Living in Klamath Falls, OR:

What you need to know about Living in Klamath Falls, OR

Living in Klamath Falls, OR is a unique experience that offers a balance of urban amenities and rural charm. Nestled in the heart of Klamath County, Klamath Falls is a small city that boasts a population of approximately 21,000 people.

The city is located in Southern Oregon, close to the California border, and is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Cascade Mountains, the Klamath River, and the Upper Klamath Lake.

The geography and climate of Klamath Falls are some of the most attractive features of the city. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Klamath Falls is known as the "City of Sunshine." The city's location in the high desert region of Oregon means that it experiences a semi-arid climate, with warm summers and cold winters.

The city is also surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the nearby Crater Lake National Park, which attracts tourists from all over the world.

Key Takeaways

Klamath Falls is a small city located in Southern Oregon with a population of approximately 21,000 people.
The city is known as the "City of Sunshine" due to its over 300 days of sunshine a year.
Klamath Falls is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Cascade Mountains, the Klamath River, and the Upper Klamath Lake.

Geography and Climate

Topography

Klamath Falls is a city located in southern Oregon, United States, and is the county seat of Klamath County. The city is situated on the eastern slope of the Cascade Range and is surrounded by mountains, hills, and lakes.

The terrain is diverse, ranging from flat valley floors to steep mountain slopes. The altitude of the city ranges from 4,000 to 5,000 feet above sea level.

Weather Patterns

Klamath Falls experiences a semi-arid climate with low annual precipitation and wide variations in temperature, both daily and seasonally. Summers are hot and dry while winters are cold and snowy. The average temperature in July, the warmest month, is around 85°F, while the average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 28°F. The area also experiences frequent strong winds.

The city is known as "Oregon's City of Sunshine" as it receives over 300 days of sunshine on average every year. The beauty of the weather in Klamath Falls is that people who live in the area get to avoid constant rain and clouds that may be found in other parts of the state, but are also spared from extreme heat.

The temperate climate provides little rainfall, cool-to-warm springs, long hot summers, comfortable autumns, and snowy winters. Snowfall is quite rare in Klamath County, with an average of just 3 inches per year. With its dry climate and abundant sunshine, Klamath County is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the cold weather elsewhere.

Overall, Klamath Falls' unique geography and climate provide residents with a diverse range of outdoor activities and a comfortable living environment.

Housing and Real Estate

Property Types

Klamath Falls, OR offers a wide range of property types to suit different lifestyles and budgets. Single-family homes are the most common type, ranging from cozy bungalows to spacious estates.

Those looking for a more maintenance-free lifestyle may prefer townhouses or condos, which often come with amenities such as a pool, gym, or clubhouse. For those who prefer a rural lifestyle, there are also plenty of farms and ranches available for purchase.

Buying vs. Renting

Whether to buy or rent a property in Klamath Falls, OR largely depends on one's personal circumstances. Generally, buying a property is a good investment in the long run, as property values in Klamath Falls, OR have been steadily increasing over the years.

However, renting can be a better option for those who are not yet ready to commit to a property or who have a limited budget. Renting also provides more flexibility in terms of location and property type.

Real Estate Market Trends

According to Redfin, the real estate market in Klamath Falls, OR is somewhat competitive, with a score of 48 out of 100. The median home value in Klamath Falls, OR is $281,199, which is slightly higher than the national average. However, the overall cost of living in Klamath Falls, OR is 1% lower than the national average.

Over the past year, the Klamath Falls, OR real estate market has seen a 5.5% increase in home values. This trend is expected to continue, with a projected increase of 4.7% over the next year. The average price per square foot for a home in Klamath Falls, OR is $159, which is higher than the average price per square foot in the surrounding areas.

Economy and Employment

Klamath Falls, OR is a city with a diverse economy that has seen steady growth in recent years. The city offers a range of job opportunities across various sectors, making it an attractive place to live and work.

Job Opportunities

The most common job groups in Klamath Falls, OR, are Office & Administrative Support Occupations, Management Occupations, and Sales & Related Occupations. The economy of Klamath Falls, OR employs 8.94k people, and the employment rate has declined at a rate of −2.88% from 2020 to 2021.

Key Industries

Klamath Falls, OR has a diverse economy with several key industries that drive its economic growth. The health care and social services industry is one of the leading industries in the city, employing approximately 1,700 people. Sky Lakes Medical Center is the largest employer in this sector, with around 1,000 employees.

The sector has seen significant growth in recent years, with the aging population driving demand for services. Other key industries in Klamath Falls, OR include manufacturing, retail trade, and education.

Economic Outlook

Klamath Falls, OR has a positive economic outlook with steady job growth and a diverse economy. During the pandemic, total income in Klamath County increased by more than 20%, outpacing the state and nation.

Looking forward, Social Security accounts for about 10% of all income in Klamath, meaning this year's 8.7% COLA increase raises countywide income by 0.8 or 0.9 percent, a larger than average increase. The city's strategic location, low cost of living, and business-friendly environment make it an attractive place for new businesses and entrepreneurs.

Education and Schools

Klamath Falls has a diverse range of educational institutions, including public, private, and higher education options.

Public Schools

Klamath Falls is served by two public school districts: Klamath County School District and Klamath Falls City School District. Both districts offer a variety of schools from elementary to high school.

According to Niche, Henley High School is the best public high school in Klamath Falls, and Roosevelt and Ferguson Elementary Schools are the top-rated public elementary schools.

Higher Education

Klamath Falls is home to Oregon Institute of Technology, also known as Oregon Tech. Oregon Tech offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as engineering, health sciences, business, and applied sciences.

The university has a student population of over 4,000 and prides itself on providing hands-on, practical education that prepares students for successful careers.

Private and Charter Schools

In addition to public schools, Klamath Falls has a few private and charter school options. According to GreatSchools, Hosanna Christian School is the top-rated private school in Klamath Falls. The school offers education from kindergarten through high school and has a focus on Christian values.

Klamath Learning Center is a charter school that offers personalized education plans for students in grades 6-12.

Overall, Klamath Falls offers a variety of educational options for students of all ages, backgrounds, and interests.

Healthcare Facilities

Klamath Falls is home to several healthcare facilities that offer a range of medical services to its residents. Here are some of the top healthcare facilities in Klamath Falls:

Hospitals

Sky Lakes Medical Center: It is a not-for-profit, community-owned hospital that provides a wide range of medical services to the residents of Klamath Falls. The hospital has 176 beds and offers services such as emergency care, surgery, cancer care, and women's health. Sky Lakes Medical Center has been recognized for its quality of care and has received several awards and accreditations.

Clinics and Specialists

Klamath Open Door Family Practice: It is a community health center that provides primary care services to people of all ages. The clinic offers services such as preventive care, chronic disease management, and behavioral health. Klamath Open Door Family Practice accepts most insurance plans and has a sliding fee scale for those who are uninsured.

Klamath Orthopedic Clinic: It is a clinic that specializes in orthopedic care. The clinic offers services such as joint replacement, sports medicine, and spine care. The clinic has a team of highly experienced orthopedic surgeons who use the latest techniques and technology to provide the best possible care to their patients.

Klamath Eye Center: It is a clinic that specializes in eye care. The clinic offers services such as comprehensive eye exams, cataract surgery, and LASIK. The clinic has a team of highly skilled ophthalmologists who use the latest technology to provide the best possible care to their patients.

Residents of Klamath Falls have access to quality healthcare services, thanks to the presence of these healthcare facilities.

Whether it's a routine check-up or a specialized treatment, residents can be assured that they will receive the best possible care.

Transportation

Public Transit

Klamath Falls has a public transportation system called Basin Transit Service. The service operates on weekdays and Saturdays, providing bus routes throughout the city.

The buses are equipped with bike racks, making it easy for passengers to combine biking and public transit. The fares are affordable, with a one-way ticket costing only $1.50, and a 10-ride pass costing $13.50. Seniors, people with disabilities, and children under five years old can ride for free.

Major Highways

Klamath Falls is located at the intersection of US Route 97 and Oregon Route 39. US Route 97 is a major north-south highway that runs from California to Washington, passing through Oregon.

Oregon Route 39 connects Klamath Falls to the nearby city of Merrill. The city is also close to US Route 140, which connects Klamath Falls to Medford and the Oregon coast.

Biking and Walking Paths

Klamath Falls has several biking and walking paths that offer residents a safe and enjoyable way to get around the city. The Link River Trail is a popular path that runs along the Link River, connecting Veterans Park to the OC&E Woods Line State Trail. The OC&E Woods Line State Trail is a 105-mile trail that runs through the Klamath Basin, offering residents and visitors a scenic way to explore the area.

The city is also home to several parks with walking paths, including Moore Park, Steen Sports Park, and Conger Heights Park.

Overall, Klamath Falls offers residents several transportation options, including public transit, major highways, and biking and walking paths.

Recreation and Entertainment

Klamath Falls has a variety of recreational and entertainment options for residents and visitors. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, cultural venues, or events and festivals, there is something for everyone.

Outdoor Activities

Klamath Falls is known for its abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including mountains, forests, and lakes.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and boating in the area. Crater Lake National Park, located just a short drive from Klamath Falls, is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and scenic drives.

In addition to the natural beauty of the area, Klamath Falls has several parks and recreational facilities. Moore Park, located in the heart of the city, has a playground, picnic areas, and a skate park.

The Running Y Ranch Resort, located just outside of Klamath Falls, has a golf course, spa, and fitness center.

Cultural Venues

Klamath Falls has several cultural venues for residents and visitors to enjoy. The Klamath County Museum, located in downtown Klamath Falls, has exhibits on the history and culture of the area.

The Ross Ragland Theater, also located in downtown Klamath Falls, hosts a variety of performing arts events, including plays, concerts, and dance performances.

Events and Festivals

Klamath Falls has several annual events and festivals that draw visitors from all over the region. The Klamath County Fair, held every August, features carnival rides, live music, and agricultural exhibits.

The Klamath Independent Film Festival, held every September, showcases independent films from around the world. The Klamath Freedom Celebration, held every July 4th, features a parade, live music, and fireworks.

Overall, Klamath Falls offers a wide range of recreational and entertainment options for residents and visitors alike.

Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, cultural venues, or events and festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful city.

Community and Lifestyle

Demographics

Klamath Falls has a population of approximately 21,138 people. The city has a suburban feel, which can be ideal for families looking for more space than larger densely packed cities for the money and a good area to raise children. The city has a population growth rate of 0.7% in the last year and 4.4% in the last 5 years.

The population is predominantly white, with a small percentage of Hispanic, African American, and Native American residents.

Community Organizations

Klamath Falls has a variety of community organizations that residents can get involved in. The city has a proud Blue Zones Community, which invests in the community's well-being by making healthy choices easier in everyday life. The community has made systemic changes that will help residents live longer, healthier, and happier lives.

Additionally, the city has a strong arts community, with several art galleries and museums. The Klamath County Museum, for example, showcases the history and culture of the Klamath Basin. The Ross Ragland Theater is another cultural hub that hosts a variety of performances, including plays, concerts, and dance performances.

Living Costs

The cost of living in Klamath Falls is relatively low compared to other cities in Oregon. Housing costs are affordable, with a median home price of $197,600. The city's overall cost of living is 8% lower than the national average. The city has a sales tax rate of 0%, making it an attractive destination for shoppers. Utilities and transportation costs are also lower than the national average.

Overall, Klamath Falls is an affordable city to live in, with a variety of community organizations and cultural amenities.

The city's residents enjoy a high quality of life in a beautiful natural setting.

Safety and Crime

Klamath Falls is a relatively safe city, but like any other city, it has its share of crime. The crime rate in Klamath Falls is lower than the national average, but it is slightly higher than the state average. Visitors and residents alike should take some basic precautions to ensure their safety.

Crime Rates

According to recent data from NeighborhoodScout, the chance of being a victim of violent crime in Klamath Falls is 1 in 180, which is lower than the national average. The chance of being a victim of property crime is 1 in 38, which is higher than the national average.

Klamath Falls is in the 20th percentile for safety, meaning 80% of cities are safer and 20% of cities are more dangerous.

Police Presence

The Klamath Falls Police Department is responsible for maintaining law and order in the city. The department has a total of 43 sworn officers and 10 civilian staff members. The department is divided into several units, including patrol, investigations, and traffic.

The department also has a K-9 unit and a SWAT team. The department is committed to working with the community to prevent crime and maintain a safe environment.

Residents can also take advantage of several community-based programs, such as the Neighborhood Watch program and the Citizen's Police Academy. These programs help residents to become more involved in crime prevention and to work more closely with law enforcement.

Overall, Klamath Falls is a safe city that is committed to maintaining law and order. Visitors and residents alike should take basic precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking their doors and windows and being aware of their surroundings.

Local Government and Services

City Government

Klamath Falls is governed by a council-manager form of government. The city council consists of six members elected by the residents and a mayor elected by the council.

The council is responsible for making policy decisions, passing ordinances, adopting the budget, and appointing the city manager. The city manager is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the city and implementation of council policies.

Public Services

Klamath Falls provides a variety of public services to its residents. The city's Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining the streets, sidewalks, and stormwater system.

The Parks and Recreation Department maintains the city's parks and recreational facilities. The Klamath Falls Police Department provides law enforcement services to the city, while the Klamath County Fire District provides fire protection and emergency medical services.

Voting Information

Residents of Klamath Falls can register to vote at the Klamath County Clerk's Office or online at the Oregon Secretary of State's website. The county clerk's office also provides information on upcoming elections, polling locations, and absentee voting.

It is important to note that Oregon is a vote-by-mail state, meaning that all registered voters receive their ballots by mail and can return them by mail or drop them off at designated drop boxes.

Overall, Klamath Falls offers a range of local government and public services to its residents. The city's council-manager form of government provides for efficient administration and decision-making, while the various departments and agencies work to maintain the city's infrastructure and provide essential services to the community.