Columbia Gorge Real Estate Market Prices, Trends, and Forecast 2023

Columbia Gorge is a breathtaking region of Northern Oregon, extending into Southern Washington. The Gorge itself is known for its verdant national park and incredible views. However, the housing market in Hood River County also sets this uniquely desirable land apart. Hood River County typically has the highest median home prices in the state of Oregon, with sprawling neighborhoods of luxurious homes dotting the stunning natural landscape.

While housing markets have been in flux, the value of homes and communities near Columbia Gorge continues to rise. Julie Gilbert can guide you through the Columbia Gorge real estate market prices and trends to help you make the best local home-buying decisions.

Since its founding in the early 1900s, the beauty of the region, the riverside accessibility, and the surrounding natural resources have made Hood River County and surrounding regions understandably desirable. Over 100 years later, the housing market is still going strong.

Hood River County consistently makes the top of Oregon's median housing prices. Housing prices average at a little over half a million per home, with many unique estates to explore when you are ready to begin your Hood River County house-hunting. Home prices continue to rise through the early 2020s according to the latest data.

Interest rate hikes have impacted the Columbia Gorge communities, just as they have everywhere else in the nation. Average monthly mortgage payments in 2022 were $1,658, but due to interest rate increases, that number has nearly doubled for new and adjustable mortgage rates to an average of $2,670 per month.

Investing in Columbia Gorge as a landlord offers positive investing indicators. Any investment houses will appreciate over time, and the region is in demand for those who want to live surrounded by the gorgeous surroundings of Northern Oregon forests and the Columbia Gorge.

The population of Hood River County grows at a steady, modest pace. In the last 10 years, the average population growth rate has been around 7%, with some margin for fluctuation. In 2022, the growth rate was 1.36%, while 2023 has marked a drop back down to 0.67% population growth rate.

Hood River County is home to several small, welcoming towns along the Columbia River.

Hood River is the namesake town and the best known in the region. It is a vibrant little town with historic estates and modern single-family neighborhoods. You will love the small-town feel and lovely walkable downtown area.

Mt. Hood Parkdale is a picturesque community surrounded by fruit orchards and characterized by majestic mountain views. You can delight in rural neighborhoods and historic farmhouse homes with many outdoor activities. You may also enjoy exploring nearby communities of Odell and Cascade Locks.

The Columbia River Gorge stretches over 80 miles and features a stunning 4,000-foot drop in some places. It is home to enchanting waterfalls and verdant green cliff sides, and it inspires endless wonder.

This gorgeous stretch of the Columbia River draws thousands of windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts every year. Windsurfing involves a board with a sail, while kitesurfing is all about chasing the wind as surfers use a kite to pull themselves rapidly over the water.

The national park surrounding the Columbia Gorge offers endless green mountain trails that epitomize the beauty of Northern Oregon. If you love nature walks, camping, or mountain biking, there is no limit to the breathtaking sights you can discover below the canopy and along the river.

At the heart of Hood River, you will find a crescent-shaped sandy beach known as the Hood River Waterfront Park. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the watercraft launches, picnic areas, stunning views, and endless water sports.

Hood River County is known for its excellent agricultural businesses, including orchards, wineries, and breweries. The Fruit Loop is a tour of lovely rural farms, fruit stands, wineries, breweries, cideries, and fields of vibrant flowers. It's a relaxing way to spend a day, with many delicious tastes to explore.

Columbia Gorge is an enriching place to live and invest. The housing market continues to rise in spite of recent national market influences, and the local lifestyle is one of relaxed luxury surrounded by unmatched natural scenery. If you are looking to buy or sell a home in the Columbia Gorge region, Julie Gilbert has the local expertise and warm, personable style to guide you through an ideal real estate experience.