$461,974Average Value$222Average Price per Sq Ft74Homes For Sale
The Watermelon Capital of the World
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Heidi Carver,
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.
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On average, homes in Hermiston, OR sell after 86 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Hermiston, OR over the last 12 months is $349,998, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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Tucked away on a peaceful cul-de-sac in Hermiston, this beautifully maintained 4 BR 2 BA rambler is full of warmth and character. The thoughtfully designed layout offers a cozy yet open feel—where rooms have their own space but still flow effortlessly together. Step inside to a welcoming formal living room with a charming dual-sided fireplace, perfect for those chilly evenings. On the other side,
Welcome home to this beautiful home located in the heart of Hermiston. 3 bed 2 bath open concept with vaulted ceilings, knotty pine cabinetry, stainless appliances and laminate wood flooring. Over sized 2 car garage with space for a work bench. Outside you will find a summer oasis. Covered back east facing patio, TUGS, fully fenced and landscaped. Home is a DB Ables home and is energy efficient.
Perfect starter home or just the right size for downsizing. 3 bed with 4th possible or office space. Large lot with plenty of space for toys. Storage sheds, covered patio space and fenced with TUGS. Laminate flooring, updated vinyl windows. Make this your home today!!
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