Oregon is also famous for its natural resources such as forests, rivers, shorelines, and mountains which have made it a tourist destination for travelers from all over the world. But for those with an intention of migrating, they have a question in mind- is it safe to live in Oregon? Although there is no perfect town that can be completely safe from different kinds of threats, some cities in Oregon are considered to be very dangerous according to national safety ratings. Oregon is a beautiful state, and if you are planning to relocate to this state and safety is among the aspects you are keen on, then there are some of the safest cities that we believe you should consider.
Forest Grove
Forest Grove is only 25 miles from downtown Portland and although it has the feel of a small country town; it lacks nothing in comfort. In addition to its location near Portland, Forest Grove is strategically situated within the wine country trail in Oregon. Here you will get a modern bustle of the active downtown with a large quantity of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars, most of which are owned by the locals. Local streets are wide enough for car traffic, houses here are mostly historic, and you can always get to Bachelors Forest Park relatively fast since it is within the city.
I am happy to report that crime rates in Forest Grove are remarkably low and the local police work 24/7 to make sure they stay that way. It is quite notable that the violent crimes were only recorded to be 157 in the entire year of 2019. Forest Grove Pride is a friendly neighborhood where events are conducted throughout the year at the neighborhood level. If you are a family that needs safety but would also like to have several outdoor activities to indulge in within proximity, then Forest Grove in Oregon would be the place to go.
West Linn
, surrounded by the picturesque Willamette River only 10 miles away from Portland, West Linn offers beautiful scenic areas with proximity to employment opportunities and the metropolitan environment. As a result, West Linn is a popular destination for young families seeking to improve their quality of life in a safe environment with excellent public schools.
West Linn follows the Oregon state statistics and the rate of violent crime is considerably low compared to the state average and the national figure backed by community-oriented policing. West Linn boasts of a lively park system with numerous activity complexes, soccer fields, and walking paths, besides an opportunity to navigate the Willamette River on a boat or a kayak. And upstream to the north are the historic Willamette Falls together with the vast expanse of Clackamette Park. Families who love to take the outdoors are guaranteed to be enthralled with the beauty of West Linn city that is complemented by safety.
Lake Oswego
This city has been time and again listed among the best suburbs in Oregon; it lies along the Willamette River about 8 miles south of Portland. Lake Oswego has stunning views over the mountains such as Mount St. Helens, Mount Rainier, and Mount Hood on the hillsides of the river valley. The good quality public education, low incidence of crime, preserved architecture of older homes, and abundant green space are attractive to young people who wish to start their families.
Violent crimes are also low with data from 2019 showing that Lake Oswego had recorded less than 40 violent crimes with the city hosting a population of nearly 40,000 residents. Most of the locations in Lake Oswego are easily accessible by foot since there are smooth concrete pathways for walks, bicycle riding, and jogging that cover downtown, schools, parks, and residential areas.
Conclusion
There isn’t a community without certain risks, but some cities in Oregon are ranked very high for safety, and these include Forest Grove, West Linn, and Lake Oswego. In addition to low crime, these appealing suburbs feature a short distance to Portland as well as a variety of recreational activities and friendly neighbourhoods. If maintaining the optimum balance of safety and comfort comprises your relocation priority list, do not miss reading this list of safest cities in Oregon.