If you're considering making Ashland, Oregon your home or simply want to learn more about this charming Southern Oregon city, you’ve come to the right place. Ashland is a unique community with a rich cultural backdrop, vibrant food scene, and breathtaking natural surroundings. But like any place, it has its upsides and challenges. In this article, I’ll share the real pros and cons living in Ashland, Oregon — the honest, unfiltered truth that locals and newcomers alike should know. Plus, I’ll dive into a personal story that highlights some of Ashland’s quirks and character.

Whether you’re moving here, thinking about it, or just curious, understanding both sides of the coin will help you get a clear picture of what life in Ashland really looks like. Let’s dive right in.

Table of Contents

• Pros of Living in Ashland Oregon
• Cons of Living in Ashland Oregon
• What About Fake Pros and Cons of Living in Ashland Oregon?
• Thinking of Moving to Ashland Oregon?
• FAQs About Living in Ashland Oregon

Pros of Living in Ashland Oregon

1. Rich and Diverse Culture

When you ask people what they love most about Ashland, the first thing you’ll hear is the culture. Ashland is famously home to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which draws theater lovers from all over with its world-class plays and performances. This festival alone infuses the town with a creative, intellectual energy that is hard to find elsewhere in Southern Oregon.

But culture in Ashland goes beyond just Shakespeare. The city hosts the Ashland Independent Film Festival, which brings in a cool, eclectic crowd of filmmakers and movie buffs. There’s also a strong hippie vibe here, which adds to the town’s unique personality.

For art lovers, Ashland offers the Schneider Museum of Art and numerous galleries around the plaza, showcasing local and regional artists. Science enthusiasts and families will appreciate the ScienceWorks Museum, an interactive place that makes learning fun for kids and adults alike.

Part of what makes Ashland’s culture so vibrant is that it’s a college town, home to Southern Oregon University. This means a blend of young students, artists, retirees, and longtime residents all mixing together, creating a diverse and welcoming community.

2. Exceptional Food Scene

If you’re a foodie, Ashland is a dream come true. The town is widely regarded as the culinary hotspot of Southern Oregon. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night, a place to entertain guests, or just a fantastic meal, Ashland has it all.

Some of my personal favorites include Osteria La Briccola, an Italian restaurant that never disappoints, and Mas, which has received national acclaim and was even featured in the New York Times as one of the top restaurants in the country. But Ashland’s food scene isn’t just about fine dining.

If you want something casual but delicious, try Sammich, a local favorite that even caught the attention of Guy Fieri on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Beyond restaurants, the town boasts a vibrant nightlife with craft cocktail bars, breweries, cider houses, and local wineries offering tasting rooms.

What ties all of this together is a focus on local ingredients and sustainability, which matches Ashland’s environmentally friendly values.

3. Southern Oregon University and Athletics

Southern Oregon University (SOU) is a central part of Ashland’s identity. Beyond contributing to the cultural vibrancy, the university also brings exciting athletic events to town. SOU fields teams in football, basketball, softball, baseball, wrestling, and more.

Sports fans in Ashland have the opportunity to cheer on their local teams, fostering a sense of community pride. Plus, the influx of students from SOU keeps the town lively and adds to the age diversity, balancing retirees and families with a younger population.

The SOU campus itself is a beautiful spot to visit, with well-maintained landscaping, mature trees, and attractive buildings that make it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you’re a student or a visitor.

4. Plenty to Do – Outdoor Activities and More

Ashland offers an impressive variety of activities for residents and visitors alike. If you’re the outdoorsy type, you’ll be in heaven here.

Lithia Park is the crown jewel of Ashland’s outdoor spaces. Spanning around 80 to 90 acres right in the heart of town, Lithia Park features a Japanese garden, a creek that meanders through the park, playgrounds for kids, large grassy fields perfect for frisbee or picnics, an amphitheater, and miles of walking trails.

Another great spot is Railroad Park, a lesser-known gem that is definitely worth a visit. And for families with kids, the ScienceWorks Museum provides interactive exhibits that make learning about science fun and engaging.

For the adventure seekers, Ashland is surrounded by fantastic trails for hiking, biking, and mountain biking, particularly those leading up towards Mount Ashland. If you love winter sports, Mount Ashland Ski Area is just 20-30 minutes away from town, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities with beautiful powder and groomed runs.

Beyond outdoor activities, Ashland’s plaza is a bustling center for shopping, dining, coffee shops, and cultural events. You can easily spend an entire day exploring the plaza and still feel like you only scratched the surface.

5. Environmentally Friendly Community

Ashland residents take environmental responsibility seriously. The city prioritizes sustainability in its policies, infrastructure, and community initiatives. You’ll find electric car charging stations around town and a clear vision from city leaders about maintaining an eco-friendly and gentle impact on the environment.

This commitment extends to building standards, waste management, and community programs, making Ashland a leader in environmental stewardship in Southern Oregon. For those who care deeply about living in a green community, this is a significant plus.

Cons of Living in Ashland Oregon

1. High Cost of Living

One of the biggest challenges of living in Ashland is the cost. Ashland is the most expensive part of Southern Oregon when it comes to housing and everyday expenses. The average home price hovers around $600,000, which is significantly higher than neighboring towns.

Property taxes tend to be higher in Ashland as well, and the city even has a unique fast food tax. Overall, things just cost more here—from groceries to services—making affordability a real concern for many people.

If you’re thinking of relocating to Ashland, budgeting carefully and understanding the cost of living is essential.

2. Somewhat Isolated Location

Ashland is somewhat isolated compared to other nearby Southern Oregon cities. Unlike Medford and Central Point, where the boundaries between cities blur, Ashland sits with clear space around it.

This isolation means that if you want to run errands in neighboring cities or access big-box stores like Costco, you’ll have to plan for a longer drive. Most Ashland residents tend to shop locally or at the Ashland Food Co-op rather than making frequent trips to Medford.

Politically, Ashland is also distinct. It’s known as the liberal hub of Southern Oregon, surrounded by more conservative areas. This can make Ashland feel like a different world compared to nearby towns, which some people love and others find challenging.

3. The Hippie Factor

Now, I want to be upfront here: Ashland has a well-known hippie culture. This is a mixed bag depending on your perspective. The hippies bring a welcoming, peace-loving vibe that many find refreshing and authentic.

However, some people see this as a con, especially those coming from more conservative or traditional backgrounds. It’s something that often comes up in conversations about Ashland’s culture and can be a point of contention.

Interestingly, despite the welcoming nature of hippies, Ashland’s parks like Lithia Park don’t have the same homeless population issues that you might see in other Southern Oregon cities like Medford. This suggests that the community manages to maintain a safe and clean environment despite its liberal leanings.

4. The “Healing” Lithia Water

Here’s a quirky con: the famous Lithia Springs water in downtown Ashland is known for its supposed healing properties, but it tastes pretty awful. If you’re new in town and someone offers you a sip at the plaza fountains, beware—the water tastes like a mix of eggs, trash, and sour bubbles. It’s honestly pretty disgusting.

Some locals bottle this water and swear by its health benefits, but I’ll be honest—I’d rather be sick than drink that again. It’s one of those odd local traditions that you’ll want to approach with caution.

5. Parking Can Be a Nightmare

If you plan to enjoy Ashland’s wonderful downtown, be prepared for a parking challenge. Parking spots, especially near the plaza and theaters, are limited and often require a bit of a walk through Lithia Park.

Whether you’re going to a restaurant, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, or just exploring the plaza, finding convenient parking can be tough. Many people opt to get dropped off or park farther away and enjoy a stroll through the park to get downtown.

Here’s a funny story to illustrate this: I once drove my big diesel pickup truck to downtown Ashland for lunch and parked right by the plaza. When I came back, someone had tossed trash—vegan tortillas, no less—into the bed of my truck. Ashlanders are passionate about the environment and apparently not fans of big polluting trucks!

If you’re visiting Ashland, consider leaving the large vehicle at home and driving something smaller and more city-friendly.

What About Fake Pros and Cons of Living in Ashland Oregon?

You might be wondering, “What are fake pros and cons?” Honestly, it’s mostly rumors, hearsay, and online commentary that don’t hold much water in real life. These are the kinds of things you read in heated comment sections or hear from people who aren’t familiar with Ashland firsthand.

Fake pros and cons often revolve around political disagreements, isolated incidents, or misconceptions. The real pros and cons I’ve shared come from living in and around Ashland, spending time with locals, and experiencing the town’s culture and lifestyle firsthand.

So, when evaluating Ashland, focus on the genuine positives and challenges. That way, you’ll have a realistic understanding of what life here is truly like.

Thinking of Moving to Ashland Oregon?

Ashland, Oregon is a city that offers a rich cultural experience, fantastic food, outdoor adventures, and a strong commitment to the environment. It’s a place where arts, nature, and community come together in a vibrant way. However, it also comes with challenges like a high cost of living, limited parking, some isolation, and that infamous Lithia Springs water.

If you’re thinking about moving to Ashland or just visiting, knowing these real pros and cons will help you set the right expectations and appreciate all the unique things this city has to offer.

Whether you love the hippie vibe or find it a bit quirky, whether you’re a foodie or an outdoor enthusiast, Ashland has something special for everyone. Just remember to leave the big truck at home and enjoy the local culture!

FAQs About Living in Ashland Oregon

Is Ashland a good place to raise a family?

Yes, Ashland offers excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of family-friendly activities like Lithia Park and the ScienceWorks Museum, making it a great place for families.

How expensive is it to live in Ashland?

Ashland is the most expensive area in Southern Oregon, with average home prices around $600,000 and generally higher taxes and living costs compared to nearby towns.

What kind of outdoor activities are available in Ashland?

Ashland boasts hiking, mountain biking, skiing at Mount Ashland, parks like Lithia Park, and numerous trails, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Is the Oregon Shakespeare Festival worth visiting?

Absolutely! The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is world-renowned and offers top-tier theatrical performances, drawing visitors from around the globe.

What is the vibe or culture like in Ashland?

Ashland has a diverse cultural scene with a strong liberal and hippie influence, vibrant arts, and a college town atmosphere thanks to Southern Oregon University.

Should I be worried about parking in downtown Ashland?

Parking can be challenging, especially during events or weekends. It’s best to plan ahead, consider carpooling, or be prepared to walk a bit from your parking spot.

What’s the deal with the Lithia Springs water?

The Lithia Springs water in downtown Ashland is famous for supposed healing properties but tastes quite unpleasant. Many locals avoid drinking it directly from the fountains.