Corvallis

 

Corvallis is a university town along the Willamette River. With a heady contrast between its over 700 stately historic buildings and the verdant farms and forests surrounding it, this neighborhood is the quintessential community in which to live for any lifestyle.

The area’s vibrant downtown affords locals a wide range of eateries and shops, while the beautiful open spaces provide places to hike, run, or walk. Not only is Corvallis a highly walkable community, but it is also incredibly bikeable. There are several impressive bike trails, and many streets have bike lanes.

The community is green for most of the year, and the lawns and green spaces comprise a stunning setting for charming and often historic houses. Popular home styles range from grand colonial revival to quaint minimal traditional. Residents can usually be found outside their lovely homes, enjoying the west coast’s mild temperatures and moderate precipitation.

 

What to Love

• A vibrant neighborhood that is community-minded
• The walkable and bikeable downtown area 
• The beauty of all four seasons
• Oregon State University and the university culture
• Bucolic farmland and verdant forests

Local Lifestyle

Residents have diverse opportunities for enjoyment and staying active. With four distinct seasons, locals can ski and snowshoe in the winter, visit the farmers’ market in the spring, relax in one of more than 40 city parks and natural areas in the summer, or walk around historic downtown amid the fall’s fanciful foliage.

There is an effusive community feeling in this highly walkable, family-friendly neighborhood. With its urban, suburban mix atmosphere, residents feel safe while retaining many urban amenities. The lively downtown area houses several upscale dining places, charming boutiques, art galleries, and historic buildings and locations.

 

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Corvallis is home to a plentitude of fine dining and casual eating places. Locals can often be found enjoying a craft brew or delicious fare at Block 15 Brewing Co. Another local favorite, Sky High Brewing & Pub, has a wide selection of delectable plates, local beers, ales, and various cocktails. They also have a rooftop dining option.

American Dream Pizza Downtown attracts locals with its homemade pizza dough prepared with non-GMO flour, gluten-free crust choices, and a collection of diverse local art displayed on the walls. A view of the riverfront complements the chic and enticing dining atmosphere at del Alma Restaurant, where Caribbean, Spanish, and Latin-influenced food is made with fresh ingredients from local markets.

In McMenamins Corvallis Pub, seasonal ingredients are sourced from local growers and producers for Northwest pub fare in an old English-style setting. Their soups and pizzas are homemade. Castor is an upscale restaurant serving Southern-inspired plates with seasonal ingredients and locally-produced wines. It is a hip, contemporary space with sophisticated, classical accents.

 

Things to Do

Corvallis has opportunities and activities to satisfy the inclinations of all of its residents. There are several events for sociable residents to gather and enjoy the neighborhood. Each Saturday and Wednesday, beginning in April, the Corvallis Farmers’ Market brings the community together at the Riverfront Commemorative Park to buy and sell locally grown produce, experience local vendors’ wares, and attend various events.

Locals look forward to the annual Benton County Fair. With its exhibits, live music, special events, and rides, people of all ages find entertaining and exciting activities at the fair. The Corvallis Fall Festival delights residents of all tastes and ages. The festival features booths, work from local artists, race events, food, and live music. The Corvallis Museum exhibits art, artifacts, textiles, specimens, and more from the Society's collections. These include the legendary Horner Collection, formerly housed at Oregon State University.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate having Oregon State University in its midst. It has top-notch science and engineering programs and groundbreaking research. The university, home of the Oregon State Beavers, has athletic and other events for the community to enjoy. Locals also love attending summer Corvallis Knights Baseball games to watch their favorite college baseball team.

 

Schools

The Corvallis School District 509J serves the Corvallis community. The area has several stellar educational opportunities, among which are:

• Adams Elementary School
• Linus Pauling Middle School
• Oregon State University
• Corvallis High School
• Crescent Valley High School

 

TOP TOURIST SPOTS IN CORVALLIS 

1. Oregon State University (OSU) Campus: As the heart of Corvallis, OSU is a must-visit for its beautiful campus and vibrant educational atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy walking tours of the campus, which showcase impressive architectural designs, sprawling green spaces, and the historic Memorial Union. The university also hosts various cultural and sporting events throughout the year, making it a lively center of activity and a source of pride for the community.
2. Bald Hill Natural Area: For those who love outdoor activities, Bald Hill Natural Area is a perfect destination. Located just a short distance from downtown Corvallis, this area offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trails provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Cascade Mountains. It's an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts looking to explore the scenic landscapes of the Willamette Valley.
3. Downtown Corvallis: The downtown area of Corvallis is a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. The charming streets are lined with a variety of shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafes, reflecting the city's eclectic and artistic vibe. The Corvallis Farmers Market, held downtown, is a popular attraction where visitors can sample local produce and artisanal products. The downtown area also hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, offering a taste of local culture and community spirit.

 

TOP 5 FAQS ABOUT CORVALLIS REAL ESTATE TRENDS

1. What are the current real estate trends in Corvallis, Oregon? The real estate market in Corvallis is dynamic, influenced strongly by the presence of Oregon State University. The demand for housing is consistently high, especially for properties close to the university and downtown areas. This demand is driven by a mix of students, university staff, and professionals, contributing to a robust rental market. There's also a growing trend towards sustainable and eco-friendly homes, reflecting the city's environmental consciousness. Despite broader market fluctuations, Corvallis maintains a steady real estate market due to its stable economy and the continual influx of university-related residents.

2. How does Corvallis’ housing market compare to other nearby areas? Compared to other areas in the Willamette Valley, Corvallis offers a unique market heavily influenced by its university town status. This results in a more diverse population and a consistent demand for rental properties. While cities like Eugene or Salem also have active housing markets, Corvallis stands out for its higher concentration of educational facilities and its commitment to sustainability, which attracts a particular demographic of homebuyers and investors.

3. What types of properties are most in demand in Corvallis? In Corvallis, there is strong demand for single-family homes, particularly in neighborhoods close to Oregon State University and the downtown area. Rental properties, including apartments and smaller homes, are also in high demand due to the large student and faculty population. Properties that offer sustainable features or proximity to parks and natural areas are increasingly popular, aligning with the city’s focus on environmental sustainability.

4. Is Corvallis a good place for real estate investment? Corvallis is considered a good place for real estate investment, particularly in the rental market, thanks to the steady influx of students and university staff. The city's stable economy, high quality of life, and strong community appeal also contribute to a healthy housing market with potential for long-term growth. Investors should consider properties near the university or those offering unique amenities like green features or access to public transportation.

5. What should potential buyers know about the Corvallis real estate market? Potential buyers in Corvallis should be aware of the competitive nature of the market, especially during peak times aligned with the academic calendar. Understanding the local zoning regulations, especially in university-adjacent areas, is crucial. Buyers should also consider the long-term rental potential of properties and the city’s focus on sustainability. Working with a local real estate agent who understands the nuances of the Corvallis market can be invaluable in finding the right property.