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Corvallis, OR

Frequently asked questions

Corvallis, OR

Corvallis is a city and the seat of government of Benton County in central western Oregon, United States. It is the principal city of the Corvallis, Oregon Metropolitan Statistical Area, which encompasses all of Benton County. Corvallis is the location of Oregon State University and Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center. Corvallis is the westernmost city in the contiguous 48 states with a population larger than 50,000.

In October 1845, Joseph C. Avery arrived in Oregon from the east. Avery took out a land claim at the mouth of Marys River, where it flows into the Willamette River, and in June 1846 took up residence there in a log cabin hastily constructed to hold what seemed a potentially lucrative claim. Avery's primitive 1846 dwelling was the first home within the boundaries of today's Corvallis and his land claim included the southern section of the contemporary city. Avery was quickly joined by other settlers along the banks of the Willamette River, including a 640-acre (260 ha) claim directly to his north taken in September 1846 by William F. Dixon. The discovery of gold in California in 1848 temporarily stalled the development of a township, with Avery leaving his Oregon claim to try his hand at mining in the fall of that year. His stay proved to be brief, and in January 1849, Avery returned to Oregon with a small stock of provisions to open a store.

In 1849, Avery opened his store at the site, platted the land, and surveyed a town site on his land claim, naming the community Marysville. The city was possibly named after early settler Mary Lloyd, but now the name is thought to be derived from French fur trappers' naming of Mary Peak after the Virgin Mary. In the summer of 1851, Joseph Avery and William Dixon each granted back-to-back 40-acre (16 ha) land parcels from their land holdings for the establishment of a county seat. Avery's holding lay to the south and Dixon's to the north, with the Benton County Courthouse marking the approximate line of demarcation between these two land parcels.

Corvallis is at river mile 131–32 of the Willamette River. Corvallis is bordered on the northwest by the foothills of the Oregon Coast Range, with Bald Hill providing a view of the town.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 14.30 square miles (37.04 km²), of which 14.13 square miles (36.60 km²) are land and 0.17 square miles (0.44 km²) is covered by water.

Corvallis places a strong emphasis on health and wellness, with the Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center serving as a comprehensive healthcare facility for residents. Engage in fitness classes, outdoor activities, and wellness programs offered by Corvallis Parks and Recreation, promoting active living and well-being. Dive into fitness with swimming lessons, aquatic exercise classes, and recreational swimming sessions at the Osborn Aquatic Center. Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy hiking, trail running, and outdoor yoga at Fitton Green Natural Area, offering scenic views and opportunities for outdoor exercise. Receive personalized healthcare services, preventive care, and wellness consultations at Corvallis Family Medicine, dedicated to supporting your holistic health. Support your community and promote mental well-being through volunteering or shopping at the Heartland Humane Society Thrift Shop, where proceeds benefit animal welfare. Cultivate mind-body balance and inner resilience with yoga classes, meditation sessions, and holistic healing therapies at Heart of the Valley Yoga and Willamette Valley Power Yoga. 

Top sites in Corvallis, OR are Reser Stadium, Siuslaw National Forest Supervisor's Office, and The Arts Center.

Population: 61,087 (2023). ZIP codes: 97330, 97331, 97333, 97339. Area codes: 541, 458. Elevation: 256 ft (78 m). Area: 14.59 sq mi (37.79 km²).

FAQs

What is Corvallis, OR known for?

Nestled in the heart of Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley, living in Corvallis offers more than just access to tranquil beauty—it embodies a vibrant cultural scene and fosters a palpable sense of community. Corvallis is known for a lifestyle that thrives on sustainability, outdoor exploration, and a celebration of local artistry. Corvallis is known for being the home of Oregon State University, a prestigious institution celebrated for its academic excellence and groundbreaking research initiatives. The university’s influence permeates the city, shaping its cultural fabric and fostering a vibrant, intellectually stimulating community. 

Is Corvallis, OR a good place to live?

Corvallis is in Benton County and is one of the best places to live in Oregon. Living in Corvallis offers residents an urban suburban mix feel and most residents rent their homes. In Corvallis, there are a lot of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks. The public schools in Corvallis are highly rated.

Is Corvallis, OR expensive?

Based on our Corvallis cost of living calculator, Corvallis is 5% more expensive than the national average and 1% less expensive to live in than the average city in Oregon. This assumes a $72,000 annual salary and a 2-bedroom Apt. Food costs in Corvallis are more affordable than average in the United States. Transportation costs in Corvallis are more affordable than average in the United States. Housing costs in Corvallis are less affordable than average in the United States. Healthcare costs in Corvallis are less affordable than the US average.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Corvallis

Redfin

Niche

Erieri

Reser Stadium

Siuslaw National Forest Supervisor's Office

The Arts Center

Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center

Corvallis Parks and Recreation

Osborn Aquatic Center

Fitton Green Natural Area

Corvallis Family Medicine

Heartland Humane Society Thrift Shop

Heart of the Valley Yoga

Willamette Valley Power Yoga

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.