Welcome to Hillsboro, OR

Nestled in the heart of Oregon’s Silicon Forest, Hillsboro seamlessly blends high-tech innovation with Pacific Northwest charm. This thriving city offers newcomers the perfect balance of career opportunities in cutting-edge industries, family-friendly neighborhoods, and easy access to both urban amenities and outdoor adventures. With its strong economy, excellent schools, and commitment to sustainable living, Hillsboro has become a magnet for professionals and families seeking a high quality of life in the Portland metro area.

📍 Hillsboro, OR at a Glance

Population: 109,128
Location: 20 miles west of Portland in Washington County
Incorporated: 1876
Known For: Silicon Forest tech hub, Intel headquarters, award-winning farmers markets

🔗 Dive Deeper into Hillsboro

💸 Cost & Budget

🏘️ Housing & Lifestyle

🚍 Utilities & Transportation

🏙️ City Comparisons

🔍 In-Depth Relocation Overview

🗳️ Politics & Civic Life

Hillsboro leans progressive with active civic engagement through neighborhood associations and community forums. The city council operates under a council-manager form of government, focusing on sustainable growth, economic development, and livability. Residents actively participate in local decision-making through various boards and commissions.

🚓 Crime & Safety

Hillsboro consistently ranks as one of Oregon’s safest cities, with crime rates well below state and national averages. The Hillsboro Police Department emphasizes community policing and maintains strong neighborhood watch programs. Property crime rates are particularly low compared to other Portland metro communities.

🍽️ Dining & Entertainment

The dining scene reflects Hillsboro’s cultural diversity, from authentic Vietnamese pho at Pho Hung to farm-to-table cuisine at Syun Izakaya. The downtown area features McMenamins Venetian Theatre, offering dinner and movies in a historic setting. Orenco Station buzzes with trendy eateries like Kyra’s Bake Shop and seasonal farmers markets.

🏛️ Local Government

The City of Hillsboro operates efficiently with a professional city manager overseeing daily operations. City services receive high marks from residents, including responsive public works, well-maintained infrastructure, and proactive planning departments. The city budget prioritizes public safety, parks, and economic development.

🚍 Transportation

Hillsboro benefits from excellent public transit via TriMet’s MAX Blue Line, connecting residents to Portland in 30 minutes. The city maintains extensive bike lanes and trails, earning recognition as a bicycle-friendly community. Highway 26 provides quick access to the coast and mountains, though rush hour traffic can be challenging.

🏘️ Housing & Real Estate

The housing market offers diverse options from modern condos in Orenco Station to established single-family homes in older neighborhoods. Median home prices hover around $550,000, with new developments continuing to expand housing inventory. The rental market remains competitive due to the influx of tech workers.

🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life

With over 1,000 acres of parks and natural areas, Hillsboro provides abundant green spaces. Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve offers wildlife viewing and environmental education. The 25-mile Rock Creek Trail system connects neighborhoods and parks throughout the city. Noble Woods Park features one of the region’s best disc golf courses.

💼 Job Market

As Oregon’s economic powerhouse, Hillsboro hosts major employers including Intel (largest private employer), Nike, Genentech, and numerous tech startups. The median household income of $91,000 significantly exceeds state averages. The unemployment rate typically runs below 3%, with strong demand for engineers, healthcare professionals, and skilled trades.

🧑‍🏫 Education

Hillsboro School District serves over 20,000 students with highly-rated schools like Glencoe High School and Liberty High School. Private options include Faith Bible Christian School and St. Matthew Catholic School. Pacific University maintains a health professions campus downtown, while Portland Community College offers workforce training programs.

🌞 Climate & Weather

Hillsboro enjoys a mild Pacific Northwest climate with dry, warm summers averaging 80°F and cool, wet winters around 45°F. Annual rainfall totals 37 inches, mostly between November and March. Snow is rare, making year-round outdoor activities possible. Summer brings long daylight hours perfect for evening activities.

💬 Community Sentiment

Residents praise Hillsboro’s family-friendly atmosphere, economic opportunities, and cultural diversity. Common concerns include rising housing costs and increased traffic congestion. The community takes pride in its environmental initiatives, excellent schools, and welcoming attitude toward newcomers from around the world.

✨ Why People Are Moving to Hillsboro

Hillsboro attracts new residents with its unbeatable combination of high-paying tech jobs, top-rated schools, and Pacific Northwest lifestyle. The city offers urban conveniences without big-city hassles, providing easy access to Portland’s cultural scene while maintaining its own distinct identity. Whether you’re a tech professional seeking career advancement, a family looking for excellent schools and safe neighborhoods, or someone who values sustainability and outdoor recreation, Hillsboro delivers on all fronts. With continued economic growth and thoughtful urban planning, this Silicon Forest gem represents one of the best relocation destinations in the Pacific Northwest.