Challenges of Oregon's Cost of Living
Oregon's cost of living has dramatically increased over the years and has been felt by the middle and low income classes. From 2010 to 2020, cost of living has increased 20% and continues to rise. The average cost of a home in Oregon in 2020 was $344,000 now, it sits at an astounding $548,900 in 2024. These rising cost have greatly affected all aspects of the Oregon economy and furthers the homeless crisis that has become a pressing issue in Portland. As home and rent prices increase, cost of entry limits opportunity for low income individuals and families from working out of a tough situation. Similarly with the homeless population, they are unable to escape their situations due to the barrier of increasing cost of living.
Rising Costs of Goods
Other factors that have contributed to the rising cost of living in Oregon are gas prices, groceries, and car insurance. Inflation has a lot to do with these increasing prices however, the overall growth of the state with business expansion and an influx of higher income individuals has contributed to these rising costs. Because of the rising costs across the state, once again lower income classes and homeless individuals struggle to escape their situations with the expensive barriers becoming greater.
What Needs to Change
Better access to affordable goods especially in the inner city of Portland. More affordable living situations and opportunities for homeless to find housing. Finally, up dated infrastructure that allows better sustainability for utility costs.
Sources:
https://www.opb.org/article/2023/08/01/portland-homeless-camps-cost-of-living-oregon/
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