Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Hood River, OR
Thinking of moving to Hood River, OR? With a friendly population of about 8,350, Hood River offers small-town charm, a vibrant outdoor lifestyle, and beautiful Columbia River Gorge views. Expect a median home price of $554,000 and typical rents around $1,480—reflecting a popular housing market. The city boasts short commute times (average 13.5 minutes), low violent crime rates, and quality education options. Enjoy four distinct seasons with 52% sunny days and plenty of opportunities for windsurfing, hiking, and exploring local wineries.
Demographics - Hood River, OR
Demographics - Hood River, OR
Hood River is home to about 8,350 residents, with a median age of 38.1 and a balanced gender ratio. The city is predominantly White (77.8%) but also has a notable Hispanic or Latino community, making up 17.1% of the population. Around 20% of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting a diverse and welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
8,350
Density:
2,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.1
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
20.3%

Ethnic Composition
White:
77.8%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
1.7%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Hood River, OR?
Hood River's cost of living is higher than the national average, with a median home value of $554,000 and typical monthly rent of $1,480. Housing and groceries are among the most significant expenses, while utilities remain relatively affordable. State income tax ranges from 4.75% to 9.9%, making budget planning important for new residents.
Median House Value:
$554,000
Gross Rent:
$1,480
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,160
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$670
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
9.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
121.0
Grocery:
109.2
Housing:
142.0
Utilities:
90.7
Transportation:
112.1
Health Care:
104.5
Miscellaneous:
101.6
Crime
Is Hood River, OR a safe place to live?
Hood River enjoys a low violent crime rate, with only 123 incidents per 100,000 people and a 1 in 813 chance of being a victim. Property crime is more common but still manageable at 2,120 incidents per 100,000, resulting in a 1 in 47 chance. The city maintains a safe, community-oriented environment, making it attractive for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
123
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,120
Crime Index:
2,243
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 813
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Hood River, OR year-round?
Residents experience four distinct seasons in Hood River, with warm summers reaching up to 84°F and cool winters with lows around 29°F. The city receives about 30.5 inches of rain annually and boasts 52% sunny days, ideal for enjoying the area's renowned outdoor activities. Spring and fall offer mild, comfortable weather perfect for exploring the Columbia River Gorge.

Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
41°F

Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
64°F

Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
84°F

Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
30.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
Typical households in Hood River have a median income of $72,250, and about 36.8% of adults hold at least a bachelor’s degree. The community features a low unemployment rate of 4.2% and an average commute time of just 13.5 minutes. Around 9.7% of residents live below the poverty line, while the area’s diverse population contributes to a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.
Median Income:
$40,200
Household Income:
$72,250
Family Income:
$81,500
Per Capita Income:
$39,400
Income Male:
$46,500
Income Female:
$38,000
Poverty Rate:
9.7%
Non English Speakers:
20.3%
Rent:
$1,480
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
13.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.6%
Bachelors or More:
36.8%
Education
How are the schools in Hood River, OR?
Hood River features quality public schools, including Hood River Valley High School and May Street Elementary, with student-teacher ratios of 21:1 and 19:1, respectively. Private education is available at St. Mary's Academy, and higher education is accessible at Columbia Gorge Community College, located just 22 miles away. The city values education, with nearly 90% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher.

Public Schools
Name:
Hood River Valley High School
Street:
1220 Indian Creek Rd
Phone:
541-386-4500
Students:
1,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
21:1
Name:
May Street Elementary School
Street:
1001 May St
Phone:
541-386-2656
Students:
450
Student Teacher Ratio:
19:1

Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary's Academy
Street:
1112 Columbia St
Phone:
541-386-6364
Students:
220

Colleges
Name:
Columbia Gorge Community College
City:
The Dalles
State:
OR
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
1,300
Healthcare
Hood River offers quality healthcare with Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital serving as the main facility, providing emergency and surgical services. The city has a high rate of health insurance coverage at 91.4% and a solid physician-to-resident ratio of 2.3 per 1,000 people. Residents benefit from accessible medical care and a supportive healthcare network.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital
Address:
810 12th St, Hood River, OR 97031
Phone:
(541) 386-3911
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
72.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Hood River, OR?
The Hood River housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $554,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,480. Most residents own their homes, but rental options are available with a vacancy rate of just 3.8%. Home values have appreciated by 3.7% over the past year, reflecting the area's ongoing popularity.
Median Home Price:
$554,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,480
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services in Hood River is conveniently located at 600 E Marina Way, providing a full range of licensing and vehicle registration services. Residents can access helpful resources online or by phone, streamlining the process for newcomers. The local DMV office offers accessible support for drivers and vehicle owners.
State:
Oregon
Department:
Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services
Address:
600 E Marina Way, Hood River, OR 97031
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.