Hillsboro is Oregon’s 5th largest city by population, the largest city in Washington County and serves as the county seat. It is a diverse and dynamic city with everything from farms and vineyards to the high-tech hub known as the Silicon Forest, so it is no wonder that it was voted as one of the best places to live in the U.S. in 2023.
Downtown Hillsboro is the historic center of the city with government buildings and a charming Main Street that is the epicenter for micro-enterprises and small businesses to thrive. Surrounded by mostly older homes and those built before 1960, a large community of homes are within walking distance of the central business district. And several more neighborhoods can reach the city center by light rail to enjoy the shops, restaurants, arts center, theaters and the seasonal Saturday’s Farmer’s Market as well as Tuesday Night Market.
Many distinct areas dot the landscape of Hillsboro, with Orenco Station being one of the most well-known. What began as a small neighborhood of historic homes has blossomed into an award-winning pedestrian-friendly community that includes residential, commercial, and mixed-use spaces. The modern development has a distinct commercial center near the rail line and major roadways that includes restaurants, cafes, grocery stores and professional services set among varied home types. You can find contemporary condominiums, brownstone-style townhomes, upscale single-family homes and luxury apartments with plentiful greenspace and parks for community events like beer and wine festivals.
Just 10 miles west of Portland, Hillsboro has endless offerings that compete with its larger neighbor. Major employers such as Intel, Genentech, Qorvo, OHSU and First Tech Credit Union drive residents to the area who can enjoy two higher education facilities, more than 30 parks and more than 1500 acres of designated green spaces, including Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve and the Orenco Woods Nature Park. There is no shortage of community events each year with the Oregon International Air Show, 4th of July Parade, Hillsboro Holly Days, and baseball! The Hillsboro Hops are committed, and the construction of a new stadium provides more athletic fields for the community at large.