RANK #757 / 996 · POP 222,604 · OR
PROJECTED GROWTH: -0.3%
Ashland, a notable town in Jackson County, is recognized for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, an event that draws visitors internationally for performances running from mid-February through October. Located in Southern Oregon, Jackson County sits near the California border. The county offers a variety of transportation options, including the Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport and Interstate 5. The community values small-town characteristics alongside cultural diversity. The region boasts natural amenities, including the Rogue River, Applegate Lake, and proximity to Crater Lake National Park, providing opportunities for hiking, fishing, rafting, and skiing on Mount Ashland. Life in Jackson County balances outdoor access with community amenities. Public schools in the county are rated above average. The area attracts a mix of young professionals and retirees. The economy, once reliant on timber, has diversified. Healthcare, with institutions like Asante Health System and Providence Medical Center, forms a significant employment sector. Retail and manufacturing, including companies like Harry & David, also contribute to the local economy. Additionally, industries such as hemp, wine, film, and farming show consistent growth, reflecting an environment where entrepreneurship is present.
Overvalued relative to economy
Above national median
Well below national median
Above national median (13x)
Housing looks overvalued at 7.8x — home prices are high relative to local economic output. Climate and geography support a structural premium. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
| PROJECT | AMOUNT | STATUS |
|---|---|---|
|
Multi-Use Pandemic Response Center
Jackson County
|
$62M | Under Construction |
|
Amazon Distribution Center
Amazon Services LLC
|
$50M | Under Construction |
|
Orchard Meadows Housing
Housing Authority of Jackson County
|
$50M | Under Construction |
|
Prescott Gardens Housing
Housing Authority of Jackson County
|
$50M | Under Construction |
|
Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport Expansion
Jackson County
|
$40M | Under Construction |
Source: public records, news, corporate announcements. Amounts are estimates where noted.
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Jackson County has a Boom Town Index score of 24/100, ranking #757 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at +0.2% and a median household income of $67,690, it faces some economic headwinds compared to faster-growing counties.
The median home value in Jackson County is $369,500 with median rent at $1,208/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.1832, which is less affordable than the national average.
Population growth: +0.4% year-over-year. Job growth: +0.2%. Home values changed +0.5% in the past 12 months.