Bend, located in Central Oregon, is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and a plethora of outdoor activities. The city offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and a close-knit community feel, attracting families, young professionals, and retirees alike. This article explores the best residential areas in Bend, highlighting their unique characteristics, housing options, and average prices, giving you a comprehensive guide to finding your new home.
Table of Contents
Old Bend
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Old Bend is rich in history and charm, known for its quaint downtown area filled with local shops, restaurants, and coffeehouses. The neighborhood has a warm, welcoming ambiance and is perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant community.
Characteristics of the Old Bend
* Culture: Historical buildings and local art galleries
* Transportation: Walkable community with bike lanes and public transit options
* Services: Grocery stores, boutique shops, farmer's market
* Environment: Quaint and friendly
Housing Options in the Old Bend
Mature single-family homes, Condominiums
Average Home Prices in the Old Bend
* Buying: $550,000 - $750,000
* Renting: $1,500 - $2,000/month
Awbrey Butte
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Awbrey Butte is an upscale neighborhood with panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains. It offers a tranquil lifestyle with a focus on outdoor living, making it ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.
Characteristics of the Awbrey Butte
* Culture: Family-friendly with a strong sense of community
* Transportation: Car is necessary, access to hiking and biking trails
* Services: Nearby schools, parks, and golf courses
* Environment: Peaceful and scenic
Housing Options in the Awbrey Butte
Custom-built homes, Large lots
Average Home Prices in the Awbrey Butte
* Buying: $700,000 - $1,200,000
* Renting: $2,000 - $3,000/month
Galveston Corridor
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
The Galveston Corridor offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. It's a vibrant area with a diverse community, distinct culture, and easy access to Downtown Bend's amenities.
Characteristics of the Galveston Corridor
* Culture: Diverse community with various restaurants and shops
* Transportation: Well-connected by bus routes, and easy bike access
* Services: Amenities include grocery stores and parks
* Environment: Lively and energetic
Housing Options in the Galveston Corridor
Modern apartments, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Galveston Corridor
* Buying: $350,000 - $600,000
* Renting: $1,200 - $1,800/month
Shevlin Park
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Shevlin Park is known for its outdoor recreational options and proximity to Shevlin Park, offering numerous hiking and biking trails, making it a desirable location for outdoor enthusiasts.
Characteristics of the Shevlin Park
* Culture: Focus on nature and outdoor activities
* Transportation: Car is recommended, access to major roads
* Services: Parks, trails, and some retail outlets
* Environment: Natural and relaxed
Housing Options in the Shevlin Park
Single-family homes, Modern builds
Average Home Prices in the Shevlin Park
* Buying: $450,000 - $700,000
* Renting: $1,600 - $2,500/month
Larkspur
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Larkspur is a family-oriented neighborhood known for its easy access to schools and parks. It has a suburban feel and is conveniently located near shopping areas and major roads.
Characteristics of the Larkspur
* Culture: Family-friendly with community events
* Transportation: Biking and pedestrian-friendly, close to public transit
* Services: Excellent schools, parks, grocery shopping
* Environment: Welcoming and community-focused
Housing Options in the Larkspur
Single-family homes, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Larkspur
* Buying: $400,000 - $600,000
* Renting: $1,500 - $2,200/month
Mountain View
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Mountain View offers stunning views and a quieter environment compared to more urban areas. It's ideal for those seeking serenity while still being part of the Bend community.
Characteristics of the Mountain View
* Culture: Community spirit with neighborhood gatherings
* Transportation: Car access preferred, few public transport options
* Services: Shopping centers, schools, and recreation areas
* Environment: Relaxed and peaceful
Housing Options in the Mountain View
Single-family homes, Older cottages
Average Home Prices in the Mountain View
* Buying: $450,000 - $750,000
* Renting: $1,500 - $2,200/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Bend:
The best residential neighborhoods in Bend include Old Bend, Awbrey Butte, Galveston Corridor, Shevlin Park, Larkspur, and Mountain View.
Larkspur is known for being extremely family-friendly with great schools and community events.
Galveston Corridor offers relatively affordable housing options compared to other upscale neighborhoods.
Home prices in Bend generally range from $350,000 to over $1,200,000, depending on the neighborhood and type of housing.
Yes, Bend is renowned for its outdoor activities including hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing, making it a perfect home for nature lovers.
Bend has a limited public transport system, but it is bike-friendly and pedestrian-accessible, making it easy to get around in many areas.
Areas like Awbrey Butte and Mountain View are popular among retirees for their scenic environments and quiet ambiance.
Yes, Bend has several highly-rated schools in various neighborhoods, including Larkspur and Awbrey Butte.
Bend has numerous cultural attractions including art galleries, theaters, and local festivals celebrating food, music, and art.
Bend experiences a high desert climate with warm, dry summers and cold, snowy winters, making it a year-round outdoor enjoyment spot.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Bend:
Bend, Oregon, provides an exceptional quality of life with its diverse residential neighborhoods catering to a variety of lifestyles, from families and young professionals to retirees. Whether you prefer the historic charm of Old Bend, the luxury of Awbrey Butte, the community feel of Larkspur, or the serene vistas of Mountain View, Bend has something for everyone. It's important to explore each neighborhood's unique offerings while considering your individual needs, such as proximity to schools or outdoor amenities, to find your perfect residence in this beautiful city.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.