A beautifully scenic city in the Pacific Northwest, Eugene is known for its vibrant arts community and rich culture influenced by the hippie lifestyle, activism and alternative ideas.
If you are planning or considering a move to this free-thinking city, read on for more information to ensure that it is the right place for you.
Eugene Climate
Eugene lies in the Marine West Coast climate zone, with some characteristics of a Mediterranean climate. Weather in the region is moderate, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing or exceeding 90 degrees.
The city experiences warm, dry summers with temperatures in the 70s and 80s, and cool, wet winters with temperatures in the 30s and 40s. Spring and fall are the wettest seasons, with light rain that falls over long periods. Annual rainfall accumulates to about 45 inches.
Snowfall is infrequent and sporadic, and rarely accumulates to a significant amount--only about three to five inches a year.
Eugene Neighborhoods
Before choosing a part of the city to live, be sure to conduct thorough research on the cost, convenience and crime rates in the area. The city is home to a variety of diverse districts, each with something unique to offer.
If you are relocating with a family and safety is a primary concern, the areas of the city with the lowest rates of crime are Crow Road, Pine Grove Road, Irving, Lorane and Linslaw.
If you're wondering what parts of the city are known for luxurious living, some of the most affluent areas include Agate Street, Fairmount Boulevard, the University of Oregon area, and College Hill.
If you will be relocating with children, the areas with proximate access to public schools include Agate Street, Fairmount Boulevard, West 18th Avenue, Jefferson Street, Hilyard Street, Crest Drive, and Willamette Street.
Registering Your Car
Upon establishing residency in your new home state of Oregon, you will have 30 days to title and register your vehicle in the state. You will need to fill out an application, pass a safety/admissions test, and have the proper documents.
To transfer your driver's license, you will have to fill out and submit an application, take a photo, pay the applicable fees, bring your old out of state license, supply your Social Security number, present proof of birth and residence, pass an eye exam and a written test.
Eugene Schools
Public education in the city is served by two districts: the Eugene School District and the Bethel School District.
Eugene School District operates 18 elementary schools, seven middle schools, four high schools, and four charter schools. The district serves about 85 percent of Eugene's residents, with an enrollment of about 16,500 students.
The Bethel School District serves students living in the northwest section of Eugene, with five elementary schools, two middle schools, two K-8 schools, and two high schools, with an enrollment of about 5,700 students.
If you would prefer to send your child to a private school, options include Eugene Waldorf School, Eugene Sudbury School, Wellsprings Friends School, Oak Hill School, and The Little French School. If you wish to send your child to a parochial school for a religious-based education, look into Marist Catholic High School, O'Hara Catholic Elementary School, or St. Paul Parish School.
For options in higher learning, the city is home to the University of Oregon, Northwest Christian University, New Hope Christian College, Gutenberg College, Pacific University's Eugene campus and Lane Community College.
Eugene Employment
With an unemployment rate below the national average-- 6.8 percent as of May 2013--the city is the perfect place to relocate for a job. Major industries in Eugene include the manufacture of wood products and recreational vehicles, and the largest employers in the city are PeaceHealth Medical Group, the University of Oregon and the Eugene School District.
No matter where you relocate, the pressure of finding a job can be quite stressful. If you are moving to the city without secured employment, you can visit the Worksource Oregon website for job-hunting assistance and resources for the region. If you are an aspiring entrepreneur, you can contact the Eugene Chamber of Commerce for information on how to start a business in the city. You can also apply for city jobs at the Eugene Government official website.
Living Costs in the City
The cost of living in Eugene is eight percent above the national average, with utility expenses being the most affordable at eleven percent less than the average rate. Grocery costs are low as well, at five percent less than the average American city.
Healthcare and housing costs are the highest expenses, at about 15 percent and 30 percent above average, respectively. Transportation costs are 11 percent above the average national rate.
If you are planning on renting in the city, a one-bedroom apartment will cost you around $800 a month, and a two-bedroom will rent for about $1,000 depending on location, size and amenities. If you plan to buy, the median home price in the city is $211,400.
Eugene Moving Resources
There are many moving and storage companies located in Eugene that are waiting to help you relocate to your new home. Be sure to do your research and obtain estimates from several different services before choosing one for hire. You can compare online quotes from many different moving companies and other services to aid you in your move, whether you are coming from the next city or overseas. Visit the following pages here at Movers.com to get fast quotes for the following services:
Eugene Transportation
Public transit in the city is operated by the Lane Transit District, which provides bus service to the Eugene and Springfield metropolitan areas, as well as other communities in Lane County. The main LTD terminal in the city is located at Eugene Station.
LTD also operates a bus rapid transit line, Emerald Express, that runs between Eugene and Springfield, as well as a paratransit service for the elderly and disabled.
Culture and Contemporary Life
The city of Eugene has a vibrant arts community, an array of outdoor recreation options, and a significant presence of hippie culture. The city is home to over 20 private art galleries and organizations, including Maude Kerns Art Center, Lane Arts Council, and the Downtown Initiative for the Visual Arts.
The city hosts a multitude of cultural events and festivals, such as the annual Eugene Celebration, a three-day block party held downtown; the KLCC Microbrew Festival, an event commerating the Pacific Northwest cultural staple of craft beer; and the Oregon Festival of American Music, held annually every summer.
The Eugene Saturday Market is an outdoor congregation of vendors selling homemade crafts and home-grown produce. The market has been open every Saturday from April until November since 1970, and features live music and food vendors.
Located on the Willamette River, the city is known for its beautiful scenery and resident love to take advantage of the recreational opportunities. Boating, kayaking, rafting, hiking, and biking are all popular past times enjoyed by locals in Eugene.
Eugene Relocation Tips
- Make sure you extensively research any moving company you are considering for hire. Begin by comparing quotes from several movers that can service your move to Eugene, then perform a background check by reading reviews, checking references, and verifying the company's DOT number on the FMCSA website.
- Save money on your move by downsizing your belongings before you relocate! The less you haul with you, the less you will spend, so be sure to sort through your possessions and donate, sell, or give away whatever you can do without.
- Pick up a copy of the region's largest newspaper, The Register Guard, to find out the latest news and events in your new city.