Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Baker City, OR
Considering a move to Baker City, OR? With a friendly population of about 9,650 and affordable housing—median home prices around $235,000 and average rents near $850—Baker City offers small-town charm and a lower cost of living. Commute times are short at just 13 minutes, and the area enjoys 64% sunny days each year. While property crime rates are slightly above national averages, the community boasts a welcoming atmosphere, local schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation in Oregon’s scenic countryside.
Demographics - Baker City, OR
Demographics - Baker City, OR
Baker City is home to about 9,650 residents, with a median age of 43.7, reflecting a mature and stable community. The city is predominantly White, with over 91% of the population, and maintains a balanced gender ratio. A small percentage of residents speak languages other than English, contributing to a close-knit but slightly diverse atmosphere.
Population:
9,650
Density:
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.7
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.2%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
7.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Baker City, OR?
Baker City offers a cost of living below the national average, with a cost of living index of 88.6 and a median home value of $235,000. Residents benefit from modest rent costs around $850 per month and affordable utilities, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families and retirees. State taxes range from 4.75% to 9.9%, but overall expenses remain manageable compared to many urban areas.
Median House Value:
$235,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
9.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.6
Grocery:
97.2
Housing:
69.5
Utilities:
89.3
Transportation:
91.0
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
95.5
Crime
Is Baker City, OR a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Baker City are moderate, with a violent crime rate of 180 per 100,000 residents and property crime at 2,230 per 100,000. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is about 1 in 555, while property crime risk is higher at 1 in 45. While property crime is slightly above national averages, the city maintains a generally safe and friendly environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,230
Crime Index:
2,410
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Baker City, OR year-round?
Baker City experiences four distinct seasons, featuring warm summers with highs near 87°F and cold winters dipping to 18°F. The area receives about 11.6 inches of rain annually and enjoys 64% sunny days, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Spring and fall offer mild, pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring the scenic surroundings.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
37°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
50°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
31°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
11.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
64%
Neighbors
Residents of Baker City typically enjoy a relaxed pace of life, with a median household income of $47,200 and a low average commute time of just over 13 minutes. The community has a high rate of high school graduates, and about 19.8% have a bachelor's degree or higher. Despite a poverty rate of 14.8%, the small-town atmosphere fosters close community ties and friendly neighborhoods.
Median Income:
$32,400
Household Income:
$47,200
Family Income:
$58,800
Per Capita Income:
$25,150
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
14.8%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
6.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.4%
Bachelors or More:
19.8%
Education
How are the schools in Baker City, OR?
Education in Baker City includes several public and private schools, such as Baker High School and Baker Valley Christian School, catering to a range of student needs. Class sizes are reasonable, with student-teacher ratios around 18 to 19, supporting personalized learning. For higher education, Eastern Oregon University is located 45 miles away in La Grande, expanding opportunities for local students.
Public Schools
Name:
Baker High School
Street:
2500 E St
Phone:
541-524-2600
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.2
Name:
South Baker Intermediate School
Street:
1285 Third St
Phone:
541-524-2300
Students:
450
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.8
Private Schools
Name:
Baker Valley Christian School
Street:
2998 8th St
Phone:
541-523-5453
Students:
70
Colleges
Name:
Eastern Oregon University (La Grande campus)
City:
La Grande
State:
OR
Distance:
45 miles
Students:
3,400
Healthcare
Healthcare in Baker City is anchored by Saint Alphonsus Medical Center, providing general and emergency services locally. With 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage, most healthcare needs are met within the community. The area maintains a solid healthcare index, supporting residents' well-being and peace of mind.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Saint Alphonsus Medical Center - Baker City
Address:
3325 Pocahontas Rd, Baker City, OR 97814
Phone:
(541) 523-6461
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.1%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Baker City, OR?
Baker City's housing market is characterized by affordability and stability, with a median home price of $235,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $850. Nearly 65% of homes are owner-occupied, and the local market has seen modest appreciation of 3.4% over the past year. Rental vacancies are relatively low, indicating steady demand and a welcoming environment for homeowners and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$235,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services office at 3370 13th St, offering convenient access for licensing, registration, and other vehicle needs. Residents can find up-to-date information and online services through the Oregon DMV website. The office supports the community with essential driving and identification services.
State:
Oregon
Department:
Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services
Address:
3370 13th St, Baker City, OR 97814
Phone:
1-503-945-5000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.