Major cities or towns:

La Grande
Union
Elgin
Union County, Oregon is a diverse and scenic region in the northeastern part of the state. The geography features a mix of rugged mountains, lush valleys, and winding rivers, providing a range of outdoor recreation opportunities. The climate is generally mild, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The population is around 25,000, with a mix of rural and small-town communities. The economy is primarily driven by agriculture, forestry, and tourism, though the job market can be limited in some areas. Housing costs are relatively affordable compared to other parts of Oregon, but the cost of living is still higher than the national average. The K-12 education system has both strengths and challenges, while higher education options are limited within the county. Healthcare facilities are available, but access to specialized care may require travel. Cultural attractions include museums, performing arts, and community events, though the entertainment options are modest. Outdoor recreation is a major draw, with abundant hiking, fishing, hunting, and skiing. The transportation infrastructure is adequate, though public transit is limited. Crime rates are generally low, contributing to a safe and tight-knit community vibe, though some social and economic disparities exist. Overall, Union County offers a scenic, nature-oriented lifestyle, but job opportunities and amenities may be more limited than in larger urban areas.

Demographics

Population

27K

Ethnicity %

White
87
Black
1
Asian
1
Hispanic
5

Median Age

40.2

Density

1 of 10

13 / Mile²

Avg Family Size

3.0

Religious

34%

Foreign Born

10%

Veterans

7.7%

Adult Smokers

18%

Adult Obesity

32%

Uninsured

8%

Excessive Drinking

21%

Poverty Rate

12.2%

Weather

Sunlight

3 hours winter dailyAverage sun

Summer average temp

82°F

Winter max temp

38°F

Precipitation

29 in.

Snowfall (inches)

16.3 (avg)

Drought risk

Low

Earthquake risk

Low

Wildfire risk

Moderate

Tornado risk

Very Low

Hurricane risk

Negligible

Crime

Rank: 4.8 of 10

(crimes per 1,000 people yearly)

Violent

7 (5.6)

Property

7 (31)

Assault

8 (4.7)

Larceny (theft)

5 (18)

Robbery

4 (0.7)

Burglary

9 (10.9)

Rape

2 (0.20)

Auto Theft

6 (2.0)

Murder

1 (0.00)

Arson

3 (0.15)

Driving deaths involving alcohol

29%

Politics and Law

State politics

Blue (Democrat)

Abortion laws

Legal at any stage

Marijuana laws

Legal for recreational use

Gun Laws

Permit required for concealed carry

Democrat

28%

Republican

70%

State Tax Burden

8.29%

Cigarette Tax

$3.33

Jobs

Income (per capita)

$50,787

Unemployment

3.5%

Employment

57.6%

Hours worked

41.8

Outdoors

Natural Amenities

4.7 / 10

Water Area

0.08%

Near park?

58%

Beaches

Not near the coast

Mountains

Less than 1 hour

Tree Area

61%

Housing

Home Ownership

64%

Median Home Price

$306K

Average Rent

$1,225

Internet over 25mbps

39%

Transportation

Walkability

40

Cycling

34

Public Transit

unknown

Major Airport

>2 hours

Average Commute Time

17

Education

K-12 Test Scores

3 of 10  

(avg: -0.16)

College graduates

25%

Culture

Arts scene

unknown

Food awards per 100k

unknown