North Plains, Oregon: A Peaceful Retreat Just Outside the City

Just 20 miles west of Portland, North Plains, Oregon is quickly gaining recognition as one of the most livable small towns in the Tualatin Valley. With a population just over 3,000, this quaint community offers a refreshing alternative to the hustle of the metro—without sacrificing access to work, school, or recreation.

Rooted in agriculture and strengthened by strong community values, North Plains appeals to those who crave space, simplicity, and connection. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a young family looking for a slower pace, or someone planning for retirement in a quiet, friendly setting, North Plains might just be your perfect fit.

Its beautiful backdrop of rolling farmland, commitment to community events, and growing number of parks and neighborhoods make it an increasingly popular choice for those relocating from Portland, Hillsboro, or beyond. With the city poised for thoughtful growth and development, now is a great time to consider planting roots in North Plains.

🏘️ Neighborhoods in North Plains

• Pumpkin Ridge Estates
  Located near the acclaimed Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club, this neighborhood features upscale homes with generous lots and beautiful views of surrounding greenery. Golf enthusiasts love the location, and residents enjoy the peaceful, refined atmosphere and direct access to one of the best courses in Oregon.

• McKay Fields
  A newer subdivision with parks, sidewalks, and family-friendly layouts, McKay Fields is popular among young families and professionals. Homes here offer modern designs and are just minutes from local schools, making for easy morning routines and strong neighborhood camaraderie.

• Iron Ridge Village
  This development features newer construction with thoughtful community planning. With well-maintained sidewalks, a strong HOA presence, and excellent walkability to parks, it’s a comfortable place to live for those seeking a move-in-ready lifestyle.

• Oak Meadow Park
  This established neighborhood blends mature trees, classic ranch-style homes, and a relaxed, suburban feel. It’s ideal for buyers looking for more yard space and timeless charm without being far from daily amenities.

💰 North Plains Real Estate Market Snapshot (2025)

• Median Listing Price: $569,900

• Median Sale Price: $599,900

• Median Price per Sq. Ft.: $288

• Annual Appreciation: 10.3%

While still relatively small, North Plains has seen a healthy real estate boom in recent years—driven by its proximity to Hillsboro and Intel, community-focused growth plans, and reputation for offering more space for the money. It remains more affordable than neighboring Portland suburbs while still offering newer homes and modern amenities.

Homes in North Plains often receive multiple offers, especially those with larger lots or proximity to local parks and schools. Whether you're purchasing your first home or investing long-term, this market shows promising returns.

🚗 Commuting & Accessibility

• To Portland: About 30 minutes via U.S. Route 26

• To Hillsboro: 15 minutes

• To Beaverton: 25 minutes

• Public Transit: Limited, with most residents relying on personal vehicles

Thanks to its direct access to Highway 26, North Plains is a popular option for commuters heading to the Portland metro or Silicon Forest employers in Hillsboro. While public transit is sparse, the city’s easy highway access helps maintain a manageable commute while offering a quieter place to return home to.

🌟 What to Do in North Plains

• Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club
  This prestigious course offers world-class golfing just outside your front door. It’s hosted national tournaments and offers a scenic and serene place to unwind or improve your game.

• Horning’s Hideout
  A true gem just outside town, this private park and event venue features fishing ponds, disc golf courses, camping spots, and summer music festivals. It’s a great place to gather, relax, or explore with family and friends.

• Lakeview Farms
  A favorite seasonal destination, Lakeview Farms offers hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking—making it a yearly tradition for many families in the area.

• Local Parks & Trails
  With city parks like Jessie Mays Community Park and new green spaces under development, North Plains is expanding its recreational offerings to meet the needs of a growing population.

🎉 Community Events & Festivals

• Elephant Garlic Festival
  This quirky and beloved August event celebrates the town’s agricultural roots with live music, garlic-themed food, craft vendors, and a fun run. It’s a must-see for visitors and a point of pride for locals.

• Summer Concert Series
  Held in local parks during warmer months, this family-friendly music series brings the community together with lawn chairs, food trucks, and dancing under the stars.

• Holiday Tree Lighting
  North Plains celebrates the season with a festive tree lighting, hot cocoa, caroling, and opportunities to gather and connect with neighbors.

These events reflect the community’s strong identity and help foster close connections between neighbors—something increasingly rare in larger cities.

📚 Schools & Education

North Plains is part of the Hillsboro School District, one of the largest and most established in Oregon.

• North Plains Elementary School
  Located in the heart of the city, this school is known for its inclusive environment and excellent parental involvement. Teachers focus on individualized learning and developing strong foundational skills.

• Atfalati Ridge Elementary
  This newer elementary school brings modern facilities and a fresh approach to hands-on education. The school emphasizes STEM learning and social-emotional development.

• Evergreen Middle & Glencoe High School
  Though located in Hillsboro, both schools are just a short drive from North Plains. Glencoe High School offers a wide range of AP and extracurricular programs, preparing students well for college and careers.

Parents love the district’s mix of traditional teaching and innovative programming, along with strong ties between schools and the local community.

🌄 Final Thoughts: Is North Plains Right for You?

If you’re looking for a quieter pace of life while staying connected to Oregon’s largest job centers, North Plains might be your perfect balance. From quiet neighborhoods and community festivals to spacious homes and access to nature, it offers a lifestyle that’s hard to find elsewhere.

As this small town continues to grow, it’s doing so with intention—preserving green space, investing in family-friendly infrastructure, and welcoming new residents with open arms.

Interested in calling North Plains home?
Our local real estate team would love to help you explore the market, tour the neighborhoods, and find the perfect fit for your next chapter. Reach out today to get started—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.