8 Reasons to Move to Prineville

Amanda Johnson  |  September 20, 2023

8 Reasons to Move to Prineville
The seat of Crook County, Prineville, is a jewel in Central Oregon's crown. This city offers many outdoor amenities and has the perfect balance of peaceful nature views and access to fine shopping and dining. Residents of Prineville love their city, with pride of ownership evident in every impeccably manicured lawn and stunning Victorian home.

Prineville is known for its lakes, walking trails, and state parks. Many residents spend their days outdoors, fishing, hiking, or enjoying the cool, semi-arid climate. However, there's something for everyone here, and most locals who find themselves in the city stay for decades. If you're starting your search for Prineville real estate, you'll want to know even more about this beautiful area. Here are eight reasons to move to Prineville.

1. Water recreation opportunities

One of the main draws of living in Central Oregon is the opportunity to enjoy outdoor excursions. The Prineville Reservoir State Park is one of the most popular outdoor recreation areas, with many locals and visitors heading here every day for swimming, fishing, camping, and boating. There's a boat ramp and campground, a roped-off swimming area, and facilities for fish cleaning. If you prefer to rough it, there are spaces for tents, but for those who love "glamping," enjoy the deluxe cabins on-site, one of which is pet-friendly.

2. Hiking excursions

Just a short drive outside Prineville are the Painted Hills, one of the three units that comprise the John Day Fossil Beds. The area gets its name from the colored striations in the claystone, making it a prime spot for photographs or day trips. The Painted Hills are considered one of the seven wonders of Oregon, a natural wonder that is a top hiking destination.

Ochoco Wayside State Park is another top spot for hiking, with trails perfect for all skill levels. You'll enjoy a birds-eye view of the valley and surrounding areas while enjoying the crisp, clean air.

3. Historical monuments and attractions

Prineville was founded in 1877 and has deep ties to railroad history. To this end, Prineville offers a variety of historic attractions that showcase the city's heritage. Foremost among these is the Bowman Museum, a community staple since 1971. The museum stages new exhibits yearly, with guest speakers, quarterly publications, and special services like historical and genealogical research assistance. In 1991, the building was entered into the National Register of Historic Places, and these days, the Bowman Museum is a valued part of Prineville's culture.

4. Excellent restaurants

Prineville is home to dozens of fantastic restaurants, most of which are locally owned and operated. Dillon's Grill offers wood-fired burgers, steaks, and chicken, along with unique side items and refreshing beverages. Family-friendly and casual, Dillon's Grill is inviting and laid-back, perfect for grabbing a hearty meal after spending a long day on the water or the hiking trail.

Club Pioneer is another top restaurant in Prineville, an upscale location that serves steak, seafood, and pasta. Many residents head to Club Pioneer for fine evenings out or to enjoy special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, and retirement celebrations. Established in 1942, Club Prineville is one of those restaurants that attracts visitors from miles away.

5. Friendly atmosphere

Prineville is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong community spirit. The city has a total area of 10.92 square miles, but while Prineville is spread out over a relatively large geographical area, it feels like you're entering a very small town. Neighbors are always willing to help each other and ensure that everyone is kept informed on the latest developments around the city.

6. Well-maintained community amenities

Prineville is beautiful, from its state parks and lakes to the residential areas. Homes in Prineville are particularly stunning, with a wide array of architectural styles on display. You'll find many stately Victorian homes here, with towering spires and detailed windows, alongside modern farmhouses and traditional ranch-style properties. Almost every home has a large backyard, with many luxury properties in Prineville overlooking parks or bodies of water. There's nothing better than waking up to an inspiring Oregon sunrise and enjoying coffee while preparing for the day.

7. Thriving business climate

Even though Prineville feels like a close-knit community, it is also a thriving hub of business and industry. Business giants like Apple and Facebook have invested billions of dollars into data centers in Prineville, ensuring that many high-powered executives and employees call Prineville home. Whether you work in the tech space or own a company, Prineville has many opportunities to grow and expand.

8. Real estate value

Whether you're looking for a lakefront home or something in the heart of downtown, you'll get more for your money in Prineville. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the average home price in Oregon is $362,200. However, due to Prineville's relatively small size, real estate averages tend to be slightly less than that, meaning you can get more square footage for less money.

Tips for buying property in Prineville

If you're looking to plant roots in Prineville, make sure to connect with a local Realtor. A real estate professional with deep local knowledge of Oregon real estate can give you hyper-focused insights into each subdivision and neighborhood to determine what area is perfect for you. Your Realtor can also keep you abreast of market conditions so you'll get the best deal.

Negotiating with a seller on your own can be awkward and challenging, to say the least, especially when the market is hot and multiple offers are on the table. The advantage of working with a realtor is that you always have someone on your side, assisting you with negotiations and working to keep you happy from the beginning of the process to the end.

Amanda Johnson is a top Prineville realtor

Buying Prineville real estate opens up a world of opportunities. From the scenic outdoor spaces and peaceful views to the charming small businesses, Prineville is perfect for families, businesspeople, and those looking to get away from it all. If you're ready to start your search for a home in Prineville, Amanda Johnson can help.

Amanda has bought and sold thousands of properties in Oregon, including many luxury homes. She provides the highest level of customer service, ensuring you are happy and comfortable, whether buying your first home or investing in a vacation property. Contact Amanda Johnson today to start your Prineville home search!




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