For this blog, I have compiled a list of questions about living in Bend Oregon that I hear most. Anyone who knows me can attest to the fact that I am honest and blunt. So, in true, unfiltered Melissa Gottlieb fashion, here are some authentic answers to frequently asked questions.
The current unemployment rate is great compared to the national average. The combination of comparative affordable real estate and a family-centric, slower-paced life with access to unparalleled recreation make this a prime destination. Like NYC, Bend has an outdoor activity cult following and being here is the priority. I hated winters back East.
They felt long, depressing, and I was always cold. Surprisingly, since we moved to Bend, I like winter. It does get cold, and there is definitely snow, but the lack of humidity makes winters manageable. Nevertheless, cold weather gives Bend residents a perfect reason to throw on their winter coats and ski down Pilot Butte and Mount Bachelor. The snow here is also so beautiful that it sparkles like diamonds on a clear day.
The food here, in general, is adequate. The small businesses lack of food quality and variety have been a disappointment, I have to admit. If you are a foodie, this might be something to consider. Again, coming from a bigger city my answer is probably skewed. This question is my favorite! People come here from all over the world to train, face the high desert, scale our mountains, and venture the Deschutes river, which is impressive to watch.
However, like everything around you, you get used to the active lifestyle seeing everyone out running, biking, and hiking all of the time; it becomes white noise. I gave up my dream of keeping up with the Joneses a long time ago considering my neighbor trains triathletes and Iron Man competitors. For the adults, Bend is home to famous craft breweries such as the Deschutes Brewery and Barrel Brewing.
