Oregon RN Jobs 2025: Portland, Eugene Salaries, Top Systems & COL Insights
Portland weird = surprisingly good nursing scene. OHSU Health (Oregon Health & Science University) is the academic heavyweight, Providence and Legacy Health run the big hospital networks, and the pay's solid—$94K average in Portland. But here's the catch: Portland rent is creeping toward Seattle levels ($1,800-$2,200 for a 1BR), so that paycheck doesn't stretch as far as you'd think.
I talked to an ER nurse at OHSU who said the Magnet status and research exposure are legit—she's learning constantly, the protocols are evidence-based, and the trauma cases keep her sharp. But she also said she's paying $2,100/month for a tiny apartment in Northwest Portland, which eats into the $94K fast. She's eyeing Eugene or Salem for the next move—same nursing quality, 20-30% cheaper housing.
Oregon's NOT a Compact state (as of 2025), so if you want to travel or pick up shifts in Washington or California, you'll need extra licenses. That's annoying, but honestly, Oregon's job market is strong enough that most nurses stay put. Plus, no sales tax helps a bit—every dollar goes a little further than it would in California.
The culture here's different—Portland's artsy, progressive, outdoorsy (hiking, cycling, Powell's Books between shifts). If you vibe with that, you'll love it. If you don't, Eugene or Bend might fit better—smaller, quieter, and way more affordable.
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Bottom Line: Should You Work in Oregon?
If you want the OHSU academic experience and don't mind Portland rent, go for it—OHSU's Magnet status and research culture are real. If you want better cost-of-living without sacrificing quality, Eugene's PeaceHealth Sacred Heart is your play—solid system, 20% cheaper housing, still great outdoor access. Portland's cool, but Eugene might be smarter financially.
My recommendation? Start in Portland (learn from the best at OHSU or Providence), then relocate to Eugene or Bend after 2-3 years when you're ready to actually save money. That's the Oregon career path that makes financial sense.