Redmond

Tucked into the high desert of Central Oregon, Redmond sits just a few miles northeast of the more famous Bend — but it’s quickly earning a reputation all its own. With a population hovering around 35,000 people, it’s large enough to offer real amenities while still feeling genuinely community-oriented. If you’re drawn to outdoor adventure, a reasonable cost of living by Oregon standards, and a town with real momentum behind it, Redmond deserves a serious look.

A City That Fits Multiple Lifestyles

Redmond attracts a surprisingly wide range of residents. Young families appreciate the quieter, more spacious feel compared to Bend, along with neighborhoods like Dry Canyon Estates and the areas surrounding Eagle Crest Resort that offer a suburban comfort without the suburban sprawl. The median age is just 36.1, which tells you this isn’t a retirement community — it’s a place where people are building careers, raising kids, and planting roots. Retirees do come here too, drawn by the mild four-season climate and easy access to golf courses and the Deschutes River. The diversity of residents gives Redmond an energy that feels balanced rather than dominated by any single demographic.

Cost of Living and Housing

Here’s where Redmond makes a compelling case. The median home price sits around $435,000, which sounds significant until you compare it to Bend, where you’ll routinely see prices $100,000 to $150,000 higher for comparable properties. You can find newer construction in developments on Redmond’s north and west sides, and older ranch-style homes closer to downtown that offer good value. Renters will find more availability here than in Bend as well, with apartment complexes along Highway 97 and scattered throughout the city. The median household income of roughly $79,789 aligns reasonably well with housing costs, especially for dual-income households. Groceries, utilities, and everyday expenses generally track with the Oregon average, making this one of the more financially accessible entry points into Central Oregon.

Employment and Economy

Redmond’s economy has diversified considerably over the past decade. Roberts Field — officially Redmond Municipal Airport — is one of Central Oregon’s key regional airports and supports a cluster of aviation and logistics jobs. JELD-WEN, one of the world’s largest door and window manufacturers, maintains a major presence here and is among the largest private employers in the region. The healthcare sector is growing, with St. Charles Health System expanding services in the area. Many residents also commute to Bend for tech, healthcare, and professional services work, a drive that typically takes under 20 minutes. The proximity to the Bend tech corridor gives Redmond workers access to a larger job market without paying Bend housing prices.

Lifestyle and Recreation

The outdoor access here is genuinely exceptional. Smith Rock State Park, one of Oregon’s crown jewels for rock climbing and hiking, is practically in Redmond’s backyard — about 10 minutes from downtown. The Dry Canyon Trail runs right through the city itself, offering an accessible green corridor for walking and biking. The Deschutes River is close for fly fishing, and the Cascade Mountains provide skiing at Mount Bachelor within an hour’s drive. Downtown Redmond has been steadily evolving, with local restaurants, a growing brewery scene, and community events centered around places like Cascade Homegrown and the Redmond Saturday Market. It’s not Bend’s Pearl District, but it has a genuine character that locals are rightfully proud of.

The Bottom Line

Redmond rewards those willing to look past its more glamorous neighbor. You get the same stunning Central Oregon landscape, a tighter-knit community feel, and meaningfully better housing affordability. The trade-off is a smaller dining and nightlife scene and a downtown still growing into its potential. But for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone prioritizing financial stability without sacrificing quality of life, Redmond is one of the most practical and genuinely livable choices in the Pacific Northwest right now.