It is widely recognized for its wonderful landscapes, liberal ideas, and, in general, a very good quality of living. If you are searching for a place to start a family, Oregon has several beautiful small towns that include picturesque landscapes, low crime rates, and a strong sense of fellowship.
Forest Grove
They are situated in the town of Forest Grove which is just 25 miles from Portland and the name of the town perfectly reflects its atmosphere. It has a population of 23,000 people and it is rated among the safest communities as there is little violence and rarely recorded acts of violent crimes. Forest Grove is a city that has pine forests alongside farmland to provide an agrarian economy blended with high-tech industries. It is the home of Pacific University, which makes it to be associated with youthful demography and a developing cultural base. From nature walks to farmer’s markets, concerts, and more, Forest Grove is the picturesque and tranquil lifestyle that comes with safety and serenity.
West Linn
Located on the edge of the Willamette River and situated only 10 miles south of Portland, West Linn blends the beauty of natural areas with subdivisions and active communities. This hilly city is endowed with riverfront parks, an old town with many interning shops and eating places, and many acres for sporting and other outdoor activities. GREAT SCHOOLS: West Linn has highly-rated public schools, LOW CRIME and UNEMPLOYMENT rates, and LIVELY community events including summer concert series and farmers markets, making it one of the best small towns in Oregon.
Lake Oswego
Adjacent to the vast Lake Oswego, this is among the safest towns in the State of Oregon. It does not have a high crime rate as compared to other cities in the country and the state. A specialty shopping area and fine arts district, the city’s farmers market, lakefront jazz concerts in the summer, and top-notch galleries are all found in this community. Monumental Mt Hood can be seen rising in the distance and endless tracks of varied terrains lure the adventure seekers. Good educational facilities, golf courses, parks, and other community activities such as the annual flower festivals make this beautiful town as charming as any small town.
St. Helens
For anyone, who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Portland metropolitan area and find some tranquility in nature within a relatively short drive, St. Helens has everything to offer. Hugging the Columbia River with the conical silhouette of Mount St. Helens looming over it, this 13,000 inhabitants town boasts crime rates that are significantly lower than both the state and the average national rates for violent and property crimes. It has dozens of miles of trails through virgin forest and its major attractions consist of two golf courses, fishing and picnic places and parks, and typical suburban development such as shops, restaurants, and coffee shops just within proximity.
Sherwood
With an area of only about 30 minutes from Portland, this developing town also maintains the rural character of tree-lined neighborhoods, community parks, and an active Old Town district. A historic town that is part of the Oregon Trail, Sherwood today is a picture of the American with a contemporary twist towards eco-agriculture, art, and learning. Rich farmland is found in Sherwood where the growth of vineyards, lavender crops, and fruits are grown. Low crime rates, cheap property, and family-oriented community celebrations, for instance, Robin Hood Days make Sherwood one of the most preferred places in the Willamette Valley region of Oregon.
Toledo
Located on ten miles of the scenic bend of the Yaquina River on the central coast of Oregon, Toledo is a serene town that is surrounded by vineyards, meadows, and peaceful forests. Sitting just 30 minutes from Newport’s gorgeous coastlines, Toledo boasts astoundingly little crime compared to the large number of other benefits of a small-town lifestyle. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty of businesses with recreational facilities including beaches, parks, golf courses, and clear skies that offer the perfect backdrop for astronomy, all within a short drive from the property. Restaurants and quaint homes, shopping boutiques, and the annual events such as ‘A Taste of Toledo’ wine and food festival are ideal for those who want to escape the college town crowds.
Sisters
Sisters: Alpine Charm Meets Modern Recreation Located in the heart of Central Oregon at the foot of the Cascade Mountains, Sisters is a perfect blend of wooden cabins and contemporary adventures. This friendly village overlooks magnificent snow-clad mountains, and the town is a perfect mix of picturesque countryside brilliant ranches, and colorful independent stores that are housed in a western-style main street of the town. Chances of violent crime are extremely low making it ideal to host those who prefer adventurous activities such as hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing, as well as spending leisure time in craft breweries, and other events like Sisters Rodeo and Sisters Folk Festival.
In Summary
From the wine country and high desert country, along the riverside communities to college towns, Oregon can provide safe havens for people seeking to escape crime and stress and the city. Places like Forest Grove, West Linn, Lake Oswego, and other towns are a revelation to a visitor when the mundane realities of life are interwoven with the beauty of nature and character of small towns including friendly neighborhoods, quality schools, and other small townership services. Safe, scenic, and equipped with all the charms of small towns.
