Eugene, Oregon is a city in the Pacific Northwest that offers a unique mix of outdoor activities, art and culture, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s also home to the University of Oregon, and is known for its progressive values and vibrant music and arts scenes. But as with any place, there are pros and cons to living in Eugene. Here are 19 reasons why you may want to think twice before moving to Eugene.
1. High Cost of Living
The cost of living in Eugene is significantly higher than the national average. The median home price in Eugene is over $320,000, and the median rent is around $1,200 per month. This makes it difficult for many people to afford to live in Eugene, especially if they’re on a tight budget.
2. Poor Public Transportation
Eugene has a limited public transportation system. There are buses, but they don’t run very often and can be unreliable. The closest major airport is in Portland, which is over an hour away. This makes it difficult to travel in and out of Eugene without a car.
3. Small Town Feel
Eugene is a small city, with a population of just over 160,000. This can be great for people who want a quieter lifestyle, but it can also be a drawback if you’re looking for a more bustling, urban atmosphere.
4. Weather
Eugene has a temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. However, it does rain quite a bit in Eugene, which can be a bit of a drag. Also, there are occasional snowstorms in the winter, which can be a nuisance if you’re not prepared for them.
5. Limited Job Opportunities
Eugene is not a major city, so the job market is limited. While there are some larger employers in the area, the majority of jobs are with small businesses. This can make it difficult to find a job that pays well and offers career advancement opportunities.
6. Limited Shopping Options
Eugene is home to a few shopping malls, but it’s not a major shopping destination. If you’re looking for a wider variety of stores and restaurants, you’ll have to travel to nearby cities like Portland or Seattle.
7. Limited Entertainment Options
Eugene is home to a few bars and clubs, but it’s not a major entertainment destination. If you’re looking for more nightlife and entertainment, you’ll have to travel to nearby cities like Portland or Seattle.
8. Limited Housing Options
Eugene has a limited housing market, with few new construction homes available. This can make it difficult to find a home that meets your needs, especially if you’re looking for something specific.
9. Traffic
Eugene is a small city, but it still has its share of traffic problems. During rush hour, the roads can get quite congested, which can make it difficult to get around town.
10. Lack of Diversity
Eugene is a fairly homogenous city, with a population that is mostly white. If you’re looking for a more diverse community, you may want to look elsewhere.
11. Poor Air Quality
Eugene has an air quality index of 85, which is considered to be unhealthy. This can be a problem for people who are sensitive to air pollution.
12. Lack of Professional Sports Teams
Eugene doesn’t have any professional sports teams, so if you’re a fan of major league sports, you’ll have to travel to nearby cities like Portland or Seattle.
13. High Crime Rate
Eugene has a higher than average crime rate, with a violent crime rate that is significantly higher than the national average. This can be a concern for people who are looking for a safe place to live.
14. High Taxes
Oregon has some of the highest taxes in the country, which can be a burden for people on a tight budget. The state income tax rate is 9.9%, and the sales tax rate is 7.6%.
15. Limited Cultural Activities
Eugene has a few museums and art galleries, but it’s not a major cultural center. If you’re looking for more cultural activities, you’ll have to travel to nearby cities like Portland or Seattle.
16. Lack of High-Paying Jobs
Eugene has a limited job market, and most of the jobs available don’t pay very well. This can be a problem for people who are looking for a high-paying job.
17. Poor School System
Eugene’s public school system is not well-regarded, and the city has some of the lowest test scores in the state. This can be a concern for people who are looking for a good school system for their children.
18. Poor Road Conditions
Eugene has a lot of roads that are in poor condition, and they can be dangerous to drive on during the winter months. This can be a problem for people who don’t have a car with all-wheel drive.
19. Poor Cell Phone Service
Eugene has poor cell phone coverage, which can be a problem for people who rely on their cell phones for work or personal use. If you need good cell phone service, you may want to look elsewhere.
Eugene, Oregon can be a great place to live, but it’s not for everyone. Before making the move to Eugene, it’s important to consider all of the pros and cons of living in the city. Weighing the benefits and drawbacks can help you make an informed decision about whether or not Eugene is the right place for you.