Why Central Oregon Is Great for Families

Greg Powell
Jul 17
3 min read

Updated: Jul 18

From outdoor adventure to community connection—here's why families are loving life in Bend and beyond.

If you're looking for a place to raise a family that combines small-town charm with big lifestyle perks, Central Oregon should be high on your list. Whether you're relocating or already live in the region, here are the top reasons families are thriving here in 2025:

🌲 1. Nature is Your Backyard

Central Oregon is an outdoor playground. Families can hike, ski, paddleboard, bike, camp, and explore without ever leaving the region.

Summer: Float the Deschutes River, hike around Sparks Lake, or picnic at Drake Park.
Winter: Mt. Bachelor offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing for all ages.

💡 Tip: The region’s mild weather means you can play outside almost year-round.

🏫 2. Strong Schools & Educational Support

Bend-La Pine Schools and surrounding districts offer a range of academic programs, including magnet schools, STEM options, and robust extracurriculars.

Great public and charter school options
Outdoor school and environmental education are often part of the curriculum
Nearby COCC (Central Oregon Community College) and OSU-Cascades for higher education

🎓 Bonus: Many schools partner with local nature organizations for hands-on learning.

🧘 3. Health & Wellness Culture

From organic markets to community rec centers, families here prioritize health and balance.

Kids can try yoga, climbing, swimming, or martial arts
Plenty of farmer's markets and natural grocers
Clean air, open spaces, and low stress compared to city living

🚴‍♀️ Biking to school or work is common, especially in Bend.

🏘️ 4. Tight-Knit Communities

Whether you live in Bend, Redmond, Sisters, or La Pine, community matters.

Regular neighborhood events and seasonal festivals
Farmer’s markets, outdoor concerts, and art walks
Safe neighborhoods where kids still ride bikes and neighbors look out for one another

👨‍👩‍👧 Families feel connected here, not isolated.

🧒 5. Kid-Friendly Everything

From activities to dining, the region is built for families.

Children’s museums, skate parks, and trampoline zones
Family-friendly breweries, many with play areas
Storytime, summer camps, and community events year-round

🍕 Even the pizza places have mountain views.

💰 6. Still More Affordable Than Big-City Oregon

While housing prices have risen, Central Oregon is still more accessible than Portland or coastal areas, with more space and quality of life.

Options for single-family homes, townhouses, and rural properties
Lower property taxes and cost of living in outlying towns like Prineville or La Pine
Work-from-home options have made relocating here more possible for many families

🏡 You can still get a yard, a view, and peace of mind.

In short: Central Oregon isn’t just a beautiful place to visit — it’s a place to put down roots, raise a family, and enjoy an active, connected lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to Bend’s energy or a quieter town nearby, families here tend to stay — and thrive.

Thinking about relocating or upsizing your home in the area? Let’s talk about what fits your family's needs best. 🏡