There are many things to consider when choosing a location to build your new home. The Willamette Valley spans 150 miles in Oregon, from Portland near the Washington border down to Eugene. Throughout the valley you’ll enjoy world-class wine tasting, NCAA Division I sports teams, scenic biking trails along the two major rivers and much more.
If you love the Pacific Northwest, keep reading to learn why you should build your home in the Willamette Valley.
1. The Heart of Oregon
Approximately 70% of Oregon’s population lives in the Willamette Valley, so moving here means moving to the heart of Oregon. The Willamette Valley is a great place for outdoorsy people. You can go west and ride ATVs through the coastline sand dunes or load up the skis, head east and carve the slopes of one of several alpine mountains.
While land in Portland can be expensive, you can still find affordable land to build your home in cities like Salem, which offer amenities and activities at a lower price point.
2. Access to State Parks, Forests, and Preserves
The Willamette Valley has over 15 state parks and several state forests. These parks are rich with scenery, hikes, and more scenery for your next adventure. These include:
- Hiking the Cascade Mountains
- Boating
- Fishing
- Swimming in the Willamette River
- Exploring the grasslands and forests
3. Temperate Weather
The Willamette Valley is a great place to live if you dislike the heat. With frequent showers and cloud cover in the Winter, the valley maintains a mild climate.
Even the summers are temperate — generally sunny and dry which makes for perfect pool weather. Bring your swimwear, and take advantage of a short drive to the beach from almost anywhere in the valley.
Severe storms are rare. Though tornadoes do occur, they are infrequent and do negligible damage.
4. Abundant Local Agriculture
Once known as a “promised land of flowing milk and honey,” the Willamette Valley region has long been an agricultural hub. Farmers and ranchers produce over 150 different agricultural products here, including:
- Tree fruits and nuts
- Wine grapes
- Vegetables
- Christmas trees
- Wheat
- Oats
- Mint
- Hops
If you are searching for fresh air and even fresher food, Willamette Valley is the right place to build.
5. Local Flavors
Famous for its wine, the majority of Oregon’s wineries are in Willamette Valley. There are also over 19,000 vineyards in the valley.
Another reason to build your home in the Willamette Valley is the craft breweries. If you’re a beer snob, you’ll love trying a new local brewery every week, especially if you make Portland your home.
6. Rich Family-friendly Culture
The Willamette Valley has activities for all ages. If you’re looking for a place to raise a family, look no further. From the great outdoors to bustling cities, there is something for every member of your family.
If nature and agriculture aren’t your things, you can also enjoy one or more of the following in Portland, Salem, and other larger cities in the region:
- Museums
- Concerts, festivals, and shows
- The Oregon Zoo
- The Japanese Gardens in Portland
7. Career Opportunities
For those looking for a change in career or better opportunities, Willamette Valley is an excellent place to build your new home.
Although it has a growing tech scene, the valley also has a diverse local economy, with job opportunities for workers from many sectors.
Many large companies, such as Nike and StanCorp Financial Group, operate headquarters in the Willamette Valley.
8. Appreciation for the Arts
Many of the cities in the Willamette Valley emphasize the arts. Portland in particular is a hub for aspiring and established artists alike, as well as art lovers. The city features monthly art walks, film festivals, book festivals, and other events.
If you are an artist, you’ll find ample opportunities to show and sell art and join in the local art scene if you build your home in the Willamette Valley.
9. Experience History
You don’t have to be a historian to appreciate the rich history that lives in Willamette Valley.
From the first human settlement of the valley around 10,000 years ago until now, Willamette Valley has been home to many historical events. Some of these include:
- The famous Oregon Trail
- The Lewis and Clark expedition
- The Hudson Bay Company and the fur trade
- Indigenous cultures
10. Top-Rated Custom Home Builders
If you’re looking to build your forever home and think the beautiful Willamette Valley is right for you, we have good news.
Schar Construction is your go-to custom home builder for peace of mind and quality homes. We are a top builder with ample experience and can help you build your home in the Willamette Valley.
Contact us at (541) 229-0773 to discuss floor plans, see homes for sale, or find out how we’re the right fit for your upcoming construction project.
