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.
Written By
Laura Copan
Photography Contributed By
Brian Lee
Video By
Jason Jacot
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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Move-in ready and thoughtfully updated, this beautifully renovated single-level home offers 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, 1,450 square feet, and Columbia River views from the front porch, primary bedroom, and fully fenced backyard. Blending modern updates with everyday comfort, this home is designed for easy living with nothing left to do but move in and enjoy. The remodeled kitchen features quartz
Molly WhitemanCascade Hasson Sotheby's International Realty
Perched above The Dalles with sweeping Columbia River Gorge views from nearly every room, this custom 2016 estate offers the rare combination of privacy, accessibility, and refined living — all within 10 minutes of town.Set on 14+ private acres behind a solar-powered gated entry, the home was thoughtfully designed for main-level living with zero interior stairs, wide hallways, and a seamless ramp
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
Welcome to your private paradise on **10 stunning acres** of meticulously maintained land, where breathtaking Mt. Hood and territorial views greet you every single day. This pristine 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom single-level home delivers 2,587 square feet of refined living in a setting that feels worlds away — yet conveniently close to town.Step inside to discover hardwood floors flowing throughout,
Almost 60 acres on Browns Creek Road. Plenty of room to start a farm, hunt, or just enjoy the peace and quiet. This large property extends to the top of the hill and has plenty of lower flat spots for a new home, outbuildings, or a stable/arena. You can renovate the current home or, tear it down and start a new build or a manufactured home for quick living. Power, septic, and well already in
Riverfront Living at its finest! Enjoy breathtaking Columbia River views from this 2-bedroom, 2-bath upper-level condominium in The Dalles. Perfectly positioned along the riverfront, this home offers a serene lifestyle with all the convenience of low-maintenance living. Inside, you’ll find a light-filled open floor plan featuring a spacious living area and a private balcony — the ideal spot to
Built in 2023 this 2-bedroom, 2-bath stick-built home offers 1,207 square feet of modern, low-maintenance living with great views overlooking The Dalles, the Columbia River, and the Klickitat Mountains. The open main living area features LVP flooring and a spacious kitchen with a large center island, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and plenty of room for everyday cooking, dining,
.20 Acre lot waiting for a new home to be placed on it! You could build lower for privacy or a multi level home with plenty of yard space. Water, sewer, and electricity at the established sidewalk in front of the property.
This beautifully updated single-level ranch checks all the boxes — modern upgrades, flexible living, and a layout that works! Major improvements include a new roof and new Andersen double-paned vinyl windows all with transferrable warranty, mini-split systems for efficient year-round comfort, and stainless steel appliances. The open-concept living, kitchen, and dining area feels bright and
Looking for a charming place to call home in the heart of The Dalles? This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house has over 2,058 square feet of comfortable living space, and it's ready for you to move right in. Step onto the covered front porch and get that welcoming vibe before you even walk through the door. Inside, you'll find wood floors, high ceilings that make every room feel open and airy, and a cozy
Prime commercial development opportunity on a highly visible corner site in The Dalles. 1.92± acres across two parcels (1.33± acres and 0.59± acres), zoned General Commercial, allowing for a wide range of retail, hospitality, and commercial uses. The frontage on West 6th Street provides easy access and outstanding visibility from I-84. Both east and west I-84 interchanges are within roughly half
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Set on a large, level corner lot, this home has generous outdoor space with a practical legal 3-bedroom, 2-bath layout and 2,390 square feet. With R3 zoning and a lower level that has its own entrance, the property also presents possible duplex or rental-income potential, subject to buyer verification and local approvals.Major improvements are already handled, including a brand-new roof, new HVAC
Welcome to an Oaken Oasis! Nestled above street level and surrounding by majestic oak trees and mature native landscaping this updated modern house is sure to delight and house a large family or those looking for home offices with great views. Step into a two-story foyer that draws your eye upward and leads you to the main living area above which is an open, light-filled space wrapped in windows
2 bed 1 bath well maintained historic home. *New paint *new flooring *storm windows. *Huge fully fenced rear and side yards. Large laundry room with washer and dryer hookups *Walking distance to downtown, parks , attractions and restaurants. * on a dead end street
Property Id: 2816668 This two bedroom with one bathroom bungelow has tons of charm and character. Crown mouldings to the hardwood and tile floors! Totally remodeled inside with a landscaped front and back yard for fuss free maintenance and your enjoyment. The back area has an amazing gathering place for cozy get togethers! Off street parking. Freshly painted and updated. Electric range,
Located in the exclusive Lone Pine community on the shore of the Columbia River, this three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath residence blends low-maintenance living with pleasing finishes. Housing a family room, two bedrooms, two full baths, and laundry area, the main level has a blend of easy-care laminate flooring and carpeting throughout. Up the staircase with the rock wall accent,
**COMING SOON**2 Bedroom, 1 Bath Duplex available 9/25/2026Large basement with tons of storage. Washer & Dryer Hook Ups in basement. Parking is on street. Shared yard. Water & sewer included in lease. Pets will be considered with a limit of 2 pets, IF pets are approved additional deposit and pet rent may be applied. Tenant screening criteria subject to:
Ground level, one bedroom condo located in the Riverview Terrace. This unit has a river view, patio, reserved off street parking space for 1 car. Additional parking spaces for guests. Washer and dryer in unit available for use. No smoking/vaping. Strict no pet policy.Security Deposit: $1,685Lease Term: 1 YearIncluded Utilities: Water, Sewer, GarbageTenant Utilities:
All utilities are included in this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom Craftsman Bungalow that boasts beautiful wood floors and well-cared for original period woodwork throughout. If you love old character homes, this one is hard to beat. Enjoy the privacy of blinds on most windows, allowing natural light to fill the space. A mix of cabinetry in the kitchen brings some modernity, seamlessly blending
Check out this 2 bedroom 1 bathroom townhouse style unit with a full basement that is centrally located and just a quick walk to downtown or various retail stores.On the main level of the home you’ll find the living room, kitchen & dining room. Upstairs you’ll find two spacious bedrooms and a full bathroom. The basement is unfinished and has washer/dryer hook ups.Pet are
Beautifully updated character home in The Dalles. Many original touches in this 1920-built home, with thoughtful upgrades for modern convenience and aesthetics. (NOTE: Photos were taken while home was occupied. Furnishings are NOT included.) This gorgeous home sits on a double, fenced lot, complete with a workshop, tool shed, chicken coop and raised garden beds. No garage, but there
This beautiful 3 bedroom and 2.5 bath home has amazing views of the Columbia River! There are modern fixtures throughout the home. It is located on a quiet street outside of town. Call us to schedule a tour today! 3 bedrooms2.5 bathroomsLaundry AreaMaster bedroom with bathroom.Large Garage*Tenant is responsible for ALL utilities* One year lease* Pets allowed
Discover this three-bedroom, one-bath home in The Dalles with a scenic river view. The interior features durable luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout. Outside, a fenced yard and garden shed provide secure storage and outdoor space, while a covered back patio creates a comfortable spot for relaxing or entertaining. Off-street parking adds convenience for residents and guests. This property
This beautiful newer 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home is located in a great neighborhood! This home has a comfortable layout with decent sized bedrooms and bathrooms. There is a large master bathroom with double vanity sinks. It also has a large beautiful kitchen with plenty of counter space and cabinet space for storage. Appliances include refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave and washer and
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