Beaverton Oregon Cost of Living: What You Need to Know

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Beaverton, a thriving suburb of Portland, Oregon, is known for its diverse community, economic opportunities, and higher-than-average living costs. While living in Beaverton may not be the cheapest option in Oregon, it offers a unique blend of suburban comfort with proximity to Portland’s urban benefits. 

The Beaverton Oregon cost of living is about 26% higher than the national average, driven largely by housing and transportation expenses. However, the city’s high quality of life, access to job opportunities at major employers like Nike and Intel, and a vibrant cultural scene help offset these costs.

Housing Costs in Beaverton 

Housing costs in Beaverton, Oregon, have seen significant changes in 2024, reflecting the overall competitive real estate market in the region. The median listing home price in Beaverton is approximately $575,000, with homes selling at a median price of around $570,000. 

These prices indicate that the Beaverton housing market is somewhat balanced between buyers and sellers, with homes typically staying on the market for about 31 days. 

This stability has made Beaverton a desirable location, offering both suburban comforts and proximity to Portland. Neighborhoods such as Sexton Mountain and Murray Hill are particularly popular, with a mix of affordable and premium housing options available.

Transportation 

Beaverton, Oregon, offers a robust transportation system, making commuting and getting around the city relatively convenient. The public transit system, operated by TriMet, includes buses and light rail services that connect Beaverton to Portland and other nearby areas. 

The cost of public transit is affordable, with monthly passes costing around $100, making it a practical option for commuters. The average commute time within Beaverton is approximately 24.8 minutes, which is lower than the national average. 

However, for those who prefer driving, the city does experience moderate traffic, and gas prices currently average around $3.29 per gallon, slightly lower than nearby Portland.

Beaverton is also focusing on improving its transportation infrastructure. The city’s “Go Beaverton” Transportation System Plan (TSP) is undergoing its first update in 14 years, with goals to enhance road safety, reduce traffic congestion, and improve access for pedestrians and cyclists. 

Whether you’re using public transport or driving, it’s worth noting that if you’re planning a move to Beaverton, hiring a moving company is highly recommended. Professional moving companies in Beaverton can handle the logistics of transporting your belongings, helping you settle into your new home while you explore the city’s transport options.

Utility and Monthly Bills

Utility costs in Beaverton, Oregon, are generally comparable to those across the state, though slightly higher in certain areas. For electricity, the average residential bill is approximately $197 per month, based on usage of 975 kWh at a rate of 20¢ per kWh, which is slightly higher than both the Oregon state and national averages. 

These costs cover the production, distribution, and maintenance of the electrical grid. Residents also have the option to reduce their electric bills by using solar energy or subscribing to community solar farms, which can offer a 5-15% savings annually.

Groceries and Food Expenses  

Grocery and food expenses in Beaverton, Oregon, tend to be slightly lower than in nearby Portland but still reflect the overall high cost of living in the region. On average, residents spend around $4.23 for a gallon of milk, $3.50 for a dozen eggs, and $7.30 for a pound of local cheese. 

Common produce prices include $1.77 per pound for apples and $1.24 for oranges, though prices can fluctuate seasonally. Dining out in Beaverton can be moderately expensive, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing about $20, and a mid-range three-course meal for two costing around $80.

Healthcare Costs in Beaverton

Healthcare costs in Beaverton, Oregon, have risen significantly in recent years, following the statewide trend. Between 2013 and 2019, healthcare spending in Oregon grew by nearly 50%, with the average family health insurance premium now reaching close to $20,000 annually. 

This increase is largely driven by rising costs for pharmaceuticals and specialty drugs, especially in the Medicare population. Additionally, out-of-pocket expenses, such as copays and deductibles, have continued to rise faster than wages, making healthcare a significant financial burden for many families.

Education Costs

Education costs in Beaverton, Oregon, vary significantly depending on whether students attend public or private schools. Public education in Beaverton is funded through a combination of local, state, and federal sources.

 For the 2024-2025 school year, the Beaverton School District has adopted a budget focused on maintaining high-quality education while dealing with the challenges of declining enrollment and adjusting to post-pandemic funding levels. 

Public schools remain a cost-effective option, with no tuition fees for residents, and the district offers a variety of programs to support student success, such as school counseling, special education, and health services.

Gas Prices in Beaverton 

Gas prices in Beaverton, Oregon, have been fluctuating in 2024, reflecting broader trends across the state. Currently, the average price for regular unleaded gas in Beaverton is around $3.75 to $3.83 per gallon, slightly below the Oregon state average of $3.83. 

Diesel prices in Beaverton range from $3.80 to $4.00 per gallon, depending on the station and payment methods like cash or loyalty discounts. Beaverton tends to have lower prices compared to nearby cities like Portland, making it a slightly more affordable location for fueling up.

Taxes and Insurance in Beaverton

In Beaverton, Oregon, property taxes are based on the assessed value of homes, with an effective property tax rate of approximately 1.27%. For a median home value of around $352,000, this translates to an annual property tax payment of about $4,485. 

Property taxes play a key role in funding local services, including public schools and infrastructure. Additionally, Oregon does not impose a state sales tax, which is beneficial for residents who make large purchases.

Job Market and Salary Expectations

The job market in Beaverton, Oregon, has shown stable growth throughout 2024, with significant contributions from sectors like technology, healthcare, and professional services. The unemployment rate remains low at around 3.2%, reflecting the city’s strong economic environment.

Key industries like software development, data analysis, and cloud engineering have seen a surge in job postings, increasing by 20% over the last year. Healthcare roles, such as registered nurses and physician assistants, also saw a 15% rise in demand. Average salaries in Beaverton are reported to be around $68,000 annually, which marks a modest 2% increase year-over-year.

Is Beaverton Expensive to Live?  

Beaverton, Oregon, is considered an expensive place to live, with a cost of living approximately 28% higher than the national average. Housing costs are the primary contributor, with the median home price around $508,700, which is 50.5% above the U.S. average. 

Renting in Beaverton is also costly, with the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at about $1,890 per month, 32.2% higher than the national average. Alongside housing, other expenses like transportation, utilities, and groceries also contribute to the elevated cost of living, making Beaverton one of the pricier suburbs in the Portland metropolitan area.

To live comfortably in Beaverton, a family would need an estimated minimum annual income of $97,560, while a single person should aim for around $66,000. Despite the higher living costs, Beaverton offers a high quality of life with access to excellent amenities, green spaces, and proximity to Portland’s job market.

Additionally, utilities and healthcare costs in Beaverton are somewhat lower compared to the national averages, helping offset some of the high housing and transportation costs.