Tigard, Oregon, is a city located in Washington County, about 10 miles southwest of Portland. With a population of over 51,000 people, Tigard is a vibrant community that offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. If you’re considering moving to Tigard, you’re probably wondering if it’s a good place to live. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of what makes Tigard an attractive place to call home, from its economy and job market to its education system and community amenities.
Introduction to Tigard Oregon
Tigard is a city with a rich history, dating back to the early 19th century. The area was originally settled by the Atfalati tribe, and later became a popular spot for farmers and traders. Today, Tigard is a thriving community that is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, cultural attractions, and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quiet suburban lifestyle or easy access to the city, Tigard has something to offer.
Geography and Climate
Tigard is situated in the Tualatin Valley, which is part of the Willamette Valley region. The city covers an area of approximately 11.8 square miles, and is bordered by the cities of Beaverton, Tualatin, and Lake Oswego. Tigard’s geography is characterized by rolling hills, wooded areas, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The city’s climate is mild, with warm summers and cool winters. Tigard experiences an average of 154 days of sunshine per year, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts.
Neighborhoods and Communities
Tigard is comprised of several distinct neighborhoods and communities, each with its own unique character. Some of the most popular neighborhoods include Downtown Tigard, which features a mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, and Summer Lake, which is a family-friendly community with a park and lake. Other notable neighborhoods include Bull Mountain, Southview, and Highland Hills. Regardless of which neighborhood you choose, you’ll find that Tigard is a commuter-friendly city, with easy access to major highways and public transportation.
Economy and Job Market
Tigard has a diverse economy that is driven by a range of industries, including technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. The city is home to several major employers, including Intel Corporation, NIKE, Inc., and Providence Health & Services. Tigard is also a popular location for small businesses and startups, with a number of incubators and accelerators available to support entrepreneurs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Tigard is lower than the national average, making it an attractive place to live and work.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Tigard is slightly higher than the national average, due to the city’s proximity to Portland and the overall desirability of the area. However, Tigard is still considered to be an affordable place to live, with a range of housing options available to suit different budgets and lifestyles. The median home price in Tigard is around $430,000, although prices can vary depending on the location, size, and condition of the property.
Taxes and Transportation
Tigard has a progressive tax system, with a range of taxes and fees that support local services and infrastructure. The city also has a well-developed transportation system, with easy access to major highways, public transportation, and bike trails. Tigard is served by the Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon (TriMet), which provides bus and light rail services throughout the region.
Education System
Tigard is served by the Tigard-Tualatin School District, which is one of the highest-rated school districts in the state. The district operates several highly-rated schools, including Tigard High School, Tualatin High School, and Fowler Middle School. Tigard is also home to a number of private schools and charter schools, providing parents with a range of educational options for their children.
Community Amenities
Tigard has a range of community amenities that make it an attractive place to live. Some of the most popular amenities include the Tigard Public Library, which offers a wide range of books, media, and programs for adults and children, and the Tigard Community Center, which features a swimming pool, gym, and recreational facilities. Tigard also has several parks and trails, including the popular Summer Lake Park and the Fanno Creek Trail.
Arts and Culture
Tigard has a thriving arts and cultural scene, with a range of galleries, museums, and performance venues. Some of the most popular attractions include the Tigard Historical Association Museum, which showcases the city’s history and heritage, and the Broadway Rose Theatre Company, which produces a range of musicals and plays throughout the year. Tigard also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Tigard Festival of Balloons and the Tigard Sunday Market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tigard, Oregon, is a great place to live, with a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. From its strong economy and job market to its excellent education system and community amenities, Tigard has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quiet suburban lifestyle or easy access to the city, Tigard is definitely worth considering. With its mild climate, beautiful scenery, and friendly community, Tigard is a place where you can truly feel at home.
Some of the key points to consider when thinking about moving to Tigard include:
- Affordable housing options, with a range of prices and styles to suit different budgets and lifestyles
- Easy access to Portland, with a range of transportation options available, including buses, light rail, and bike trails
Overall, Tigard, Oregon, is a great place to live, work, and play. With its unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, Tigard is an attractive option for anyone looking to relocate to the Pacific Northwest.
What are the pros of living in Tigard, Oregon?
Tigard, Oregon, is a suburb of Portland, offering a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. One of the significant advantages of living in Tigard is its excellent school system, with several highly-rated schools in the area. Additionally, the city boasts a strong sense of community, with numerous parks, trails, and community events that foster a sense of belonging among residents. The city also has a thriving downtown area, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it an attractive place to live for people of all ages.
The city’s location is another significant advantage, with easy access to Portland and other surrounding cities, making it an ideal choice for commuters. Tigard is also close to several major highways, including Highway 217 and Interstate 5, providing convenient access to other parts of the state. Furthermore, the city has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities of similar size, making it a safe and secure place to live. With its excellent schools, strong sense of community, and convenient location, Tigard is an attractive option for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
What are the cons of living in Tigard, Oregon?
While Tigard, Oregon, has many advantages, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. One of the significant disadvantages of living in Tigard is the traffic, particularly during rush hour, which can be heavy and congested. Additionally, the city’s growth and development have led to an increase in housing costs, making it less affordable for some people. The city’s weather can also be a drawback for some, with significant rainfall during the winter months and mild temperatures during the summer. Some residents may also find the city’s suburban atmosphere too quiet or lackluster, particularly if they are used to the hustle and bustle of city life.
Despite these drawbacks, many residents find that the advantages of living in Tigard outweigh the disadvantages. The city is continually working to improve its infrastructure and reduce traffic congestion, and there are efforts underway to increase affordable housing options. Additionally, the city’s weather, while rainy, is also mild and temperate, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and gardening. For those who value a sense of community and a more relaxed pace of life, Tigard’s suburban atmosphere can be a significant advantage. Overall, while there are some potential drawbacks to living in Tigard, the city remains a popular choice for people looking for a high quality of life in the Pacific Northwest.
What are the job opportunities like in Tigard, Oregon?
Tigard, Oregon, has a diverse economy with a range of job opportunities in various industries. The city is home to several major employers, including technology companies, healthcare providers, and manufacturing firms. Additionally, the city’s proximity to Portland and other surrounding cities provides access to a wide range of job opportunities, from entry-level positions to executive roles. The city also has a thriving small business community, with many entrepreneurs and startups calling Tigard home. With a strong and growing economy, Tigard is an excellent choice for job seekers and professionals looking to advance their careers.
The city’s job market is also supported by its highly educated workforce, with a high percentage of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city has a range of resources and programs in place to support businesses and entrepreneurs, including the Tigard Chamber of Commerce and the City of Tigard’s Economic Development Department. These resources provide assistance with everything from business planning and financing to recruitment and training. With its diverse economy, highly educated workforce, and business-friendly environment, Tigard is an attractive location for companies and job seekers alike, offering a wide range of job opportunities and career advancement possibilities.
What are the best things to do in Tigard, Oregon?
Tigard, Oregon, is a city with a wide range of activities and attractions, making it an excellent choice for people who enjoy outdoor recreation, cultural events, and community activities. The city has numerous parks and trails, including the Fanno Creek Trail and the Tigard River Park, which offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking. The city also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Tigard Festival of Balloons, the Tigard Summer Concert Series, and the Tigard Holiday Parade. Additionally, the city’s downtown area is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, including the Tigard Public Library and the Broadway Rose Theatre Company.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Tigard is close to several major attractions, including the Oregon Zoo, the Portland Japanese Garden, and the Columbia River Gorge. The city is also home to several golf courses, including the Summer Lake Golf Course and the Tigard Golf Course, which offer challenging play and beautiful scenery. With its wide range of activities and attractions, Tigard is an excellent choice for people of all ages and interests, from families with young children to retirees and everyone in between. Whether you enjoy outdoor recreation, cultural events, or simply exploring a new city, Tigard has something to offer.
What is the cost of living in Tigard, Oregon?
The cost of living in Tigard, Oregon, is relatively high compared to other cities in the United States. The city’s proximity to Portland and its highly desirable location in the Pacific Northwest contribute to its higher cost of living. Housing costs, in particular, are a significant factor, with the median home price in Tigard exceeding $400,000. Additionally, the city’s sales tax rate is higher than in some other states, and the cost of groceries, transportation, and utilities is also relatively high. However, many residents find that the city’s high quality of life, excellent schools, and convenient location make it worth the extra cost.
Despite the higher cost of living, Tigard is still a relatively affordable option compared to other cities in the Portland metro area. The city offers a range of housing options, from apartments and condos to single-family homes, which can help make it more affordable for people with different budgets and lifestyles. Additionally, the city’s strong economy and high median household income mean that many residents have the financial resources to support the higher cost of living. With its excellent schools, convenient location, and high quality of life, Tigard is an attractive choice for people who are willing to pay a premium for a desirable place to live.
Is Tigard, Oregon, a safe city?
Tigard, Oregon, is considered a safe city, with a low crime rate compared to other cities of similar size. The city’s police department is highly rated, and the community has a strong sense of cooperation and mutual respect, which helps to prevent crime and keep the city safe. Additionally, the city has a range of programs and initiatives in place to support public safety, including neighborhood watch programs, community policing, and crime prevention education. The city’s low crime rate and strong sense of community make it an attractive choice for families, young professionals, and retirees who value a safe and secure place to live.
The city’s safety is also reflected in its low rates of violent crime and property crime. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, Tigard has a lower crime rate than many other cities in the United States. The city’s safe environment is also supported by its excellent schools, community resources, and social services, which help to foster a sense of well-being and stability among residents. With its low crime rate, strong community, and excellent public safety programs, Tigard is an excellent choice for people who value a safe and secure place to live, work, and raise a family.
What are the schools like in Tigard, Oregon?
The schools in Tigard, Oregon, are highly rated and considered some of the best in the state. The Tigard-Tualatin School District serves the city, with several highly-rated schools in the area, including Tigard High School, Tualatin High School, and Fowler Middle School. The district is known for its strong academic programs, excellent teachers, and supportive community, which help to provide students with a well-rounded education and prepare them for success in college and beyond. Additionally, the city has several private schools and charter schools, which offer alternative educational options for families who prefer a more specialized or personalized education.
The city’s schools are also supported by a range of community resources and programs, including the Tigard-Tualatin School District Foundation, which provides funding and support for educational initiatives and programs. The city’s libraries, including the Tigard Public Library, also offer a range of educational resources and programs for students of all ages, from storytime for young children to study groups and research assistance for high school and college students. With its excellent schools, supportive community, and range of educational resources, Tigard is an attractive choice for families with school-age children who value a high-quality education and a supportive learning environment.