Although it is the largest city in eastern Oregon, Hermiston has maintained a distinct charm. "Even though we’ve grown, it still feels more like a small town. It's more relaxed, and you don't feel overwhelmed," says Heidi Florenzen, a current resident and Assistant Director at Hermiston Public Library. "It doesn’t take long for you to go into a place, and they start to know you. People pay attention to names and stories. For instance, we’ve got a really small drugstore in town, Hermiston Drug. You walk into one of the bigger places, they'll have more people there, but you go into this one, and you don’t even have to give your name. They'll pull stuff out for you."
Over the last several years, the city has made significant gains in commercial activity and population growth with a thriving economy steeped in manufacturing, transportation and most of all, agriculture. Its abundant watermelon population has earned the status of the “Watermelon Capital of the World.” And with a population of about 20,000 residents, this number is only expected to increase by 28% over the next 20 years. Hermiston has also rolled out an agenda called the Hermiston 2040 Community Vision Action Plan. Objectives include focusing on expanding housing opportunities, investing in alternative energy infrastructure and celebrating and promoting Hermiston’s history, culture and art. As Hermiston grows, it builds on its agrarian strengths while honing its urban clout. In the meantime, its parks, lively events and plentiful commercial hubs are already forming a strong foundation for the city's big ambitions.
Hermiston is know for their growing of watermelons in Umtilla county.
Agriculture is a large part of Hermiston's economy.
1/2
Shopping and dining spots in Hermiston
Depicting a slice of life in Hermiston's small-town dining scene, Florenzen says, "My place for lunch is the Pheasant Blue Collar Bar and Grill and when I go there, they don't even ask what I want to drink. They give me the same waitress every time and she knows what I'm getting." Neighborhood spot Nookie's Restaurant is home to Hermiston Brewing and provides casual fare in a rustic gastropub space. The city is also home to several local businesses, while Hermiston Plaza, Cornerstore Court and Hwy 395 Mall offer retail stores and chain restaurants.
Hermiston features several local restaurants that people enjoy.
The highway 395 mall provides a few locals businesses near downtown Hermiston.
1/2
Festivals, county fairs, rodeos and more
Hermiston has several city events. The Umatilla County Fair, held the second week of August, has a parade, arts and crafts activities and vendors. Held in conjunction with the county fair is the Farm-City Pro Rodeo, featuring special performers, bullfighters and livestock auctions. In December, the city organizes the Land of Lights, a magical and festive display of Christmas lights. And being known as the Watermelon Capital of the World, it offers a Watermelon Festival in August. The Hermiston Community Center is right within walking distance of the downtown area and holds space for plenty of events like parties, performances and regular meetings. Hermiston Public Library is currently undergoing renovations that will provide more opportunities for kids and teens. It also hopes to include a maker space and draw more patron engagement.
The Hermiston public library is currently under construction but provides a temporary location in the mean time.
Hermiston features several local community centers available to the public.
1/2
Playgrounds, skate ramps and poolside fun at Hermiston's parks
The city features large and small parks, each with unique amenities. Butte Park has over 40 acres, with the Funland playground and the city's only recreation space for dogs, Bark Park. Hermiston Teen Adventure Skatepark is specially designed for athletes of all levels with its blend of street skating and advanced features. The city also features the Hermiston Desert Disc Golf Course and the Hermiston Family Aquatic Center, which has waterslides and a lazy river.
Oxbow park has a large frisbee golf course.
Hermiston features a local skate park near downtown.
1/2
Mix of home styles in Hermiston
Hermiston’s residential areas are dotted with small homes, mainly consisting of bungalows, cottages, townhomes and ranch-styles. Contemporary and in-demand neighborhoods include the View Wood Estates community and the Diamond Run addition. Single-family homes typically fetch between $160,000 and $800,0000. The average price of a home is about $384,000. In 2020, the average home values were climbing, but since mid-2024, they have been slowly declining.
View Wood Estates provides new construction homes near downtown Hermiston.
Hermiston has lots of homes for sale near the heart of downtown.
1/2
Hermiston students attend HSD schools
The Hermiston School District earns a B-minus from Niche and serves over 5,400 students. It has one high school, two middle schools and five elementary schools. Students pursuing higher education can venture outside Hermiston to either Pendleton’s Blue Mountain Community College or La Grande’s Eastern Oregon University.
Hermiston high school is located near downtown Hermiston.
Eastern Oregon University has a small campus near downtown Hermiston.
1/2
I-85, Highway 395 and necessary services
The city is located at the convergence of Interstate 84 and Highway 395, which both serve as significant commuter routes. I-84 also paves the way for a 184-mile drive west to Portland or Vancouver, Washington. Tri-Cities Airport is 36 miles away and local hospital Good Shepherd Health Care System is right in town.
Hermiston residents can use the Tricities airport thats only about an hour drive away.
I-82 provides easy transportation in and out of Hermiston.
1/2
Hermiston's climate and crime trends
Data from First Street says that Hermiston has moderate risk for wildfires, severe air quality risk and major heat risk. With data reported to the FBI through the Hermiston Police Department, violent crime increased by 6% in 2023 while property crime decreased by 21%.
Locals enjoy walking through Butte park in Hermiston.
The Columbia river is a short drive from Hermiston.
1/2
Written By
Julia Concepcion
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Wong
Video By
Tyler Hall
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Saul Llamas,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Hermiston, OR sell after 87 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Hermiston, OR over the last 12 months is $350,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Well maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath home all on one level! This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home features an open concept with a large kitchen island with granite countertops and ALL kitchen appliances, a large living room with a gas fireplace and vaulted ceilings, the primary bedroom featuring an ensuite and walk-in closet, AND the second bedroom has an ensuite as well. The home also features a 2 car
Why settle for ordinary when you can have spacious main-level living, a backyard built for relaxation, and a basement made for fun—all in one! Step inside and find an open layout perfect for both quiet evenings and lively gatherings. The formal living and dining spaces flow into an open-concept kitchen with cooking island, breakfast nook, and a family room complete with entertainment center and
Why wait to build when you can have better than new right now? This stunning single-level home is loaded with upgrades and designed for both style and comfort. From the moment you step inside, you’ll fall in love with the open concept layout, perfect for entertaining and everyday living.The gourmet kitchen will impress with its massive island, gleaming stainless steel appliances, and an oversized
Welcome home!! Upon entering this 3 bed 2 bath home you will be greeted by a large living area along with tons of natural light, formal dining space, the kitchen is equipped with lots of cabinets, breakfast nook and family room. Double sinks in both primary and 2nd bathrooms. Huge primary suite with walk-in closet. Step outside to a private backyard with covered patio, sunshade to block evening
Tucked away on a quiet lane just outside city limits, this 2-acre property offers the perfect balance of country living with in-town convenience. Featuring a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with 1,788 sq. ft. of living space, this property is a rare find with endless potential. Inside, you’ll find fresh interior paint, vaulted ceilings in the front room, a cozy gas stove, and central air with
Opportunity knocks with this four bed two bath home located in one of Hermiston’s upscale highly desired neighborhoods. DB Ables built home, wonderful floor plan, both living and family rooms along with formal dining area gas fireplace, large primary suite. nicely landscaped front and backyards with TUGS. This is a unique property with a 2nd 2 acre tax lot with a shop for an additional $190,000.
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
