Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Pilot Rock, OR
Thinking of moving to Pilot Rock, OR? With a friendly small-town vibe and a population of about 1,325, Pilot Rock offers affordable living—median home prices are around $195,000 and average rents about $860. Residents enjoy short 14-minute commutes, low violent crime, and plenty of sunny days (63% annually). The community values education with local schools and quick access to healthcare in nearby Pendleton. If you’re seeking a peaceful pace, scenic weather, and great affordability, Pilot Rock could be your next home.
Demographics - Pilot Rock, OR
Demographics - Pilot Rock, OR
Pilot Rock is a close-knit community of approximately 1,325 residents, characterized by a predominantly White population and a median age of 44. The gender balance is nearly even, and the city maintains a small-town feel with a population density of 1,120 people per square mile. Around 6.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home, contributing to the city’s modest cultural diversity.
Population:
1,325
Density:
1,120 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.0
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
93.0%
Others:
0.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Pilot Rock, OR?
Living in Pilot Rock is notably affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average. Median home values are around $195,000 and average monthly rent is just $860, making housing accessible for most residents. Utilities and everyday expenses remain reasonable, giving newcomers a chance to enjoy small-town life without breaking the bank.
Median House Value:
$195,000
Gross Rent:
$860
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,230
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
4.75%
|
High:
9.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.4
Grocery:
97.1
Housing:
75.5
Utilities:
94.9
Transportation:
98.3
Health Care:
94.0
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Pilot Rock, OR a safe place to live?
Pilot Rock experiences low rates of violent crime, with just 155 incidents per 100,000 people, meaning residents have a 1 in 645 chance of being affected. Property crimes are somewhat more common, but overall, the city maintains a safe environment compared to larger urban areas. The community’s small size helps contribute to its sense of security and neighborliness.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
155
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,135
Crime Index:
1,290
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 645
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 88
Weather
What is the weather like in Pilot Rock, OR year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows of 27°F and warm, sunny summers that reach highs near 89°F. The area sees about 13.5 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 63% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate a bright, varied climate. Seasonal changes bring scenic beauty and outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
41°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
63°F

Summer
Min:
53°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Pilot Rock households typically earn a median income of $54,600, with most residents commuting less than 15 minutes to work. The area has a low unemployment rate and a poverty rate of 12.5%, while nearly 90% of adults hold at least a high school diploma. Neighbors value community connections and enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly environment.
Median Income:
$32,200
Household Income:
$54,600
Family Income:
$67,400
Per Capita Income:
$26,500
Income Male:
$43,100
Income Female:
$34,300
Poverty Rate:
12.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$860
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
14.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.6%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in Pilot Rock, OR?
Pilot Rock supports local education with public schools offering small class sizes, such as Pilot Rock Elementary and High School. Students benefit from attentive instruction and a close community atmosphere, while higher education is accessible at Blue Mountain Community College just 13 miles away. The city places a strong emphasis on educational opportunities for all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Pilot Rock Elementary School
Street:
501 NE Elm Ave
Phone:
541-443-2361
Students:
185
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
Pilot Rock High School
Street:
101 NE Cherry St
Phone:
541-443-2671
Students:
160
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3

Colleges
Name:
Blue Mountain Community College
City:
Pendleton
State:
OR
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
3,150
Healthcare
Residents of Pilot Rock have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like CHI St. Anthony Hospital and Good Shepherd Medical Center located nearby in Pendleton and Hermiston. Health insurance coverage is high at 91.8%, and there are approximately 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents. The area offers essential services and emergency care within a short drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
CHI St. Anthony Hospital
Address:
2801 St. Anthony Way, Pendleton, OR 97801
Phone:
(541) 276-5121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Good Shepherd Medical Center
Address:
610 NW 11th St, Hermiston, OR 97838
Phone:
(541) 667-3400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
68.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Pilot Rock, OR?
The housing market in Pilot Rock is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $195,000 and over 72% of homes being owner-occupied. Rental options are available, with average rents for a two-bedroom apartment at $860. Home values have appreciated steadily, making it a practical location for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$195,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$860
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
For driver and vehicle services, residents are served by the Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services located in Salem. The DMV provides licensing, registration, and other essential services, with helpful resources available via their website or by phone. Access to state transportation services is straightforward and efficient.
State:
Oregon
Department:
Oregon Driver & 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.