City Profile
Grants Pass, Oregon
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Grants Pass, Oregon, situated along the scenic Rogue River, offers a distinctive blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. Known for its picturesque setting and access to world-class whitewater rafting and fishing, the city attracts residents seeking an active, nature-oriented lifestyle. Its historic downtown, adorned with murals and public art, provides a friendly, walkable core with a growing arts and food scene. Many people are drawn to Grants Pass for its comparatively attainable housing costs relative to larger West Coast metropolitan areas, a warmer and sunnier climate than much of western Oregon, and a generally slower pace of life.
Oregon, a state in the Pacific Northwest, is characterized by diverse landscapes ranging from the Pacific coastline to mountains and high desert. Its economy has transitioned from a natural resource base of timber, fishing, and agriculture to a mix of manufacturing, services, and high technology, with key sectors including computer and electronic products, transportation equipment, and machinery. The cost of living in Oregon is generally higher than the national average, particularly for housing. Western Oregon experiences a warm-summer Mediterranean climate with wet winters and dry summers, while Eastern Oregon has a colder, semi-arid climate with hotter summers and colder winters. The lifestyle often emphasizes outdoor recreation and environmental consciousness.
How this 45/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 55 / 100 | 55.0 | 30% | 16.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 112.0 | 28.8 | 25% | 7.2 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $59,646 Income needed to live here: $58,000 Unemployment rate: 5.6% | 41.8 | 20% | 8.4 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.9% Job growth rate: no usable reading | 47.5 | 15% | 7.1 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 60 / 100 | 60.0 | 10% | 6.0 |
| Overall score | 45.2 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 3 (deep think), q=91 ✓ perfect), last refreshed
26 July 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Grants Pass is approximately 12% higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 112. Housing costs are a significant factor, being about 27% higher than the national average. While housing can be more affordable than in some other Oregon cities like Ashland or Medford, it still contributes substantially to the overall expenses. Utilities, groceries, and transportation also tend to be slightly above national averages, impacting the daily budget for residents.
Income
Salary Insights
The job market in Grants Pass is primarily driven by sectors such as healthcare support, food preparation and serving, and office and administrative support, which represent significant portions of local employment. Other key industries include tourism and manufacturing. Major employers in the area include Rogue Community College, Asante Three Rivers Medical Center, and the Grants Pass School District. While the city offers a stable environment, some residents note a limitation in high-wage job opportunities. The area is increasingly appealing to remote workers seeking a lower-cost alternative to larger cities, leveraging its natural beauty and community feel.
The average salary in Grants Pass is $64,331 per year. You would need approximately $58,000 to live comfortably.
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Mobility
Transport
Getting around Grants Pass primarily relies on personal vehicles, reflecting a high car dependency. The average commute time for residents is approximately 18 minutes. While the city has some public transportation options, its transit score is relatively low at 27, indicating minimal service. Walkability is moderate, with an average Walk Score of 40, meaning most errands require a car. However, specific areas, particularly the historic downtown, are more pedestrian-friendly. The city also has some bike infrastructure, reflected in a Bike Score of 65.
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Community Q&A
Questions about Grants Pass
What people ask about living in and moving to Grants Pass, Oregon.
What are average rental prices like in Grants Pass?
The average rent in Grants Pass is $1,450 per month. Pricing varies depending on the age of the building, unit size, and proximity to downtown or rural areas in Josephine County. Standard apartment complexes and single-family home rentals remain competitive, so potential renters should prepare documentation early when applying through local property management companies.
What primary hospital services are located right in Grants Pass?
Asante Three Rivers Medical Center is the main general acute care hospital in Grants Pass. It offers emergency services, surgical departments, outpatient programs, and specialized care. For specific medical provider directories and health system details, check the Asante network portal.
How do I set up city utilities when moving into Grants Pass?
Water and sewer services are managed directly through the City of Grants Pass municipal services department. Electricity is supplied by Pacific Power, and trash collection is handled by local franchised haulers. New residents can complete connection forms and view billing schedules on the official City of Grants Pass website.
Is the cost of living high in Grants Pass, Oregon?
Grants Pass has a cost of living index of 112, meaning expenses here are roughly 12% above the national average of 100. Overall spending is heavily influenced by regional housing trends across Oregon. The city's average salary is $64,331 per year, which helps offset some day-to-day costs, though incoming residents should still plan carefully for groceries, utilities, and transportation expenses.
How safe is Grants Pass, Oregon?
Grants Pass holds a safety score of 55.0 out of 100. Crime rates fluctuate across different neighborhoods, with property-related incidents being more prevalent near busy commercial zones. For specific district breakdown maps or local crime statistics, consult the Grants Pass Police Department or review local public safety reports.
Which public school districts serve the Grants Pass community?
Students living within city boundaries are primarily served by Grants Pass School District 7. Surrounding unincorporated zones in Josephine County are managed by the Three Rivers School District. District 7 oversees several elementary schools, middle schools, and Grants Pass High School. Parents can verify specific school boundary maps on the official Grants Pass School District 7 website.
How do residents commute around Grants Pass and nearby cities?
Most residents rely on personal vehicles via Interstate 5, which runs directly through Grants Pass and provides straightforward access north toward Eugene and south toward Medford. Local public transit is available through Rogue Valley Transportation District (RVTD) bus routes. Regional transit schedules and stop maps can be reviewed directly on the RVTD website.
What is the general weather like in Grants Pass throughout the year?
Grants Pass experiences a Mediterranean-like climate featuring hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Summer temperatures routinely exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures rarely drop far below freezing, keeping heavy snowfall uncommon in the city valley. For seasonal averages and current weather advisories, check the National Weather Service.
What is the average local salary in Grants Pass?
The average salary in Grants Pass is $64,331 per year. Major local employers include regional healthcare providers, school districts, small retail businesses, and municipal administration. Job seekers can explore active open positions by checking job boards, local government agency employment portals, and regional career resources.
What outdoor recreation options are popular around Grants Pass?
Grants Pass is famous for its location along the Rogue River, which offers popular spots for white-water rafting, jet boating, salmon fishing, and kayaking. City parks like Riverside Park provide easy walking paths and river access near downtown. Residents also enjoy hiking nearby Southern Oregon trails and visiting local wineries throughout Josephine County.
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