Let the numbers do the talking.
Albany, OR vs Hillsboro, OR
Albany, OR vs Hillsboro, OR: What the data shows
Albany, OR is in Albany, OR while Hillsboro, OR is in Hillsboro, OR — both in the same state. On home prices, Albany, OR is the more affordable option at $397,600 median — $60,100 less than Hillsboro, OR's $457,700. WYLT rates Albany, OR as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Hillsboro, OR as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Hillsboro, OR has the stronger safety profile of the two. Albany, OR has High violent crime and Moderate property crime. Hillsboro, OR has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Albany, OR has Low flood risk and Hillsboro, OR has Low flood risk.
Hillsboro, OR is the more walkable neighborhood. Albany, OR scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus Hillsboro, OR's 7/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Hillsboro, OR has the higher school rating — Albany, OR rates 8.1/10 and Hillsboro, OR rates 8.6/10.
| Category | Albany, OR | Hillsboro, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $398K ✓ Lower price | $458K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $94K | $101K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 | 7/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 2/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Moderate ✓ 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 | Families with childrenProfessionals who commute to PortlandDog owners looking for parks |
Bottom line
Hillsboro is a better choice for families and professionals who want a more established suburban lifestyle with easy access to Portland, given its higher-rated schools and shorter commute time. Albany may be a more budget-friendly option, but its rising crime concerns and poor walkability make it less desirable for most buyers. For those prioritizing affordability and decent schools, Albany might be worth considering, but Hillsboro's overall livability and stronger community make it the more appealing option.
Share this comparison