Moving from Southern California to Oregon (Eugene, Bend: property taxes, travel, job)

[ds495]

What is the population and jjob scene like in Medford, Bend? Anyone? Any hi-tech firms? Graphic design?

[johnbre]

Originally Posted by ds495

What is the population and jjob scene like in Medford, Bend? Anyone? Any hi-tech firms? Graphic design?

Bend's population is listed at about 75,000 now (a far cry from the 15,000 when I moved here ). That's just the city limits, so I would guess around 100,000 in the local area.

There are a few reasonably-sized hi-tech firms, but the majority of hi-tech are pretty small shops. There are some ad agencies and web design houses, if you're looking for graphic design work. Bend's problem is that it has it's economy based generally on tourism and construction, both of which have flourished over the past few years, but are slowing down now, due to the housing slump and general economic downturn. That said, I've been involved with hi-tech for 25 years. Been laid off a couple of times, but have still managed to find a decent paying job.

[GHITYUPNOW]

I'm A Gal With A Small Dog Thinking About Moving To Oregon... Living In Central Coast In California-san Luis Obispo... I Can Not Buy A House Here...it Just Cost Way To Much. I've Lived In Idaho... No Thanks, I'm Not A Snow Bunny. I've Lived In Washington-whidbey Island, I'd Go Back There In A Minute And Just Might. I Love To Be By Water, Lakes Rivers, Ocean. I'm Looking For A Layed Back Town By Water Of Any Kind... Dose Oregon Have Such Places For Me???? Gityupnow

[tdevine]

I lived in southern California for 40 yrs. After reading these postings I would like to tell you who these Californians are! California was invaded by every state in the country. Everyone wanted to live in California, blame it on Hollywood, don't know, don't care. They are from Boston, Jersey, Texas, Kansas, Washington, etc.... I was born and raised in Orange County, it was time to leave (mexico). I love it here in Bend. The funny thing is the people I meet here, who are some of the nicest, friendliest people are the NATIVE Californians!

[Lorr97]

Hi!

My family is planning to move to either Southern Oregon or phoenix AZ from Palmdale, CA (High Desert). We have lived in different parts of California and loved North San Diego County the best. I seem to be drawn to southern Oregon but have never been there. I've gathered some info on Klamath Falls, Altamont, Ashland and Medford. what I would like to know how much snow ( haven't driven in snow since 1979 in New York City), how family oriented (we have a 10 year old boy) and if its gloomy how much during the year.

If the places are the right fit in Oregon which cities do you suggest.

[freedom]

Originally Posted by Lorr97

Hi!

My family is planning to move to either Southern Oregon or phoenix AZ. I seem to be drawn to southern Oregon but have never been there. I've gathered some info on Klamath Falls, Altamont, Ashland and Medford. what I would like to know how much snow, how family oriented (we have a 10 year old boy) and if its gloomy how much during the year.

Every year is a little different, some yrs. we have no snow, some we have a few storms that leaves snow on the valley floor. Some yrs are cold and dry, some warm and wet.

It's worth a trip, and its a great place to raise children.

freedom

[Momt28]

My husband and I have two 12 year old girls and have lived in Southern California all our lives. We are eager to escape the densely populated, over-stimulated urban area and find a less crowded, cooler climate. We visited Oregon last year and love the green, lush environment. We have considered Corvallis, but now are leaning toward Oregon City or other Portland suburb.

As a mom, my first concern is for our girls and making a decision that is good for them. Can anyone tell me about schools in Oregon City? Anybody have experience moving their tweenagers to Oregon from California?

Also - are there areas that are less rainy? I'm eager to have less grueling sunshine, but am concerned about us adjusting to gloomy skies.

Appreciate any feedback - especially from parents of tweens and teens. Thank You!!!

[freedom]

Originally Posted by Momt28

My husband and I have two 12 year old girls and have lived in Southern California all our lives. We are eager to escape the densely populated, over-stimulated urban area and find a less crowded, cooler climate. We visited Oregon last year and love the green, lush environment. We have considered Corvallis, but now are leaning toward Oregon City or other Portland suburb.

As a mom, my first concern is for our girls and making a decision that is good for them. Can anyone tell me about schools in Oregon City? Anybody have experience moving their tweenagers to Oregon from California?

Also - are there areas that are less rainy? I'm eager to have less grueling sunshine, but am concerned about us adjusting to gloomy skies.

Appreciate any feedback - especially from parents of tweens and teens. Thank You!!!

Southern and eastern have the least amount of gloom and rain.
This is a great place to raise kids. At least So. Oregon is.

freedom

[nanannie]

Originally Posted by freedom

Every year is a little different, some yrs. we have no snow, some we have a few storms that leaves snow on the valley floor. Some yrs are cold and dry, some warm and wet.

It's worth a trip, and its a great place to raise children.

freedom

Freedom, do you mind expanding on why its a good place for kids? Schools? Activities? I heard there is no more library?? We did take a trip through there and it is lovely. Thank you.

[freedom]

Originally Posted by nanannie

Freedom, do you mind expanding on why its a good place for kids? Schools? Activities? I heard there is no more library?? We did take a trip through there and it is lovely. Thank you.

To me the outdoor opportunities the rivers, parks, lakes, and mountains are excellent. There are well organized sports programs, 4H, Equestrian teams,gymnastics, and all the standard soccer, baseball etc...
We have one of the best Health clubs in Oregon that is very family friendly.
There are many churches that have kids programs

We homeschool, but our friends are pleased with the public schools, and everyone of them has a library. The kids don't go without books, some of the schools have library hours in the summer.
The County libraries are closed right now. There is a library committee that just received a non profit status and have formed a PBS style membership program, they should reopen by the end of the year.

best wishes,

freedom