Oregon, known as the "Beaver State", is a Pacific Northwest state with high income tax but no sales tax. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Beaver State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Oregon for a single person earning the median income of $71,200/year:
Each category shows how Oregon compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Oregon.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Oregon.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Oregon:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Oregon, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Oregon is $475,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,400/month. With a housing cost index of 131, Oregon housing is 31% more expensive than the national average.
Housing affordability is a real challenge in Oregon. Many residents spend well over 30% of their income on housing. Consider looking at suburbs or smaller cities within the state for significantly lower costs.
Oregon has a state income tax rate of 9.9%. On the median household income of $71,200, you will pay approximately $7,049/year in state income tax ($587/month). This is one of the higher rates nationally and significantly impacts disposable income.
The average single person in Oregon spends approximately $430/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,075-$1,290/month. The food cost index of 101 means groceries in Oregon are 1% above the national average.
Gas prices in Oregon average $3.75/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $2,250/year in fuel costs.
Oregon healthcare costs are 5% above the national average (index: 105). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Oregon is approximately $6,300 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Oregon averages $1,100/month ($13,200/year). This is a substantial but manageable expense for dual-income households. Many families in Oregon find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Oregon is a higher-cost state, but the higher expenses often come with higher incomes, better infrastructure, and more job opportunities. The median household income of $71,200 helps offset the 13% premium on living costs.
See all Oregon financial calculators:
Oregon (OR) has a cost of living index of 113, meaning it is 13% more expensive than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 131. The median rent is $1,400/month and the median home price is $475,000. Oregon ranks #41 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Oregon is approximately $92,560/year ($7,713/month). For a family of four, aim for $156,640/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($430/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Oregon is $71,200.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Oregon is approximately $1,400/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,890/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Portland, Salem, Eugene are the most popular metro areas. Housing costs in Oregon are above average — budget carefully.
Oregon is a more expensive state (COL index 113), but offers strong job markets and high median incomes ($71,200). Popular areas include Portland, Salem, Eugene.
The most affordable areas in Oregon are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Oregon, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Portland metro) and more affordable areas. Bend and Medford tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Oregon for a single person is approximately $430 ($1,075 for a family of four). Oregon food costs are 1% above the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Oregon is approximately $115. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $253/month. Oregon utilities are 8% below the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Oregon has a state income tax rate of 9.9%. On the median household income of $71,200, that is approximately $7,049/year in state income tax. This is among the highest in the nation.