Is Raleigh Hills Safe, Pros and cons of living in Raleigh Hills
Raleigh Hills, Oregon, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. Nestled in Washington County, this census-designated place is part of the larger Portland metropolitan area, providing residents with a peaceful environment without sacrificing proximity to city life. Its tree-lined streets and open spaces contribute to a family-friendly atmosphere, making it an attractive option for those seeking a well-established community.
The community is known for its welcoming feel, characterized by a strong sense of community and a desirable living environment. Raleigh Hills is strategically located southwest of Portland, bordered by neighboring communities like Beaverton, West Slope, Progress, and Garden Home. This positioning allows for easy commuting and access to various services and attractions within the greater Portland region.
Is it Safe to Live in Raleigh Hills?
Raleigh Hills is considered a very safe place to live, with crime rates significantly lower than the national average. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office serves the area, contributing to its secure environment. Violent crime rates in particular are substantially lower than the national figures, fostering a sense of peace for residents.
The overall crime index for Raleigh Hills is reported to be well below both the metropolitan and national averages. This low crime rate makes it a desirable location for families and individuals prioritizing safety and security in their community. Residents can feel confident in the low likelihood of experiencing crime in their daily lives.
Demographics and Population
Raleigh Hills is home to a population of approximately 6,700 to 6,744 residents, as per recent census data. The community has experienced a modest population increase over the past decade, indicating steady growth. The population density is relatively high, reflecting its suburban nature within the Portland metropolitan area.
The demographic makeup of Raleigh Hills shows a diverse population. White residents constitute the largest ethnic group, followed by Hispanic and Asian populations, among others. A notable percentage of residents are foreign-born, contributing to the area’s cultural richness. The median age in Raleigh Hills is around 44.6 years, suggesting a stable, adult-oriented community.
Cost of Living and Housing
The cost of living in Raleigh Hills is considerably higher than the national average, particularly concerning housing expenses. The median home value in Raleigh Hills is significantly above the Oregon state and Portland metro averages. This reflects the desirability and demand for housing in the area, with homes often being an investment that holds its value.
Rental costs in Raleigh Hills also tend to be higher than both the metro and national averages. Consequently, the home price-to-income ratio is also elevated, indicating that housing affordability can be a challenge for some. Despite these higher costs, the median household income in Raleigh Hills is also above the state and national averages, which helps to offset some of the expenses.
Housing Market Overview
The real estate market in Raleigh Hills is characterized by a tight housing supply, with a very low vacancy rate. This indicates strong demand for properties in the area, which contributes to the high median home values. The majority of residential real estate consists of single-family homes and some apartment complexes, with many homes built between 1970 and 1999.
The median home value in Raleigh Hills is approximately $1,109,901 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout), making it one of the more expensive neighborhoods in Oregon and the U.S.. The average rental price is around $2,391 per month, which is higher than the average rental cost in most Oregon neighborhoods. This robust housing market, coupled with strong demand, suggests a stable investment for homeowners.
Job Market and Economy
Raleigh Hills boasts a strong local economy with an unemployment rate that is below the national average. This indicates a healthy job market with ample opportunities for residents. The average individual income in Raleigh Hills is also notably higher than the national average, contributing to a comfortable standard of living.
The broader Portland metropolitan area, which includes Raleigh Hills, is a hub for major employers across various sectors. Key industries in the region include technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. Major companies like Intel, Providence Health & Services, and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) are significant employers, offering a wide range of career paths.
Major Employers in the Region
Within Washington County and the greater Portland area, several large corporations are major employers. Intel Corporation is a significant presence, particularly in Hillsboro, driving the region’s tech industry. Other substantial employers include Providence Health & Services, Legacy Health, and Kaiser Permanente, representing the robust healthcare sector.
Companies like Nike, headquartered in nearby Beaverton, and Adidas America, with its U.S. headquarters in Portland, are key players in the retail and apparel industry. These major employers contribute to a diverse and dynamic job market, attracting professionals from various fields.
Climate and Weather
Raleigh Hills experiences a temperate climate, characterized by distinct seasons. Summers are typically short, warm, dry, and mostly clear, while winters are colder, wet, and often overcast. The temperature throughout the year generally ranges from 35°F to 83°F, rarely dropping below 26°F or exceeding 95°F.
Annual precipitation in Raleigh Hills averages around 42 inches, with most of the rainfall occurring during the wetter season from October to May. Snowfall is minimal, with an average of about 3 inches per year. The humidity levels remain comfortable during the summer months, contributing to a pleasant environment.
Seasonal Temperature and Rainfall
The warmest month in Raleigh Hills is typically August, with average high temperatures around 82°F and lows near 56°F. Conversely, December is the coldest month, with average highs around 45°F and lows near 36°F. The month with the most rainfall is November, receiving an average of 8.7 inches, while July is the driest, with only about 0.5 inches of rain.
The chance of a wet day varies significantly throughout the year, with a higher probability during the months of October through May. This pattern contributes to the lush, green landscape characteristic of the Pacific Northwest.
Education and Schools
Raleigh Hills is served by the Beaverton School District, which is highly regarded within Oregon. Raleigh Hills Elementary School, located within the community, is part of this district and serves students from kindergarten through fifth grade. The school generally receives positive ratings, with a B+ grade from Niche and a 7/10 GreatSchools Rating.
Academically, Raleigh Hills Elementary School shows mixed performance, with some grades outperforming district and state averages in specific subjects. The student-teacher ratio is approximately 16:1, which is conducive to personalized attention for students. The school is considered above average in terms of diversity and teacher quality within Oregon.
School District Performance
The Beaverton School District itself is ranked among the top school districts in Oregon, indicating a strong commitment to educational excellence. Raleigh Hills Elementary School benefits from the resources and standards set by this reputable district. The percentage of students achieving proficiency in math and reading at Raleigh Hills Elementary is around 43% and 54%, respectively.
While proficiency rates vary, the school’s overall performance and its inclusion in a well-regarded district make it a solid choice for families prioritizing education. The district’s performance is a significant factor contributing to Raleigh Hills’ appeal as a family-oriented community.
Population and Demographics
Raleigh Hills has a population of approximately 6,737 residents, with a median age of 46.6 years. The gender distribution is fairly even, with a slightly higher percentage of females. The racial composition is predominantly White, making up about 63.5% of the population, followed by Hispanic (14.1%), Multiracial (9.1%), and Asian (8.3%) residents.
The community has become more racially diverse in recent years, with increases in the Asian and Black or African American populations. A portion of the population, around 10.2%, was born outside the country, adding to the area’s cultural diversity. The majority of residents are U.S. citizens, a rate that is slightly higher than the national average.
Age and Household Composition
The median age in Raleigh Hills is higher than both the Portland Metro median age and the national average, suggesting a community with a significant proportion of established adults. Baby Boomers form the largest age segment, followed by Millennials. The average household size is around 2.15 people, with a significant percentage of households being married couples.
A notable percentage of the population lives below the poverty line, though this figure is lower than the national average (as reported by Data USA). The primary demographic groups living in poverty are females in the middle-aged brackets.