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Living in Tualatin Oregon - EVERYTHING You Need to Know

Tualatin River, in Tualatin Oregon

Are you Living in or Considering Moving to Tualatin, Oregon?

Tualatin, Oregon, is a fantastic place to live. The city is home to many parks and trails, making it an excellent place for those who enjoy an active lifestyle and spending time outdoors. If you prefer a more urban lifestyle, Tualatin has a good variety of shopping and restaurants for its residents to patronize.

The city's location, just outside downtown Portland, offers Tualatin residents a wealth of bigger city amenities and activities just a short car ride away. 

Are you thinking of moving to Tualatin, Oregon? Whether you're looking for a place to raise a family or simply wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Tualatin is definitely worth considering.
So why not take a closer look at what this charming Oregon city offers? We've put together a guide on everything you'd want to know about moving to and living in Tualatin, Oregon, including info on schools, neighborhoods, cost of living, things to do, and much more. So scroll on down and find out if living in Tualatin, Oregon, is right for you!

The Moving to Tualatin Team

Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in Tualatin, Oregon. Elizabeth Davidson has sold real estate in Tualatin, Oregon, for over 12 years. Her knowledge of Tualatin and the surrounding areas will be of great value as you navigate this challenging real estate market. 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. Together our Moving to Tualatin team can help you make moving to or within Tualatin, Oregon, a reality!

To get added to home tracker and get alerted when a home matching your criteria comes live on the market CLICK HERE. Need to sell a home before moving? CLICK HERE to sign up and receive a free market analysis to see what your home is worth. 

Elizabeth Davidson Oregon Realtor

Elizabeth Davidson

Realtor

Todd Davidson Headshot.JPG

Todd Davidson

Mortgage Broker

What's Living in Tualatin Oregon Like?

Are you looking for a small community with a big personality? You'll find it, living in Tualatin, Oregon. With a population of more than 28,000, Tualatin is located in the southern part of Washington County, just 12 miles outside of Portland. From the exceptional Tualatin schools, fantastic job opportunities, and beautiful suburban areas to the stunning Willamette and Tualatin Rivers nearby, Tualatin residents have much to enjoy.

This thriving community offers plenty of attractions, activities, and events throughout the year. You'll find everything you need living in Tualatin, from various shopping centers to Tualatin Commons, a 19-acre promenade in the center of town. The 3-acre lake adds a rural charm and gives the community an outdoorsy feel.

Tualatin Commons - Tualatin Oregon

Living in Tualatin Oregon - Tualatin Commons - Photo by Todd Davidson

Tualatin is a very desirable section of Oregon, surrounded by towering forests, local farmlands that offer fresh produce to the community, and charming small businesses that contribute to the city's thriving economy. Local sustainability is a big part of the Tualatin community, and new residents are sure to embrace that family style of living. So if you're looking for a close-knit community that offers plenty to do and see, then living in Tualatin could be perfect for you.

Living in Oregon Tips/Info/FAQs

Helpful Tips for Moving to Oregon and Buying a Home

31 FAQs ABOUT LIVING IN OREGON > CLICK HERE

23 FAQs A REALTOR GETS ASKED > CLICK HERE

18 MORTGAGE FAQs > CLICK HERE

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NEED TO SELL? FOR A FREE MARKET ANALYSIS > CLICK HERE

MORTGAGE INFO > CLICK HERE

What is the Cost of Living in Tualatin Oregon?

Are you thinking of moving to Tualatin, Oregon? If so, the cost of living will play a big part in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in Tualatin, Oregon, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Tualatin, Oregon, and rent, you would need to make $50,000 a year. To live in Tualatin, Oregon, and buy a home, you would need to make $83,000 a year. To see how I calculated, check out my blog post, "The REAL Cost of Living on the Oregon Coast." Under the Cost Summary/Explanation, I showed how I came up with these $. The calculations for the cost of living in Tualatin, Oregon, were done the same way. I will soon release my blog post, "The Real Cost of Living in the Portland Metro Area." To sign up to be notified when my newest blogs are released, CLICK HERE.

Housing in Tualatin Oregon

The Tualatin real estate market is made up of predominantly detached, single-family housing. The way the city permits work, this is the main type of housing allowed. The city is working to make changes to the Tualatin Development Code to allow for a more diverse mix of housing, including duplexes or multiple homes on one lot, which will better reflect the community's needs.

The traditional homes in Tualatin, nestled along quiet, tree-lined streets, are a little more expensive than the average home in Oregon. At the time of writing, the median price of a home in Tualatin is $687,000. This highly desirable city has so much to offer, and people are willing to pay to become a part of the community.

 

If looking to buy a home and move to Tualatin, Oregon, you will find that the housing market is very competitive.  Tualatin's great location and amenities make it one of the more desirable places to live in the Portland Metro area. It will take a knowledgeable mortgage broker and realtor to navigate the challenging housing market and get your offer accepted.  I would love to help you with the mortgage. Reach out today to get pre-approved for a mortgage and out shopping for a home to make living in Tualatin a reality for you.

Best Neighborhoods in Tualatin Oregon

There are plenty of fantastic neighborhoods to choose from when moving to Tualatin, Oregon. The variety of sizes, styles, and prices make it easy for anyone to find a place to call home and fit right in. Below are just a few of the great Tualatin neighborhoods to consider if looking to move to Tualatin, Oregon:

Living in Tualatin Oregon - Fox Hills Neighborhood in Tualatin, Photo by Todd Davidson

Fox Hill

The Fox Hill neighborhood in Tualatin is between Borland Rd and Nyberg Ave. Most of the homes in the area were built in the 80s. Unlike many newer communities, you will find homes in Fox Hill with larger lots, mature, established landscaping, and tree-lined streets. 

With relatively quick access to I-5 and I-205, the Fox Hill neighborhood sits roughly twenty minutes south of Downtown Portland. With Browns Ferry Park and the Tualatin River close by, you'll have plenty of outdoor recreation. A quick 5-mile drive, and you'll be at the hub of Tualatin, Tualatin Commons, where many activities occur, such as the Pumpkin Reggatta and Crawfish Festival, just to name a couple. You're also near one of the area's best outdoor shopping centers Bridgeport Village, where you'll have access to great shops, restaurants, and a movie theatre. 

Victoria Woods

If you are looking for luxury living in Tualatin, Oregon, the Victoria Woods neighborhood in Tualatin might be a good choice. Located toward the south end of Tualatin, just off of Boones Ferry Road, the Victoria Woods neighborhood has an assortment of beautiful styles and a variety of sizes to suit your needs. 

 

The Tualatin neighborhood sits close to Ibach park, one of the town's premiere parks and natural areas. The park features basketball courts, baseball field, tennis courts, soccer fields, playgrounds, and an extensive trail system. So outdoor recreation is just a short walk or bike ride away from you living in Victoria Woods. With Tualatin High School and Byrom Elementary close by, the city of Wilsonville and its amenities just minutes down the road, and I-5 two minutes south, this Tualatin neighborhood is in the perfect location for you to access anything you'd ever need.

Sign for Victoria Wood Neighborhood in Tualatin Oregon

Living in Tualatin Oregon - Victoria Woods Neighborhood in Tualatin Oregon - Photo by Todd Davidson

Ibach Park Estates

If you are looking for kid friendly and bikeable, the Ibach Park Estates neighborhood in Tualatin would be a good choice if you're considering moving to Tualatin. Situated around Ibach Park, residents of the neighborhood are a short walk or bike ride away from an abundance of outdoor recreation, with the tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball fields, soccer fields, playground, and hiking trails located in and around the park. With Tualatin High School, Byrom Elementary, and the city of Wilsonville close by, this Tualatin neighborhood is in the perfect location if you need access to schools, or shopping outside of what is available in Tualatin.

 

With mid-sized and somewhat more affordable homes than other neighborhoods in the city, Ibach Park Estates is definitely one of the most popular neighborhoods in Tualatin.

The Community Atmosphere in Tualatin

Tualatin, Oregon is a vibrant community that is constantly growing. Located just outside of Portland, Tualatin residents get the best of both worlds: big-city amenities and small-town living. The backdrop to the Tualatin neighborhoods is beautiful, with scenic landscapes that paint a picture of tranquility.

Despite being one of the fastest-growing communities in Oregon, Tualatin has managed to retain its small-town feel. This is due in part to the close-knit atmosphere that pervades the community. Tualatin residents take pride in their town and are always looking out for their neighbors. Whether it's organizing a block party or lending a helping hand, people living in Tualatin, are always looking to create a positive community atmosphere.

Block Party

Public Schools in Tualatin

Tualatin is a great place to live for families with school-aged children. The public schools in the Tigard-Tualatin School District are top-notch. There are six schools within the Tualatin city limits: Bridgeport Elementary School, Byrom Elementary School, Tualatin Elementary School, Mitch Charter School, Hazelbrook Middle School, and Tualatin High School.

Tualatin High School consistently ranks among the best high schools in Oregon. Graduation rates for the 2021-2022 school year were 94%, among the tops in Oregon. Students attending school in Tualatin, Oregon, have the opportunity to take advanced placement courses and participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities. If you're looking for a safe and nurturing environment for your children to grow and learn, living in Tualatin, Oregon, would be perfect for you. If you are looking to move to Oregon and the quality of schools is of importance, then you should consider moving to Tualatin, Oregon.

If you are considering relocating to Tualatin, check out the school links in the link section below for more information on Tualatin schools, rankings, and boundaries.

Tualatin High School Sign - Tualatin Oregon

Living in Tualatin Oregon - Photo by Todd Davidson

Top Businesses & Employers in Tualatin

If you're considering a move to Tualatin and would be looking for work. This city of over 27,000 people is home to some big-name retail and manufacturing companies.

Bridgeport Village is a prime example. This upscale shopping center offers an open-air, European-style shopping experience that's sure to please even the most discerning shopper. Its 75+ businesses employ a lot of Tualatin residents.

Are you looking for something a little more industrial? Tualatin is home to a number of large businesses. A few of the biggest include, Lam Research, Lumber Products Inc., Oregon Scientific, Columbia Corrugated, and Pacific Foods.

If you're thinking of moving to Tualatin, there should be ample job opportunities for you waiting!

Top Destinations & Attractions in Tualatin

There's so much to do and see if your visiting or living in Tualatin, Oregon! Whether you're looking to take the kids out for a day of fun and adventure or hoping to wind down after a long day's work, you'll have plenty of options in this charming city! Where to start?

 

The stunning scenery and diverse landscapes offer so much in terms of outdoor adventures. The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to start, where you can see a variety of wildlife in its natural habitat. The Tualatin River runs through the city. Residents of Tualatin and surrounding areas enjoy fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding on the river. The city has fantastic parks, including Ibach Park, Browns Ferry Park, Jurgens Park, and Tualatin Community Park. 

 

And, of course, no visit to Tualatin would be complete without enjoying the delicious foods from the local restaurants. From Hawaiian BBQ to classic pub-style fare, there's something to suit every taste. And several restaurants take full advantage of the city's local produce, using only the top products from their backyard to serve up to their patrons.

 

Parks, hiking trails, wine tours, and day spas–there's truly something for everyone visiting or living in Tualatin, Oregon.

Pros and Cons of Living in Tualatin Oregon

Living in Tualatin Pros

  1. Proximity to Recreation: With all the parks, nature trails, and proximity to the Oregon Coast, Mt Hood, Willamette Valley Wineries, and the Columbia River Gorge, you'll never run out of things to do living in Tualatin.

  2. Freeway Access:  You are only a few minutes from the I-5 freeway living in Tualatin. So if you need to head north to Portland or south to Salem or Eugene, it's a breeze to get to the freeway to get to your destination.

  3. The Neighborhoods:  There are some great, family-oriented neighborhoods if you want to move to Tualatin, Oregon. Fox Hill, Victoria Woods, and the Ibach Park Estates are great. And there are other good ones too. With the abundance of parks, trails, and other amenities in these Tualatin neighborhoods, your family will keep busy, your kids safe, and you'll develop relationships with your neighbors.

Living in Tualatin Cons

  1. The Weather: The Pacific Northwest is well known for the rain and grey skies, and you'll find this is true living in Tualatin, Oregon. With 42 inches of rain a year and 147 rainy days on average, living in Tualatin can be an adjustment if coming from California, Texas, Arizona, or another warmer and sunnier climate.  

  2. Traffic: The traffic during peak commute times can be rough getting in and out of Tualatin. Though living in Tualatin, you are very close to the freeway. It does get very congested during commute times. Also, Tualatin-Sherwood Road, the road between Tualatin and Sherwood, is quite congested during certain times of the day. None of this will be a big deal if you're moving from California or other high-traffic cities, as it's likely much worse where you'd be coming from.

  3. No Farmers Market: This is more of a personal con. I love a good Farmers Market. Tualatin had one at Tualatin Commons years ago, then at the library. Today there isn't one. I head to Tigard or Lake Oswego most Saturdays during the spring and summer and get my fresh produce from those markets. So if you're living in Tualatin, Oregon, and want to visit a farmers market you'll need to travel to one of the surrounding towns.

FAQs About Moving to and Living in Tualatin Oregon

What is Tualatin known for?

This incredible city is known for its outdoor recreation, fabulous parks, and friendly community. Tualatin is also home to many locally-owned businesses that add to the city's charm. From quaint coffee shops to upscale boutiques. And last but not least, the city's residents are known for their warm welcome and friendly attitude. 

What is the weather like in Tualatin, Oregon?

Tualatin's weather is typical of the Pacific Northwest–plenty of rain clouds and fewer sunny days during the year compared to many cities. The town receives, on average, 42 inches of rain each year, getting some sort of precipitation 147 days throughout the year. Temperatures rarely dip below freezing, so when living in Tualatin, you rarely have to worry about snowy or icy roads. One of the best parts about the weather if you're living in Tualatin, is that all the rainfall does wonders for the stunning greenery, creating a lush canopy of vibrant colors, making it an extraordinary place for those living in Tualatin, Oregon, 141 days out of the year when the sun is shining!

What cities are nearby Tualatin, Oregon?

Tualatin is surrounded by a number of small towns and cities. The most notable is Portland, about 11 miles away, where locals can find an extensive selection of big city amenities. Other close-by cities include Wilsonville, Sherwood, West Linn, and Tigard, which all surround Tualatin. Beaverton is about 7 miles to the north, and Canby is about 9 miles to the south. To check out other Portland Metro Cities.

Does Tualatin have good schools? 

If you are looking to move to Tualatin, Oregon, you will be happy to know that the schools are very good. The Tigard-Tualatin School district is known for being one of the best in the state of Oregon. 88% of seniors graduated this past year compared to 80% state-wide. In addition the Tualatin schools offer a wide array of extracurricular activities to its students, including music, drama and sports. If you're living in Tualatin and you have kids they'll have plenty of opportunity to get an amazing education.

What is there to do in Tualatin, Oregon?

There are tons of things to do if your visiting or living in Tualatin, Oregon. The parks are fantastic, nature trails are amazing, and the Tualatin River runs through the city. One of the better things about living in Tualatin is how central it is to other attractions in the state. The Oregon Coast is an hour and a half away, Mt. Hood is an hour and a half away, the Columbia River Gorge is 40 minutes away, world class wineries surround the city and Portland is 15 minutes away. You'll never get bored living in Tualatin, Oregon.

I want to move to Tualatin, Oregon. How do I make that happen?

The information on this website will help you research and prepare to move to Tualatin, Oregon. Our Facebook Group > Moving to Oregon, can prove to be another valuable resource. We have a large community of people spread throughout the state to ask questions to, who are eager to answer. You will find yourself surrounded by others going through similar challenges that might prove to be a good resource as well. If you are looking to move to Tualatin and purchase a home, contact me directly. The first step would be to get pre-approved for a mortgage. I am a Mortgage Broker, and I would love to assist you and your family with all your mortgage needs during this exciting time! If you just want to to research home prices and homes for sale in Tualatin, Oregon, CLICK HERE. No info or login needed to see all the homes for sale in Tualatin, Oregon, currently. 

 

Summary

Overall, Tualatin is a great place to live. It's close enough to big cities like Portland and Beaverton for people who want easy access to urban amenities, but it's also far enough away from the hustle and bustle to maintain a small-town feel and a slower paced lifestyle. The cost of living is relatively affordable, albeit slightly higher than many other Oregon cities, and the community is friendly and welcoming. If you're thinking of moving to Tualatin, Oregon, you won't be disappointed.

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