Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Birkenfeld, OR
Considering a move to Birkenfeld, OR? This small rural community of about 230 residents offers affordable housing, with median home prices around $368,000 and rents averaging $1,170. Enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with low violent crime (82 per 100K), a friendly, older population, and abundant natural beauty. While commutes average about 37 minutes and there are limited local schools, you'll appreciate the quiet pace, mild summers, and access to healthcare in nearby towns. Birkenfeld is perfect for those seeking tranquility and outdoor living in Oregon’s lush countryside.
Demographics - Birkenfeld, OR
Demographics - Birkenfeld, OR
Birkenfeld is a small, close-knit community of about 230 residents, with a population density of 12 people per square mile and a median age of 50.2 years. The area is predominantly White, with a small percentage of other ethnicities and a slightly higher number of males than females. The community has a mature feel, making it appealing for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
230
Density:
12 per sq mi
Median Age:
50.2
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
93.5%
Black:
0.8%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
4.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Birkenfeld, OR?
The cost of living in Birkenfeld is just above the national average, with a cost of living index of 104.0 and median home values around $368,000. Residents benefit from relatively affordable rents and utility costs, while state income taxes range from 4.75% to 9.9%. Overall, Birkenfeld offers reasonable expenses for housing and daily needs, making it accessible for many homebuyers and renters.
Median House Value:
$368,000
Gross Rent:
$1,170
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,030
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,420
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
9.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.0
Grocery:
99.5
Housing:
98.8
Utilities:
97.6
Transportation:
102.1
Health Care:
106.2
Miscellaneous:
100.9
Crime
Is Birkenfeld, OR a safe place to live?
Birkenfeld experiences low violent crime, with just 82 incidents per 100,000 people, but property crime is somewhat more common, at 1,025 per 100,000. Residents have a 1 in 1,220 chance of being a victim of violent crime, contributing to a generally safe and peaceful environment. The area’s rural character supports a sense of security for families and retirees alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
82
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,025
Crime Index:
1,107
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,220
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Birkenfeld, OR year-round?
Birkenfeld enjoys mild summers with highs around 79°F and cool, wet winters with lows averaging 33°F. The region receives substantial rainfall, about 65.8 inches annually, and sees sunshine about 42% of the year. This climate supports lush green surroundings and is ideal for those who appreciate Oregon’s signature natural beauty.

Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
47°F

Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
64°F

Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
79°F

Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
65.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
42%
Neighbors
Local residents earn a median household income of $54,300, with a poverty rate of 11.5% and an unemployment rate of 5.9%. The area boasts a high rate of high school graduates, and most people commute about 37 minutes for work. Birkenfeld’s neighbors value education and a rural, community-oriented lifestyle.
Median Income:
$32,800
Household Income:
$54,300
Family Income:
$64,700
Per Capita Income:
$27,900
Income Male:
$37,200
Income Female:
$29,100
Poverty Rate:
11.5%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$1,170
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
37.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.6%
Bachelors or More:
19.5%
Education
How are the schools in Birkenfeld, OR?
Birkenfeld is served by Mist Elementary and Vernonia High School, offering small class sizes and a supportive learning environment. Higher education options are within driving distance, including Clatsop Community College and Portland Community College’s Rock Creek campus. Families benefit from intimate school settings and reasonable access to college-level programs.

Public Schools
Name:
Mist Elementary School
Street:
12525 Hwy 202, Mist, OR 97016
Phone:
503-755-2486
Students:
38
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.7
Name:
Vernonia High School
Street:
299 Bridge St, Vernonia, OR 97064
Phone:
503-429-1333
Students:
225
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4

Colleges
Name:
Clatsop Community College
City:
Astoria
State:
OR
Distance:
37 miles
Students:
1,700
Name:
Portland Community College (Rock Creek)
City:
Portland
State:
OR
Distance:
42 miles
Students:
9,300
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Birkenfeld is supported by nearby hospitals such as Columbia Memorial and Providence Seaside, both offering emergency services. About 89.8% of residents have health insurance, and there are approximately 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people. While local facilities are limited, quality care is available within a reasonable drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Columbia Memorial Hospital
Address:
2111 Exchange St, Astoria, OR 97103
Phone:
(503) 325-4321
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Providence Seaside Hospital
Address:
725 S Wahanna Rd, Seaside, OR 97138
Phone:
(503) 717-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.8%
Health Care Index:
80.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Birkenfeld, OR?
Birkenfeld’s housing market features a median home price of $368,000 and an average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,170. Owner-occupancy is high at 81%, and home values have appreciated by nearly 5% over the past year. The area offers stability and affordability for both homeowners and renters.
Median Home Price:
$368,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,170
Owner Occupied Rate:
81.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
DMV services for Birkenfeld residents are provided by the Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services, with the main office located in Salem. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other vehicle-related services both in person and online. The DMV ensures convenient support for all transportation needs.
State:
Oregon
Department:
Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services
Address:
1905 Lana Ave NE, Salem, OR 97314
Phone:
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.