Overview of Milwaukie

Milwaukie, Oregon, is located within miles of downtown Portland, and offers the best of both worlds. The small town vibe is home to many regional activities, engaging residents in organized events and community festivals. Located in Clackamas County, Milwaukie consists of seven official neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality.

The city of Milwaukie boasts a sense of pride, committing to the preservation of its history and the future progress of the city. The culturally and economically diverse community is easily walkable and hosts a variety of open green spaces for residents to enjoy. Milwaukie Community Gardens, Open Grounds Community Garden and Campbell Community Garden enhance residents' connection with nature, a resource that is in abundance in Milwaukie.

Milwaukie apartments for rent are great for working professionals who need to get downtown for employment but seek a more laidback lifestyle, families and retirees. According to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, the population has remained fairly steady over the past two decades, but inclined slightly. Today, roughly 20,500 people call Milwaukie home.

Living in Milwaukie, OR

Lot Whitcomb was one of the first settlers who arrived in the area in 1848. Whitcomb left Illinois in 1847 and built a sawmill in hopes it would become a source of lumber for the California Gold Rush. Whitcomb named the area after Milwaukee, Wisconsin. By the fall of 1850, the community had prospered with the construction of two hotels, a sheet iron and copper plate works, a shoe store, saloons, a school, church and several general stores.

By November 1869, the railroad reached Milwaukie, attracting even more people to the area, and in 1893, the first electric railroad line reached the community. As the area continued to grow, settlers petitioned to incorporate Milwaukie in 1901. Three years later, Milwaukie was incorporated and officially became a city.

Milwaukie Work and Study

Clackamas County is home to the 2,000 acre Clackamas Industrial Area, a large market location for manufacturing, distribution and warehousing companies. Many residents of Milwaukie find jobs at the center in sectors such as metal fabrication and industrial support services. Some of the major employers include US Reddaway, Clean-Pak International, Tree of Life/Gourmet Foods Northwest, Consolidated Metco Inc. and Ingram Entertainment.

Students living in Milwaukie apartments have several options for post-secondary education nearby. Reed College, Pacific Northwest College of Art, Portland Community College, Marylhurst University and Clackamas Community College are just a few of the schools. Pacific Northwest College of Art has been open for more than a century offering 15 undergraduate and graduate programs to 600 students annually.

Rentals in Milwaukie, OR and Cost of Living

Living in Milwaukie 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 8 points lower. Similarly, the average cost of rentals in Milwaukie is fairly average. According to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, the monthly median gross rent is $792. 

Milwaukie Attractions and Special Events

Community events in Milwaukie are ideal for family friendly evenings or a night out on the town with friends. The Milwaukie Daze Festival is one of the most popular events, which takes place each year since 1972. The time-honored tradition has been valued by community members and visitors, although it has changed names over the years. In the past, the event has been called "Riverfest" and "Centennial Days," but it has always had the same unique character. Featuring fireworks, live music, carnival rides, a parade, games and a beer garden, there is something for everyone at the festival.

To find your next rental apartment or house in Milwaukie, take a look at our listings on Rent.com®.