1.Lebanon is a growing city located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, known for its community events, outdoor recreation, and natural beauty:
- Cheadle Lake Park: A popular spot for outdoor activities, Cheadle Lake offers walking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The park hosts events like the annual Strawberry Festival, a beloved local celebration.
- Lebanon Strawberry Festival: Held every June, this is one of the town’s most famous events, featuring parades, rides, live music, and, of course, plenty of strawberries. It’s a major draw for both locals and visitors.
- Santiam River: Running through Lebanon, the Santiam River offers excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking along its scenic banks.
- The Historic Lebanon Downtown: Downtown Lebanon is revitalizing with a mix of historic buildings, local shops, cafes, and restaurants. The Lebanon Downtown Farmers’ Market is held seasonally, offering fresh produce and handmade goods from local vendors.
- Gill’s Landing: Located along the South Santiam River, this is a popular camping and picnic spot, with access to the river for fishing and boating. It’s a great place for families to enjoy the outdoors.
- Enchanted Ridge Alpacas: A local attraction where visitors can meet and learn about alpacas. The farm offers tours and sells alpaca products, adding a unique agricultural element to the area.
2. Schools
Lebanon is served by the Lebanon Community School District, which offers a range of educational opportunities from elementary through high school:
- Lebanon High School: Known for its diverse academic programs and extracurricular activities, Lebanon High School offers AP courses, career and technical education (CTE), and strong athletics programs. The school is involved in the community and prepares students for college and career success.
- Seven Oak Middle School: This middle school provides a supportive environment for students, with a focus on academic achievement and personal development. It offers various clubs, sports, and extracurriculars.
- Elementary Schools: Lebanon has several elementary schools, including Cascades Elementary and Riverview School, known for their supportive teachers and community-focused learning environments.
- Oregon State University (nearby): While Lebanon doesn’t have a university of its own, it’s a short drive from Oregon State University in Corvallis, giving residents access to a world-class higher education institution.
- Samaritan Health Sciences Campus: Lebanon is home to the Western University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific Northwest (COMP-NW). This medical school brings a focus on health education and creates job opportunities in the area.
3. Neighborhood Guides
Lebanon offers a range of neighborhoods, from more established communities to newer developments:
- Downtown Lebanon: This area features older homes with historic character, including bungalows and mid-century homes. Downtown is walkable, with close proximity to local shops, cafes, and parks. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a small-town atmosphere with a mix of historic and revitalized areas.
- Cheadle Lake Neighborhoods: Homes near Cheadle Lake offer beautiful views and easy access to the park’s outdoor amenities. These neighborhoods feature newer construction and are popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts.
- River Road Area: Located along the Santiam River, this area offers a mix of rural properties and single-family homes. It’s a quieter part of town with easy access to fishing, boating, and nature walks.
- Samaritan Neighborhoods: The area around Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital and the Health Sciences Campus has seen growth in recent years, with newer developments appealing to medical professionals and families alike. These neighborhoods offer modern homes and easy access to the hospital and medical school.
- North Lebanon: This area features newer suburban developments with modern homes, larger lots, and quiet streets. It’s popular with families and those seeking a suburban lifestyle with access to schools, parks, and shopping.
4. Housing Market Information
Lebanon’s housing market is growing, with increasing demand due to its affordability and proximity to larger cities like Corvallis and Albany:
- Median Home Price: As of recent data, the median home price in Lebanon is around $375,000, making it more affordable than nearby Corvallis or Albany. This makes it attractive to first-time homebuyers, families, and retirees.
- Market Trends: Lebanon’s real estate market has seen steady growth, with an influx of new residents attracted by its affordability and small-town charm. The demand for housing has led to more new construction, especially in suburban areas and near the medical campus.
- Types of Housing: Lebanon offers a mix of housing options, from historic homes in the downtown area to modern single-family homes in newer developments. There are also rural properties with acreage available on the outskirts of town, appealing to those looking for more space.
New Developments: In recent years, Lebanon has seen an increase in new housing developments, particularly in the north and near Cheadle Lake. These developments feature modern homes with updated amenities and are popular with young families and professionals.