Top 10 Reasons to Move to Klamath Falls

Klamath Falls, situated in Southern Oregon, is a hidden gem that offers a plethora of reasons to move there. From its natural beauty to affordable living, Klamath Falls has something for everyone.

 

This article will discuss the top 10 reasons why Klamath Falls is an excellent place to live, work, and raise a family.

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One of the most significant draws of Klamath Falls is its natural beauty. The city is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including Crater Lake National Park, the Cascade Mountains, and the Klamath Basin.

 

Residents can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing, all within a short drive from the city. Additionally, Klamath Falls boasts a mild climate, making it a perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities year-round.

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Another reason to move to Klamath Falls is its affordability. The city has a lower cost of living than many other cities in the Pacific Northwest, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. Housing prices are also more affordable, allowing residents to purchase a home without breaking the bank. With excellent schools, a thriving economy, and a welcoming community, Klamath Falls is an ideal place to call home.

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Key Takeaways

• Klamath Falls offers natural beauty and outdoor activities.

• The city is affordable, with a lower cost of living and more affordable housing options.

• Klamath Falls has excellent schools, a thriving economy, and a welcoming community.

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1. Natural Beauty

Klamath Falls is a city in Southern Oregon that is well-known for its natural beauty. The city is surrounded by stunning landscapes that are sure to take your breath away. Here are some of the reasons why the natural beauty of Klamath Falls makes it a great place to move to.

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Stunning Landscapes

Klamath Falls is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. The city is located in the high desert region of Oregon and is surrounded by rolling hills, scenic lakes, and stunning mountain vistas. The natural beauty of the area is truly breathtaking, and it's no wonder why so many people choose to move here.

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Outdoor Recreation

The natural beauty of Klamath Falls also provides residents with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city is located near several national parks, including Crater Lake National Park, which is just a short drive away. The area is also home to several lakes and rivers, making it a great place for fishing, boating, and water sports.

In addition to its natural beauty, Klamath Falls also has a vibrant community that is welcoming and friendly. The city has a low cost of living, which makes it an affordable place to live. With its stunning landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities, Klamath Falls is a great place to move to for anyone who loves nature and the great outdoors.

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2. Affordable Living

Klamath Falls is an affordable place to live, with a cost of living that is lower than the national average. This makes it a great place to move for those who are looking to save on expenses without sacrificing quality of life.

 

Cost of Housing

One of the most significant expenses for anyone is housing, but Klamath Falls offers affordable housing options for its residents. The median home price in Klamath Falls is $190,000, which is significantly lower than the national average of $231,200. 1 This makes it an excellent place to buy a home for those who are on a budget. Additionally, the city has a variety of housing options available, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes.

 

Low Cost of Living

In addition to affordable housing, Klamath Falls also boasts a low cost of living. According to BestPlaces, the cost of living in Klamath Falls is 6.7% lower than the national average. 2 This means that residents can enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. Groceries, healthcare, and transportation are all less expensive in Klamath Falls than in many other parts of the country.

Overall, Klamath Falls is an excellent choice for those who are looking for affordable living. With a low cost of living and affordable housing options, residents can enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.

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3. Community Spirit

Klamath Falls is known for its strong sense of community and friendly locals. The city offers a variety of events and activities that bring people together, making it a great place to live for those who value community spirit.

 

Local Events

One of the best ways to get involved in the community is by attending local events. Klamath Falls hosts a number of events throughout the year, from the Klamath County Fair to the Kruise of Klamath classic car show. These events offer a chance for residents to come together and celebrate their community.

 

Strong Sense of Community

Klamath Falls has a strong sense of community that is evident in the way residents support each other. The city has a number of community organizations and volunteer groups that work to make Klamath Falls a better place to live. Whether it's helping out at a local food bank or participating in a community clean-up, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and make a difference.

Overall, Klamath Falls is a welcoming and inclusive community that values its residents and works to create a strong sense of community spirit.

 

4. Economic Opportunities

Klamath Falls offers a variety of economic opportunities that make it an attractive place to live and work. The city's economy is diverse, with a range of industries providing employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers.

 

Job Market

The health care and social services industry is one of the leading industries in Klamath Falls, employing approximately 1,700 people. Sky Lakes Medical Center is the largest employer in this sector, with around 1,000 employees.

 

The sector has seen significant growth in recent years, with the aging population driving demand for services. Additionally, the manufacturing industry is another significant employer in Klamath Falls, with Jeld-Wen, a leading manufacturer of windows and doors, employing over 1,000 people in the area.

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Furthermore, the job market in Klamath Falls is expected to continue growing in the coming years. According to the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis, during the pandemic, total income in Klamath County increased by more than 20%, which outpaced the state and nation.

 

Social Security accounts for about 10% of all income in Klamath, meaning this year's 8.7% COLA increase raises countywide income by 0.8 or 0.9 percent, a larger.

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Support for Businesses

Klamath County offers a range of resources and support for businesses looking to start or expand in the area. The Klamath County Economic Development District (KCEDA) provides assistance to businesses in the form of grants, loans, and tax incentives. The district's goal is to create jobs, diversify and expand the economic footing, foster an entrepreneurial and innovation habitat, retain local businesses, and help them expand here.

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Moreover, Klamath County has a "Team Klamath" approach that has been in operation for more than 20 years and is a successful model that ensures businesses have a partner every step of the way as they move their business to Klamath.

 

The county's 2024-2028 Strategic Plan lays out a course of action for the next five years by establishing priority goals for the county, identifying actions to effectively achieve those goals, and defining a framework to share progress along the way.

In conclusion, Klamath Falls provides a range of economic opportunities for both job seekers and businesses. With a diverse economy, a growing job market, and support for businesses, Klamath Falls is an excellent place to live and work.

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5. Educational Institutions

Klamath Falls boasts a variety of educational institutions that offer quality education to students of all ages. Whether you are looking for K-12 education or higher education opportunities, Klamath Falls has got you covered.

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K-12 Education

Klamath Falls has several public and private schools that offer excellent K-12 education. According to Niche, the top-rated public schools in Klamath Falls include Henley High School, Lost River Jr/Sr High School, and Klamath Union High School. Crosspoint Christian School is the top-rated private school in the area.

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Higher Education Opportunities

Klamath Falls is home to two prolific higher education institutions. The Oregon Institute of Technology, also known as Oregon Tech, is a public polytechnic university with a residential campus in Klamath Falls. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as engineering, health sciences, business, and applied sciences.

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Klamath Community College is another higher education institution in Klamath Falls. It is a two-year community college that offers associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas in various fields such as nursing, business, and computer science. The college also offers workforce training programs that help students acquire skills that are in high demand in the job market.

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Overall, Klamath Falls offers a diverse range of educational institutions that provide quality education to students. Whether you are looking for K-12 education or higher education opportunities, Klamath Falls has something for everyone.

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6. Health and Wellness

Quality Healthcare Facilities

Klamath Falls has a number of quality healthcare facilities that provide residents with access to top-notch medical care. One such facility is Sky Lakes Medical Center, a 176-bed hospital that has been serving the community for over 70 years.

 

The hospital offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, cancer treatment, and maternity care. Sky Lakes Medical Center is also home to the Sky Lakes Cancer Treatment Center, which provides patients with access to state-of-the-art cancer treatment options.

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Another healthcare facility in Klamath Falls is the Klamath Open Door Family Practice Clinic, which provides comprehensive primary care services to patients of all ages. The clinic offers a range of services, including preventive care, chronic disease management, and behavioral health services.

 

The clinic also has a sliding fee scale for patients who are uninsured or underinsured.

 

Healthy Lifestyle

Klamath Falls is known for its healthy lifestyle, with residents enjoying access to a wide range of outdoor activities.

 

The city is surrounded by natural beauty, with nearby attractions such as Crater Lake National Park, the Klamath Wildlife Refuge, and the Lava Beds National Monument. Residents can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities throughout the year.

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In addition to outdoor activities, Klamath Falls also has a number of fitness centers and gyms that offer a range of exercise classes and equipment. The city also has a number of parks and recreational areas, including the Moore Park Complex, which features baseball and softball fields, soccer fields, and a skate park.

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Overall, Klamath Falls provides residents with access to quality healthcare facilities and a healthy lifestyle, making it an excellent place to live for those who value their health and wellness.

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7. Cultural Attractions

Klamath Falls offers a rich cultural scene with a variety of museums, historical sites, and an active arts and music community. Here are some of the top cultural attractions in the area:

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Museums and Historical Sites

Klamath County Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum showcases the rich history of the Klamath Basin, with exhibits on the Native American tribes, pioneers, and early settlers of the region. Visitors can explore the museum's collections of artifacts, photographs, and documents, and learn about the area's geology, wildlife, and natural resources.

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The Favell Museum is another popular museum in Klamath Falls, featuring an impressive collection of Western art and artifacts. The museum's exhibits include paintings, sculptures, and Native American artifacts, as well as antique firearms, carriages, and wagons. Visitors can also enjoy the museum's beautiful gardens and outdoor sculptures.

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The Baldwin Hotel Museum is a historical landmark in downtown Klamath Falls, offering a glimpse into the city's past. The museum is housed in a restored 1905 hotel and features exhibits on the hotel's history, as well as the history of Klamath Falls and the surrounding area.

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Arts and Music Scene

Klamath Falls has a vibrant arts and music community, with a variety of galleries, theaters, and music venues. The Ross Ragland Theater is a popular venue for live performances, featuring a variety of music, dance, and theater productions throughout the year.

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The Klamath Art Association Gallery is a great place to explore local art and meet local artists. The gallery features rotating exhibits of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art, as well as workshops and classes for aspiring artists.

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The Klamath Symphony Orchestra is another highlight of the local arts scene, offering a variety of classical music performances throughout the year. The orchestra features talented local musicians and guest performers from around the country, and is a great way to experience the beauty of classical music in a live setting.

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8. Climate and Weather

Klamath Falls boasts a high desert climate with four distinct seasons, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy experiencing the changing seasons. The area receives an average of 300 days of sunshine per year, providing ample opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities.

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Four Distinct Seasons

Klamath Falls experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year, with summers being warm and dry, and winters being cold and snowy. According to Rentals.com, summers in Klamath Falls are generally warm, with temperatures averaging around 85°F (29°C). Winters, on the other hand, can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 25.2°F (-3.8°C) to 38.7°F (3.7°C) and snowfall averaging from 6.97" (177mm) to 10.63" (270mm) according to Weather Atlas.

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Mild Climate

Despite the cold winters, Klamath Falls boasts a mild climate overall. The refreshing high-desert climate averages temperatures in the summer of 85°F and in the winter of 32°F. The area is also relatively dry, with September and October being the driest months of the year, according to Discover Klamath.

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Overall, Klamath Falls provides a climate that provides a range of temperatures throughout the year, with ample opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities in the sunshine.

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9. Proximity to Major Cities

Klamath Falls is located in southern Oregon, making it a great location for those who enjoy easy access to both urban and rural areas. The city is situated close to major cities on the West Coast, making it an ideal place for people who want to enjoy the best of both worlds.

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Easy Access to Urban Areas

One of the main benefits of living in Klamath Falls is that it is easy to access urban areas. The city is located just a few hours away from Portland, Oregon, which is known for its vibrant culture and thriving economy. Additionally, Klamath Falls is located near several other major cities, including San Francisco, Sacramento, and Seattle. This makes it easy for residents to take weekend trips to explore these urban areas.

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Close to West Coast Cities

Klamath Falls is located on the West Coast, which means that it is close to several major cities in the region. For example, the city is just a few hours away from San Francisco, which is known for its beautiful beaches, world-class cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. Additionally, Klamath Falls is located near Los Angeles, which is known for its thriving entertainment industry and diverse culture.

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Overall, Klamath Falls is an ideal location for people who want to enjoy the best of both worlds. The city is located close to major urban areas, making it easy to access all of the amenities that these areas have to offer. Additionally, Klamath Falls is located in a beautiful natural setting, making it a great place for people who enjoy outdoor activities.

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10. Safety and Security

Klamath Falls is a safe city with a low crime rate, making it an ideal place to live. The city has a population of over 21,000 people and a suburban feel, which can be nice for families looking for more space than larger densely packed cities for the money and a good area to raise children.

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Low Crime Rates

According to SafeHome, Klamath Falls is currently ranking as one of the safest cities in Oregon. The city has a higher safety score than both Redmond and Eugene according to SafeHome in a recent list of Oregon's Safest Cities.

 

Similarly, a recent list from Safewise ranked Klamath Falls safer than the much more populous city of Portland. The crime rate in Klamath Falls is lower than the national average, with violent crime rates well below the state average.

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Community Safety Programs

Klamath Falls has a community-oriented police department that works closely with residents to ensure their safety. The department has implemented several community safety programs, including Neighborhood Watch, which encourages residents to look out for each other and report any suspicious activity.

 

The department also has a School Resource Officer program, which places officers in schools to build relationships with students and provide a safe learning environment.

In addition to these programs, Klamath Falls also has a strong emergency response system. The city has a well-equipped fire department and ambulance service, ensuring that residents receive prompt medical attention in case of an emergency.

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Overall, Klamath Falls is a safe and secure city that offers its residents peace of mind. The low crime rates and community safety programs make it an ideal place to live for families and individuals who prioritize safety.