Medford, OR: 2026 Relocation Deep Dive Report

Medford: The Data Profile (2026)

Medford presents a specific economic profile for the 2026 remote worker. The city supports a population of 85,100, creating a mid-sized ecosystem that balances urban amenities with manageable density. The primary economic friction point is the income-to-cost ratio: the median household income sits at $66,186, which is 11.3% below the national median of $74,580. This wage suppression is structurally linked to the local labor market, where the percentage of college-educated residents is 26.1%, significantly trailing the US average of 33.1%.

The statistical target demographic for Medford in the post-remote era is the "imported earner." This is a professional earning a salary competitive with major metros (Seattle, SF, Portland) but utilizing Medford’s lower housing index to maximize disposable income. The local economy is less suited for those seeking high local wages in white-collar sectors.

Cost of Living Analysis

While the aggregate Cost of Living index is near parity, the distribution of expenses reveals a distinct advantage for those managing their own food and utilities, offset by a housing market that trades at a premium relative to local wages.

Disposable Income Analysis:
The "Low" utility index is a significant financial lever. At 14.7 cents/kWh (vs US 16.0), annual savings for a high-consumption household can reach $150+. However, the grocery index of 96.6 offers minimal relief. For a single earner bringing in the median $66,186 (approx $4,200 monthly take-home), the budget of $2,680 leaves roughly $1,520 for discretionary spending or debt service. This is viable but tight compared to national averages. The financial viability of Medford relies heavily on exceeding the local median income.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the defining friction point. It is expensive relative to the local economy but potentially undervalued for remote workers. The rental market is particularly tight, with fair market rates for a 2-bedroom sitting at $1,380/mo.

Buy vs. Rent Analysis:
Buying in Medford requires a high capital threshold relative to income. With a median home price of $425,000 and a price-per-square-foot of $275, the local market is 25% more expensive per unit area than the national average. Renting is the statistically superior short-term financial decision, with 1BR rents 18.5% below the US average. However, the low inventory and high property crime rate (discussed below) suggest that ownership carries higher security and maintenance risks.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The post-2024 Return to Office (RTO) mandates have shifted Medford’s economic gravity. With local unemployment at 5.2% (vs US 4.0%), the local job market is tighter than the national average, indicating a surplus of labor relative to local demand.

• RTO Impact: Medford is not a primary office hub. Consequently, RTO mandates have not driven local displacement. Instead, they have fueled the "imported earner" class.
• Commute & Infrastructure: The median commute time is 17.5 minutes, significantly lower than the national average. This reduction in transit time offsets the "tax" of the +8.0% housing index for many professionals.
• Industry Stability: The economy is anchored in healthcare (Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center) and agriculture (pear and wine industries). These are stable but low-wage sectors, reinforcing the income ceiling of $66,186.

Quality of Life Audit

Medford offers a complex Quality of Life (QoL) profile. While air quality and general health scores are strong, specific lifestyle risks and safety concerns require mitigation.

Safety Analysis:
Medford has a bifurcated safety profile. Violent crime is a statistical strength, coming in at 292 incidents per 100k people, well below the US average of 380. However, property crime is a critical weakness. At 3,234 incidents per 100k, it is over 60% higher than the national average of 2,000. Residents must invest in home security and insurance.

Environmental & Lifestyle Summary:

• Air Quality: Excellent. An AQI of 42 and low PM2.5 levels make this a prime location for respiratory health.
• Schools: The education attainment level (26.1% college grads) suggests the K-12 system is average, with fewer high-income professional parents driving school performance metrics compared to national hubs.
• Weather: Currently 30.0°F with fog. The region experiences distinct seasons but lacks the extreme humidity of the South or extreme cold of the Midwest. The "widespread fog" noted is a common winter inversion layer phenomenon.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Air Quality: An AQI of 42 is a top-tier asset.
• Violent Safety: 292/100k is statistically secure.
• Utility Costs: Electricity at 14.7¢/kWh is below national norms.
• Commute: Sub-18-minute average commutes reduce lifestyle friction.

Cons:

• Property Crime: 3,234/100k requires constant vigilance.
• Income Ceiling: Local median of $66,186 is 11.3% below the US norm.
• Housing Premium: Buying costs +4.4% more than average, while earning -11.3% less.

Final Recommendation:
Medford is a Tier 2 relocation destination. It is highly recommended for remote workers earning $90,000+ annually who can leverage the housing market. It is not recommended for job seekers relying on the local economy, given the 5.2% unemployment rate and low median income. If you move here, rent first and invest heavily in property security.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed for a comfortable life in Medford?
For a single person to live comfortably (including savings and discretionary spending), a salary of $85,000 is recommended. This covers the $2,680 monthly expenses and provides a safety buffer against the high property crime risk.

2. How does Medford value compare to other Oregon cities?
Medford is 8.0% more expensive in housing than the US average, whereas Portland is roughly +25%. Medford offers a "value" proposition relative to Portland, but it is priced higher than rural Oregon counterparts.

3. Is the property crime rate a dealbreaker?
It is a major factor. With 3,234 incidents per 100k, you are statistically more likely to experience theft. It is not a dealbreaker if you take mitigation steps (security systems, garaged parking), but it is a lifestyle tax.

4. When is the best time to move?
Late Spring (May/June). The current weather of 30.0°F and fog is typical for winter. Moving in Spring allows you to assess the area during better conditions and avoid the wet winter roads, though traffic remains light year-round due to the 17.5-minute median commute.