Oregon is well known for its vibrant culture, progressive politics, and stunning natural surroundings.
Nonetheless, the state has seen a significant population decline in recent years, especially from Portland, its capital. Where are they heading and what are the reasons behind this enormous migration?
Multnomah County Lost $1 Billion Due to the Portland Exodus
Since 2020, Portland, the largest and most populous city in Oregon, has seen a decline in both population and prosperity.
The independent Economic Innovation Group has analyzed tax data and found that migration out of Multnomah County, which includes Portland, caused adjusted gross income to drop by $1.1 billion between 2020 and 2021. Since income taxes support public services, retail sales, and the property market, this is a huge blow to the local economy.
Additionally, the study found that the wages of those who left Portland were disproportionately high, suggesting that some of the wealthiest and most productive residents of the city left.
The average pay for those who stayed was $74,000, compared to $112,000 for those who left. Given that Multnomah County depends on high-income citizens to pay for the 2020-enacted preschool for all and homeless services levies, this could have an effect on the city’s revenue base.
There are various reasons people leave Portland, but some common ones are the high expense of living, rising crime rates, political unrest, and the shift to faraway work brought on by the epidemic.
Additionally, some citizens expressed dissatisfaction with the city’s governance and leadership, citing a lack of transparency and accountability.
California Exodus: Where Are People Moving After Leaving the State?
Residents Are Also Leaving Other Oregon Cities
There are other cities in Oregon that are losing residents besides Portland. The following are some additional Oregon cities where citizens are escaping in large numbers, based on USPS change-of-address statistics:
Eugene: The University of Oregon is located in Eugene, the second-largest city in Oregon. It is also a center of culture. Nevertheless, it lacks economic diversification, has a low vacancy rate, and a high cost of living. Eugene lost 2,400 households, or 1.6% of its total population, between 2020 and 2021.
Salem: The Willamette Valley is home to Salem, the capital of Oregon, which offers both urban and rural attractions. But it also has a low median income, a high poverty rate, and a lack of reasonably priced housing. Salem lost 1,900 residences, or 1.3% of its total population, between 2020 and 2021.
Bend: With mountains, rivers, and forests all around, Bend is a well-liked destination for outdoor activities. However, because demand for homes is significantly greater than supply, it is also going through a housing crisis.
With a typical home price of over $600,000, Bend has one of the most expensive property markets in the state. Between 2020 and 2021, Bend lost 1,100 homes, or 1.2% of its total population.
Maine Exodus: Why So Many Are Leaving and Where They’re Going Instead
Where Are People in Oregon Relocating?
Other states gain residents as Oregon loses. The top 10 states that Oregonians are relocating, based on USPS data, are as follows:
Idaho: Because of its lower cost of living, more conservative political climate, and similar natural environs, Idaho is the most popular destination for Oregonians. 7,800 households from Oregon moved to Idaho between 2020 and 2021, making about 4.4% of the state’s total population.
Texas: Due to its robust economy, low tax burden, and diverse culture, Texas is the second most popular destination for Oregonians. 6,300 households from Oregon moved to Texas between 2020 and 2021, making up 0.2% of the state’s total population.
Arizona: Arizona’s pleasant climate, retiree-friendly way of life, and booming tech sector make it the third most popular travel destination for Oregonians. 5,900 households from Oregon moved to Arizona between 2020 and 2021, making about 0.8% of the state’s total population.
New Mexico Exodus: The Cities People Are Choosing After Leaving the State
Washington: Due to its high-tech industry, lack of income tax, and similar geographic and cultural proximity, Washington is Oregonians’ fourth most popular choice. 5,800 households from Oregon moved to Washington between 2020 and 2021, making about 0.8% of the state’s total population.
Florida: Florida’s warm weather, low cost of living, and booming tourism industry make it the fifth most popular destination for Oregonians. 4,900 households from Oregon moved to Florida between 2020 and 2021, accounting for 0.2% of the state’s total population.
The top ten states are completed by Nevada, Colorado, Montana, Utah, and Tennessee.