Lake Oswego OR​

Lake Oswego – A charming blend of natural beauty, small-town warmth, and upscale living, nestled just south of Portland. Known for its inviting lake views, tree-lined neighborhoods, and strong sense of community, Lake Oswego offers a perfect escape without straying far from city conveniences. Whether you're paddleboarding on Oswego Lake, exploring art galleries, or sipping coffee at a cozy downtown café, this city invites you to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the finer things in life.

• Population: ~40,000
• Weather: Mild and temperate; summers around 80°F, winters in the 40s with occasional rain.
• Places To Visit: George Rogers Park, Oswego Lake, Lakewood Center for the Arts, Iron Mountain Park, Willamette Shore Trolley.
• Top Activities: Boating on the lake, walking the trails at Tryon Creek State Park, dining downtown, visiting local farmers markets, catching live performances.
• Famous Food: Wood-fired pizzas at La Provence, farm-to-table bites at Five Spice, house-made pastries at Saint Honore Bakery, and locally roasted coffee at Lionheart.

Lake Oswego, Oregon, is known for its beautiful neighborhoods, excellent schools, and proximity to Portland. While often considered a serene residential area, Lake Oswego also offers a dynamic job market. From healthcare to finance, the city attracts educated professionals seeking both quality of life and career growth.

Top 5 Jobs in Lake Oswego, OR

Lake Oswego’s job market reflects its balanced mix of suburban charm and professional opportunity. With strong demand across healthcare, technology, and education, professionals looking to build a career while enjoying high quality of life will find great options in this vibrant Oregon community.

Lake Oswego might be a peaceful, suburban city, but it's also full of fun, chill spots where students can unwind, enjoy nature, and hang out with friends. Whether you're looking to sip coffee, hike scenic trails, or snap pics by the lake, there's something for everyone.

George Rogers Park – This riverfront park is a go-to for students in Lake Oswego. You can relax on the sandy beach, play volleyball or soccer, or enjoy a picnic under the trees. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunset over the Willamette River.

Lake Theater & Cafe – Catch a movie, sip a drink, and grab a bite—all in one cozy spot by the lake. With comfy seating and a laid-back vibe, this is a top pick for a movie night with friends or a solo chill-out session.

Millennium Plaza Park – Right in the heart of downtown, this park offers lake views, musical fountains, and space to hang out with your crew. It's perfect for grabbing an ice cream nearby and enjoying live music during summer evenings.

Tryon Creek State Natural Area – Just a short bike or car ride away, this forested getaway is packed with walking and hiking trails. It’s a peaceful place to clear your head between classes or meet up with friends for a weekend nature walk.

Chuck’s Place – An easygoing local diner that's always buzzing with students. Grab a milkshake, burger, or breakfast scramble. The laid-back vibe makes it a great spot to catch up or reset between study sessions.

Peet's Coffee & Tea – When you need to caffeinate or chill with your laptop, Peet’s is a solid choice. It’s cozy, quiet, and full of students getting work done—or taking a much-needed break with friends.

Oswego Lake – If you’ve got a friend with lake access or you're lucky enough to live nearby, nothing beats paddling or floating on the lake in summer. It’s the ultimate relaxation escape and the best place for golden-hour photos.

Stickmen Brewing Company – For students age 21+, this lakeside spot is known for great views, fun events, and local brews. There’s also outdoor seating, making it perfect for sunny afternoons and casual weekend hangouts.

Holy Taco – This trendy Mexican joint is packed with flavor and student vibes. The cute decor and tasty tacos (especially on Taco Tuesday) make it a must-visit for a low-key night out or lunch with friends.

Iron Mountain Trail – For a quick hike that delivers awesome views, check out the Iron Mountain Trail. It’s not too hard, and the summit spot is a great place to chill, take in the scenery, and snap a few photos for the feed.

Lake Oswego might be smaller than a big city, but it blends nature, comfort, and community vibes in a way students really appreciate. Whether you’re studying at home or commuting, these spots make it easy to take a break and enjoy life outside the classroom.

Lake Oswego, nestled just south of Portland, is renowned for its beautiful lake views, vibrant community, and commitment to educational excellence. While the city itself is smaller and more residential, its proximity to Portland and the surrounding Metro area gives students access to several outstanding public and private colleges and universities. Whether you’re looking for technical programs, liberal arts, or research-driven universities, the options near Lake Oswego can help you achieve your academic goals.

Top Public Colleges & Universities Near Lake Oswego, OR

Portland State University (PSU) – Situated in downtown Portland, just a short drive from Lake Oswego, PSU is Oregon’s largest public university. Known for its vibrant urban campus, PSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, especially strong in business, engineering, social sciences, and urban planning.

Clackamas Community College (CCC) – With a campus in nearby Oregon City, CCC is an accessible option for Lake Oswego residents. It offers two-year degrees, transfer programs, and career and technical education in fields like healthcare, automotive technology, and business.

Oregon State University (OSU) – Portland Center – OSU is a major research university based in Corvallis, but its Portland Center brings a selection of flexible and hybrid programs closer to Lake Oswego students, especially in business, education, and counseling.

Portland Community College (PCC) – Sylvania Campus – Sylvania, PCC’s largest campus, is just north of Lake Oswego. PCC is highly regarded for its technical and transfer programs, serving students seeking affordable education and robust student support services.

University of Oregon (UO) – Portland Campus – Although UO’s main campus is in Eugene, its Portland campus offers select graduate and professional programs in fields like architecture, journalism, and business, making it a convenient choice for advanced studies.

Top Private Colleges & Universities Near Lake Oswego, OR

Lewis & Clark College – Located minutes away in Portland’s southwest hills, Lewis & Clark is a prestigious liberal arts college celebrated for its rigorous academics, environmental law programs, and commitment to social justice.

Reed College – Known nationally for its intellectual rigor and vibrant academic community, Reed offers students an outstanding liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on independent research and critical thinking.

University of Portland – Situated along the Willamette River, UP is a respected Catholic university offering top programs in nursing, business, engineering, and education, fostering both academic and personal growth.

George Fox University (Portland Center) – With its main campus in Newberg and a robust center in Portland, George Fox is a Christian university known for its compassionate community and strengths in psychology, business, and education.

Multnomah University – Located in northeast Portland, Multnomah is a private Christian institution focusing on Bible-centered education, theology, counseling, and liberal arts, making it a unique choice for students seeking a faith-based environment.

Lake Oswego’s proximity to Portland’s vibrant academic scene gives students a wealth of opportunities to pursue higher education. Whether you’re interested in a large research university or an intimate liberal arts setting, there’s a school nearby that’s the perfect fit for your ambitions and interests.

Lake Oswego, OR is a beautiful city with a reputation for high-quality education. Whether you're looking for a top-tier public school or a private institution that offers a personalized learning experience, Lake Oswego has outstanding options to support your teen’s academic journey and personal growth.

Here are the top five public and private high schools in Lake Oswego, Oregon that consistently deliver excellent education, encouraging environments, and college-ready graduates.

Top Public High Schools in Lake Oswego, OR

• Lake Oswego High School – Known for its strong academics, stellar graduation rate, and active community involvement, this school is a benchmark for excellence in Oregon public education. Students benefit from Advanced Placement courses and a wide range of extracurriculars.
• Lakeridge High School – With a vibrant campus culture and an emphasis on academic achievement, Lakeridge offers AP classes and competitive athletics. It has a supportive environment that nurtures leadership and creativity.
• West Linn High School – Serving the Lake Oswego area, this school stands out for its high test scores, outstanding STEM programs, and award-winning arts department. It’s a strong choice for families seeking a well-rounded education.
• Riverdale High School – A small public school with a private school feel, Riverdale offers rigorous college-prep courses and a tight-knit learning community. Personalized attention and project-based learning make it a favorite among motivated students.
• Wilson High School (now Ida B. Wells-Barnett High School) – While located just outside Lake Oswego, this Portland-based public school draws students from the area. It’s praised for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program and strong college-placement track record.

Top Private High Schools in Lake Oswego, OR

• St. Mary’s Academy – Located nearby in downtown Portland, this top-rated all-girls Catholic school is known for academic rigor, leadership development, and a strong focus on social justice. Many Lake Oswego families choose St. Mary’s for its empowering environment.
• Oregon Episcopal School (OES) – Just minutes from Lake Oswego, OES offers a globally inspired curriculum and small class sizes. Students thrive through inquiry-based learning, experiential programs, and a strong college counseling department.
• Jesuit High School – A leading coeducational Catholic school, Jesuit High is known for academic excellence, character development, and extracurricular strength. Many students from Lake Oswego commute here for its nurturing and disciplined environment.
• Northwest Academy – This independent college-preparatory school offers a unique blend of arts and academics. With a creative and inclusive atmosphere, it’s a great option for students who thrive in smaller, focused classes.
• Harmony Academy – Located in Lake Oswego, this tuition-free private recovery high school is designed for students recovering from substance use disorders. It provides a safe and supportive academic setting emphasizing wellness, resilience, and achievement.

Choosing the right high school is one of the most important decisions a family can make. The schools listed above are some of the finest in the region, offering academic strength, enriching activities, and supportive environments that prepare students for life beyond graduation. With options this impressive, Lake Oswego families can feel confident about their educational choices.

Lake Oswego, Oregon, is a picturesque suburb nestled just south of Portland. While it does not host any major professional sports teams directly, the residents of Lake Oswego enjoy easy access to some of the state's most exciting professional sports action through neighboring Portland. The passion for sports runs deep in the region, and whether you're a basketball fanatic or a die-hard soccer supporter, there's something for every fan to cheer about nearby.

Here’s a closer look at the professional sports teams that fans in Lake Oswego proudly follow and support:

Basketball – Portland Trail Blazers (NBA)

• Portland Trail Blazers – As Oregon’s only NBA team, the Portland Trail Blazers are a beloved franchise with a strong fan base throughout the state, including Lake Oswego. Established in 1970, the team won its first and only NBA championship in 1977. The Blazers boast a rich history with legendary players like Clyde Drexler, Bill Walton, Brandon Roy, and more recently, superstar Damian Lillard. Their home games at the Moda Center in downtown Portland offer exciting action just 20 minutes from Lake Oswego.

Soccer – Portland Timbers (MLS) & Portland Thorns FC (NWSL)

• Portland Timbers – The Timbers are a Major League Soccer team with a reputation for passionate fans and an electric game-day atmosphere at Providence Park. The team joined MLS in 2011 and quickly found success, winning the MLS Cup in 2015 and reaching the finals again in 2018 and 2021. With their famous "Timbers Army" supporters group, the team has a unique home-field advantage that Lake Oswego residents love to be part of.
• Portland Thorns FC – One of the most successful and well-supported teams in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), the Thorns have brought home three league championships (2013, 2017, 2022). Stars like Christine Sinclair, Tobin Heath, and Sophia Smith have dazzled fans with their skills on the field. The Thorns also play at Providence Park and consistently draw some of the largest crowds in women’s professional soccer.

Hockey – Portland Winterhawks (WHL)

• Portland Winterhawks – While not part of the NHL, the Winterhawks are a highly respected junior hockey team in the Western Hockey League (WHL). They have developed top-tier talent, with several players graduating to the NHL, including stars like Seth Jones and Marian Hossa. The Winterhawks have won multiple WHL championships, and the games at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum or Moda Center offer a great family-friendly environment for fans in Lake Oswego to enjoy live hockey action.

Baseball – Hillsboro Hops (MiLB)

• Hillsboro Hops – Located just over 30 minutes from Lake Oswego, the Hillsboro Hops are a Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Arizona Diamondbacks. They play at Ron Tonkin Field and have won multiple Northwest League championships since relocating to Oregon in 2013. For Lake Oswego residents, the Hops provide a close and affordable way to experience professional baseball during the summer months.

While Lake Oswego may not host its own major league teams, its proximity to Portland means sports fans can enjoy top-tier action in basketball, soccer, hockey, and baseball just a short drive away. With vibrant teams that embrace community spirit, there's no shortage of unforgettable sports moments for Lake Oswego locals to be part of!

Lake Oswego, Oregon isn’t just a picturesque city with tree-lined streets and a beautiful lake—this charming town is packed with rich history, unique character, and some pretty cool surprises. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, here are 10 fun facts about Lake Oswego that might just make you love it even more:

1. It Started as a Smelting Town – Lake Oswego was founded in 1847 and became known for its iron industry in the late 1800s. It was once home to Oregon’s first iron smelter!
2. Not Just a Lake – The Oswego Lake looks natural, but it’s actually a man-made lake created by damming a creek and expanding a natural body of water. Still gorgeous though!
3. It Has Its Own Museum – The Lake Oswego Preservation Society maintains a historic museum inside the old iron furnace building—history meets charm right in the heart of the city.
4. A Tree City USA – Lake Oswego has been named a Tree City USA over 30 times! That’s a lot of greenery, and you’ll definitely notice all the tall firs and lush parks.
5. Celebrity Roots – Did you know that Amanda Seyfried once called Lake Oswego home? You're walking the same streets, star-style!
6. Art Around Every Corner – The city hosts an annual Festival of the Arts and has more than 70 public art installations, from sculptures and murals to interactive works.
7. The Farmers’ Market is a Big Deal – Every summer, the Lake Oswego Farmers' Market draws big crowds with over 80 vendors offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music.
8. Lover of Libraries – The Lake Oswego Public Library is a community favorite, known for its cozy feel and the 17,000-plus people who attend its programs every year.
9. Bridge with a View – The Iron Mountain Bridge offers sweeping views of nature trails and scenery just a few steps from the city’s bustling downtown.
10. Lake Access Is Exclusive – Oswego Lake is privately owned, and only residents with deeded lake rights or membership in the Lake Oswego Corporation can boat or swim there—it’s like a secret slice of paradise!