Living the Dream: The Costs of Making Bend, Oregon Your Home

by Stacey Sebastian

Hey there, future Bendite! Welcome to the magical world of Bend, Oregon - a place where adventure, community, and stunning landscapes come together to create a dreamy Pacific Northwest experience. If you've been toying with the idea of calling Bend your new home, I’ve got all the details you need to plan your ideal life here. Let's dive right into the nitty-gritty of the cost of living in this slice of paradise.

Housing: Bend's housing market is as vibrant and diverse as the people who call it home. Median home prices hover around $550,000 offering a wide range of options from cozy downtown condos to spacious homes with mountain views. Whether you're looking for a charming fixer-upper or a luxurious retreat, Bend's real estate market has something for everyone.

Click this link to search homes in Bend, Oregon

Utilities: On average, expect to spend about $150 to $200 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash services. Plus, with Bend's abundant sunshine, it's also a fantastic place for solar energy savings. Embrace the sustainable lifestyle and reduce your utility bills.

Groceries: Keeping your adventure-fueled self well-fed means budgeting about $400 to $600 a month for groceries. The local markets and farms in Bend offer fresh, sustainable options that not only nourish you but also support the community.

Transportation: Navigating Bend is a breeze without heavy traffic. Gas prices align with national averages, but many Bendites choose biking or walking, fully embracing the city's outdoor lifestyle. It's not just eco-friendly; it's pocket-friendly too.

Cascade East Transit

E-Bike Share

Property Taxes: Property taxes in Bend are relatively moderate, with an average rate of 1.1% of the assessed home value. When you invest in Bend, you're investing in its schools, parks, and infrastructure - all contributing to the city's charm and quality of life.

Deschutes Property Taxes

Education & Healthcare: Bend boasts excellent schools and top-notch healthcare facilities. Expect quality education for your little adventurers and access to top-tier healthcare. While it may contribute to a slightly higher cost of living, the peace of mind is worth it. Don’t forget flight insurance!

Bend La-Pine School District

High Lakes Healthcare

St Charles Hospital

Summit Health

Praxis Health

Miscellaneous: Living in Bend isn't just about the basics; it's about fully embracing the lifestyle. From dining out at local eateries to enjoying the vast array of outdoor activities, budget for leisure because quality of life matters.

In Bend, you're not just paying for a place to live; you're investing in a lifestyle unmatched in beauty and community spirit. While the cost of living may be higher than the national average, the trade-offs are a vibrant community, unparalleled natural beauty, and an active, fulfilling way of life.

Ready to make Bend your home? Let's chat about turning your dream into a reality!