What $400,000 Buys in Douglas County vs. Portland and Seattle

What $400,000 Buys in Douglas County vs. Portland and Seattle

When it comes to buying a home, location makes all the difference. A budget that stretches comfortably in one area may barely cover the basics in another. To highlight this contrast, let’s take a look at what $400,000 buys here in Douglas County compared to Portland and Seattle.

Douglas County: Space, Comfort, and Lifestyle

In Douglas County, $400,000 can go a long way. Buyers in this price range often find:

• 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

• 1,600–2,000 square feet of living space

• A garage, shop space, or even additional acreage

• Yards with room to garden, play, or simply enjoy the outdoors

• Homes in family-friendly neighborhoods, often with mountain views or proximity to the Umpqua River

For many buyers, this budget opens up options that provide not just a house, but a lifestyle.

Portland: Smaller Spaces, Bigger Price Tag

In Portland, the same $400,000 looks very different. Buyers are more likely to find:

• A bungalow, townhouse, or condo

• Under 1,200 square feet

• Smaller yards or no yard at all

• Homes that may need updating

Here, the focus is on location — walkability, access to jobs, restaurants, and the amenities of city life. Space often takes a back seat.

Seattle: Condos Over Houses

Seattle’s market is even more competitive. At $400,000, buyers may be limited to:

• Condos or townhomes, often under 900 square feet

• Little to no yard or private outdoor space

• Limited parking options

• An urban lifestyle in exchange for proximity to one of the nation’s fastest-growing job markets

In Seattle, affordability is sacrificed for city living and career opportunities.

Why Buyers Are Looking to Douglas County

The differences are striking. While $400,000 may only buy a one-bedroom condo in Seattle or a modest fixer-upper in Portland, that same budget in Douglas County often secures a comfortable family home with space to grow.

For many buyers, especially those relocating from larger metro areas, this makes Douglas County incredibly appealing. Remote work has opened the door for people to live where they want — and more and more are choosing the balance of affordability, space, and lifestyle our area offers.

The Takeaway

If you’re buying with a $400,000 budget, your options vary dramatically by location. In Douglas County, it’s an opportunity to enjoy more home, more land, and more quality of life for your money.

Thinking of making a move? Let’s talk about how far your budget can take you right here in Southern Oregon. Call us at (541) 229-8114 — we’d love to help you find the right fit.