When considering a move to a new city, there are numerous factors to take into account, including the quality of life, cost of living, job opportunities, and access to amenities. Tigard, Oregon, is a city that has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. But is Tigard a good place to live? In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of living in Tigard, exploring its economy, education system, housing market, and community amenities to help you make an informed decision.
Introduction to Tigard, Oregon
Tigard is a city located in Washington County, Oregon, about 10 miles southwest of Portland. With a population of around 54,000 people, Tigard offers a more laid-back and suburban lifestyle compared to the bustling city of Portland. The city has a rich history, dating back to the 19th century, and has grown significantly over the years, attracting new residents and businesses alike. Tigard is known for its scenic parks, trails, and outdoor recreational areas, making it an attractive option for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Economy and Job Market
One of the key factors to consider when evaluating a city as a potential place to live is its economy and job market. Tigard has a thriving economy, with a mix of industries, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. The city is home to several major employers, including medical technology companies, software developers, and logistics providers. The unemployment rate in Tigard is lower than the national average, indicating a strong job market with plenty of opportunities for employment. Additionally, the city’s proximity to Portland provides access to a wider range of job opportunities, making it an ideal location for commuters.
Education System
The quality of the education system is another critical factor to consider when evaluating a city as a potential place to live. Tigard is served by the Tigard-Tualatin School District, which operates several highly rated schools, including Tigard High School and Fowler Middle School. The district is known for its strong academic programs, including advanced placement courses, vocational training, and special education services. Additionally, there are several private schools in the area, providing families with a range of educational options. Higher education opportunities are also available, with Portland State University and other colleges and universities located nearby.
Cost of Living and Housing Market
The cost of living and housing market are essential factors to consider when evaluating a city as a potential place to live. Tigard has a higher cost of living compared to some other cities in the United States, but it is still relatively affordable compared to other cities in the Pacific Northwest. The median home price in Tigard is around $430,000, which is higher than the national average. However, the city offers a range of housing options, including single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums, to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Rentals are also available, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranging from $1,200 to $1,800 per month.
Community Amenities and Services
Tigard offers a range of community amenities and services, making it an attractive option for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. The city has several parks and trails, including the Tigard Heritage Trail and the Fanno Creek Trail, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Tigard Public Library is a popular destination, offering a wide range of books, media, and programs for adults and children. The city also has a strong sense of community, with numerous community events and festivals throughout the year, including the Tigard Festival of Balloons and the Tigard Farmers’ Market.
Transportation and Commuting
Transportation and commuting are essential factors to consider when evaluating a city as a potential place to live. Tigard is well-connected to the surrounding area, with several major highways and roads providing easy access to Portland and other nearby cities. The city also has a public transportation system, including buses and light rail, making it easy to get around without a car. For those who prefer to drive, parking is readily available, with several public parking lots and garages throughout the city.
Pros and Cons of Living in Tigard
Like any city, Tigard has its pros and cons. Some of the advantages of living in Tigard include its strong economy, excellent schools, and abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. The city also has a unique small-town charm, with a strong sense of community and a range of local shops and restaurants. However, some of the disadvantages of living in Tigard include its higher cost of living, traffic congestion, and limited nightlife options. Additionally, the city’s proximity to Portland can make it feel like a suburb rather than a standalone city, which may not appeal to everyone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tigard, Oregon, is a good place to live for those who value a strong economy, excellent schools, and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. The city’s unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities makes it an attractive option for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. While it may have its drawbacks, including a higher cost of living and limited nightlife options, the advantages of living in Tigard far outweigh the disadvantages. Whether you’re looking for a quiet suburban lifestyle or a thriving community with plenty of amenities, Tigard is definitely worth considering as a potential place to call home.
- Tigard has a strong economy with a mix of industries, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing.
- The city has excellent schools, including the highly rated Tigard-Tualatin School District.
- Tigard offers a range of community amenities, including parks, trails, and a public library.
- The city has a unique small-town charm, with a strong sense of community and a range of local shops and restaurants.
- Tigard is well-connected to the surrounding area, with several major highways and roads providing easy access to Portland and other nearby cities.
Final Thoughts
In final thoughts, Tigard, Oregon, is a city that has something for everyone. From its strong economy and excellent schools to its abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities and unique small-town charm, Tigard is a great place to live. While it may have its drawbacks, the advantages of living in Tigard far outweigh the disadvantages. If you’re considering a move to the Pacific Northwest, Tigard is definitely worth considering as a potential place to call home. With its high quality of life, strong economy, and abundant amenities, Tigard is a city that is sure to appeal to a wide range of people, from families and young professionals to retirees and outdoor enthusiasts.
What are the pros of living in Tigard, Oregon?
Tigard, Oregon is a city that offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. One of the major advantages of living in Tigard is its excellent location, with easy access to Portland and other surrounding cities. This makes it an ideal choice for commuters who work in the city but want to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. Additionally, Tigard has a strong sense of community, with numerous community events and festivals throughout the year that bring residents together and foster a sense of belonging.
The city also boasts a high quality of life, with good schools, low crime rates, and plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. Tigard is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including parks, trails, and waterways, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Furthermore, the city has a diverse range of housing options, from affordable starter homes to luxury properties, making it accessible to a wide range of buyers. Overall, Tigard’s unique combination of location, community, and quality of life make it a highly desirable place to live.
What are the cons of living in Tigard, Oregon?
While Tigard has many advantages, there are also some downsides to living in the city. One of the main drawbacks is the traffic, which can be heavy during rush hour, particularly on the highways that connect Tigard to Portland. Additionally, some areas of the city can feel a bit suburban and lacking in character, with too much strip mall development and not enough unique local businesses. Tigard is also located in a flood zone, which can be a concern for some homeowners, particularly those who live in low-lying areas.
Despite these drawbacks, many residents feel that the benefits of living in Tigard outweigh the drawbacks. However, it’s worth noting that the city is actively working to address some of these issues, such as investing in traffic management and downtown revitalization efforts. For example, the city has implemented a number of initiatives aimed at reducing traffic congestion and promoting more sustainable transportation options, such as bike lanes and public transit. Additionally, there are efforts underway to revitalize the downtown area and promote more local businesses and community development. With a little planning and awareness, many of the cons of living in Tigard can be mitigated, and residents can enjoy all that the city has to offer.
What is the job market like in Tigard, Oregon?
The job market in Tigard, Oregon is strong and diverse, with a range of industries and employers in the area. The city is home to a number of major employers, including technology companies, healthcare providers, and manufacturers. Additionally, Tigard’s proximity to Portland means that many residents commute to the city for work, where there are even more job opportunities available. The city also has a thriving small business community, with many entrepreneurs and startups calling Tigard home. This diversity of employment opportunities makes it an attractive choice for job seekers and those looking to advance their careers.
Tigard’s job market is also characterized by a highly educated and skilled workforce, with many residents holding advanced degrees and certifications. The city is also home to a number of top-ranked schools and universities, including Portland Community College and Oregon Health & Science University, which provide a steady pipeline of talented and qualified workers. Furthermore, the city offers a range of resources and support for businesses and entrepreneurs, including business incubators, coworking spaces, and networking events. Overall, Tigard’s strong and diverse job market makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to find a job or start a business in the Portland area.
What are the schools like in Tigard, Oregon?
The schools in Tigard, Oregon are highly regarded and consistently rank among the best in the state. The Tigard-Tualatin School District serves the city and surrounding areas, and is known for its high academic standards, excellent teachers, and supportive learning environment. The district operates a number of schools in Tigard, including elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as alternative and charter schools. Many of these schools have received awards and recognition for their academic excellence, including being named among the top schools in the state by publications such as US News & World Report.
In addition to the public schools, Tigard is also home to a number of private and parochial schools, which offer a range of educational options for families. These schools often have smaller class sizes, more individualized attention, and a strong focus on character development and community service. Furthermore, the city is located near a number of top-ranked universities and colleges, including Portland State University and Oregon State University, which provide residents with access to higher education and lifelong learning opportunities. Overall, the schools in Tigard are a major draw for families and individuals who value education and are looking for a supportive and stimulating learning environment.
Is Tigard, Oregon a safe city?
Tigard, Oregon is considered to be a very safe city, with low crime rates compared to other cities of similar size. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, which collects and analyzes crime data from law enforcement agencies across the country, Tigard has a lower overall crime rate than many other cities in the Portland area. The city also has a strong and responsive police department, which works closely with the community to prevent and investigate crimes. Additionally, many neighborhoods in Tigard have active community watch programs and other initiatives aimed at promoting safety and reducing crime.
Despite its overall safety, as with any city, there are some areas of Tigard that are considered to be safer than others. For example, some of the older neighborhoods in the city may have higher crime rates due to factors such as poverty and lack of investment. However, the city is actively working to address these issues through community development initiatives and other programs aimed at promoting safety and reducing crime. Overall, Tigard’s low crime rates and strong sense of community make it a great choice for families and individuals who value safety and security. With its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and friendly residents, Tigard is an excellent place to call home.
What are the outdoor recreational opportunities like in Tigard, Oregon?
Tigard, Oregon is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, with numerous parks, trails, and waterways that offer a range of outdoor recreational opportunities. The city has over 500 acres of parkland, including numerous neighborhood parks, community parks, and natural areas. Many of these parks feature walking and biking trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and other amenities that make them great places to spend time outdoors. Additionally, the Tualatin River, which runs through the city, offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and other water sports.
In addition to the parks and natural areas within the city, Tigard is also close to a number of regional parks and outdoor recreation areas, including the Tualatin Hills Nature Park, the Cooper Mountain Nature Park, and the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway. These parks and trails offer a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and bird watching. Furthermore, the city is located near the Oregon coast, which offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including surfing, beachcombing, and tidepooling. Overall, Tigard’s natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities make it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who loves spending time in nature.
What is the cost of living in Tigard, Oregon?
The cost of living in Tigard, Oregon is generally higher than in many other parts of the country, due to its location in the Portland metropolitan area and the high demand for housing and other goods and services. However, compared to other cities in the Portland area, Tigard is considered to be relatively affordable, with a range of housing options and prices to suit different budgets. The median home price in Tigard is around $400,000, although prices can vary widely depending on factors such as location, size, and condition.
In addition to housing costs, the cost of living in Tigard also includes other expenses such as food, transportation, and utilities. The city has a range of grocery stores and other retailers, including some high-end options, and residents can expect to pay a premium for many goods and services. However, the city also has a number of affordable options, including farmers’ markets, community gardens, and other initiatives aimed at promoting local food systems and reducing costs. Additionally, the city’s proximity to Portland means that residents have access to a wide range of cultural, recreational, and entertainment options, many of which are relatively affordable. Overall, while the cost of living in Tigard may be higher than in some other parts of the country, the city’s unique combination of quality of life, natural beauty, and economic opportunity make it a great value for many residents.