Is Milwaukie Safe, Pros and cons of living in Milwaukie

Milwaukie, Oregon, is a city that offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. Nestled along the Willamette River, just south of Portland, it provides a picturesque setting with natural beauty and a growing local culture. This community is known for its approachable cost of living, diverse employment opportunities, and a generally safe environment for its residents.

The city’s appeal lies in its balance of natural landscapes, such as Elk Rock Island Park, and its developing arts scene. Milwaukie is a place where residents can enjoy outdoor activities, community events, and a variety of dining and shopping options. Its strategic location also makes it an attractive option for those who work in the greater Portland area but prefer a quieter residential setting.

Is it Safe to Live in Milwaukie?

Milwaukie’s overall crime rate is reported to be lower than the national average, with a total crime rate that is 19% lower per 100,000 residents (according to AreaVibes). The city experiences an average of 1.02 daily crimes, consisting of 0.12 violent incidents and 0.91 property-related offenses. This suggests a generally safe environment for those considering a move to Milwaukie.

However, crime rates can vary by neighborhood. While Milwaukie as a whole is considered safer than many cities, some areas experience more crime than others. Residents often consider the southwest part of the city to be the safest, with a lower chance of being a victim of crime compared to other neighborhoods (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). Conversely, the north parts of Milwaukie see more incidents annually.

The violent crime rate in Milwaukie is 3.928 per 1,000 residents in a typical year (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). When compared to cities of similar size, Milwaukie’s violent crime rate is considered to be on par with the state and national averages. The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Milwaukie is about 1 in 518, and the chance of becoming a victim of property crime is about 1 in 66 (as reported by AreaVibes).

Cost of Living and Housing in Milwaukie

The cost of living in Milwaukie is generally considered to be slightly higher than the national average, with overall expenses being about 4% higher (as reported by Payscale). Housing expenses in Milwaukie are approximately 3% lower than the national average, and utility prices are 2% lower. However, transportation costs, such as bus fares and gas prices, are notably higher, being 26% above the national average (as reported by Payscale).

The median home value in Milwaukie is around $505,100 (as reported by Data USA), which is about 1.52 times higher than the national average. Home prices in Milwaukie are comparable to those in Portland, with single-family homes typically ranging from the low $400,000s to the $800,000s (as per Portland OR Real Estate). Condos and townhomes are less common but usually start in the mid-$200,000s.

For renters, the average rent for an apartment in Milwaukie is approximately $1,795 per month, which is 10.25% lower than the national average (as reported by Zillow). The price range for rentals can vary significantly, from $595 to $4,300, depending on the type and size of the property. Studio apartments are the most budget-friendly option, averaging around $1,339 per month, while two-bedroom apartments average about $1,690 per month (as reported by Apartments.com).

Job Market and Economy

Milwaukie’s economy is supported by a diverse range of industries, with the most common employment sectors including Health Care & Social Assistance, Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services, and Retail Trade (as reported by Data USA). The city has a significant number of residents working in these fields, contributing to its economic vitality.

The average annual salary in Milwaukie is approximately $49,440, with an hourly wage of about $23.77 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). However, salaries can vary widely based on occupation, experience, and industry. Some of the highest-paying jobs in the Milwaukie area include Software Engineer, Engineering, and Cswa. The median household income in Milwaukie was reported as $86,892 in 2024 (as reported by Data USA).

Major employers in Milwaukie include organizations like Exceed Enterprises, which focuses on vocational and personal development for individuals with diverse abilities, and Marquis Companies, a healthcare provider with various facilities (as noted by Portland OR Real Estate). Bob’s Red Mill, a well-known food brand, also has a significant presence in Milwaukie, contributing to the local job market.

Climate and Weather

Milwaukie experiences a temperate climate characterized by short, warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters (as reported by City of Milwaukie Oregon Official Website). The average daily high temperature during the summer months, from June to September, can exceed 76°F, with August being the hottest month, often reaching highs of 83°F and lows of 57°F.

During the cooler winter months, from November to February, the average daily high temperature drops below 52°F. December is typically the coldest month, with average lows around 37°F and highs of 45°F. The city generally avoids temperatures below 27°F or above 96°F throughout the year.

Rainfall is a significant feature of Milwaukie’s climate, with the wettest month being November, averaging about 8.7 inches of rain. Conversely, July is the driest month, with an average of only 0.5 inches of rainfall. The city experiences a wetter season from October to May, with a greater than 32% chance of a wet day, and a drier season from May to October, with fewer rainy days.

Education and Demographics

Milwaukie is part of the Clackamas County School District, which serves the city’s educational needs with a range of elementary, middle, and high schools (as noted by Portland OR Real Estate). While specific school ratings are not detailed here, the district provides educational services to the community’s youth.

The population of Milwaukie was approximately 21,392 as of recent data (as reported by Data USA). The median age in the city is around 41.3 years (as reported by Data Commons). The demographic makeup is predominantly White, with 80.2% of locals identifying as Caucasian, followed by Hispanic or Latino residents (as reported by Point2Homes).

In terms of citizenship, 97.9% of Milwaukie residents are U.S. citizens (as reported by Data USA). The foreign-born population is about 6.25%, which is similar to the national average. The community is diverse, with 6.25% of residents born outside the United States, contributing to the city’s cultural fabric.