Growing suburb between Portland, Gresham and Boring
A suburban city nestled between the southeastern outskirts of Portland and the cities of Gresham and Boring, Happy Valley’s population of 28,000 grew by nearly 20% from 2020 and 2023 and shows no signs of stopping. “What’s unique about Happy Valley, compared to many other cities in the state, is that we are still a growing community with land available, whereas many other cities are already built out,” says City Council President David Emami, who has lived in Happy Valley since 2013. New constructions, abundant green spaces and organized community events define what the city website refers to as a “planned growth community.”
Boaters Entering the Clackamas River at Riverside Park
Aerial View of Industrial and Retail Locations
Entrance Statue at the Clackamas Business Center
Aerial View of the Baseball Fields at Riverside Park
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New traditional homes and contemporary new constructions
In true suburban fashion, homes in Happy Valley sit behind wide, well-maintained sidewalks, some of which coil into cul-de-sacs. Residential streets consist of new traditional homes and contemporary architecture built after 2000—many new constructions—though split-level and ranch-style homes from the 1970s remain on some neighborhood streets. Single-family homes dominate the market, and three-bedroom townhouses are concentrated throughout the southeast of the city. The median sales price of a townhouse in Happy Valley is around $470,000, while that of a single-family home hovers around $695,000, considerably higher than across the nation, which falls around $407,200.
Single Story Homes in Clackamas
Colorful, Two Story Homes in North Clackamas
Traditional Two Story Homes in North Clackamas
Aerial View of Cul De Sac in North Clackamas
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Waterfall overlook at Hidden Falls Nature Park
Happy Valley is full of expansive green spaces and trails teeming with foliage and wildlife. Hidden Falls Nature Park may be a misnomer—the park’s nearly mile-long, dog-friendly trail leads directly to a waterfall that emerges from a tangle of fern and moss. Scouters Mountain Nature Park offers arguably the best views of snow-capped Mount Hood in the area from the peak of an extinct lava dome. One of the city’s most popular green spaces is Happy Valley Park. Its amenities include a playground, various athletic courts, horseshoe pits, a splash pad and an off-leash dog area, while the 24 surrounding acres of wetland are a haven for migratory birds.
Happy Valley Park is also the setting of several annual city events, like the Concerts in the Valley weekly live concert series and the Fourth of July Family Festival. The patriotic celebration involves a morning hike, a community parade and, of course, a fireworks display. The city rounds out the year with its holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, held outside of City Hall.
The Sign for Hidden Falls Nature Park in Rock Creek Neighborhood.
A Walking Path in Hidden Falls Nature Park in Rock Creek Neighborhood.
The Foot Bridge in Hidden Falls Nature Park in Rock Creek Neighborhood.
HIDDEN FALLS NATURE PARK IN ROCK CREEK NEIGHBORHOOD
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Award-winning Speech and Debate Team at Nelson High
The North Clackamas School District serves most of the city and earns an overall B grade from Niche. The majority of Happy Valley students in the district will attend Adrienne C. Nelson High School, which also receives a B and hosts more than 30 after-school extracurriculars, including Music Theory Club, Aerospace Club and Ukrainian Students/Supporters Club. The school’s Speech and Debate Team had two winners at the 2022-2023 Oregon State Championship and three qualifiers for the National Speech and Debate Tournament the following academic year. Depending on where they live, other students in Happy Valley may attend Clackamas High School, which earns a B-plus, or the B-minus-rated Centennial High School, part of the C-plus-rated Centennial School District.
Clackamas High School's new campus was built in 2002, replacing the old 1957 building.
Clackamas High School's new campus was built in 2002, replacing the old 1957 building.
Centennial High School is a public High School in Gresham Oregon.
The Happy Valley Middle School and Elementary School reside together on one campus.
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Nearly 20 food cart options at Happy Valley Station
Happy Valley’s main business corridor is Southeast 82nd Street, lined with big-box retailers, national grocery chains, local restaurants, fitness centers and other suburban conveniences. One of the thoroughfare’s southernmost destinations is Clackamas Town Center, an indoor mall with more than 130 stores, dozens of dining options, a Dave & Busters and a Cinemark movie theater.
Happy Valley Station consists of a semi-open dining area surrounded by roughly 20 food carts with a variety of international cuisines. Over 100 vendors participate in the Happy Valley Farmers Market every Saturday morning from May through October. The regular market offers fresh produce, locally sourced products, a food court and live music, while the Halloween and winter holiday market renditions both provide more seasonal cheer.
Fred Meyers offers resients of Happy Valley an opportunity ro shop for groceries and home goods.
Residents can chose from many ethnic food options at the Happy Valley Food Carts.
New Seasons Market offers upscale organic grocery options in Happy Valley.
Casa Collima offers authentic Mexican fare and outdoor dining in Happy Valley.
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TriMet MAX connection at Clackamas Town Center
Interstate 205 runs along the west side of Happy Valley, which Portland commuters from the north side of the neighborhood can use to access Interstate 5. Commuters living in southern Happy Valley can take Oregon state Route 212 to reach the Portland city center, which is about 16 miles away. TriMet’s MAX Green Line light rail arrives at Clackamas Town Center every 15 minutes, connecting residents to Portland as well.
The Clackamas to Columbia Corridor Plan aims to improve the only north-to-south corridor east of Interstate 205, which runs directly through Happy Valley. If the project is greenlit, the thoroughfare—known as the 181st/182nd/190th corridor—will receive safer sidewalks, buffered bike lanes and revamped bus services, among other improvements.
The Clackamas Town Center is the last stop on Portland’s Green Line rail service.
Interstate 205 offers Happy Valley residents easy access to Portland, located 15 miles away.
Happy Valley Residents can either light rail or I-205 to Portland International Airport.
Aerial View of Highway 205 Interchange in Context with Clackamas Neighborhood
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Property and violent crime lower than state averages
Both property and violent crime rates in Clackamas County were lower than state averages from 2020 to 2024. Property crime in Happy Valley decreased by almost 17% in 2022 and 2023, from 1,007 reports to 839. Conversely, violent crime trended up by almost 17% over the same span, increasing from 153 violent crimes in 2022 to 179.
Happy Valley has a temperate climate with all four seasons, though October through May tends to be rainy.
Written By
Julia Straka
Photography Contributed By
Brian Lee
Video By
Bill Jennings
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On average, homes in Happy Valley, OR sell after 60 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Happy Valley, OR over the last 12 months is $659,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
The Rockport Plan - Versatile and Convenient Living!Welcome home to the Rockport Plan, thoughtfully designed with comfort and flexibility in mind. This beautiful residence features a main-level bedroom complete with a full bathroom—perfect for guests, multi-generational living, or a private home office. Upstairs, you'll find four additional spacious bedrooms, offering ample room for family and
Step into this wonderfully bright and modernized home in the heart of Happy Valley. Don't miss out on the walking trails that leads to a playground directly behind this rare lot! The open and spacious floor plan is bathed in natural light, offering ample room for your family's needs. With four generous bedrooms, both family and living rooms, a formal dining area, and a versatile loft, there is
Move-in ready! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath townhouse in the heart of Happy Valley offers a rare blend of comfort, style, and refined living—all with no HOA. Step inside to soaring ceilings, gorgeous bamboo flooring, fresh interior and exterior paint, and an abundance of natural light that creates an open, airy feel.The spacious primary suite feels like a private retreat, featuring
Welcome to a home where quality, comfort, and thoughtful design unite. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted by rich cherry floors, custom moldings, abundant natural light, and the warmth of three gas fireplaces—perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings. The open-plan chef’s kitchen features granite countertops, a spacious island ideal for casual dining or homework, and access to the
Welcome to this beautifully maintained residence nestled on one of Happy Valley’s most sought-after streets. With a classic and timeless design, this home offers a traditional floor plan featuring formal living and dining rooms, along with a spacious kitchen and family room combo that opens to a gorgeous, private backyard—perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Inside, you’ll find rich hardwood
Beautifully Updated Home on Expansive .28 Acre Lot! Tucked back from the road for added privacy, this impeccably maintained home sits on a generous .28-acre lot, framed by beautiful shade trees and attractive landscaping. The exterior was very recently painted, and new gutters have been installed adding to the curb appeal. Step inside to a spacious living room featuring a large picture window
Conveniently located in the heart of Clackamas County, Avana at Happy Valley apartments are across the street from Clackamas Town Center and within walking distance to the MAX Line, dining and entertainment. These stylish apartments for rent in Happy Valley, OR are a world away from the ordinary, featuring studio, one- and two- bedroom floor plans with exciting new interior upgrades including hip
Our newly renovated modern two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments have a subtle style that won't overwhelm your personal decor. Featuring an open flow between the kitchen, dining room, and living room, these brand-new spaces include high-demand add-ons and upgraded fixtures to elevate the look of your entire space. Settle into our brand-new apartments and experience the lush suburb and charm of
We don't just rent apartments. From the moment you walk through the front door, you'll feel the comfort and security that makes our residents happy to call us home. Cutting edge amenities, meticulously-groomed grounds, and a dedicated staff contribute to a higher standard of living. Convenient shopping, award-winning schools, and local parks are all close at hand, with sponsored activities to
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