Oregon / Wheeler County

Moving to Fossil, OR

Thinking of making a move to Fossil, OR? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fossil, OR

Considering a move to Fossil, OR? This welcoming community of 460 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $170,000 and average rents near $650. Commute times average 13 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (65% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Fossil's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Fossil, OR

Fossil has a population of 460 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 53 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 94% White, 0% Black, and 0% Asian residents, and over 5% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
460
Density
450 per sq mi
Median Age
53.2
Gender Ratio
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
4.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
94.3%
Black
0.0%
Asian
0.2%
Others
5.5%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Fossil, OR?

The cost of living in Fossil is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 89.0. Median home values are around $170,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $650. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$170,000
Gross Rent
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges
$110
Auto Insurance
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,025
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$350
State Taxes
Low: 4.75%| High: 9.9%
Cost Of Living Index
89.0
Grocery
97.0
Housing
65.0
Utilities
85.0
Transportation
90.0
Health Care
95.0
Miscellaneous
92.0

Crime

Is Fossil, OR a safe place to live?

Fossil is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 85 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 185. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Oregon.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
85
Property Crimes Per 100k
540
Crime Index
625
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 1,175
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 185

Weather

What is the weather like in Fossil, OR year-round?

Fossil experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 87°F and cold winters dipping to 26°F. The area receives about 14 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 65% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
26°F
Max
42°F

Summer

Min
51°F
Max
87°F

Spring

Min
39°F
Max
61°F

Fall

Min
36°F
Max
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches
13.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
65%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $39,000 and a low poverty rate of 15.0%. Over 90% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 18% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 13 minutes, and almost 0% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$31,500
Household Income
$39,000
Family Income
$47,500
Per Capita Income
$24,800
Income Male
$35,000
Income Female
$28,000
Poverty Rate
15.0%
Non English Speakers
4.5%
Rent
$650
Unemployment Rate
4.9%
Public Transport Usage
0.0%
Commute Time
12.5 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
90.2%
Bachelors or More
18.4%

Education

How are the schools in Fossil, OR?

Fossil offers quality education options, with public schools like Fossil Elementary School and Wheeler High School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Blue Mountain Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Fossil Elementary School
Street
404 Main St
Phone
541-763-4175
Students
38
Student Teacher Ratio
10:1
Name
Wheeler High School
Street
600 B St
Phone
541-763-4146
Students
45
Student Teacher Ratio
8:1

Colleges

Name
Blue Mountain Community College
City
Pendleton
State
OR
Distance
88 miles
Students
1,800

Healthcare

Fossil residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Pioneer Memorial Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 0.9 per 1,000 people and 91.6% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Pioneer Memorial Hospital
Address
564 E Pioneer Rd, Heppner, OR 97836
Phone
(541) 676-9133
Type
Critical Access
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
0.9
Health Insurance Coverage
91.6%
Health Care Index
72.0

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Fossil, OR?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $170,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 75%. The market has seen a 6.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.1%. Fossil offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$170,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$650
Owner Occupied Rate
74.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
6.2%
New Construction Rate
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate
0.2%

DMV Information

Residents of Fossil handle vehicle services through the Oregon DMV, conveniently located in La Grande. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Oregon
Department
Oregon DMV
Address
1301 W Adams Ave, La Grande, OR 97850
Phone
1-503-945-5000

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.

FAQs About Moving to Fossil, OR

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Fossil, review the core fields on this page: population 460, median home value $170,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $650, commute time 12.5 minutes, and sunny days percentage 65%.

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