Moving from New Jersey to Oregon

#1 A Quick History of Oregon

Oregon’s history began with the many Native American tribes who originally inhabited the region. These include the Chinook, Tillamook, and Nez Perce tribes. They relied on Oregon’s rich natural resources to hunt, fish, and gather the food and resources they needed. The first Europeans to visit Oregon were Spanish sailors in the 16th century, followed soon after by the English explorer and privateer Sir Francis Drake. Eventually, the Oregon territory was claimed by the United States and explored by the Meriwether Lewis and William Clark Expedition by 1805. The British Hudson’s Bay Company also had a strong presence in the region up until the 1840s.

During the 1830s and 1840s, thousands of American settlers from New England and the Midwest migrated into Oregon. The impetus from this settlement resulted in Oregon officially become part of the United States in 1846. Since then, Oregon has experienced steady industrial and population growth. The clean air and water, open spaces, and scenic natural environment has been a big draw to Oregon for as long as it has existed. Today, Oregonians continue to come to terms with their past, plan for the future, and seek to create harmony in the present within one of the most attractive and dynamic corners of the United States.

#2 Oregon is a Hub of Business and Technology

Portland, Oregon’s biggest city and its epicenter of business and technology, has experienced an above-average job growth rate for over a decade. This is a result of the diverse, cutting-edge industries that have gained a foothold in Portland. These include some of the largest private software and IT companies in the US, a robust high-tech electronic manufacturing sector, a strong healthcare industry, and several leading athletic and outdoor apparel brands. Educational institutions also count as one of the largest employers in the area, providing a steady stream of recent graduates to fuel the growth of Oregon’s many industries.

#3 Oregon’s Coast is Amazing

One of the best features of this Pacific Northwest state is its scenic coastline. A rugged stretch of 363 miles of beaches and cliffs that are flanked by mountains and forest, the coast of Oregon is full of wonderful places to visit and live. From the Sea Lion Caves just off Highway 101 to Haystack Rock looming over Cannon Beach, there are spectacular sights to see. You can also venture into the Oregon Dunes National Recreation area that stretches for 40 miles between Florence and Coos Bay or explore the tide pools that nestle along Oregon’s rocky coast from Cannon Beach to Haceta Head.

#7 Other Cities To Visit

Outside of Portland, Oregon has many other vibrant cities to explore. Eugene is a youthful city of arts and culture. Bend is a great place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, situated near the Cascade Mountains and providing outdoor opportunities all year long. Salem is a laid-back city full of universities, parks, and museums. Astoria lies at the mouth of the Columbia River, and has a rich history and rustic charm as one of the earliest modern settlements in the area. Hood River sits at a prime spot on the Columbia River, offering prime opportunities for watersports and wineries. Ashland servers as a cultural center for southern Oregon and hosts festivals and markets, as well as shops, great food, and lots of outdoor recreation.