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Oregon Real Estate: Stark Price Differences Across Counties Revealed

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/0 .. -price-differences-across-counties-revealed.html
  Published in House and Home on Monday, January 5th 2026 at 17:25 GMT by Oregonian

Oregons Housing Landscape: A Tale of Two Markets – From Multimillion-Dollar Estates to Rural Retreats

Oregon’s real estate market is notoriously diverse, and a recent analysis by OregonLive vividly illustrates the stark price differences between the most expensive homes currently for sale across the state's 36 counties. The article, "See the staggering price differences of the most expensive homes for sale in each of Oregon's counties," highlights how the luxury housing market isn’t uniform; it's a patchwork reflecting regional economies, desirability, and land availability. While Portland’s metro area continues to command exorbitant prices, significant disparities emerge when venturing into rural areas, revealing a state where a sprawling estate can cost tens of millions in one county while another offers palatial homes for under $2 million.

The headline price? A staggering $68.5 million listing in Washington County. This property, located near Hillsboro and featuring an impressive 10-bedroom mansion on over 74 acres, exemplifies the high-end market fueled by the tech industry's presence in the region. Washington County consistently tops lists for expensive real estate due to its proximity to major employers like Intel and Nike, driving demand from both executives and investors. The sheer size of the property – including a vineyard, equestrian facilities, and multiple outbuildings – contributes significantly to the price tag. The article notes that Washington County's median home price is already considerably higher than the state average, further emphasizing its premium status.

Following Washington County, Deschutes County (home to Bend) boasts the second-highest priced listing at $39.5 million. This estate, situated on a sprawling ranch with stunning views and recreational opportunities, reflects Bend’s booming popularity as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and retirees alike. Bend's growth has been explosive in recent years, fueled by migration from more expensive coastal cities and states, pushing property values sky-high. The article links to previous OregonLive reporting detailing Bend's population surge and the challenges it presents regarding housing affordability. [Link to Bend Growth Article - implied]

The trend continues with Clackamas County at $26 million, Lane County (Eugene) at $18.5 million, and Multnomah County ($17.9 million), further solidifying the Portland metro area’s dominance in the luxury market. These prices reflect not only the size and amenities of the properties but also the desirability of their locations – proximity to urban centers, good schools, and access to recreational activities.

However, as one moves away from the Willamette Valley and into eastern or southern Oregon, the price drops dramatically. In contrast to Washington County’s $68.5 million behemoth, Lake County has the lowest priced listing at just $675,000. Harney County isn't far behind at $725,000. These counties offer vast tracts of land and a quieter lifestyle, but also face challenges like limited job opportunities and infrastructure. The article highlights that these lower price points aren’t necessarily indicative of “cheap” homes; rather, they reflect the different economic realities and priorities of those regions. Land is abundant, but attracting buyers willing to pay premium prices remains difficult.

The range across Oregon is truly remarkable. Baker County's most expensive listing sits at $1.6 million, a far cry from Washington County’s astronomical price. Similarly, Union County lists its highest-priced home for $1.85 million. These differences underscore the vast geographical and economic diversity within the state.

The article also touches upon broader trends impacting Oregon's real estate market. The ongoing shortage of housing, exacerbated by population growth and supply chain issues, continues to drive up prices across the board. While interest rates have fluctuated, creating some volatility in the market, demand for luxury properties remains relatively strong among high-net-worth individuals. The article mentions that many of these expensive listings cater not just to local buyers but also to those relocating from other states seeking a lifestyle change or investment opportunities.

Furthermore, the types of amenities driving up prices vary by region. In coastal areas, ocean views and beach access are paramount. Inland, acreage, privacy, and recreational features like equestrian facilities or fishing ponds become more valuable. The article's visual presentation – showcasing each county’s most expensive listing with photos and key details – effectively communicates the scale of these differences.

Ultimately, OregonLive's analysis paints a compelling picture of a state where real estate values are shaped by complex interplay of factors: geography, economy, desirability, and lifestyle preferences. The staggering price differences between counties aren’t just about square footage or number of bedrooms; they represent fundamentally different ways of life and economic realities within the Beaver State. The article serves as a reminder that while Oregon remains an attractive destination, the dream of homeownership – particularly in desirable locations – comes with a significant price tag, one that varies dramatically depending on where you choose to call home.

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