Tucked along the banks of the Willamette River just 13 miles south of Portland, West Linn, Oregon, blends small-town charm with stunning natural beauty. Known for its strong community spirit, excellent schools, and abundance of outdoor recreation, West Linn is often referred to as one of the most desirable places to live in the Pacific Northwest.
West Linn’s roots go back to the early 1800s when it was home to the Clowewalla and other indigenous peoples of the Chinookan group. By the mid-19th century, settlers arrived, drawn by the area’s proximity to the Willamette Falls—then a vital source of power and commerce.
The city was officially incorporated in 1913 and named after U.S. Senator Lewis F. Linn of Missouri, a champion of the Oregon Territory. Over the years, it transitioned from a mill town to a residential haven, offering quiet neighborhoods with river views, hilltop vistas, and forested enclaves.
Population: Approximately 27,000
Median Household Income: $118,000 (well above the national average)
Median Home Price: Around $700,000
Land Area: 8.1 square miles
Climate: Mild, with warm summers and cool, wet winters (Average annual rainfall: ~42 inches)
West Linn is located in Clackamas County and is part of the Portland metropolitan area. Despite its growth over the decades, it retains a small-town feel that residents treasure.
One of West Linn’s greatest assets is its sense of community. It’s common to see families enjoying local parks, kids walking to school, or neighbors chatting at the weekly farmers market. The city places a strong emphasis on civic engagement and sustainability, offering programs for youth, seniors, and environmental stewardship.
The West Linn-Wilsonville School District is consistently ranked among the best in the state, with students performing well above average in academics and extracurriculars. Safety is another hallmark—West Linn regularly ranks as one of the safest cities in Oregon.
West Linn is an outdoor lover’s paradise. With over 600 acres of parks and open space, 25+ miles of hiking and biking trails, and two major rivers, the opportunities for adventure are endless. Popular spots include:
Mary S. Young Park: A sprawling riverside forest perfect for walking, birding, or letting the dog roam free.
Camassia Natural Area: A 26-acre nature preserve showcasing rare wildflowers, including its namesake Camas lily.
Fields Bridge Park: A scenic location for kayaking, fishing, or picnicking by the river.
Willamette Falls Drive Trail: Ideal for walkers, runners, and cyclists, this corridor links neighborhoods and green spaces.
Water sports like paddle boarding, boating, and fishing are easily accessible from multiple public boat ramps, while the city’s rolling hills attract cyclists looking for a challenging ride with rewarding views.
Though West Linn is primarily residential, it boasts a growing food and beverage scene. The Historic Willamette District is the heart of local life, offering boutique shops, cafés, wine bars, and dining options ranging from gourmet to grab-and-go. Highlights include:
Willamette Garage: A beloved local food hall offering international eats in a vibrant, community-driven space.
Lark Café: A cozy stop for artisan coffee and pastries.
Cascade Brewing Barrel House: A regional favorite known for its sour ales.
Seasonal events and festivals keep the calendar full, including the Old Time Fair (held every summer since 1959), parades, holiday markets, and live music performances. The West Linn Public Library also offers a rich mix of educational and cultural programming.
Willamette Falls: Though technically shared with neighboring Oregon City, this horseshoe-shaped waterfall is the second-largest by volume in the U.S. and is a major historical and cultural landmark.
Oregon White Oak Heritage Sites: West Linn is home to rare and ancient white oak groves, many protected within city parks and preserves.
Historic Homes & Districts: The city features several properties on the National Register of Historic Places, including the McLean House and Rosemont School.
West Linn’s location offers the best of both worlds—quiet suburban living with easy access to urban amenities. A 20-minute drive puts you in downtown Portland, while Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge, and the Oregon Coast are all popular day-trip destinations.
Major roadways like I-205 and Highway 43 make commuting manageable, and the nearby cities of Lake Oswego, Tualatin, and Oregon City offer additional shopping and services.
Ask a West Linn resident what they love most, and you’ll likely hear one or more of the following:
“The river views and forest walks never get old.”
“We have some of the best schools in Oregon.”
“It feels safe and welcoming—it’s a great place to raise a family.”
“There’s always a community event happening.”
“It’s beautiful in every season—especially autumn!”
West Linn, Oregon, may fly under the radar compared to larger cities, but for those who live here, it’s nothing short of a hidden gem. Whether you’re raising a family, looking to retire, or just want a quieter life without sacrificing culture or connection, West Linn offers a slice of Pacific Northwest paradise.
Learn More about West Linn: westlinnoregon.gov
