Medford, OR
Why You’ll Love Living in Medford, Oregon
Medford, Oregon, is known as the heart of the Rogue Valley, a cradle of lush farmland that produces world-famous pears, plus apples and grapes. Harry & David, the company that makes those luscious fruit-filled gift baskets, is based there. The area is also known for having a perfect climate for winemaking and has a thriving cheese industry, including award-winning varieties from Rogue Creamery. Medford also is family-friendly and affordable, making our list of the most affordable cities on the West Coast.
Thinking of moving to Medford, OR? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Medford, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Medford, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Medford, OR, a Best Place to Live in 2024
With home prices under $400,000 (median prices hover around $382,000!) and major regional employers like Harry & David and Asante Health Systeme, Medford, OR, is an ideal spot for young professionals, growing families, retirees and everyone in between. This Pacific Northwest paradise is one of the best places to live in the U.S., plus it’s located on the front porch of Crater Lake National Park. The namesake lake is best described with a slew of superlatives — it’s one of the world’s clearest, bluest and deepest lakes. Snag a national park pass to photograph the wildflowers, drive the scenic rim and hike the Cleetwood Cove Trail for a refreshing swim in Crater Lake.
The famed national park aside, Medford locals have all sorts of ways to stay active, from hiking the Table Rocks to rafting the Rogue River. The region is also a bustling hub for arts and culture that includes the Tony Award-winning Oregon Shakespeare Festival and the Britt Music and Arts Festival.
The Rogue Valley also has many family-friendly amenities, including sports leagues for all ages, 2,500 acres of parks, fun events and festivals, and excellent schools. Add in great farmers markets, local wine and cheese, craft beer, lavender fields and some rumored Bigfoot sightings, and you’ve got a small sampling of the many reasons why people love Medford.
Medford, OR Quality of Life LivScore
Medford, OR Top Categories
Environment
Transportation
Amenities
Medford ranks highest for environment, transportation and amenities.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Medford, OR
Medford’s weather is defined by mild winters and warm summers, abundant sunshine, and occasional precipitation. The average highs and lows are 85°F and 50°F (summer) and 49°F and 31°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Medford is less than 5 inches, with December being the snowiest month.
The average annual rainfall in Medford is 19 inches.
Medford averages 196 sunny days a year.
Get out on the Rogue River with a rafting outfitter and paddle through rapids that range from Class I to V.
Things To Do in Medford, OR
Bear Creek Park is a favorite among locals. The park is home to a BMX track, a 25,000-square-foot skatepark, little league fields and a wide variety of playground equipment on the inclusive playground.
Visit the Medford Railroad Park, where kids can ride a mini steam train for free (though donations are always appreciated!).
Medford grows some tasty pears! In fact, the city was the first place outside of France to grow Comice pears. The delicious fruit is a signature of the local business, Harry & David.
Bumble & Wren is a cute outdoor and garden shop with home decor collections from Oregon artists.
Award-winning cuisine is served up with a side of Oregon history at Porter’s Dining at the Depot. Named to honor those who worked on passenger trains, the eatery is housed in a transformed depot with an extensive menu and legendary wine list.
Live music, craft cocktails and tacos – oh my! Why pick just one when you can have all three at Johnny B’s? From an open mic night to regional artists, there’s something for everyone.
Score happy hour drink specials from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. nightly at Jefferson Spirits.
The Local and State Economy in Medford, OR
The most common employment sectors in Medford include health care and social assistance, retail trade, and accommodation and food services. Specialty food goods store Harry & David is headquartered in Medford.
Oregon has no state sales tax, and no local sales taxes apply in Medford.
Yes, Oregon has a state income tax.
Medicine is abundant in Medford. Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center and Providence Medford Medical Center both serve the community, and Medford residents also have access to several other high-performing providers in the Southwestern Oregon region.
There aren’t any major colleges or universities in Medford.
Weather in Medford, OR
Average Temperatures
67 High / 41 Low
Average Annual Rainfall
19 Inches
Average Annual Snowfall
5 Inches
Quick Facts about Medford, Oregon
- Median Home Value
- $352,691
- Median Property Tax
- $2,532
- Total Population
- 86,200
- Average Commute
- 15 min
- Median Household Income
- $67,068
- Median Rent per Month
- $1,079
Map of Medford, OR
Medford, OR: Where to Live Now
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