: Ashland has a higher cost of living than many other cities in the region, particularly regarding housing. Real estate prices are high, and rental units can be challenging to find and expensive.

  2. Limited job opportunities: While Ashland has a thriving tourism industry, job opportunities in other sectors can be limited. This may make it challenging for individuals with specialized skills or those seeking higher-paying jobs.

  3. Traffic: During peak tourist seasons, traffic can be congested, particularly downtown.

  4. Wildfire risk: The surrounding mountains and forests are beautiful but pose a wildfire risk. In recent years, the region has experienced several large fires, which can create hazardous air quality conditions.

  5. Isolation: While Ashland is located in a beautiful area, it is somewhat isolated from larger cities. The nearest major city, Medford, is about 15 miles away, and the closest airport is about 20 miles away.

FAQs About Living in Ashland Oregon

What is Ashland Known for?

If you're visiting or living in Ashland, Oregon, you'll find it's well known for its world-famous Shakespeare Festival. With an annual audience totaling around 400,000 people, it's a must-see for anyone visiting or living in the area.

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What is the cost of living in Ashland, Oregon, like?

The cost of living in Ashland, Oregon, is slightly higher than the State and National averages. Housing is more expensive than in other areas in Oregon due to the number of people moving to the area and the tighter development standards. Living in Ashland, Oregon, is more expensive than in other areas, but with everything Ashland has to offer, you might find it's worth it!

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What is there to do living in Ashland, Oregon?

Surrounded by mountains and rivers, living in Ashland, you'll have an abundance of outdoor recreation close by. Mix in great restaurants, galleries, and the World Famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and you won't quickly run out of things to do if visiting or living in Ashland, Oregon.

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What cities are nearby Ashland?

Living in Ashland, Oregon, you'll be close to some great mid-sizes towns. Medford -13 miles away, Grants Pass - 43 miles, Klamath Falls - 64 miles, Roseburg - 108 miles, and Portland - 285 miles. Living in Ashland and want to head to the beach? The closest town would be Brookings - 138 miles away.

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What is the weather like in Ashland?

Living in Ashland, you'll find the summers short, hot, dry, and mostly clear, and the winters are very cold, wet, and mostly cloudy. Temperatures vary from 30 degrees in the winter to 91 degrees in the summer. One of Oregon's drier cities, Ashland receives just 22 inches of rain annually and gets around 200 days of sunshine.

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How is the healthcare in Ashland Oregon?

For your healthcare needs if living in Ashland, Oregon, there's the 37 bed, Level 4 trauma center, Ashland Community Hospital in town. The hospital would likely be able to handle most of your urgent and daily needs. You'd likely need to go to the Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford, Oregon for more specialized care. This hospital is much larger and would more than likely have the services/specialists you'd need.

 

What is it like living in Ashland Oregon?

Living in Ashland, Oregon, you'll find it a laid-back, friendly town with a small-town vibe. With sunshine 200 days each year, living in Ashland would be an excellent choice for anyone looking to live in a city with a mild climate and four distinct seasons. 

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Is living in Ashland Oregon good for retirees?

If you're retired or thinking of retiring, Ashland, Oregon, can be a good choice for many reasons. The weather in Ashland is one of its primary attractions, with its mild, Mediterranean climate providing a pleasant environment for retirees seeking to enjoy all four seasons without extreme temperatures. The abundance of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and exploring nearby natural wonders like Lithia Park and the Rogue River, ensures retirees can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Regarding taxes, Oregon does not tax Social Security benefits and there is no sales tax which can be a significant advantage for retirees. The state income tax rates are relatively high and property taxes vary depending on the specific county within Oregon but overall are pretty moderate. Ashland's mild climate, diverse recreational activities, and favorable tax policies make it an appealing destination for retirees seeking a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.

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Is Ashland Oregon a Good Place to Live?

Ashland, Oregon is a great place to live because of its stunning natural beauty, with the nearby Rogue River, Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument, and the iconic Lithia Park offering endless opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. Additionally, the town is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival and numerous art galleries, making it a haven for creative individuals.

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I want to relocate to Ashland, Oregon.  How do I make it happen?

You've come to the right spot if you're considering relocating to Ashland, Oregon. There's some good information on this website about moving to Ashland, Oregon, and living in Ashland, Oregon, We've also assembled a a good group of professionals, locals, and recent Oregon transplants in our Facebook Group > Moving to Oregon, to help answer any questions you might have. They can fill you in on what living in Ashland, Oregon, is like and give you some good information on moving to Ashland, Oregon. If you're looking to buy a home in Ashland, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your first step. For Mortgage Info, contact me. I would love to tell you more about what living in Ashland, Oregon, is like and help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.

 

If you're thinking of relocating to Ashland, Oregon, you'll find the community atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and there are plenty of amenities and beautiful scenery surrounding you. Living in Ashland, Oregon, has something for everyone, so don't miss out on the chance to call it home.

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For FAQs about moving to Oregon or living in Oregon, check out my blog, 31 FAQs About Living in Oregon. For more information about living in Oregon, check out the homepage of LIVING IN OREGON.

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