Beginning roughly 50 years ago, Aloha was slated to be the next big suburban community in the Portland area. The land was inexpensive in the 9 square miles tucked between Beaverton and Hillsboro. Families in the community replaced strawberry farms and filbert orchards with ranch homes on large lots. Since Aloha never organized as a city, taxes are low and there are minimal government entities. There is still many more growth possibilities in Aloha, and government officials in Washington County have been vocal about turning the area into an even better community.
Aloha apartments for rent are perfect for individuals commuting to downtown Portland since it is only a short drive away from the bustling metropolis, high-tech jobs and artistic neighborhoods. Although it might not be governed like a city, the population mimics one. According to Best Places, the population is roughly 49,400 residents.
Up until the middle of the 1900s, a Native American population inhabited the Tualatin Valley for approximately 3,000 to 8,000 years. It is believed that once European settlers came to the area, diseases that the people were not immune to quickly depleted the population. One of the tribes, the Atfalati, only had a few remaining pockets of settlements in the 1840s when settlers started coming in larger quantities and at a quicker pace. Sadly, by 1856, the last remaining natives were relocated to a reserve in Yamhill County.
Early settlers took advantage of land grants to develop properties and build farmland on 320 acres per person. Jacob Wheeler was the first donation land owner in the Aloha area, which was later known as Wheeler Station. By 1908, the first business in Aloha opened its doors. Silas N. Buck and his family came to the area to open up a market to attract more land buyers. The market still stands on 185th Street. Within four years, the community began to grow and the first post office opened up in January 1912.
In 1984, residents tried to incorporate Aloha, but the regional boundary commission ceased the effort, claiming the community wouldn't provide the necessary municipal services for a city.
In Washington County, the thriving economic climate allots for a diverse workforce, but much of it is centered in the tech industry. Intel Corporation is the county's top employer, providing 14,000 jobs and plans to continue expanding. Oregon leads the nation in small business ownership, and the state estimates that more than 80 percent of businesses in the state operate with fewer than 20 employees. Since there are also large manufacturers needing professional services, materials and products, the balance creates a healthy and competitive economy.
Students living in apartments in Aloha are in an ideal location to attend school at one of the many post-secondary institutes in Portland. Portland Community College, Reed College, Pacific Northwest College of Art and Concordia University are a few of the options available.
Living in Aloha is moderately priced considering the scenic community and close proximity to Portland. According to Best Places, the overall cost of living is 8 points higher than the national average, food is 4 points higher and utilities are 6 points lower. Similarly, the average cost of rentals in Aloha is fairly average. According to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median gross rent is $1,007.
One of the most beloved attractions in Aloha is a strange one. Guarding the Harvey Marine in Aloha is a 20-foot-tall man dressed as a 26-foot-tall rabbit. Inspired by the movie "Harvey," the giant bunny welcomes visitors, honking cars and even fan mail regularly.
Residents of Aloha are also just a hop, skip and jump away from Portland, which holds events and festivals year round.
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