After a decade of calling Grants Pass, Oregon, home, I can safely say that this small town is unlike any other. With around 40,000 residents, it’s a far cry from the hustle and bustle of larger cities, yet it still holds its own as a community with charm, natural beauty, and potential. But like anywhere, living here comes with its own set of pros and cons.
One of the greatest aspects of living in Grants Pass is the sheer beauty that surrounds us every day. The Rogue River cuts right through town, offering an idyllic setting for hiking, fishing, and rafting. I still find myself marveling at the world-class outdoor opportunities we have right on our doorstep. Crater Lake National Park, one of Oregon’s most iconic natural wonders, is just a day trip away. Nearby, the Oregon Caves offer adventure seekers a chance to explore underground, while the Siskiyou Mountains present an ideal backdrop for hiking and camping.
The Mediterranean climate—hot, dry summers and mild winters—means that we can enjoy these outdoor activities year-round. For me and many others here, that’s one of the city’s biggest draws. Retirees, in particular, are drawn to the laid-back, nature-centric lifestyle, and I can see why. The slow pace of life, combined with the gorgeous surroundings, has been a welcome contrast to the more fast-paced areas I’ve lived in before.
However, not everything about Grants Pass is idyllic. In the ten years I’ve been here, the cost of living has changed dramatically. When I first moved in, it seemed like a haven for affordable living compared to other parts of Oregon like Portland or Bend. Today, housing prices have risen steeply, with the median price now above $400,000. While that may still be a steal compared to larger cities, it’s a big jump for a small town.
Utility costs have also crept up over time, reflecting a broader national trend. This is a serious concern for many residents, especially those on fixed incomes or working in lower-paying jobs. Groceries, gas, and basic services are all feeling the pinch of inflation, which makes it harder for many of us to justify the higher cost of living here.
The job market in Grants Pass is a bit of a mixed bag. While it’s not a booming economic hub, the tourism, healthcare, and retail sectors do provide some opportunities. Tourism in particular brings in revenue during the summer months when visitors flock to the river and local parks. But for many of us, especially those working in professional or specialized industries, opportunities are limited. Several friends and neighbors commute to nearby Medford for work or even look out-of-state for remote jobs.
The local healthcare industry, centered around the Asante Three Rivers Medical Center, provides one of the largest sources of employment, and the city has made some strides in supporting small businesses. Still, Grants Pass doesn’t provide the same economic vitality or job market diversity as larger cities. For people looking for higher-paying, white-collar jobs, the options here are limited.
As a parent, the quality of education is always top of mind, and I can’t say that the schools here are anything to brag about. They’re fine—neither outstanding nor terrible—but there’s room for improvement. Resources seem a bit thin, and academic achievement lags behind some of Oregon’s higher-performing school districts. Parents, myself included, often find themselves weighing the benefits of private schooling versus sticking with the public system.
Healthcare, on the other hand, is a bit more favorable. We’re lucky to have the Asante Medical Center, which serves the broader region and is generally regarded as high-quality. However, for more specialized care, many residents, including myself, find themselves traveling to Medford or even Portland. In a small town like this, that’s to be expected.
One issue that’s come up more frequently in recent years is crime. While Grants Pass is by no means a dangerous place, property crime has risen noticeably. Car break-ins and petty thefts have become more common, which is a source of frustration for many residents. Violent crime remains relatively low, but the rise in property crime does tarnish the small-town feel we’ve grown accustomed to.
Law enforcement has been making efforts to curb the issue, particularly through community outreach and partnerships with local organizations. There’s also a growing focus on addressing homelessness, which has become more visible in recent years, particularly in the downtown area.
One of the reasons I love living here is the strong sense of community. From the farmer’s markets to the local art galleries, Grants Pass has a tight-knit feel that’s hard to find in larger cities. The downtown area, while small, is charming, filled with locally-owned businesses that rely on the support of the community.
Cultural events like the annual Boatnik Festival and performances at the Rogue Theatre keep the social scene vibrant, though on a smaller scale. It’s not the liveliest place for young professionals or those looking for a fast-paced nightlife, but for families and retirees, it provides just enough entertainment without being overwhelming.
When it comes to national rankings, Grants Pass doesn’t always come out on top. It’s often overlooked in favor of larger cities in Oregon like Bend or Ashland, which offer better economic prospects and higher-ranked schools. Publications like U.S. News & World Report don’t typically rank Grants Pass among the top places to live due to its limited job market and rising crime. Still, those of us who call it home know that there’s more to quality of life than numbers and rankings.
For nature lovers, retirees, and those seeking a slower pace of life, Grants Pass is a hidden gem. But for young professionals, families seeking top-notch schools, or those looking for economic opportunity, it may not be the first choice.
After living here for a decade, I’ve come to appreciate what Grants Pass offers—natural beauty, a strong community, and a lifestyle that prioritizes quality over quantity. But it’s not perfect. Rising costs, limited job opportunities, and an uptick in crime are challenges that the town will need to address as it continues to grow.
For me, and many of my neighbors, the benefits still outweigh the drawbacks. It may not rank at the top of national lists, but for those of us who value the peaceful, nature-driven lifestyle, Grants Pass remains a special place to call home.
