Housing Costs in Tualatin by Type

The Housing Market in Tualatin Today

Tualatin, Oregon is a growing suburb located just south of Portland, known for its strong local economy, excellent schools, and high quality of life. In recent years, the housing market in Tualatin has been characterized by rising prices, tight inventory, and steady demand from both renters and buyers.

As of 2025, the median home price in Tualatin stands at $675,000, reflecting a 12% increase over the past five years. New housing developments continue to rise, particularly in the downtown area and along major transportation corridors. However, the pace of construction has struggled to keep up with the influx of new residents attracted by Tualatin’s job opportunities and amenities.

On the rental side, apartment inventory has expanded in recent years, with several new complexes offering modern finishes and green spaces. Yet even with this added supply, rent prices have climbed as well, driven by strong demand from young professionals and families priced out of the Portland market. The result is a competitive housing landscape where both renters and buyers must navigate rising costs and limited options.

Renting in Tualatin: What’s Typical?

For renters in Tualatin, the current market presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, the city offers a wider variety of rental options compared to the past, from garden-style apartments to townhomes and single-family rentals. Many of these newer properties boast amenities like in-unit laundry, covered parking, and community spaces.

However, this upgraded rental stock comes with a higher price tag. As of 2025, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Tualatin stands at $1,800, while a two-bedroom unit goes for around $2,200. These figures represent a 15% increase over 2020 levels, outpacing wage growth during the same period.

Rent prices do vary by neighborhood, with more affordable options found on the outskirts of town. For example, apartments in the Meadow Park area typically cost $200-300 less per month than those in the coveted downtown district. However, even in these less expensive pockets, rent increases have become the norm as demand consistently outstrips supply.

Owning a Home in Tualatin

For those looking to purchase a home in Tualatin, the current median price of $675,000 translates to a typical monthly mortgage of around $2,900 (assuming a 10% down payment and a 30-year fixed loan at 4% APR). This figure has increased by nearly $500 per month compared to 2020, reflecting the rapid appreciation of home values in the area.

In addition to the mortgage itself, Tualatin homeowners must account for substantial property taxes, which average 1.1% of the assessed value annually. For a median-priced home, this equates to roughly $600 per month. Homeowners insurance adds another $80-100 to the monthly bill, while utility costs are broadly similar to those paid by renters.

Another important factor for Tualatin homeowners is Homeowners Association (HOA) fees, which are common in many of the city’s newer developments. These fees, which cover shared amenities and exterior maintenance, can range from $200-500+ per month. Combined with the other expenses of homeownership, this places the typical all-in monthly cost of owning a mid-range home in Tualatin around $3,800.

Renters vs. Homeowners: Who Lives Where?

Tualatin’s homeownership rate currently stands at 62%, slightly higher than the national average but lower than some of its more affluent neighbors. The city’s renter population largely consists of younger individuals and families who are attracted to Tualatin’s strong job market but may not yet have the savings or income to purchase a home.

Among homeowners, established families and older residents are heavily represented. Many of these households have owned their homes for decades and have seen their property values appreciate substantially. However, the high costs associated with purchasing a home in Tualatin today have created a financial barrier for younger would-be buyers, even those with stable incomes.

This dynamic has led to some geographic stratification, with renters concentrated in the city’s apartment complexes and multifamily zones, while homeowners dominate the single-family neighborhoods. However, there is also a growing trend of older homeowners downsizing into rentals or condos, adding to the diversity of the city’s housing mix.

Estimates reflect mid-range properties and average usage.

What’s Driving Costs Up or Down?

Several factors are contributing to the rising cost of housing in Tualatin. On the demand side, the city’s strong job market and highly rated schools continue to attract new residents, particularly families and young professionals. This influx has put pressure on the existing housing stock, driving up prices for both rentals and homes.

At the same time, the supply of new housing has struggled to keep pace, constrained by land availability, zoning regulations, and the rising costs of construction. While Tualatin has seen a surge of apartment development in recent years, single-family construction remains limited, further exacerbating the imbalance between supply and demand.

Policy decisions at the state and local level have also played a role. Oregon’s statewide rent control law, passed in 2019, has capped annual rent increases at 7% plus inflation for most properties. While this has provided some stability for renters, it may also be discouraging investment in new rental housing. Meanwhile, Tualatin’s own land-use policies and building codes have faced criticism for not doing enough to encourage density and affordability.

FAQs About Housing in Tualatin

• Is Tualatin affordable to live in?
  While Tualatin offers a high quality of life, its housing costs are higher than the national average and rising quickly. Many renters and prospective buyers struggle with affordability, particularly those in lower-wage jobs.
• Why are housing prices changing?
  Tualatin’s housing prices are being driven up by a combination of strong demand, limited supply, and policy factors. The city’s growing population and job base have increased competition for available homes and apartments.
• How does Tualatin compare to nearby cities?
  Tualatin’s housing costs are generally lower than those in Portland proper but higher than in some surrounding suburbs. The city offers a middle ground between urban amenities and suburban affordability.

Making Smart Housing Decisions in Tualatin

For those navigating Tualatin’s complex housing landscape, the key is to balance personal priorities with market realities. Renters may need to consider living further from the city center to find more affordable options, while buyers must weigh the long-term benefits of homeownership against the substantial upfront costs.

In either case, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your budget and to plan accordingly. Tools like a Monthly Budget Examples for Tualatin Residents can help you assess what you can realistically afford and make informed decisions about your housing.

It’s also worth exploring the full range of housing options available in Tualatin. While single-family homes and traditional apartments dominate the market, there are also condos, townhomes, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) that may offer a more affordable path to homeownership or a more flexible rental situation.

Ultimately, the right housing choice will depend on your unique circumstances and goals. But by understanding the key drivers of Tualatin’s housing market and planning proactively, you can navigate this challenging landscape and find a place to call home in this dynamic and growing city. For more information, check out our comprehensive Cost of Living in Tualatin (2025 Guide).