Our real estate agents know that choosing a college can be one of the most important decisions you will ever make. Even beyond the learning aspect, there's something to be said about the unique culture of a college town. When you're looking at Albany and Corvallis real estate, the perks and benefits stand out.

In fact, Corvallis has been called Oregon's "Best College Town."

The news comes from a recent report by Reviews.org, which used a variety of data, including the cost of living, population, college graduation rates, and employment, to find the best Oregon college town with 250,000 or fewer residents. 

It could be said that Corvallis has a little bit of everything, which is part of its unique strength.

While many colleges create a friendly and outgoing vibe around their campus, only a select few can get into the Top 50 Friendliest College Towns in America. This honor, researched by Great College Deals, is another way Corvallis stands out: It is ranked #2 Friendliest College Town in the United States.

The report specifically calls out Corvallis' beautiful scenery, which has been carefully preserved through decades of community efforts to keep green spaces healthy and lush. First-time visitors will also find many opportunities to tour the community and its surrounding amenities.

For example, you can get a free tour of pristine Starker Forest and its managed forest lands, appropriate for individuals or small groups. Or tour Chintimini Wildlife Center to see Oregon State University students and alumni work to rehabilitate injured and orphaned animals.  

Plus, Oregon State University itself holds tours on a regular basis. With a history dating back more than 150 years, it is the state's largest university – its community encompasses about 33,000 students (including some 27,500 undergraduates) and more than 2,600 academic staff.

Oregon State University Is the Centerpiece of College Life in Corvallis

Oregon State University's 420-acre main Corvallis campus is the heart of Corvallis and only about two hours south of Portland. In 2008, the original campus designed by renowned architect John Charles Olmsted was designated a Historic District by the National Register of Historic Places.

Many local events have a strong connection to the Corvallis campus, and it is not unusual to see the public visiting for dramatic performances, sporting events, music, or guest lectures. With 16 distinct residence halls, there is something to suit every taste. The great majority of first-year freshmen live on campus.

Oregon State University has an elite reputation for its athletics programs. Reser Stadium, located on the campus grounds, is home to the football team. The official golf course, Trysting Tree Golf Club, offers both a 50,000-square-foot green and a state-of-the-art practice bunker.

Oregon State University has long been a leading force in online education. In 2022, U.S. News and World Report named its online bachelor programs #5 overall in the United States. The online psychology B.A. ranked #2, and the Bachelor's in Business program was ranked #4.

Corvallis Is a Terrific Place to Learn, Launch a Career, or Grow a Family

Lots of Oregon State University graduates choose to stay in Corvallis, while some migrate to Albany or other larger cities. No matter your choice, Corvallis will give the student in your life the opportunity to build a foundation for success in class and beyond.

Contact us to find out more about life and real estate in the Corvallis community.