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Oregon Population Overview (2026 Projection)
Oregon is a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the Western United States. It is bordered by Washington to the north, Idaho to the east, Nevada and California to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Oregon is known for its diverse geography, ranging from coastal areas to mountains and high desert.
Oregon ranks as the 27th most populous state in the United States and is the 9th-largest state by land area, covering 95,997 square miles (248,849 sq. km). With an average population density of about 40 people per square mile, Oregon is the 39th most densely populated state in the country.
According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Oregon had a population of 4,237,256 (4.2 million). As of July 1, 2024, the estimated population is 4,272,371, or approximately 4.3 million, indicating slow but steady growth.
👉 Projected Population of Oregon (2026): ~4.33 million
Oregon Population Growth (2010–2020)
Oregon experienced a population growth rate of 10.6% between 2010 and 2020, adding approximately 406,182 residents during the decade. This growth was driven largely by domestic migration and urban expansion, particularly in the Portland metropolitan area and the Willamette Valley.
The median age in Oregon is 39.1 years, indicating a slightly older population compared to the national average. Gender distribution in the state remains nearly balanced, with 50.5% females and 49.5% males currently residing in Oregon.
Oregon Census Snapshot (2020)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 4,237,256 (4.2 million) |
| Percentage Change since 2010 | 10.6% |
| Population Rank | 27th |
| Total Land Area | 95,997 sq mi (248,849 km²) |
| Area Rank | 9th |
| Population Density | 39.9 per sq mi (15.0 per km²) |
| Capital City | Salem |
| Largest City | Portland |
Oregon Historical Population
Oregon’s population has increased dramatically since the mid-19th century. In 1900, the state had a population of just over 413,000, which grew to 4.2 million by 2020—an increase of nearly 3.8 million people. Rapid growth occurred during periods of westward expansion, post-World War II development, and renewed migration into the Pacific Northwest in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
The table below presents Oregon’s decennial population totals and percentage change from 1850 to 2020, highlighting sustained long-term growth with particularly strong increases during the post-war decades.
Oregon Population by Decade
| Year | Population | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1850 | 12,093 | — |
| 1860 | 52,465 | 333.80% |
| 1870 | 90,923 | 73.30% |
| 1880 | 174,768 | 92.20% |
| 1890 | 317,704 | 81.80% |
| 1900 | 413,536 | 30.20% |
| 1910 | 672,765 | 62.70% |
| 1920 | 783,389 | 16.40% |
| 1930 | 953,786 | 21.80% |
| 1940 | 1,089,684 | 14.20% |
| 1950 | 1,521,341 | 39.60% |
| 1960 | 1,768,687 | 16.30% |
| 1970 | 2,091,385 | 18.20% |
| 1980 | 2,633,105 | 25.90% |
| 1990 | 2,842,321 | 7.90% |
| 2000 | 3,421,399 | 20.40% |
| 2010 | 3,831,074 | 12.00% |
| 2020 | 4,237,256 | 10.60% |
Oregon Demographics (Summary)
Religion and Affiliations
Christianity is the majority religion in Oregon, with approximately 61% of the population identifying as Christian. Among Christians, Protestants account for about 43%, followed by Roman Catholics at 12% and Mormons at 4%. The religiously unaffiliated population is notably large, with around 31% of residents reporting no religious affiliation. Other faiths—including Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism—collectively make up about 7% of Oregon’s population.
For more details, read: Religion in Oregon.
Race and Ethnicity
According to the 2020 U.S. Census, White (non-Hispanic) residents form the largest racial or ethnic group in Oregon, comprising 71.65% of the total population. The Hispanic or Latino population is the second-largest group at 13.89%, followed by individuals identifying with two or more races (6.11%). The Asian population accounts for 4.53%, while Black or African American residents represent 1.86% of Oregon’s population.
Ancestry in Oregon
Based on census studies and population estimates, the five largest ancestry groups in Oregon are German, English, Irish, American, and Italian, reflecting both early European settlement and later migration trends.
For more details, read: Race and Ethnicity in Oregon.
Top Cities and Counties in Oregon
As of 2026, Oregon is divided into 36 counties. Multnomah County is the most populous county in the state, with a population of approximately 0.8 million, while Harney County is the largest by land area, covering 7,575 square miles, making it one of the most sparsely populated counties in the United States.
Portland is the largest city in Oregon, with a population of 656,751. Other major cities in the state include Salem (175,891), Eugene (173,236), Hillsboro (110,985), and Gresham (110,031), reflecting Oregon’s concentration of population in urban and suburban areas of the Willamette Valley.
For more details, read: Cities and Counties in Oregon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Oregon Demographics
1. What is the current population of Oregon?
According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Oregon’s population was 4,237,256. The 2024 estimate places the population at approximately 4.3 million, with continued moderate growth expected.
2. Is Oregon’s population growing or declining?
Oregon’s population has been growing steadily. Between 2010 and 2020, the state recorded a 10.6% growth rate, adding over 406,000 residents, largely due to domestic migration.
3. What is the racial and ethnic composition of Oregon?
Oregon’s population is primarily White (non-Hispanic) at 71.65%. Other major groups include Hispanic or Latino (13.89%), Two or more races (6.11%), Asian (4.53%), and Black or African American (1.86%).
4. What is the largest city in Oregon?
Portland is the largest city in Oregon, with a population of 656,751, and serves as the state’s main economic and cultural hub.
5. How many counties are there in Oregon?
Oregon is divided into 36 counties. Multnomah County is the most populous, while Harney County is the largest by land area.
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