St. Helens, OR
Population 14,152 · Oregon
About St. Helens, OR
St. Helens is a mid-sized city located in Oregon with a population of 14,152 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,123 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.7 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in St. Helens features a median home value of $350,900, which is 43% above the national median of $244,900. This positions St. Helens in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,269, 9% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,563 total housing units, 63% are owner-occupied (3,347 units) and 37% are renter-occupied (1,980 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in St. Helens shows an unemployment rate of 4.5%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 8.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in St. Helens have an average one-way commute time of 32.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.0% of St. Helens residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 6.9% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 4.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How St. Helens Ranks in Oregon
Cost of Living in St. Helens, OR
Compared to national averages, St. Helens has a median household income of $82,123 (9% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $350,900, which is 43% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,269 is 9% above the US average of $1,163. Within Oregon, St. Helens's income is 8% above the state average of $76,196, and home values are 8% below the state median of $382,095.
Why Live in St. Helens, OR?
St. Helens offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,123, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 8.8%, better than the national average.
St. Helens has a population of 14,152 with a median age of 36.7 years. Compare St. Helens with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Oregon.
Similar Cities Near St. Helens
Cities in Oregon with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cornelius | 13,700 | $90,071 | $419,000 | Compare |
| La Grande | 13,059 | $56,409 | $244,200 | Compare |
| Sandy | 12,738 | $102,201 | $450,200 | Compare |
| Oatfield | 12,709 | $103,483 | $523,900 | Compare |
| Coos Bay | 15,867 | $55,292 | $272,100 | Compare |
| The Dalles | 15,973 | $62,830 | $318,400 | Compare |
| Troutdale | 16,000 | $84,339 | $437,700 | Compare |
| Four Corners | 16,168 | $69,232 | $313,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Oregon
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare St. Helens With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about St. Helens
What is the population of St. Helens, OR?
The population of St. Helens, OR is 14,152 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Oregon.
What is the median household income in St. Helens?
The median household income in St. Helens, OR is $82,123 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in St. Helens?
The median home value in St. Helens, OR is $350,900, which is 43% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in St. Helens?
The median monthly rent in St. Helens, OR is $1,269, which is 9% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in St. Helens?
The unemployment rate in St. Helens, OR is 4.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is St. Helens, OR a good place to live?
St. Helens offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 14,152 and a median age of 36.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is St. Helens, OR?
16.0% of residents in St. Helens aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in St. Helens?
Key cost-of-living indicators for St. Helens, OR: median home value is $350,900 (43% above national), median rent is $1,269/month, and median household income is $82,123. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in St. Helens?
The poverty rate in St. Helens, OR is 8.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is St. Helens, OR?
St. Helens's population is 6.9% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 4.1% of residents are foreign-born.