Moving to Lake Oswego vs. West Linn in 2026: A Local’s Comparison

Is it better to live in Lake Oswego or West Linn in 2026?

Lake Oswego is the choice for those seeking a walkable, "main street" lifestyle with Oregon’s #1 schools and proximity to Portland. West Linn is preferred for buyers wanting lower property taxes, larger lots, and a relaxed, historic community. While Lake Oswego features high-end infill, West Linn offers more "move-in ready" value at the $1M price point.

Having lived in both Lake Oswego and West Linn, I’ve experienced firsthand how these two neighbors offer completely different versions of the "Oregon Dream." In 2026, the market has shifted, and the choice between them often comes down to how you want to spend your Saturday morning and your tax dollars.

The "Vibe" Check: Upscale Hub vs. Historic Charm

Lake Oswego: The "Montecito of the North" The Boones Ferry Corridor and Downtown area feel reminiscent of upscale California coastal towns. It’s a manicured, walkable hub where you can grab a coffee and stroll through Millennium Plaza Park or walk the dog at George Rogers Park. The streets are lined with the iconic First Addition bungalows, and the area is anchored by high-end amenities like Zupan’s Market. It’s high-energy, central, and meticulously kept.

West Linn: Historic Roots & Open Space West Linn feels more like a series of connected villages. The heart of the city is the Historic Willamette District, which has blossomed over the last decade into a major regional attraction. The Willamette Garage food carts are a must-visit community "third space" that you simply won't find in LO. For nature lovers, the Camassia Natural Preserve and the massive Mary S. Young Park offer a more rugged, "Pacific Northwest" feel compared to LO’s groomed parks.

Housing & The "$1 Million Challenge"

As a local agent, I see the biggest contrast in what you are buying.

• In Lake Oswego: High-end new construction is mostly "infill"—builders replacing older homes with modern $2.5M+ estates on 0.15-acre lots. At $1,000,000, you are typically looking at a smaller, updated ranch or cottage in neighborhoods like Hallinan.

• In West Linn: You’ll find more "house for the money." The entry point is lower, and you can still find affordable lots and homes with "good bones" in neighborhoods like Savanna Oaks or Rosemont Ridge. For $1,000,000, you can often secure a 3,000+ sq. ft. traditional home on a larger, private lot (0.25+ acres) that offers more "breathing room" than LO.

The 2026 Financial & School Snapshot

• Property Taxes: This is the "hidden" cost of Lake Oswego.

  • Lake Oswego: ~$5.21 per $1,000.

  • West Linn: ~$2.54 per $1,000. (Living in West Linn can save you $2,000–$3,000 annually on a typical home.)

• School Rankings:

  • Lake Oswego (LOSD): Ranked #1 in Oregon. It is the primary driver of home values here, with Lakeridge High School consistently at the top of the charts.

  • West Linn-Wilsonville (WLWV): Consistently in the Top 5 statewide. It’s a powerhouse district that many families prefer for its balanced approach and newer facilities.

• Lake Access: The Oswego Lake Corporation (LOC) still manages private easements, but since the 2025 rulings, the public can now access the water for non-motorized use directly from Millennium Plaza Park.

The Commute: The "Time Tax"

West Linn offers more land, but you pay for it in minutes. Access to I-205 and Hwy 43 is the lifeline here, but because West Linn is tucked further south (near Willamette Falls), your commute to Downtown Portland or the Beaverton tech corridor usually takes 10–20 minutes longer than it would from Lake Oswego. LO residents benefit from multiple "escape routes" like I-5 and Hwy 217 that West Linn simply doesn't have.

My Personal Take

When I lived in Lake Oswego, I loved being able to walk to the farmer's market and feel the buzz of the city. But when I moved to West Linn, the larger lot and the lower tax bill felt like a major win for my long-term budget. If you want "Main Street" luxury, go LO. If you want a "Food Cart" culture and a big backyard, West Linn is your winner.