POLK COUNTY

County Offices
850 Main Street
Dallas 503-623-8173
https://www.co.polk.or.us

Chamber of Commerce
119 SW Court st. P.O. Box 377
Dallas 503-623-2564
https://dallasoregon.org/

Services
Excellent schools, institutions of higher education, and state-of-the-art healthcare are part of the enviable quality of life. The county is served by Tuality Health and Legacy Health Systems, which maintains a hospital in Tualatin that serves a five-county region. This area offers excellent schools, both public and private. Vocational, technical, and two year community colleges are available for an affordable start on a four year degree or specialized training in a number of degree or certification programs. In addition the region is home to Western Oregon University which offers a variety of programs to its more than 5,000 students.  The presence of these leading institutions, of higher education enrich the entire region intellectually, culturally, and economically.

Lifestyle
Polk County offers a pleasing blend of cosmopolitan amenities, rustic beauty, and premier recreational areas. Less than an hour’s drive from the Pacific Ocean and a reasonable driving distance into Portland, the possibilities for cultural attractions and recreational pursuits are virtually without limit. Delightful contrasts abound in this Pacific Northwest paradise. Miles of rivers, trails, bike paths and Oregon’s famous wine country combine with the natural scenic beauty to make this a wonderful area to call home. Antique dealers vie for business with boutiques and quaint shops. Historic treasures and sites contrast with contemporary strip malls and entertainment centers. Newcomers will discover cultural attractions like live stage performances and concerts, famous golf courses, and a seemingly endless array of recreational activities. Many communities enjoy majestic views of distant mountain ranges, heavily wooded undeveloped land, or lush rolling hills. Nature is as diverse as the housing options and local economy, turning the seasons into a wonderland of beauty. With its vital economy, progressive communities, and small-town friendliness, Polk County is destined to remain at the leading edge of growth.

Dallas
City Hall
503-623-2338
https://www.dallasor.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
503-623-2564
https://dallasoregon.org/

Dallas is another of Oregon’s wonderful and small family oriented cities. It is located in the middle of the scenic Willamette Valley, just 15 minutes to the east of the state capital of Salem. This location gives residents quick access to all of the urban amenities of Salem, while being able to enjoy the easy pace of Dallas City life. The city also offers its residents a charming and historic downtown area, several local parks and tons of outdoor recreational opportunities. This wonderful lifestyle along with its great location and strong sense of community make Dallas a wonderful place to call home.

City of Independence
City Hall
503-623-2564
https://www.ci.independence.or.us

Chamber of Commerce
503-838-4268
https://micc-or.org/

Located just 10 miles south and west of Oregon’s capital city of Salem, Independence is perfectly situated to give its residents the best of both worlds, a relaxing small city lifestyle located right near all of the urban amenities that its residents can need. For outdoor enthusiasts, the coast is less than an hour away; skiing is only a 2-hour drive, and Portland, is only about 60 miles from town.  The city was founded in the mid 1800’s by pioneers who migrated from Independence, Missouri, a city that is known for its traditional values. Today it is a city of just under 8,000 people. The city is also regionally known for it unique airpark community, where residents actually live in a private airport environment, having homes with hangars attached and using their personal aircraft for commuting. The city also boasts a vibrant historic downtown with shops and restaurants for residents and visitors to enjoy. The city’s park, Riverview Park, is home to an outdoor amphitheater, with free movies and music provided to the public every summer and its location on the Willamette River provides a gathering space for residents with beautiful views of the river and the southwest Salem hills. The city has also enjoyed residential growth over the last several years and continues to offer newcomers and residents a nice selection of housing – all a short drive from Salem.

City of Monmouth
City Hall
503-838-0722
https://www.ci.monmouth.or.us

Chamber of Commerce
503-838-4268
https://micc-or.org/

The City of Monmouth is located just 20 minutes west of the City of Salem and is located just a short distance from the city of Independence (in fact they share a Chamber of Commerce.) The city was founded in the early 1800’s by settlers from the Midwest. Outdoor recreation is a way of life in this region and Monmouth’s location makes it the perfect spot to begin exploring this area of Oregon. The Pacific coastline and Cascade Mountains are just an hour’s drive from the city. Mountain Biking and Hiking are key parts of the outdoor community, including the very popular Black Rock Mountain Bike Park near Falls City. Monmouth offer resident a vast array of educational opportunities that rank as some of the best in the state. Monmouth is home to Western Oregon University, a 4-year institution, offering a variety of degree programs to more than 5,000 students. The beautiful campus boasts the distinction each year of having one of the largest Christmas trees in the United States. It is currently the oldest public university in Oregon and on the West Coast. Downtown Monmouth offers residents and visitors a great selection of unique shops, restaurants and antique shops, as well as several coffee houses for their enjoyment. There are also historic walking tours, museums and several parks ready for the enjoyment of everyone. Housing choices are broad and ever changing. Monmouth offers a rare opportunity to enjoy small city living with nature on your doorstep.