Bend is a wonderful city in the central part of Oregon, known for its great outdoors scene, delicious breweries and incredible views. If you’re considering a move to Bend, it’s natural to want to know what the cost of living is like, and how it compares to other cities around the nation. Read on to learn more about the cost of living in Bend, Oregon, so that you can better decide if it’s right for you.

Housing Costs

The cost of housing in Bend varies depending on the type of home you are looking for as well as location. Currently, the median home price in Bend is around $415,000. That’s quite a bit higher than the national average of $210,000. On the other hand, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Bend averages about $1,215 per month, which is slightly lower than the national average of $1,330.

Transportation Expenses

If you plan on driving within Bend or anywhere else in the state of Oregon, you’ll need to make sure you have a valid driver’s license. The fee for getting a license is around $60, plus an additional $10 for the license itself. Additionally, fuel prices in Bend average about $2.67 per gallon, which is slightly higher than the national average of $2.52.

Cost of Food and Groceries

Eating out in Bend can be relatively expensive. A meal at a mid-range restaurant with three courses will typically run you around $50-$60. If you’re looking to save some money, grocery shopping is probably your best bet. Prices for groceries tend to be slightly higher than average in Bend, with a typical monthly food bill for one person reaching around $350.

Utility Costs

Utility costs in Bend can vary widely depending on the size of your home, number of occupants, and personal usage habits. But in general, expect to pay around $190 per month for water, electric and gas combined. Compare that to the national average of $152 and you can see how it adds up. Of course, there are plenty of ways to save money on utilities by conserving energy and utilizing green alternatives.

Entertainment and Recreation

When it comes to entertainment and recreation, Bend offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. From skiing and snowboarding to live music, museums and galleries, you can find something to do for just about any budget. Many venues in Bend offer discounted student and senior tickets, making them accessible for those with limited funds. Additionally, many of Bend’s parks and trails are open to the public for free, making it easy to get out and explore without spending a fortune.

Healthcare

As with any part of the country, healthcare costs in Bend can be relatively high. However, given that Oregon is an expansion state under the Affordable Care Act, residents who don’t have access to employer-sponsored insurance may be able to receive assistance with the cost of health coverage. This assistance can significantly lower the cost of healthcare in Bend.

Overall Costs of Living

Despite being slightly above the national average in some areas, the overall cost of living in Bend is generally very reasonable. With median home prices below other popular West Coast cities, a strong job market, and plenty of recreational activities, Bend is an attractive destination for those looking to relocate. Before settling on Bend, take some time to compare local cost of living data with other cities to make sure that it’s the right fit for you.