Known as “Oregon’s City of Sunshine,” Klamath Falls is a small city surrounded by mountains, rivers and lakes in the Oregon countryside. And unlike much of the Pacific Northwest, it gets more than 300 days of sunshine a year. From its sleepy downtown district, residential streets fan out into the hills before giving way to deep green forests and farmland. “I love the small-town feel. It’s very rural and remote, and farming is a big part of the culture. The only time you get stuck in traffic is when there’s a tractor in the road,” says Realtor Kailyn Robnett of Keller William Realty, who was born and raised in Klamath Falls.
The city was known early-on as a hub for Oregon logging, although the industry was curtailed in the 1970s and 80s to protect endangered species. It got its name from the Link River Falls that rush through the city from Klamath Lake to Lake Ewauna. Today, it’s home to around 21,000 residents. Its major employers are Klamath Community College, Sky Lakes Medical Center and retail outlets like Walmart and Home Depot. It’s also close to Kingsley Field Air National Guard Base, which brings many military personnel to the area. “As far as I know it’s the only base in the U.S. that train pilots to fly F-15s. You’ll hear them flying almost every day,” Robnett says.
Sky Lakes Medical Center is Klamath Falls largest medical facility.
Surrounding most of Klamath Falls is the main industry of farming.
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Lakes, parks, rivers and trails
Outdoor recreation is a major draw, with abundant opportunities for camping, hunting and hiking. The city has more than two dozen parks on more than 600 acres of land, with everything from lakeside hiking spots to small community parks. Moore Park, among the most popular in the city, is situated in the rolling hills that border Upper Klamath Lake with rugged trails and stunning waterfront views. But the lake itself isn’t a place for recreation. “It’s actually used to farm algae, which is used in all sorts of beauty products and cosmetics. You’re not going to want to swim or boat there,” Robnett says.
Klamath Falls is in Oregon’s high desert, and it experiences chilly, snowy winters and mild summers. In the summer, bikers, walkers and joggers have access to the OC&E Woods Line State Trail, a 100-mile linear trail that cuts right through the center of town. Experienced hikers climb the rugged paths that carve across Hogback Mountain and Spence Mountain, just a few miles away. “Any outdoor recreation you can think of, we’ve got it,” Robnett says.
Your kids will love the playground and views of the lake at Moore Park in Klamath Falls.
The Pelican Marina houses many sailboats and recreational boats in Klamath Falls.
Fishing on Klamath Lake is a year-round activity in Klamath Falls.
The Klamath Falls has many areas to launch your fishing and recreational boats.
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Early and mid-20th century homes
The median home price in Klamath Falls is $330,000, putting it far lower than the state median of around $500,000. Homes sell after 44 days on the market on average, compared to the national average of 45 days. The city’s home styles are varied, and most date back to the early and mid-20th century. Eclectic Craftsman homes, well-maintained ranch-style homes, cottages and cabins can all be found here. Some homes are perched in the hills above the lake, where residents enjoy sweeping views.
This ranch-style home in Klamath Falls is a common style home.
This custom-built home has a great lake view in Klamath Falls.
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Local business thrives in Downtown Klamath Falls
The city’s modest downtown district is home to cozy cafes, mom-and-pop shops, hotels and restaurants housed in historic brick buildings, some of which date back to the early 20th century. “Main Street has so many great local shops and businesses. We have a sourdough bakery, a local butcher, a really great kids store and some awesome boutiques,” Robnett says. There are plenty of grocery stores in town, including major chains like Fred Meyer and regional grocers like Sherm’s Thunderbird Market, Murphy’s Market and Holiday Market.
A Music Store on Main Street has a wide selection of guitars in Klamath Falls.
A mom and daughter are shopping the brick building lined Main Street in Klamath Falls.
Wong’s Café serves authentic Chinese cuisine in downtown Klamath Falls.
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A small public school district
Klamath Falls City Schools gets a C-plus rating from Niche. The district enrolls 2,700 students across four elementary schools, a middle school and two high schools. For an alternative to public schools, students can attend Crosspoint Christian School, a private K-12 school that gets a B-plus rating. Niche ranks it among the top 20 private schools in Oregon.
Klamath Union High School is a top-rated school in Klamath Falls.
For a private school choice, Crosspoint Christian School is a great school in Klamath Falls.
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Getting around rural Oregon
U.S. Route 97 is the city’s major commuter corridor. It runs north to south and connects residents to cities in Northern California and major metros in central and northern Oregon. Residents can climb aboard the Amtrak train at Klamath Falls Station. It’s about 7 miles to Crater Lake-Klamath Regional Airport, which offers nonstop flights to places like Las Vegas and Seattle. Those in need of medical care will find it close by at Sky Lakes Medical Center, a 176-bed teaching hospital.
Elevated crime rates
Violent and property crime rates are elevated compared to the national average, according to FBI stats. The city’s crime rate rose during and following the COVID-19 pandemic but has since returned to near pre-pandemic levels.
Flooding and wildfire risk
The city’s proximity to rivers and lakes makes it more susceptible to flooding during heavy rainfalls and major storms. Those living in known flood zones may want to consider purchasing flood insurance. The area is also at risk for wildfires, which have intensified in recent years. In July 2024, the Middle Fork Fire burned more than 700 acres in Klamath County.
Written By
Daniel Berti
Photography Contributed By
Daniel Reagan
Video By
Luke Basinger
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Reach out to
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Beautiful single-level geothermal home w/3 bed, 2 bath & 2,219sf in a desirable Klamath Falls area. Originally built in 1956 & extensively renovated in 2013/2014. Enjoy geothermal heated home, tile floors & driveway plus supplemental gas furnace, water heater & A/C provide year-round comfort. Primary suite features an en-suite bath w/original vintage tile & dual closets including a walk-in.
This custom Log Home sits in the center of 80 acres of groomed forest. Home is 4,650 sf with Radiator Floor heating consisting of 13 zones throughout home. In addition, there is a 23 K Generator Propane backup with 2-750-gallon Tanks. Heating comes from Oil or wood furnaces. Front entry is covered, and home has multiple handicap access. Front door opens into Living Room with Wood-Pellet stove,
Remodeled 2-bed/1-bath home offering 1,167 SF w/elevated views overlooking Klamath Falls, including city lights, surrounding mountains & lake views. The home has been refreshed throughout with new flooring, interior paint, kitchen cabinets, countertops & appliances, along w/ a new climate-control heating-A/C unit. The bathroom has also been updated w/a new custom tile bath surround. Downstairs, a
This brand-new 3-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home offers the perfect blend of modern style and comfortable living in the well-maintained Shasta Glen Mobile Home Park. The bright open floor plan creates a spacious and inviting atmosphere, enhanced by durable vinyl flooring throughout and stylish contemporary finishes that give the home a clean, modern feel. The thoughtfully designed layout
Looking for a place to call home? This one checks all the right boxes! This inviting 4-bedroom home offers exceptional value in Klamath Falls' desirable south suburbs. Situated on a spacious .27-acre lot, there's room for RV parking, recreational toys, gardening, or simply enjoying the outdoors. A beautiful mature shade tree welcomes family and friends while providing generous front parking. The
Respected custom home builder David Reid--known for quality homes in Running Y Ranch--has created something special in this classic 1920s residence. Thoughtfully remodeled and expanded, the home blends timeless character with modern comfort. Step onto the inviting covered concrete front porch and into a bright open floor plan designed for comfortable living and effortless entertaining. The
Shield Crest is a private gated community close to Klamath Falls in the rural farming landscape. There are only 6 individual condo units that do not share a common wall, which is very unusual in condo living. This unit was built in 2002 and has views to the east (Sunrise) and West (Sunset) and many different views to the mountains including Mt. Shasta. The 7th Fairway and Green are just outside
Enjoy a little country living at Tingley Park! Surrounded by agricultural views and a peaceful rural setting, this well-cared-for manufactured home offers more than 1,800 sq. ft. of comfortable living space at a modest price. The spacious 3-bedroom, 2-full-bath floor plan provides plenty of room to spread out, while the large covered deck is a great place to relax and take in the country
Experience one of Klamath Falls' finest homes in the desirable Sunset Beach neighborhood. Privately situated on approximately 4 acres, this exceptional property offers beautiful lake views, abundant wildlife and a peaceful setting just minutes from Oregon Tech and Sky Lakes Medical Center. Warm wood tones complement the inviting interior, while the panoramic deck and spa provide an incredible
Welcome to 1140 Morningside, where every morning starts on the bright side! This beautifully updated 4 bedroom, 2 bath farmhouse sits on 3.39 acres, offering peaceful country living just minutes from town. Recent updates include new flooring, granite countertops, white cabinetry, and a new range and microwave. Natural gas heat and central air provide year round comfort. Outside, you'll find two
This impressive property offers the perfect combination of space, functionality, and energy efficiency. Situated on .4 acres, the main house features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, Living room and family room, plus a bonus room/office!Additionally, there is a separate studio apartment, ideal for guests or generating rental income opportunities. The property also features a 2-car garage, covered deck,
This home has a one year First American Home warranty that will transfer to the new owner at close of escrow. Interior photos have been updated. The home has a new heating system and new air conditioner. Located directly across from a park with lots of green grass. Very close to Ponderosa Middle School. Downtown, OIT and Hospital just up the expressway. Large room with fireplace and indoor gas
Lovingly cared for by the same family for generations, this one-owner home is ready for its next chapter. Situated on a large corner lot in an established Klamath Falls neighborhood, this 1930 home offers 4 bedrooms, approximately 2806 sq ft of finished living space & the character & charm you simply don't find in newer construction. Inside, you'll find a spacious layout with abundant natural
This 2-acre parcel has Klamath irrigation ''A'' water rights, pasture and lots of places for you animals to roam. The owner has loved being close to town yet plenty of space to have a small country farm. The large, heated shop with 1400 square feet and 3 entry doors allows for all kinds of storage possibilities. 2 11' foot high and 1 10' high drive through doors. This property also has a 20' X
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Property Id: 2359450 Newly renovated studio apartment located in a quiet 9-unit complex at 2001 Biehn Street. This clean, updated unit features an open living area, functional kitchen with new appliances, durable flooring, and a tiled bathroom with walk-in shower. Conveniently located near Sky Lakes Medical Center, Oregon Tech, shopping, and downtown Klamath Falls. All utilities are included
Super cute 2bd/1ba apartment, Large master bedroom with walk in closet, good size guest bedroom, large living room with sliding door out to a small deck, washer/dryer hookups, kitchen has garbage disposal, refrigerator, stove and dishwasher. All brand-new carpeting and new kitchen flooring. Brand new water heater. Water, sewer and garbage are included in the rent. Must provide proof of
1 bedroom off of Shasta way, not far from shopping and college. Only local traffic, not a through street. Small fenced private back yard, nothing fancy. Text any questions you may have.
Nice apartment in a quiet South Suburban Neighborhood. This unit has waterproof vinyl plank flooring, all new paint, washer and dryer hook-ups, garage, and is on it's own quiet driveway. It's walking distance to Ferguson Grade School, OC&E Bike Trail, Homedale Market, Wiard Park and the Albertsons Shopping Center. This is a nice single-level unit in a clean, quiet, safe suburban neighborhood.
Cute and charming home across from the park. Quiet neighborhood, no backyard. Large kitchen with new stove and refrigerator, new flooring. Nice sized living room. washer/dryer hookups. Gas, water/sewer/garbage and electric is the responsibility of the tenant. No pets/No smoking on the property. Tenants must carry Renter's Insurance. $1250 mo/1800 refundable security deposit. Call/email Kelly
Lots of light in this duplex unit. Quick walk to grocery and shops downtown. Cat/dog considered with additional deposit.Property is available as long as listing is up. All applications go through the website. Available date is approximate based on possibility of repairs that may be needed.
**Spacious 1,232 Sq. Ft. 3BR Apartment | Newly Remodeled Kitchen | Washer & Dryer Included | Dog Friendly** Welcome home to this spacious 1,232-square-foot, 3-bedroom, 1-bath apartment located in a quiet fourplex in the desirable south suburban/Henley area of Klamath Falls. With newly remodeled kitchen, newer LVP flooring throughout, and a functional floor plan, this well-maintained home offers
Incredible custom home available TODAY! This home is a freshly renovated 3 bedroom, 2 bath, with basement and electric laundry hook-ups, newly refinished hardwood floors, 2 custom tiled baths and fresh paint throughout. There are 2 bedrooms on the main floor and 1 upstairs, including a small mezzanine space for baby room, office or small library. Kitchen features new french doors that open onto
Property Id: 2814048 Hawk Hideaway 2 - Running Y Resort Beautiful, fully furnished 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home located within the scenic Running Y Resort in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Available for a 3-month rental term. All utilities and high-speed internet are included, along with access to resort amenities, including the indoor pool, hot tub/Jacuzzi, fitness center, spa/wellness
Property Id: 2241812 Welcome to this charming retro-style duplex, ideally located just 2 blocks from downtown Klamath Falls, near OIT and Sky Lakes Hospital Medical Center. This beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bath home combines vintage character with modern comfort and convenience. Everything has been thoughtfully updated, including brand-new flooring, fresh interior paint,
Property Id: 2813980 Hawk Hideaway 1 - Running Y Resort Beautiful, fully furnished 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home located within the scenic Running Y Resort in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Available for a 3-month rental term. All utilities and high-speed internet are included, as well as access to resort amenities, including the indoor pool, hot tub/Jacuzzi, fitness center, spa/wellness
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