Moving to Albany, Oregon

Community Overview | Education in and Around Albany | Local Government | Finding a Home in Albany | Essential Services for Albany Residents

Thinking about moving to Albany? Our city offers a welcoming community, rich history, and a high quality of life. With charming neighborhoods, a scenic riverfront, and plenty of parks and outdoor recreation, Albany is a great place to call home. Conveniently located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, residents enjoy easy access to local businesses, seasonal events, and a thriving downtown. Below, you'll find helpful resources to make your relocating to Albany as smooth as possible.

Albany is situated in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, providing convenient access to major cities and natural attractions. It lies 44 miles north of Eugene, 69 miles south of Portland, and 24 miles south of Salem, the state capital. Nestled between the Coast and Cascade Mountains, Albany offers easy drives to both ocean beaches and snow-covered slopes. The city is positioned along the Willamette and Calapooia Rivers and is accessible via Amtrak, US Highway 99E, Highway 20, and Interstate 5, with exits at 228, 233, 234A, and 234B.

  • Albany: 57,053 (2023)
  • Linn County: 131,984 (2023)

Albany experiences a mild climate with an average annual precipitation of approximately 44 inches. Winter temperatures average around 34°F, while summer highs typically reach about 70°F.

Albany is the 11th largest city in Oregon and serves as the county seat and largest city in Linn County, as well as the second-largest city in Benton County. Originally a river town, Albany expanded south and east with the growth of railroads, highways, and Interstate 5. It later extended across the Willamette River into the farmland and wooded hillsides of North Albany, earning its nickname as Oregon’s "Hub City."

718 7th Ave SW, Albany, OR 97321
Phone: 541-967-4501
Website: Albany.K12.or.us

Schools Overview

  • Elementary Schools: 14
  • Middle Schools: 4
  • High Schools: 3

Albany and the surrounding area host several private schools.

  • Albany Christian School
    420 Third Avenue SE, Albany, OR 97321
    Phone: 541-928-1110
    Website: Albany Christian
  • Santiam Christian Schools
    7220 NE Arnold Avenue, Adair Village, OR 97330
    Phone: 541-745-5524
    Website: SantiamChristian.org

  • East Linn Christian Academy
    36883 Victory Drive, Lebanon, OR 97355
    Phone: 541-259-2304
    Website: East Linn Christian

  • Linn-Benton Community College
    6500 Pacific Blvd SW, Albany, OR 97321
    Phone: 541-917-4999
    Website: LinnBenton.edu

  • Oregon State University
    Corvallis, OR 97331-4501
    Main entrance at the corner of 15th and Jefferson Street
    Phone: 541-737-1000
    Website: OregonState.edu

  • University of Oregon
    13th & Alder, Eugene, OR 97403
    Phone: 541-346-1000
    Website: UOregon.edu

The City of Albany operates under a council–manager government system. A non-partisan mayor is elected at large every two years, leading a six-member, non-partisan City Council. Councilors serve four-year overlapping terms, with two representatives from each of the city's three wards. A full-time, unelected city manager administers the day-to-day operations of the city, implementing the Council's policies.

  • Address: 333 SW Broadalbin Street, Albany, OR 97321
  • Website: City of Albany
  • Phone: 541-917-7500
  • Address: 300 SW 4th Avenue, Albany, OR 97321
  • Website: Linn County
  • Phone: 541-967-3825

Note: The Oregon State Capitol's main phone number is listed above; individual offices may have different contact numbers.

If you're considering purchasing a home in Albany, here are some key insights:

  • Median Home Prices: As of February 2025, the median home sale price in Albany was approximately $450,133, reflecting a 4.7% increase from the previous year.

  •  Trends: The Albany housing market has experienced steady growth, with home values appreciating over the past year.

  • Historic Districts: For those interested in historic properties, Albany boasts three National Historic Districts, offering unique architectural styles and a glimpse into the city's rich past.

To navigate the housing market effectively, it's advisable to connect with local real estate professionals. Websites like Zillow and Realtor.com provide current listings and market analyses.

Prospective renters should consider the following information:

  • Average Rent Prices: As of March 2025, the average rent for an apartment in Albany is approximately $1,539, with variations depending on the size and location of the unit.

  • Rental Market Trends: The rental market in Albany has seen fluctuations, with rent prices experiencing slight decreases over the past year. 

Given the competitive rental market, it's essential to start your search early and explore multiple resources. Online platforms such as Zillow Rentals, Apartments.com, and Rent.com offer up-to-date rental listings. Additionally, contacting local property management companies can provide insights into upcoming vacancies.

By utilizing these resources and staying informed about current market conditions, both home buyers and renters can make well-informed decisions when considering a move to Albany.

When relocating to Albany, it's essential to establish connections with local utility providers to ensure a smooth transition. Below is a comprehensive guide to the primary utility services available in the area:

  • Pacific Power: Serving a significant portion of Albany, Pacific Power is committed to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable electricity.
    Customer Service: 888-221-7070
    Website: Pacific Power

    Consumers Power Inc.: This member-owned electric cooperative provides services to parts of Albany and surrounding regions.
    Customer Service: 800-872-9036
    Website: Consumers Power

NW Natural: The primary provider of natural gas in Albany, offering reliable and efficient service.
Customer Service: 800-422-4012
Website: NW Natural 

City of Albany Public Works Department: The city manages water, sewer, and stormwater utilities, with rates set by the Albany City Council. Assistance programs are available for qualifying low-income customers.
Customer Service: 541-917-7547
Website: City of Albany Utility Billing 

CenturyLink: Provides telephone and internet services.
Customer Service: 800-244-1111
Website: CenturyLink

Comcast (Xfinity): Offers cable television, internet, and telephone services.
Customer Service: 888-824-8264
Website: Xfinity

Ziply Fiber: Provides fiber-optic internet and phone services in select areas.
Customer Service: 866-699-4759
Website: Ziply Fiber

Republic Services: Handles waste disposal and recycling services for Albany residents.
Customer Service: 541-928-2551
Website: Republic Services 

Energy Trust of Oregon: Provides incentives and services for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects for qualifying utility customers.
Website: Energy Trust of Oregon

For more detailed information on setting up utilities and other local services, contact the City of Albany directly.

122 Ferry St SW, Albany, OR 97321
PO Box 965 | 541-928-0911
Hours: 9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday
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