Let the numbers do the talking.
Albany, OR vs Bend, OR
Albany, OR vs Bend, OR: What the data shows
Albany, OR is in Albany, OR while Bend, OR is in Bend, OR — both in the same state. On home prices, Albany, OR is the more affordable option at $397,600 median — $90,600 less than Bend, OR's $488,200. WYLT rates Albany, OR as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Bend, OR as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Bend, OR has the stronger safety profile of the two. Albany, OR has High violent crime and Moderate property crime. Bend, OR has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Albany, OR has Low flood risk and Bend, OR has Low flood risk.
Bend, OR is the more walkable neighborhood. Albany, OR scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus Bend, OR's 7/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Bend, OR has the higher school rating — Albany, OR rates 8.1/10 and Bend, OR rates 8.6/10.
| Category | Albany, OR | Bend, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $398K ✓ Lower price | $488K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $94K ✓ Higher income | $72K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 | 7/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 31/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min ✓ Shorter commute | 120 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with school‑focused kidsBudget‑conscious buyers looking for a foothold in the regionSuburban commuters who can drive | FamiliesOutdoor enthusiastsRemote workers |
Bottom line
For families with school-focused kids, Albany might be a slightly better choice due to its lower commute time and comparable school ratings. However, its rising crime chatter and high cost of living may outweigh those benefits. For most other people, Bend offers a more comprehensive package of amenities and is a more appealing fit, although its lengthy commute to Portland is a drawback.
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