Let the numbers do the talking.
Bend, OR vs Hillsboro, OR
Bend, OR vs Hillsboro, OR: What the data shows
Bend, OR is in Bend, OR while Hillsboro, OR is in Hillsboro, OR — both in the same state. On home prices, Hillsboro, OR is the more affordable option at $457,700 median — $30,500 less than Bend, OR's $488,200. WYLT rates Bend, OR as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Hillsboro, OR as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Bend, OR has the stronger safety profile of the two. Bend, OR has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Hillsboro, OR has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Bend, OR has Low flood risk and Hillsboro, OR has Low flood risk.
The two neighborhoods are similarly walkable. Bend, OR scores 7/100 (car-dependent) versus Hillsboro, OR's 7/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Bend, OR rates 8.6/10 and Hillsboro, OR rates 8.6/10.
| Category | Bend, OR | Hillsboro, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $488K | $458K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $72K | $101K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 7/100 | 7/100 |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 2/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 31/100 ✓ More bikeable | 18/100 |
| Commute | 120 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.6/10 | 8.6/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesOutdoor enthusiastsRemote workers | Families with childrenProfessionals who commute to PortlandDog owners looking for parks |
Bottom line
For families with school-aged children, Hillsboro is the better choice due to its slightly better schools and shorter commute to Portland. Bend is more suitable for those who prioritize outdoor activities and a suburban atmosphere, but will require a car and may not be willing to budget for the higher cost of living. The commute to Portland is significantly longer in Bend, making Hillsboro a better option for professionals who need to commute daily.
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