Living in Wilsonville Oregon - EVERYTHING You Need to Know

What is Living in Wilsonville Oregon Like?

Wilsonville, Oregon, located in Clackamas County, is home to approximately 25,000 people. Located south of Portland, Wilsonville offers its residents a safe and friendly community with good access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. The city is near Interstate 5, which runs along the West Coast, providing easy access to other towns and attractions. Wilsonville personifies the Pacific Northwest lifestyle with its lush greenery, mountain views, and proximity to the Willamette River. Those living in Wilsonville, Oregon, enjoy recreational activities such as kayaking, hiking, and golfing at one of the many area golf courses. The Best of Wilsonville includes a historic downtown, modern shopping centers, and amazing residential neighborhoods with stunning views of Mount Hood.

One of the main attractions in Wilsonville is the picturesque Memorial Park. Nestled in the city's heart, Memorial Park is a gathering place for Wilsonville residents. With its lush lawns, vibrant flower beds, and towering shade trees, Memorial Park provides a serene setting for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The park also features a playground, inviting children to frolic and play, and well-maintained tennis courts and sports fields. Another favorite park in Wilsonville is the Graham Oaks Nature Park, which offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and a nature center that provides education and information about native plants and animals.

There are many large employers in and around Wilsonville, Oregon, including Mentor Graphics, which has a large facility in the city; Xerox, which operates a call center in the area; and Sysco Foods, which operates a distribution center in Wilsonville.

The cost of living in Wilsonville, Oregon, is higher than the national average but still moderately affordable compared to other cities in the region. Housing costs are the main factor contributing to this higher cost of living, as the demand for housing in the area has increased in recent years due to its proximity to Portland and its natural beauty. The average home value in Wilsonville is around $625,000, making homeownership attainable for some individuals and families. Various housing options are available to those living in Wilsonville, Oregon, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses. The city has housing options to accommodate a variety of budgets.

If you're searching for a small but growing town that offers easy access to larger cities, a delightful downtown area, top-notch schools, exceptional neighborhoods, and abundant outdoor activities, Wilsonville, Oregon, is the ideal place for you! Continue reading to discover more about what it's like living in Wilsonville, Oregon, including information about its neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and some pros and cons of living in this beautiful city. Hopefully, this information in this blog will help you determine if living in Wilsonville, Oregon, is right for you and your family.

Skip Ahead to:

1. The Moving to Wilsonville Oregon Team

2. A Brief History of Wilsonville Oregon

3. What is the Cost of Living in Wilsonville Oregon?

4. Housing in Wilsonville Oregon

5. Best Neighborhoods in Wilsonville Oregon

6. Public Schools in Wilsonville Oregon

7. Living in Wilsonville Oregon Tips/Info/Blog Posts

8. Top Business & Employers in Wilsonville

9. Top Destinations & Attractions in Wilsonville

10. Pros and Cons of Living in Wilsonville

11. FAQs About Moving to and Living in Wilsonville

12. Videos: What it's like to Live in Wilsonville Oregon

13. Helpful Links for Moving to and Living in Wilsonville

Welcome to Wilsonville Oregon Sign with US Flags

Living in Wilsonville Oregon - Photo by Todd Davidson

The Moving to Wilsonville Team

Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in Wilsonville, Oregon. Elizabeth Davidson has sold real estate in Wilsonville, Oregon, for over 12 years. Her knowledge of Wilsonville and the surrounding areas will be of great value as you navigate this challenging real estate market. To learn more about Elizabeth, CLICK HERE to check out her About Me video. If you're considering buying a home in Wilsonville, Oregon, CLICK HERE to sign up for Listing Alert. Just enter the price range and other criteria you're looking for, and you'll receive an email as new homes hit the market in Wilsonville that match your criteria.

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 in Wilsonville, Oregon, CLICK HERE to email Todd and schedule a call or just call him at 971-275-2465. Together our Moving to Wilsonville team can help you make moving to or within Wilsonville, Oregon, a reality!

Elizabeth Davidson

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Todd Davidson

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A Brief History of Wilsonville Oregon

The city of Wilsonville, Oregon, is 15 miles south of Portland, on the Willamette River. The city was established in 1847 by the Boone family, who built a ferry crossing known as Boones Ferry. The town eventually grew into Wilsonville in 1880. In 1968, Wilsonville was incorporated as a city with a population of around 1,000. The following year, the planned community of Charbonneau was annexed into the city.

Over the next few decades, Wilsonville continued to grow and expand. Shopping centers and housing developments were built, along with a library and several churches. Today Wilsonville is a growing city with more than 26,000 residents. Located at the southern end of the Portland Metro area, Wilsonville is the gateway to the Willamette Valley, a region known for, among other things, its award-winning wines.

What is the Cost of Living in Wilsonville Oregon?

If you're thinking of moving to Wilsonville, Oregon, or any place, the cost of living will play a big part in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in Wilsonville, Oregon, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Wilsonville, Oregon, and rent, you would need to make $51,000 a year. To live in Wilsonville, Oregon, and buy a home, you would need to make $85,000 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.

Housing in Wilsonville Oregon

Wilsonville is a beautiful and prosperous city with many housing options. The median home value in Wilsonville is just under $700.000 at time of writing, but prices range from $220,000 to nearly $20 million. There are housing options to meet almost any need if looking to move to Wilsonville, Oregon. Whether you're looking for an apartment, single-family home, multi-family dwelling, or condo, you can find it in this little city. Many families decide that Wilsonville is the ideal place to get the most out of suburban living. The city is also attracting more young professionals as nearby Portland's job market continues to grow. More and more people are moving to Wilsonville, Oregon. If interested in looking at homes for sale in Wilsonville, Oregon, CLICK HERE to take a look!

Best Neighborhoods in Wilsonville Oregon

Wilsonville, Oregon, is a vibrant and growing community that offers something for everyone. From golf course dream homes to urban villages and high-end apartments, there is a neighborhood in Wilsonville to suit every taste and lifestyle. A few of the most popular neighborhoods for those looking to move to Wilsonville, Oregon, are:

Villebois

Inspired by European Villages, Villebois is truly a one-of-a-kind community. Boasting around 2300 homes, this master-planned neighborhood in Wilsonville offers diverse housing choices, from apartments, condos, and townhomes to single-family residences. One hundred sixty acres of parks and trails, restaurants and retail are intertwined amongst all the homes. This Wilsonville neighborhood has a skate park, basketball court, and volleyball court, among other parks, and they are all connected and accessible by bike or walking. If you’re looking to move to Wilsonville, Oregon, and live in a safe, walkable, bikeable community with abundant outdoor activity, where you get to know your neighbors, then moving to Villebois neighborhood in Wilsonville would be a good choice for you.

Living in Wilsonville Oregon - Villebois Neighborhood in Wilsonville - Photo by Todd Davidson

Living in Wilsonville Oregon - Wilsonville Neighborhood - Photo by Todd Davidson

Charbonneau

The Charbonneau community in Wilsonville started in 1972 and is one of Oregon's first planned communities. This predominately 55+ community in Wilsonville has a small commercial district, detached homes, one and two-level townhomes, condominiums, garden homes, rental apartments, and even an assisted-care living community. Charbonneau boasts an abundance of amenities, including a 27-hole golf course, 10,000 sq. ft. clubhouse, ten swimming pools and spas, indoor & outdoor lighted tennis courts, miles of walking and jogging trails, soccer and baseball field, marina on the Willamette River, and secure R.V. parking. If you are looking to move to Wilsonville, Oregon, and live an active lifestyle, then Charbonneau would be a good choice.

Frog Pond

If you want to move to Wilsonville, Oregon, you’ll surely want to look at the Frog Pond community, which is currently under construction. The Frog Pond Community will be three connected neighborhoods in Wilsonville (West, East, and South) designed with nature and walkability in mind. The West neighborhood was move-in ready in Fall 2019 and was home to the 2019 Portland Street of Dreams.

This 500-acre community will be home to nearly 2,000 homes by its completion in 2035. It will have four interconnected trails and several prominent community parks. Frog Pond’s streets, open spaces, retail, homes, and other amenities fit into walkable, cohesive, and connected neighborhoods in Wilsonville. The Frog Pond streets are designed for safe and enjoyable travel by bike, on foot, or by car. With the excellent schools and safe community that are the hallmarks of living in Wilsonville, Frog Pond would be a great choice if you want to move to Wilsonville, Oregon.

Canyon Creek

Located south of Wilsonville city center, the Canyon Creek neighborhood in Wilsonville is a good mix of single-family homes and townhouses built in the 1990s and early 2000s. Canyon Creek is known for its quiet streets and well-maintained homes. The neighborhood is close to several parks, including Montebello City Park, which features a playground, picnic tables, and walking trails. There is also a small park within the neighborhood itself that includes a playground, a basketball court, and a large grassy area for recreational activities. The neighborhood is also close to several shopping centers, including the Wilsonville Town Center and the Bridgeport Village shopping center.

If you are considering moving to Wilsonville, Oregon, the Canyon Creek neighborhood could be an excellent spot!

Boones Ferry Landing

The Boones Ferry Landing neighborhood in Wilsonville, Oregon, consists of a mix of townhouses and single-family homes, which were built in the early 2000s. The neighborhood includes a park with a playground, a basketball court, and a picnic area, providing residents with a convenient place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Boones Ferry Landing is also located near several larger parks, including Memorial Park and Graham Oaks Nature Park, which offer additional opportunities for outdoor recreation. The neighborhood is also within walking distance of several shops and restaurants, including the Wilsonville Fred Meyer shopping center and the Boones Junction shopping center.

Whatever type of neighborhood you're looking for, living in Wilsonville has it. Come see why the Wilsonville community has some of the top neighborhoods around! For more information and guidance on the neighborhoods in Wilsonville, reach out to our Wilsonville neighborhood expert, Elizabeth Davidson. With her decade-plus of experience in real estate in the area, she knows the Wilsonville neighborhoods well and can help guide you in picking the right Wilsonville neighborhood for your family. Elizabeth Davidson Website

If moving to Wilsonville, 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 Wilsonville, Oregon.

Public Schools in Wilsonville

If you are looking into what it's like to live in Wilsonville, Oregon, certainly the schools are of significant importance.

The public schools in Wilsonville, Oregon, are some of the top-rated in the state. The West Linn-Wilsonville School District serves the north section of town and is known for its high-quality educational programs. There are three elementary schools, one middle school, Wilsonville High School, and the Art-Tech High School found within the Wilsonville boundaries. For the 2021-2022 school year, 92.9% of students at Wilsonville high school graduated, far outpacing the state average. If the public school system is a big factor in your move, then relocating to Wilsonville, Oregon, would be a good choice.

Residents of the city also have access to post-secondary schooling. The Clackamas Community College campus offers business and vocational training programs. Wilsonville's Oregon Tech campus offers a bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Manufacturing, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Technology, and Renewable Energy Engineering. Wilsonville is an excellent place for students to get a quality education.

For more info and ranking info for Wilsonville schools check out the Great Schools and Niche.com links in our Wilsonville Links section below.

Wilsonville High School - Wilsonville Oregon

Living in Wilsonville Oregon - Wilsonville High School - Photo by Todd Davidson

Living in Wilsonville Oregon Tips/Info/Blog Posts

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The REAL Cost of Living in the Portland Metropolitan Area!

Top Businesses & Employers in Wilsonville

When moving to Wilsonville, Oregon, or anywhere for that matter, employment plays a major role in your decision. With Interstate 5 running through the city, there's ample space for large headquarters for these companies and other Fortune 500 businesses that look to relocate to Wilsonville in the future. The job prospects in Wilsonville should only get better.

Top employers in Wilsonville include:

Mentor Graphics
Convergys
Xerox Corporation
Sysco Food Services
Rockwell Collins

Along with the big companies, Wilsonville is also home to many small local businesses, with a collection of eclectic boutiques, family-run restaurants, and private medical facilities. This variety makes Wilsonville a great place to live and work. Whether you're looking for a large corporation or a small business, there's no shortage of jobs if you're thinking of moving to Wilsonville, Oregon.

Top Destinations & Attractions in Wilsonville

Whether you fancy a walk through a scenic park, practicing your golf swing on a sunny afternoon, or looking to enjoy a night out or a warm cup at one of your favorite coffee shops, you have all that and more at your doorstep when living in Wilsonville, Oregon. Whatever you're interested in, there's plenty to see, do, and explore in the city with activities and events for the whole family!

Here are a few of the top destinations and attractions that draw so many to Wilsonville, Oregon:

Parks & Nature

If it's the Great Outdoors that you seek, look no further! Wilsonville is home to a number of parks, a skate park, and nature areas that offer lush, green spaces, tranquil hiking paths, and the opportunity to commune with Mother Nature.

Memorial Park is a calm and peaceful oasis in the city, with a beautiful waterfall and pond. Graham Oaks Nature Park is perfect for hiking, biking, and picnicking, and Town Center Park has a playground, basketball court, volleyball courts, and soccer field. For those who love gardens, Boxwood Garden is a must-see, with its hedge maze, topiary garden, and herb garden. And for the thrill-seeker, Bullwinkle's Entertainment offers go-karts, laser tag, and arcade games.

Bullwinkle's Family Fun Center - Wilsonville Oregon

Living in Wilsonville Oregon - Bullwinkle's - Photo by Todd Davidson

Langdon Farms Golf Course - Near Wilsonville Oregon

Living in Wilsonville Oregon - Photo by Todd Davidson

Golf & Recreation

Wilsonville, Oregon, is a great place to enjoy a round of golf or participate in a variety of recreational activities. The Charbonneau Golf Club is a 27-hole course that is open to the public. It features well-manicured greens and beautiful views of Mount Hood. Langdon Farms Golf Club is located seconds away in neighboring Aurora, and Kohl Creek Golf Course is another great option with nine holes that are perfect for beginners or those looking for a quick round.

For those looking for more than just golf, there are recreation programs for all ages, from preschool to active adults 55+. Locals can choose from a variety of programs, including fitness programs, sports activities, family events, and plenty of classes. A day on the river more your thing? The Willamette River is right there and offers plenty of kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding.

Dining, Shopping or a Night on the Town

This vibrant community has a little something for all taste buds and shopping needs. For a night out on the town, adult outings such as Carabella Vineyard, Vanguard Brewing, and The Oregon Wine Garden are perfect. Or, for a relaxing weekend activity, the Villebois Sunday Market is not to be missed.

When it comes to shopping, Wilsonville has several popular shopping centers, including Town Center, Old Town Square, and Argyle Square. And as for the local restaurants, Wilsonville boasts a diverse selection of eateries, from traditional bars and grills to Italian restaurants to modern breweries. You won't go hungry living in Wilsonville, Oregon.

Pros and Cons of Living in Wilsonville Oregon

Living in Wilsonville Pros

Convenient Location: Wilsonville is strategically located in the heart of Oregon's Willamette Valley, offering easy access to major cities like Portland and Salem. Its proximity to Interstate 5 and other transportation routes makes it a desirable location for commuting and travel.
Strong Job Market: Wilsonville boasts a thriving job market with a diverse range of industries, including technology, manufacturing, healthcare, and more. The presence of major employers creates ample employment opportunities for residents.
Quality Education: The city is served by the West Linn-Wilsonville School District, which is known for its excellent schools and high-quality education. It provides a supportive learning environment and offers a wide range of educational programs and extracurricular activities.
Recreational Opportunities: Wilsonville offers a wealth of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The city has numerous parks, trails, and green spaces, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
Family-Friendly Community: Wilsonville is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community. The city hosts various family-oriented events and activities throughout the year, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Vibrant Dining and Shopping Scene: Wilsonville features a variety of dining options, ranging from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, offering diverse cuisines to cater to different tastes. The city also has a range of shopping centers and boutiques, providing a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience.
Cultural and Entertainment Options: Wilsonville is home to the Wilsonville Public Library and the Wilsonville Community Center, which host a range of cultural and educational events. The city also has a movie theater, art galleries, and hosts festivals and concerts, ensuring there is always something to do.
Access to Nature: With the Willamette River and surrounding natural beauty, Wilsonville offers residents easy access to outdoor recreational opportunities. Nearby attractions like Champoeg State Park and the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge provide opportunities for boating, fishing, wildlife observation, and more.
Strong Sense of Safety: Wilsonville consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Oregon, providing residents with a sense of security and peace of mind.
Community Amenities: Wilsonville offers a range of community amenities, including a state-of-the-art community center, sports fields, swimming pools, and public libraries. These amenities contribute to a high quality of life for residents, fostering a sense of well-being and enjoyment.

Living in Wilsonville Cons

Traffic Congestion: Wilsonville experiences heavy traffic during peak commuting hours, particularly on Interstate 5 and major local roads, which can lead to congestion and delays.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Wilsonville is relatively high compared to other cities in Oregon, including housing, utilities, and general expenses.
Limited Public Transportation: The public transportation system in Wilsonville is not as robust as in larger cities, which may pose challenges for those who rely on public transit for commuting or getting around.
Limited Nightlife and Entertainment: Wilsonville has limited options when it comes to nightlife and entertainment compared to larger cities, with fewer bars, clubs, and cultural venues.
Limited Job Diversity: While there are job opportunities in Wilsonville, the diversity of industries and occupations is more limited compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Limited Healthcare Options: While there are healthcare facilities in Wilsonville, specialized medical services may require traveling to nearby cities for treatment or consultation.
Lack of Cultural Diversity: Wilsonville has a predominantly homogenous population, which may result in a lack of cultural diversity and a narrower range of cultural experiences and perspectives.
Extreme Weather: Wilsonville experiences a climate that includes mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. However, some individuals may find the wet weather or the occasional hot summer days uncomfortable.
Noise Pollution: Being close to major transportation routes like Interstate 5, some areas of Wilsonville may be subject to noise pollution from highway traffic.
Limited Shopping Options: While Wilsonville has shopping centers and boutiques, individuals looking for a wider variety of retail options may need to travel to larger cities for extensive shopping experiences.

FAQs About Moving to and Living in Wilsonville Oregon

What is Wilsonville, Oregon, known for?

This once teeny farming community has grown into a thriving city, yet it hasn't lost its small-town charm. Wilsonville is known for its welcoming community and country-living atmosphere, nestled along the banks of the Willamette River and covered in beautiful mature trees. Regionally it's well known for having some of the biggest master-planned communities in the state and one of the best school districts. No wonder so many people want to live in Wilsonville, Oregon.

What cities are nearby Wilsonville, Oregon?

The city is conveniently located near several other cities, including Canby, Sherwood, Tigard, Tualatin, Lake Oswego, West Linn, Oregon City, and Portland (16 miles away). As a result, locals are never too far away from something to do. In addition, the easy access to a major city such as Portland gives residents in this small town access to world-class dining and shopping and an abundance of cultural attractions. There is always something to do in Portland. And with Wilsonville's convenient location, residents are never more than a short drive away. To check out other Portland Metro Cities. For a list and links for other Willamette Valley cities.

What is the weather like in Wilsonville, Oregon?

Getting an average of 43 inches of rain per year, it's no mystery why Wilsonville is shrouded by gorgeous greenery and lush vegetation. The average high during the heart of summer is about 82 degrees Fahrenheit. During the winter months, the average low is about 36 degrees Fahrenheit. August, July, and September are the most comfortable months in Wilsonville, while December and January are the least pleasant.

How are the schools in Wilsonville Oregon?

If you're moving to Wilsonville, Oregon, your kids will be going to school in one of the best school districts in the state of Oregon. With a 95% graduation rate, 59% math proficiency, and 72% reading proficiency rate, the West Linn-Wilsonville school district ranks in the top 5% of Oregon districts across the board. Many families choose to move to Wilsonville because of the great schools. If living in Wilsonville, Oregon, your kids have access to an excellent education system.

Is it safe living in Wilsonville Oregon?

Wilsonville has a very low crime rate. Living in Wilsonville, you'll find that the crime rate is 30% lower than in the rest of Oregon. Also, the town isn't plagued by the homeless issues you see facing other cities in Oregon and the US. If you choose to move to Wilsonville, Oregon, you'll be very safe in this amazing community.

I want to move to Wilsonville. How do I make that happen?

You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Wilsonville, Oregon. There’s a lot of information on this website to help including some helpful links below. If you want to ask questions, try our Facebook Group > Moving to Oregon where we have broad group of locals to answer any question you might have. If you’re looking to buy a home in the Wilsonville area, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your first step. For Mortgage Info, reach out to me. I specialize in working with people moving to the Portland Metro Area and I'd be honored to help you. If you just want to to research home prices and homes for sale in Wilsonville, Oregon, CLICK HERE. No info or login needed to see all the homes for sale in Wilsonville, Oregon, currently.

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.