Hello Oregon!

We are looking at taking a job based in St. Helens. Haven't been to Oregon for awhile, so any info you can offer would be greatly appreciated.
What is the St. Helens area like? What are some of the better areas of the city to live in? What other surrounding cities/ towns are commutable,
and great to live in? Average cost for rental of 2-3 bedroom house in a good area? What are schools like? Lifestyle info? Is the commute into Portland a complete drag, or do-able without incurring a nervous tic? Thanks so very much!