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Living in St. Helens Oregon - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
Are you Living in or Considering Moving to St. Helens Oregon?
St Helens, Oregon, located in Columbia County, is home to approximately 13,000 people. The city offers its residents a mix of urban and rural living, making it an attractive location for those seeking a small-town feel with access to city amenities. Located just 30 miles north of Portland, St Helens offers good access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating on the Columbia River. The city is near Highway 30, which runs along the Columbia River, providing easy access to other towns and attractions. St. Helens embodies the Pacific Northwest lifestyle with its lush greenery, mountain views, and proximity to the Columbia River. St. Helens residents and visitors enjoy recreational activities such as kayaking, hiking, and exploring the nearby Columbia County Museum. The Best of St. Helens includes a historic downtown, modern shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods with stunning views of the Columbia River.
One of the main attractions in St. Helens is the historic downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and local businesses. It is a popular spot for residents to gather and enjoy the small-town charm. Columbia View Park is another attraction in the area, which offers stunning views of the Columbia River and the surrounding mountains. The park also features walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground for children. St. Helens has several other parks, including McCormick Park and Houlton Conservation Area. These parks offer amenities such as sports fields, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
There are also several major employers in and around St. Helens, Oregon. One of the largest is the Boise Paper Mill, which provides jobs for many area residents. Additionally, the Port of St. Helens is a significant economic driver, with several businesses operating within its boundaries. Other notable employers include the St. Helens School District and the Columbia County government.
The cost of living in St. Helens is close to the national average and pretty affordable compared to other cities in the region. With the area's natural beauty and proximity to Portland, demand for housing in St Helens has increased over recent years, and home prices have increased. Today the average home value is just over $400,000 in St. Helens, making it one of the more affordable towns in the area. Various housing options are available that meet the varying budget needs of St. Helens residents, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses.
If you're looking for a small town with a charming downtown, excellent schools, and plenty of outdoor activities, St. Helens, Oregon, would be the perfect place for you! Read on to learn more about living in St. Helens, Oregon, including details about its neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and some pros and cons of living in this lovely city. The information in this blog should help you determine whether living in St. Helens, Oregon, is the right choice for you.
Skip Ahead to:
1. The Moving to St. Helens Oregon Team
2. What is the Cost of Living in St. Helens Oregon?
3. Best Neighborhoods in St. Helens
4. Living in St. Helens Oregon Tips/Info/Blog Posts
5. 20 Pros and Cons of Living in St. Helens Oregon
6. FAQs About Living in St. Helens Oregon
The Moving to St. Helens Oregon Team
Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in St. Helens, Oregon. Elizabeth Davidson is a real estate concierge and would love to help you navigate buying or selling your home in St. Helens, Oregon. She has sold real estate in Oregon for over 12 years and has developed real estate connections throughout Oregon. With her experience and relationships, she can help you assemble a winning team to buy or sell a home in St. Helens, Oregon. To learn more about Elizabeth, CLICK HERE to check out her About Me video. To start receiving emails with homes that match your criteria, CLICK HERE and sign up for Listing Alert. With a little info on what, where, and how much, you'll get newly listed homes sent to your inbox as they hit the market. This can give you a big leg up in your home search.
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. Together our Moving to St. Helens, Oregon, team can help you make moving to or within St. Helens, Oregon, a reality!
What is the Cost of Living in St. Helens Oregon?
If you're exploring a move to St. Helens, Oregon, or any place, the cost of living would be a significant factor in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in St Helens, Oregon, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in St. Helens, Oregon, and rent, you would need to make $44,000 a year. To live in St. Helens, Oregon, and buy a home, you would need to make $60,000 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.
Top Neighborhoods in St. Helens Oregon
Below are six of the top neighborhoods in St. Helens, Oregon. With a diverse range of housing options and attractions, the neighborhoods meet the needs of a variety of budgets and lifestyles:
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Olde Towne: Olde Towne is the heart of St. Helens and features a historic downtown area with Victorian-style architecture. It is known for its charming shops, boutiques, and local businesses. You can explore antique stores, art galleries and enjoy a variety of dining options. The housing in Olde Towne includes beautifully restored Victorian homes, craftsman-style houses, and apartments.
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Columbia View: Situated on the hills overlooking the Columbia River, Columbia View offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscape. The neighborhood attracts nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Residents can enjoy hiking and biking trails in nearby parks, including McCormick Park. Housing options in Columbia View range from single-family homes with spacious yards to townhouses.
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Plymouth: Plymouth is a family-friendly neighborhood on the southern side of St. Helens. It offers a mix of affordable housing, including single-family homes and apartments. Plymouth Park is a central attraction featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. The neighborhood provides easy access to the St. Helens Public Library and is close to shopping centers.
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Meadow Park: Meadow Park is a peaceful residential neighborhood with tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes. It is a popular choice for families and retirees. The neighborhood's namesake, Meadow Park, is a large green space with walking paths, sports fields, and a playground. Meadow Park also hosts community events, such as concerts and festivals.
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Columbia River Highway: The Columbia River Highway neighborhood is located along the historic highway that runs through St. Helens. This area offers a mix of commercial and residential properties. It is a gateway to various recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and water sports on the Columbia River. You can also enjoy scenic drives along the highway and visit the nearby Sand Island Marine Park.
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McBride Acres: McBride Acres is a tranquil neighborhood on the eastern edge of St. Helens. It provides a more rural and spacious living environment compared to other areas. The neighborhood is known for its large lots and expansive properties, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more secluded lifestyle. Residents can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and still have easy access to the amenities of St. Helens.
If moving to St. Helens, 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 St. Helens, Oregon. To connect with a local realtor, CLICK HERE. One of the most important decisions you'll make when moving to St. Helens, 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 St. Helens Oregon Tips/Info/Blogs
NEW BLOG ALERT SIGN UP > CLICK HERE
WANT TO KNOW WHEN A HOME MATCHING YOUR CRITERIA GETS LISTED? SIGN UP FOR LISTING ALERT > CLICK HERE
REALTOR CONNECT > CLICK HERE
DOWNLOAD FREE HOMEBUYERS GUIDE > CLICK HERE
DOWNPAYMENT ASSISTANCE INFO > CLICK HERE
OREGON BOOKS AND OTHER RESOURCES > CLICK HERE
20 Pros and Cons of Living in St. Helens Oregon
Living in St. Helens Oregon Pros
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Natural Beauty: St. Helens, Oregon, is located in the scenic Columbia River Gorge region, offering breathtaking views of the river, nearby mountains, and lush forests.
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Outdoor Recreation: The area around St. Helens provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. It's an outdoor enthusiast's paradise.
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Waterfront Access: St. Helens is situated on the banks of the Columbia River, providing residents and visitors with easy access to water activities such as boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
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Historic Downtown: St. Helens boasts a charming and well-preserved historic downtown area with a variety of unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. It's a great place to explore and appreciate the city's heritage.
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Community Events: The town hosts various community events throughout the year, including festivals, parades, farmer's markets, and outdoor concerts. There's always something happening to bring people together.
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Small-Town Atmosphere: St. Helens has a friendly and close-knit community where neighbors know each other and support local businesses. It's a place where you can feel a strong sense of belonging.
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Affordable Housing: Compared to larger cities in the region, St. Helens offers more affordable housing options, making it an attractive choice for families, first-time homebuyers, or those looking to downsize.
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Low Crime Rate: St. Helens has a relatively low crime rate, providing residents with a safe and secure environment to live and raise a family.
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Good Schools: The St. Helens School District is known for its quality education and dedicated teachers. Families can find excellent educational opportunities for their children.
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Proximity to Portland: St. Helens is just a short drive away from the city of Portland, which offers a vibrant urban experience with its cultural attractions, shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Residents of St. Helens can enjoy the best of both worlds, with easy access to city amenities while enjoying a more relaxed small-town lifestyle.
Living in St. Helens Oregon Cons
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Limited Job Opportunities: St. Helens may have a limited job market, especially in specific industries, which could make it challenging to find employment without commuting to nearby cities.
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Commute Times: If you work outside of St. Helens, commuting to larger cities like Portland or Vancouver may result in longer commutes due to traffic congestion.
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Limited Cultural and Entertainment Options: St. Helens is a smaller town that has fewer cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and diverse dining options compared to larger urban areas.
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Limited Shopping Choices: While St. Helens has some local shops and businesses, it has limited retail options, requiring residents to travel to larger cities for specific shopping needs.
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Limited Healthcare Facilities: St. Helens may have limited healthcare facilities and specialized medical services, necessitating travel to nearby cities for specific treatments or healthcare needs.
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Seasonal Weather Variations: St. Helens experiences typical Pacific Northwest weather, including rainy and cloudy days for a significant part of the year, which may not suit everyone's preferences.
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Limited Recreational Facilities: While there are outdoor recreational opportunities in the area, St. Helens has fewer dedicated recreational facilities, such as gyms, sports complexes, or community centers.
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Limited Public Education Options: Families seeking alternative education options, such as specialized or alternative schools, may need to look outside St. Helens to find what they are looking for.
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Potential Flooding: St. Helens may be susceptible to occasional flooding due to its proximity to the Columbia River, which could pose challenges during certain weather events.
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Lack of Professional Networking Opportunities: St. Helens, a smaller town, likely wouldn't have professional networking events or industry-specific opportunities compared to larger urban areas.
FAQs About Living in St. Helens Oregon
What is St. Helens known for?
St Helens, Oregon, is most known for its annual Spirit of Halloweentown festival, which takes place every October and celebrates the spooky season. The festival attracts visitors from all over the region and features various events and activities such as haunted tours, pumpkin carving contests, live music, and a marketplace. The eerie atmosphere of Halloweentown fills the air and has become an iconic symbol of St Helens and the surrounding area.
What cities and attractions is St. Helens close to?
St Helens, Oregon, is located in Columbia County, part of the Pacific Northwest region in the northwestern part of the state. The city is approximately 30 miles northwest of Portland and 60 miles east of the Pacific Ocean. St Helens is close to several other cities in the area, including Scappoose, about 5 miles to the south, and Rainier, about 10 miles to the north. The city is also within easy driving distance of other popular destinations in the region, such as Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, the Columbia River Gorge, and the Oregon Coast. St Helens' central location in Columbia County makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and nearby cities.
What is the weather like in St. Helens?
Living in St Helens, Oregon, you can expect mild weather throughout the year. In the winter months, the average high temperatures range from 45°F to 50°F, and the average low temperatures range from 32°F to 35°F. The city occasionally experiences light snowfall during the winter, with an average of 3 inches of snowfall annually. Summers in St Helens are mild, with average high temperatures ranging from 70°F to 75°F and occasional hot spells in the 80s and 90s. The city receives around 50 inches of rain yearly, with most precipitation occurring in the fall and winter months.
Does St. Helens have good public schools?
Students in St Helens, Oregon, attend public school in the St Helens School District, which serves the city of St Helens and some surrounding areas. Niche.com ranks the St Helens School District #87 out of 197 school districts in Oregon, giving it an overall B- rating. The district is committed to providing a well-rounded education, including arts and athletics, and offers a variety of programs for students with different interests and needs. The district has a diverse student body and strong partnerships with local organizations and businesses. Living in St. Helens, Oregon, your children will get a good public education. There are better school districts in the state but many more are worse.
Is St. Helens Oregon safe?
Living in St Helens, Oregon, you'll find it an extremely safe place. Property crime rates in St Helens are lower than the national average, and violent crime rates are significantly lower than the national average. NeighborhoodScout.com states St Helens has a crime rate lower than 70% of all US cities. Anyone living in St. Helens Oregon can sleep easy at night knowing the town is very safe!
What is there to do living in St. Helens Oregon?
Living in St Helens, Oregon, you will always have things to do. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Columbia River and the Coast Range Mountains, offering ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing. St Helens boasts several parks, including McCormick Park and Sand Island Park, which feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails. The city hosts several annual events, including the Columbia County Fair and Rodeo, which attracts visitors from around the region, and the Spirit of Halloweentown, offering spooky activities and events. If you're looking for a day trip, St Helens is located near attractions like the Columbia County Museum and the Scappoose Bay Marina. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there is always something to do in St Helens, Oregon.
Who are the large employers in St. Helens Oregon?
If living in St Helens, Oregon, some of the top employers include the St. Helens School District, which employs over 400 people, the Columbia County government, which employs over 300 workers, and the St. Helens Hospital, which employs over 200 people. Other notable employers in St Helens include the Oregon Department of Transportation, the City of St Helens, and various retail and hospitality companies. With a diverse range of employers, residents of St Helens can find opportunities in education, government, healthcare, and more.
I want to relocate to St. Helens. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're considering relocating to St. Helens, Oregon. There's some good information on this website about moving to St. Helens, Oregon, and living in St. Helens, 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 St. Helens, Oregon, is like and give you some good information on moving to St. Helens, Oregon. If you're looking to buy a home in St. Helens, 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 St. Helens, Oregon, is like and help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.
Video's on What it's Like Living in St. Helens Oregon
Elizabeth Davidson - Realtor - About Me
Elizabeth Davidson - Realtor - Listing your home