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Pacific Northwest Living | Teaching in Oregon
Oregon boasts scenic beauty, progressive values, and a strong commitment to public education in both urban and rural areas.


Oregon is a progressive state with a strong commitment to education and sustainability. Teachers here are supported with generous benefits, mentorship programs, and ongoing professional development. There’s a consistent demand for educators in ESL, special education, and rural communities.
Living in Oregon means enjoying some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the U.S. From the dramatic Pacific coastline to the lush forests of the Willamette Valley and the peaks of the Cascade Mountains, outdoor recreation is a way of life. Urban centers like Portland offer a vibrant cultural scene focused on creativity, inclusion, and innovation—making Oregon ideal for teachers who value both professional fulfillment and lifestyle diversity.
Weather
Temperate with mild, wet winters and dry summers; average annual temperature of 51.0°F (10.6°C)
Average Teacher Salary
$60,797
Cost of Living
Approximately $3,981/month
Population
~4,300,000
Teacher Shortage
Hundreds of unfilled teaching positions statewide
Security
~3.6 violent, ~26.4 property
Location & Climate
Situated in the Pacific Northwest, Oregon boasts diverse landscapes, from coastal regions to mountainous terrains. The western part experiences a temperate oceanic climate with wet winters and dry summers, while the eastern region has a more continental climate with colder winters and hotter summers.
Lifestyle
Oregon offers a blend of urban and outdoor lifestyles. Cities like Portland are known for their vibrant arts scenes, coffee culture, and progressive values. The state is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, skiing, and coastal adventures.
Cost of Living & Salaries
The cost of living in Oregon is above the national average, primarily due to housing costs in urban areas. However, no state sales tax can offset some expenses.
Security
Crime rates vary across the state. While some urban areas have higher crime rates, many communities in Oregon are considered safe, with active neighborhood watch programs and community policing.
Teacher Demand & Career Opportunities
Oregon faces challenges in its education sector. In 2023, Portland teachers initiated a strike, highlighting issues like large class sizes, insufficient pay, and lack of resources. The strike underscored the need for better support and investment in the state's education system.
Places to Visit
Crater Lake National Park
Known for the deepest lake in the U.S., formed within a collapsed volcano.
Columbia River Gorge
A scenic area with waterfalls and hiking trails.
Cannon Beach
A picturesque coastal town with iconic Haystack Rock.