Wilsonville OR

Wilsonville – Nestled in Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley, Wilsonville offers the perfect mix of small-town charm and modern convenience. It’s where scenic trails, family-friendly parks, and a thriving local economy meet just a short drive from Portland. Whether you're raising a family, starting a business, or simply looking for a place to unwind, Wilsonville welcomes you with natural beauty, community spirit, and a pace of life that lets you truly breathe.

• Population: ~27,000
• Weather: Mild and seasonal (35–85°F); rainy winters and warm, dry summers.
• Places To Visit: Memorial Park, World of Speed Motorsports Museum, Bullwinkle's Family Fun Center, Graham Oaks Nature Park, Willamette River trails.
• Top Activities: Biking along greenways, family outings at the park, exploring local breweries, paddleboarding on the river, shopping at local farmers markets.
• Famous Food: Farm-to-table dishes at Dar Essalam, handcrafted pizza at Mod Pizza, fresh brews at Vanguard Brewing, locally inspired fare at Abella Italian Kitchen.

Wilsonville, Oregon is a growing suburb just south of Portland known for its blend of technology, manufacturing, and healthcare industries. With an increasing number of companies setting up operations in the area, job seekers can find a solid mix of technical and professional roles. Below are five of the top jobs currently in demand in Wilsonville.

Top 5 Jobs in Wilsonville, OR

Wilsonville’s economy is supported by a diverse workforce and thriving industries. Whether you're skilled in engineering, healthcare, or tech support, the city offers a variety of solid career paths for professionals looking to grow and thrive close to Portland.

Wilsonville, Oregon might be a small city, but it’s packed with cozy corners, fun activities, and perfect spots where students can chill, relax, and recharge. Whether you're looking to hang out with friends, explore the outdoors, or simply escape the books for a bit, Wilsonville has something for you.

Town Center Park – Right in the heart of Wilsonville, this park is a favorite for students. With open green space, a splash pad in the summer, and frequent community events, it’s the perfect spot to hang out, toss a frisbee, or grab a food truck lunch with friends.

Wilsonville Public Library – It’s more than just books. This peaceful, welcoming environment is a hidden gem for students to relax, catch up on reading, or join community workshops and study groups. The cozy reading nooks and free Wi-Fi don’t hurt either.

Memorial Park – Overlooking the Willamette River, Memorial Park is a blend of nature and recreation. With walking trails, basketball courts, and quiet picnic spots, it’s an easy go-to for both solo relaxation and lively hangouts. Don’t forget your hammock!

Smart Food Cart Pod – Craving something tasty without breaking the bank? The local food cart pod near the SMART transit center serves up everything from tacos to Thai food. It’s a popular lunch or post-class meet-up spot for students across town.

Bullwinkle’s Entertainment – Need to blow off some steam? Bullwinkle’s is just around the corner and offers mini-golf, laser tag, arcade games, and go-karts. It’s a super fun way to spend an afternoon or weekend evening with your crew.

Graham Oaks Nature Park – If you’re into nature or just need a break from screens, Graham Oaks is the perfect escape. Peaceful trails surrounded by wildflowers and native wildlife make for a refreshing walk, jog, or even a quiet spot to think or journal.

Insomnia Coffee Co. – Cozy atmosphere, friendly vibes, and strong coffee—Insomnia is a top choice for Wilsonville students needing a study break or a chill place to work on group projects. Plus, the pastries are amazing.

Local Events & Farmers Market – Wilsonville hosts a variety of student-friendly events throughout the year such as outdoor movie nights, seasonal festivals, and a weekly farmers market. These are awesome opportunities to try local snacks, meet new people, and soak up the local culture.

Just because it's a smaller city doesn’t mean you can’t have big fun. Whether it’s outdoors or indoors, solo or with friends, Wilsonville offers great places to unwind and truly enjoy student life.

Wilsonville, Oregon, stands out as a vibrant hub for higher learning, offering access to top-notch colleges and universities. Students in Wilsonville benefit from both public and private institutions nearby, each bringing unique strengths, modern facilities, and pathways for personal and professional growth.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Wilsonville

Oregon Institute of Technology – Wilsonville Campus – Known as Oregon Tech, this dynamic public university offers bachelor’s and master’s programs in engineering, technology, healthcare, and applied sciences. With its industry partnerships, students gain hands-on experience and excellent job prospects.

Portland Community College – Wilsonville Training Center – PCC’s specialized Wilsonville center is renowned for technical training and workforce development, including electrical, mechanical, and water environmental technologies. It’s ideal for those seeking practical career skills and certifications.

Clackamas Community College – Clackamas serves the Wilsonville area with comprehensive associate degree and certificate programs. Many Wilsonville students attend for transfer degrees or hands-on career training.

Portland State University – Just a short drive from Wilsonville, PSU is Oregon’s largest urban public university. It’s respected for business, engineering, liberal arts, and its strong transfer pathways from local community colleges.

Chemeketa Community College – Yamhill Valley Campus – Located nearby, Chemeketa offers affordable education and robust technical and transfer programs. Many Wilsonville residents choose Chemeketa for its flexibility and wide range of options.

Top Private Colleges & Universities near Wilsonville

George Fox University – Located in Newberg, just minutes from Wilsonville, George Fox is a Christian university well-known for its business, education, and engineering programs. Students appreciate its supportive community and personalized approach to learning.

University of Portland – This prestigious Catholic university offers strong degrees in engineering, nursing, business, and the arts. It is respected for academic excellence and its vibrant campus culture near downtown Portland.

Pacific University – With a beautiful campus in Forest Grove, Pacific is celebrated for its health professions, education, and liberal arts programs. It attracts students seeking a close-knit, innovative environment.

Lewis & Clark College – Perched in Portland’s wooded hills, Lewis & Clark is top-ranked for its liberal arts, environmental studies, and international programs. It’s a great fit for students who value global engagement and active learning.

Reed College – Known for academic rigor and a creative community, Reed College in Portland offers a unique curriculum focused on original research and critical thinking across the sciences and humanities. Its graduates excel in graduate study and professional careers.

Whether you’re seeking practical training, world-class academics, or a supportive campus community, Wilsonville and its surrounding area have outstanding options to help you reach your educational goals.

Wilsonville, OR is a growing city that offers families access to quality education with several high-performing high schools. Whether you're looking for a strong public school with a robust curriculum or a private institution offering personalized learning, Wilsonville provides excellent educational options for students aiming toward college and beyond.

Top Public High Schools in Wilsonville, OR

• Wilsonville High School – Part of the West Linn-Wilsonville School District, this school ranks among the best in the area for academic success, athletic achievements, and student support. It boasts a strong graduation rate and offers programs in STEM, arts, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
• Arts and Technology High School (ATHS) – Also part of the West Linn-Wilsonville School District, ATHS focuses on personalized learning in a smaller setting. It’s ideal for students who thrive with a creative, tech-driven curriculum in a supportive environment.
• Tualatin High School – Though not located directly in Wilsonville, many Wilsonville residents in certain districts attend this high-performing school. It offers challenging academics, award-winning extracurriculars, and college counseling programs.
• Canby High School – Serving parts of southern Wilsonville, Canby High provides a range of college prep and career-focused programs. The school features strong community involvement and hands-on electives for real-world learning.
• – Located just a short drive away, Sherwood High is a popular choice among Wilsonville families looking for a new, innovative campus. It offers modern facilities, diverse electives, and robust academic support.

Top Private High Schools in Wilsonville, OR

• Park Academy – This specialized private school is located right in Wilsonville and serves students with learning differences like dyslexia. Known for its nurturing environment and one-on-one teaching approach, Park Academy helps students build confidence and succeed academically.
• Horizon Christian School – Offering middle through high school grades, Horizon Christian combines academics with spiritual development. Small class sizes, dual-credit college classes, and a family-like atmosphere make it one of the area's standout private schools.
• St. Paul Lutheran Christian School – Though smaller, this faith-based school offers a well-rounded education rooted in Christian values. Its high school program focuses on personalized attention, leadership, and service.
• Monte Cassino High School – This private Catholic academy provides a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with an emphasis on faith, discipline, and academic excellence. It’s a great option for families looking for strong moral guidance alongside education.
• Northwest Academy (Portland) – While not in Wilsonville, this nearby private high school is a top choice for families willing to commute. Northwest Academy is known for its creative and performing arts programs paired with solid academics and a personalized learning approach.

No matter what path your student is on, Wilsonville offers a range of public and private high schools that support academic achievement, personal growth, and future success. From rigorous college prep to individualized attention, there’s a school community waiting to help your child thrive.

While Wilsonville, Oregon, may not host any major league teams within its city limits, it offers a strong sports culture and a great location near several professional sports franchises that fans in the area proudly support. Nestled just south of Portland, Wilsonville is part of a passionate sports region with easy access to events in the NBA, MLS, and minor league baseball. Locals often rally behind nearby teams, filling bars, homes, and arenas with excitement during the season.

Basketball – Portland Trail Blazers (NBA)

• Portland Trail Blazers – Just a short drive north of Wilsonville, the Trail Blazers are Oregon’s only NBA team and a true source of pride. Since their founding in 1970, they've built a strong fan base. The franchise won its only NBA championship in 1977, and has featured legends like Bill Walton, Clyde Drexler, and Damian Lillard. With a committed fan base and a competitive spirit, the Blazers continue to light up the court at Moda Center in Portland.

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

• Portland Timbers – Representing the city in Major League Soccer, the Timbers are known for their electric atmosphere at Providence Park and their diehard supporters group, the Timbers Army. The team won the MLS Cup in 2015 and has regularly competed in the playoffs. Their matches, just 20 miles from Wilsonville, are a must-see experience for soccer fans.
• Portland Thorns FC – One of the most successful teams in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), the Thorns are a powerhouse with loyal support from fans across the region. They have won three NWSL Championships (2013, 2017, 2022) and have featured world-class talent, including Christine Sinclair, Tobin Heath, and Becky Sauerbrunn.

Baseball – Hillsboro Hops (MiLB)

• Hillsboro Hops – Although not a major league team, the Hops play just west of Portland and serve as the High-A affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks. With games full of family-friendly fun, local food, and talented prospects looking to make it to the majors, catching a Hops game is a summertime favorite for many Wilsonville residents.

Hockey – Portland Winterhawks (WHL)

• Portland Winterhawks – Competing in the Western Hockey League (WHL), the Winterhawks have been a launching pad for NHL stars like Marian Hossa, Seth Jones, and Cam Neely. The team has won multiple league titles and plays an exciting brand of hockey that brings fans from all over the metro area, including Wilsonville.

Although Wilsonville doesn't currently have a sports team of its own, residents are lucky to live near some of the most passionate fan bases in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're catching a Trail Blazers game, waving a scarf for the Timbers, cheering at a Thorns match, or enjoying a night at the ballpark with the Hops, you're never far from thrilling sports action.

Wilsonville, Oregon, may not be the biggest city in the Pacific Northwest, but it’s packed with charm, history, and a few surprises that might just make you want to drop by. Nestled along the Willamette River and home to a thriving community, this city offers more than meets the eye. Here are 10 fun facts about this delightful Oregon gem:

1. Tech-Savvy Town – Wilsonville is home to the headquarters of Mentor Graphics, one of the most influential electronic design automation companies in the world.
2. Nature Lovers Rejoice – The city boasts 15+ parks and over 200 acres of green space, making it a great spot for outdoor fun and relaxation.
3. Movie Magic – Parts of the 1993 movie Free Willy were filmed at the Oregon Zoo’s former whale tank, which was located just a short drive from Wilsonville. Some scenes were shot nearby!
4. Home of the World’s Smallest Railroad – Wilsonville is the proud home of the World's Smallest Harbor Freight train exhibit at the World of Speed Museum before it closed in 2020.
5. Horse Country Vibes – The surrounding countryside of Wilsonville is filled with beautiful horse farms, and equestrians are a big part of the community culture.
6. Quick Ride to Portland – Want big city excitement? Wilsonville is just about 20 miles south of Portland, making it a perfect blend of city access and suburban peace.
7. Named After a Railroad Man – Wilsonville was named after Charles Wilson, the chief engineer of the Oregon Electric Railway, which ran through the area in the early 1900s.
8. Nursery Capital – The region around Wilsonville is known for its large-scale nurseries. Oregon is a top exporter of nursery products, and Wilsonville plays a big role in that success.
9. Bridge of Progress – The Boones Ferry Bridge was replaced by the Charbonneau Bridge in 2005, signaling a move toward modernization while honoring historic roots.
10. A City That Cares – Wilsonville often ranks high in quality-of-life surveys and is known for its inclusive planning, accessible transit systems, and welcoming sense of community.