Situated in the sprawling hillsides to the west and the buzz of downtown Portland, Oregon to the east, Washington County in the metropolitan area offers residents all of the urban amenities they need with just the right touch of rural character.

Due to its emphasis on technology when it comes to employment options, Washington County boasts the youngest, most affluent, highly educated and ethnically-diverse residents in the state of Oregon.

SCHOOLS

Several school districts serve families living in Washington County, many of which annually receive high marks from the Oregon Department of Education. These school districts include: Banks School District 13, Beaverton School District, Forest Grove School District, Gaston School District, Hillsboro School District, North Plains Elementary School and Tigard-Tualatin School District.

Washington County is also home to several higher education institutions including: the Oregon Center for Advanced Technology Education, Oregon Graduate Institute of Science and Technology, Oregon College of Art and Craft, Pacific University in Forest Grove, and Portland Community College’s Rock Creek campus.

RECREATION

Washington County is known for its abundance of parkland. At its heart in Beaverton, sits the Tualatin Hills Nature Park. The 222-acre wildlife reserve is comprised of everything from marshes and wetland to grassland and woodland habitats as well as miles of walking and bike trails. A wide variety of birds and other small animals also reside in the park.

The 1,200-acre Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is also located in Washington County – a safe haven wetland habitat for species like bald eagles, Canada geese, peregrine falcons, migratory songbirds, waterfowl and fish.

Built in the 1800s and located in Aloha, Jenkins Estate offers acres of landscaped grounds, with a farmhouse, English gardens, greenhouse, carriage house and tea house. Jenkins Estate is a popular spot for Washington County residents to explore and relax.

ENTERTAINMENT

Washington County hosts a number of museums, theater troupes and choirs, providing entertainment to area residents throughout the year. The Washington County Historical Society and Museum hosts several exhibits displaying historical artifacts and information about the county.

Tigard’s Broadway Rose Theatre Company hosts staged performances of musicals like Aladdin, Chicago and Grease. The theatre troupe has been in existence since 1992.

Located on the campus of Oregon College of Art and Craft in Southwest Portland, the Hoffman Gallery displays original artwork from individuals across the United States. Every year, the gallery hosts an exhibit of artwork created by Oregon College of Art and Craft alumni, which has become a favorite event amongst Washington County residents.