Community

Bend covers 32 square miles, is the largest city in Central Oregon, and is the county seat of Deschutes County. Once known as Farewell Bend, this city began as a modest lumber settlement. Today, more than 72,000 people call Bend their home.

People relocate to Bend for many reasons, the obvious of which include its extensive recreation, good schools, dry and sunny climate, and small-town atmosphere while still offering the best of a large city. For example, where else can you go skiing or golfing in the morning, and after a short drive, arrive at a downtown upscale restaurant, and follow it up by shopping and a walk through Drake Park -- all within walking distance of a theatrical event at the Tower Theater? And all of this when you can park for free?

Bend is home to the Oregon State University Cascades Campus and Central Oregon Community College. Plus, these campuses host many extension programs like the Concordia University MBA or the Linfield College Masters of Education programs. The Bend-LaPine school district serves over 15,000 students kindergarten through 12th grade..

For those who travel for business or simply for pleasure, the Redmond airport is a short 15-minute drive from Bend and offers direct flights to Seattle, San Francisco, LAX, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and more.

Bend has a rich theater, art, and live music community. If you love to volunteer, there are many opportunities for sharing and caring here in Central Oregon.