Seventy-five miles east of Portland, The Dalles is on the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge, a canyon known for its scenic cliff views. The Dalles Museum and Anderson Homestead tells the story of the city, starting with its roots as a Native American trading center and home to the Wasco tribe. Famously the ending point of the Oregon Trail, The Dalles is now known for the orchards of sweet Bing cherries surrounding the city. In addition to the Oregon Cherry Growers, prominent employers include Adventist Health Columbia Gorge and North Wasco County School District, rated C-plus on Niche.
The Dalles’ population peaked at just over 16,000 in 2021; the count is now closer to 15,700. “It’s a lowkey, friendly place – not as touristy as the other towns along the Gorge,” says Cody Cornett, Broker at Copper West Properties in The Dalles. “It’s a small-town vibe with an incredible downtown. It has the potential to continue to grow and absorb the influx of people coming to the Gorge.” Drawn to the city’s affordability, Cornett explains, “People from Texas, the Midwest, Seattle, Portland and California prefer the Dalles over other Gorge communities because it’s drier and has more sunshine.”
The Dalles is a small, laid back city located in the Columbia Gorge.
North Wasco County School District is a large employer in The Dalles.
The Dalles Museum and Anderson Homestead provdes a history of the city and it's origins.
Adventist Health Columbia Gorge is a prominent employer in The Dalles.
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Sunny days on the Columbia River
Kayakers and anglers searching for salmon can access the Columbia River from the boat launch ramp at The Dalles Marina. The paved Riverfront Trail runs parallel to the river, connecting hikers and bikers from the marina to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum. The museum highlights the landscape and history of the Gorge, including its part in the Lewis & Clark Expedition. A new playground is in the works at Sorosis Park, the city’s largest park, which also has a rose garden, disc golf and tennis courts.
The Dalles experiences wet winters, dry summers, windy springs and short autumns. There is a significant flood risk from the riverbank up to 4th Street and State Route 30. The city’s wildfire risk is lower than surrounding rural areas. The Dalles experiences about 300 days of sun and 14 days of rain annually, allowing the Bing cherry orchards to thrive in a 200-day growing season.
The Dalles Marina offers a boat launch for recreation on the Columbia River.
The paved Riverfront Trail runs parallel to the river in The Dalles.
The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum highlights the history of the Gorge.
Sorosis Park is the largest park in The Dalles.
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Downtown offerings include the Northwest Cherry Festival
Downtown blocks are walkable and centrally located. Second and 3rd Streets are lined with saloons, coffee shops and locally owned restaurants, while the greater downtown area boasts antique shops, the National Neon Sign Museum and live performances at Granada Theatre. The Northwest Cherry Festival transforms downtown every April; the outdoor market, community fair and cherry pie eating contest celebrate The Dalles as the biggest producer of sweet cherries per capita. Meanwhile, the west side of town has supermarkets, chain restaurants and a movie theater.
Downtown blocks in The Dalles are walkable and centrally located.
Second and 3rd Streets in The Dalles are lined with shops and saloons.
The National Neon Sign Museum is a popular attraction in The Dalles.
The Granada Theatre in The Dalles hosts live performances.
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From midcentury homes to house boats on the marina
The median single-family home price in The Dalles is about $400,000, on par with the national average. Sales prices in the city increased 3% over the course of 2024. “It’s a really nice blend of classic midcentury homes and a growing inventory of new constructions built in 2000 and later,” Cornett says. “Most are on larger parcels, so you’re not packed in there.” Prices peak at about $750,000. Plenty of cottages and bungalows sell for under $250,000, including boat houses docked in The Dalles Marina. Manufactured homes in the rural northwest city outskirts cost under $200,000.
The median single-family home price in The Dalles is about $400,000,
The Dalles offers boat houses docked in The Dalles Marina.
Prices on newer construction peak at around $750K in The Dalles.
Sales prices in The Dalles increased 3% over the course of 2024.
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Interstate 84 extends through The Dalles
Interstate 84 runs east-west through the city, connecting it to Portland. I-84 parallels the Columbia River, as does U.S. Route 30, a scenic two-lane road that preceded the Interstate. U.S. Route 197 crosses the river into Washington. Gorge Translink buses transport passengers throughout The Dalles and other cities along both sides of the Columbia River, from Portland to Goldendale. The Union Pacific Railroad Rail Yard transports freight. “The train tracks run parallel to the main roads in town, so traffic backups at rail crossings are not an issue,” Cornett says. “We don’t have traffic or parking problems.”
Crime rates and urban development
According to FBI statistics, crime rates fluctuate in The Dalles. Violent crime trends below the national average, while property crime typically remains above state and national figures. Urban renewal projects include funding of up to $10,000 for residential and commercial properties downtown. In 2020, The Dalles received a grant from the EPA to fund brownfield revitalization.
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in The Dalles, OR sell after 110 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in The Dalles, OR over the last 12 months is $701,250, up 27% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Charming historic home with separate living quarters and modern upgrades! The lower level features its own private bedroom, kitchen, laundry room, and living area—perfect for multigenerational living or guest space. Just steps from downtown The Dalles, this 4-bed, 2.5-bath brick beauty sits along Mill Creek and offers 3 levels, 2 kitchens, 3 decks, and 3 shop spaces. Enjoy a massive main-level
Two homes on the same lot! Located in the city limits, this rare .64-acre property includes a 2,436 sq ft, two-story main residence with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, plus, a detached ADU and, separate wood shop. The main home offers flexible living space and an attached two-car garage currently configured as a casual hangout area with a bar setup (easily convertible back to garage use). Some of
Rare Opportunity on a Half-Acre in The Dalles! Discover this conveniently located 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home situated on a generous 0.25-acre lot at 3244 W 7th St. Just minutes from downtown The Dalles, this property offers the perfect balance of convenience and privacy—close to I-84 for easy commuting, yet far enough away to enjoy peace and quiet. Inside, enjoy the comfort of a wood-burning
Large .24-acre lot in high-density residential zoning — potentially dividable with room for an ADU or second dwelling (buyer to verify). This property is about opportunity first and foremost.The home itself is a 1915 Craftsman with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and 2,674 sq. ft. inside. It needs interior work, but the original charm is still there and could be brought back with the right vision.
Cross Mill Creek via your own private bridge and enter The Pines Estate — a secluded sanctuary where nature, history, and refined family living converge. Set on almost 180 acres of rolling hills along Mill Creek, vineyards, basalt cliffs, and pastures, this former historic dairy offers a rich pastoral setting alongside modern comfort and timeless craftsmanship. The 2,125 sq ft main home,
Perched on a spacious 0.79-acre lot, this beautifully updated home offers sweeping views of the Columbia River, The Dalles Dam, the iconic bridge, and the Klickitats. The heart of the home is the updated kitchen, featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a large island perfect for gathering. Step out onto the expansive deck—accessible from the living room, dining area, and
Views, views and more views are the advantages of living in this beautiful home on the bluff overlooking the beautiful Columbia River, Washington State hills, and The Dalles Dam. Views abound from almost every room in the house. The living room boasts a custom electric fireplace along with custom built shelving, bookcases, built in storage and seating. Floor to ceiling windows and an oversized
This package includes two lots, one the single level three bedroom home sets on and the other .54 acre lot to the north. Perched at the edge of E. Knoll and Summit Ridge Dr. this model home from 1992 has all the bells and whistle from back in the day, even the theatrical draperies to frame the windows featuring the gorgeous view of the Columbia River looking east and west of the Dam and the
Step into history with this beautifully preserved and thoughtfully updated 1910 Craftsman home—offering over 5,500 square feet of elegant living across three finished levels.From the gorgeous original woodwork to the outstanding Craftsman detailing throughout, every room is filled with warmth, charm, and natural light. With three fireplaces, spacious bedrooms, and a flexible layout, this home is
This lovely contemporary home is better than new with updates including landscape enhancements, window coverings and finishing touches throughout. The open concept of the main level is a great space with access to the backyard patio off the kitchen and a hall half bath makes it great for entertaining. The kitchen has a well planned layout with a pantry, dining area and floating island. The
This well kept custom built home has Columbia River gorge views from many vantage points. Enjoy the beauty of the gorge from the primary suite, kitchen, living room and the front porch. There is a heater on the porch so you can enjoy the outdoors on those chilly days. The vaulted ceilings and spacious open floor plan with LVP flooring on the main level is great for entertaining. The
Set in a quiet neighborhood with convenient access to the amenities of downtown The Dalles, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath home offers comfort, space, and stunning views of the Columbia River. The surrounding area is peaceful and ideal for walking, biking, or simply enjoying the outdoors.Take in the river views from the front deck—a favorite spot for watching the city’s 4th of July fireworks display.
Property Id: 2351978Turnkey Executive Studio | Historic Downtown The DallesDesigned for working professionals seeking a refined, elevated living experience, this elegantly furnished studio apartment is located atop a beautifully preserved historic building in the heart of The Dalles. It offers the high-end finishes that help you feel comfortable in your home away from home. This
Property Id: 1806562Private Upper Level Duplex - Newly Remodeled - Walk to Downtown and River TrailWelcome to this beautifully remodeled private upper level duplex with its own entrance, laundry, and kitchen. The entire space has been thoughtfully updated, including new flooring, kitchen, bathroom, and a spacious deck. With plenty of windows, natural light floods the open and
Property Id: 2250328UPDATE: NOW AVAILABLE FEB 1ST! Our little home in Rowena, Oregon is perfect for the single person, couple or small family who desire a low-stress, comfortable rental in a simply beautiful, rural location. The home is single-story 2bed, 1bath with all needed appliances, a modern kitchen and surprising luxuries such as heated stone floors, on-demand heated water,
Property Id: 1374751Clean, quiet, responsible tenant sought for turnkey apartment. Perfect for professional working away from home. All furnishings kitchen ware, linens and decorative items included. Water, sewer, garbage, heat, electricity, internet included. Coin laundry on site.$1000.00 Security Deposit required. No smoking, no pets, rent based on one person occupancy.
Welcome to your home nestled in one of The Dalles most peaceful neighborhoods. This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers an open-concept layout that seamlessly blends comfort with modern elegance.?Key Features:Scenic Vistas: Enjoy sweeping views of lush cherry orchards and the majestic Klickitat Hills right from your living room.Outdoor Oasis: Relax on
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