La Grande

Boasts a rich history dating back to the 1860s when it was a vital stop for traders.

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Welcome to La Grande

Nestled in the scenic beauty of northeastern Oregon, La Grande boasts a rich history dating back to the 1860s, when it was a vital stop for traders and pioneers traversing the Oregon Trail. The town's prosperity soared with the arrival of the railroad, propelling it into a bustling hub. Today, La Grande maintains its historic allure with well-preserved buildings and a vibrant downtown that pays homage to its past.
 
The geography of La Grande is defined by its stunning natural surroundings. Resting in the picturesque Grande Ronde Valley, flanked by the Blue Mountains and the Wallowa Mountains, the landscape features rolling hills, lush forests, and pristine rivers. This diverse terrain offers residents and visitors alike a plethora of outdoor activities, from summer hikes and fishing excursions to winter skiing adventures at nearby Anthony Lakes or Meacham Divide. The area experiences all four seasons distinctly, with warm, inviting summers and snowy, picturesque winters.
 
La Grande's economy is a blend of agriculture, education, and small-scale manufacturing. Agriculture has long been a cornerstone, with local farms producing wheat, barley, and livestock. Grande Ronde Hospital provides both regional healthcare services as well as economic stability to the area. GRH has been awarded as a Top 100 Critical Access Hospital in the Nation and is nearly complete with a 96,000 sq foot Facilities Expansion Project. Eastern Oregon University enriches the area's culture and economy, while small manufacturing businesses contribute to a diverse economic landscape. Together, these sectors create a balanced economic environment for residents.
 
Life in La Grande is characterized by a tight-knit community feel, where the pace of life is more relaxed than in larger cities. Residents enjoy a variety of activities, influenced by the area's natural beauty. Whether it's outdoor adventures in Oregon's largest county park (Mount Emily Recreation Area - MERA) or cultural events like the Eastern Oregon Beer Festival or the Eastern Oregon Film Festival, there's a strong sense of camaraderie and community participation. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for families and individuals.
 
Newcomers to La Grande should be prepared for distinct seasons, particularly cold winters with significant snowfall. Embracing the outdoor lifestyle is part of the charm, so having the right gear for seasonal activities is essential. Getting involved in community events and initiatives is a great way for new residents to settle in and feel at home. Despite its smaller size, La Grande offers a warm welcome and a supportive environment for those who choose to make it their home.
 
La Grande offers a blend of historical charm, stunning natural beauty, a stable economy, and a close-knit community. Residents enjoy a quality of life enhanced by the outdoors and a strong sense of belonging. For those considering a move to La Grande, it promises a life that blends the tranquility of rural living with the vibrancy of a tight-knit community.

Overview for La Grande, OR

13,212 people live in La Grande, where the median age is 34 and the average individual income is $24,692. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

13,212

Total Population

34 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$24,692

Average individual Income

Around La Grande, OR

There's plenty to do around La Grande, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

80
Very Walkable
Walking Score
68
Bikeable
Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Mom’Ma Bear’s Burgers, JaxDog Café & Books, and Cup A Joe Espresso.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 2.36 miles 10 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining · $$ 0.4 miles 41 reviews 4.9/5 stars
Dining · $ 0.44 miles 8 reviews 4.9/5 stars
Dining · $$ 0.23 miles 37 reviews 4.8/5 stars
Dining · $$ 0.48 miles 4 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining · $ 0.41 miles 157 reviews 4.7/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for La Grande, OR

La Grande has 5,220 households, with an average household size of 2.43. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in La Grande do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 13,212 people call La Grande home. The population density is 2,885.08 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

13,212

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

34

Median Age

47.59 / 52.41%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
5,220

Total Households

2.43

Average Household Size

$24,692

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in La Grande, OR

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby La Grande. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

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