Bend, Oregon has become one of the most desirable places to live in the Pacific Northwest, and for good reason. With its blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and growing local culture, the city continues to attract a wide range of buyers, from first-time homeowners to seasoned investors. But for those new to the area, one of the most common questions is: should I buy on the East Side or the West Side of Bend?
The answer depends on more than just geography. Locally, the dividing line between East and West Bend is generally defined by the U.S. Highway 97 and the Deschutes River, which both run north–south through the city. West of these landmarks, you'll find historic neighborhoods, riverfront trails, and a strong cultural core. To the east, you'll discover a high-desert setting, newer homes, and a more suburban, convenience-driven lifestyle.
This guide will walk you through the key differences between the two sides, from housing styles and pricing to daily living, schools, parks, and upcoming development, so you can decide which part of Bend best fits your lifestyle.
How Locals Define East vs. West Bend
To understand the lifestyle differences across Bend, it helps to start with how locals define the city’s two sides. The most commonly accepted boundary is U.S. Highway 97, which runs parallel to the Deschutes River through the heart of Bend. Everything east of Highway 97 is considered East Bend, while everything west of the river and highway is West Bend.
West Bend includes some of the city’s most iconic and established neighborhoods like Old Bend, River West, Awbrey Butte, Century West, and Summit West. This side is known for its walkable downtown, riverfront parks, pine-covered hills, and proximity to the Deschutes National Forest.
East Bend, by contrast, includes Northeast and Southeast Bend: areas that are newer, more open, and suburban in feel. It’s home to big-box shopping, medical centers, newer subdivisions, and a growing population of young families and transplants seeking affordability.
While both sides offer strong livability, the feel of each is noticeably different. West Bend leans more scenic and lifestyle-driven, while East Bend caters to space, convenience, and modern infrastructure.
Lifestyle & Vibe
Bend’s East and West sides each offer a distinct lifestyle, shaped by both geography and community character. Understanding the feel of each can help buyers find a better fit for their day-to-day living.
East Bend is known for its younger, family-friendly atmosphere. Many residents are first-time buyers, young professionals, or families drawn to the area’s relative affordability and newer housing stock. The vibe is more suburban, with quiet streets, cul-de-sacs, and planned developments. Major retail hubs like Costco, Target, and Whole Foods serve as daily conveniences, along with access to St. Charles Medical Center, the region’s primary healthcare facility. While not as walkable as the Westside, East Bend offers easy access to trailheads and open desert terrain, making it ideal for those who want space and value convenience.
West Bend, on the other hand, offers a more established and lifestyle-driven environment. It’s where you’ll find Bend’s cultural heart: downtown, the Old Mill District, and popular riverfront parks like Drake Park and Bend Whitewater Park. The demographic here skews slightly older, including longtime residents, retirees, and professionals who’ve relocated for quality of life. The area buzzes with breweries, boutiques, art galleries, and regular community events, all within walkable, tree-lined neighborhoods. There's more urban energy on the Westside, although still laid-back and deeply connected to nature.
Real Estate Snapshot
The real estate landscape in Bend reflects the broader lifestyle split between East and West. While both sides offer strong long-term value, the type of home, pricing, and pace of the market vary considerably.
East Bend tends to be more accessible in price, with a median home price around $600,000. Much of the housing here is newer construction, often built within the last 10–15 years, with modern finishes and efficient layouts. These homes typically sit on larger lots, giving buyers more outdoor space and privacy. The area is experiencing steady growth, which means more options for buyers, but also slightly longer days on market compared to the city’s west side. It’s a strong match for those prioritizing square footage, yard space, and value.
West Bend commands a higher price point, with median prices ranging from $900,000 to $1.3 million, depending on the neighborhood. Here, you’ll find a mix of preserved historic homes near downtown and newer cottage-style builds in communities like Discovery West. While lot sizes tend to be smaller, the charm and location drive significant demand. Homes on the Westside often move faster and at or above asking price, reflecting the area's enduring popularity and premium appeal.
Schools, Parks & Services
Access to quality education, healthcare, and outdoor space is strong across both sides of Bend, but the experience differs depending on location.
Schools are well-rated citywide. East Bend is served by top-performing institutions like Mountain View High School and Caldera High School, both offering strong academics and extracurriculars. On the Westside, residents attend Summit High School or Bend Senior High, along with standout elementary and middle schools like Highland School at Kenwood and the Westside Village Magnet School. While both regions provide excellent public education, West Bend offers slightly more variety and access to magnet programs, giving families additional options.
In terms of healthcare, both sides benefit from proximity to St. Charles Medical Center, the region’s leading hospital. Located just off NE Neff Road, it’s especially convenient for Eastside residents. The Eastside also hosts numerous primary care clinics, urgent care centers, and outpatient facilities, making it easier for families and retirees to access day-to-day care without crossing town.
Parks and outdoor access are central to Bend’s lifestyle, and each side delivers in its own way. West Bend features iconic outdoor spaces like Drake Park, Bend Whitewater Park, and the Deschutes River Trail, offering scenic spots for walking, biking, and kayaking right from the neighborhood. East Bend is also home to community parks like Ponderosa Park and Juniper Park, and provides quick access to high-desert trail systems and open land ideal for hiking, biking, and exploration.
Walkability, Commute & Daily Living
East Bend is largely car-dependent, with neighborhoods designed around convenience and access to major roads. Retail and service hubs like the Costco corridor and St. Charles Medical Center are spread out, requiring short drives between errands. The road infrastructure is newer and well-maintained, making it easy to navigate by car. For those who prefer a quieter, residential feel with access to big-box shopping and modern conveniences, East Bend offers a streamlined, suburban lifestyle.
West Bend, in contrast, is more walkable and bike-friendly, especially in and around downtown, the Old Mill District, and River West. Residents can walk to coffee shops, breweries, galleries, and live events, creating a more urban experience. Bike paths and pedestrian-friendly routes connect parks, neighborhoods, and riverfront trails, allowing for a lifestyle that’s less reliant on driving. Community events, farmers markets, and river festivals are regular features of Westside living.
In short, daily life on the Eastside is built around space and driving, while Westside living favors accessibility, culture, and connection, ideal for those who want everything within reach.
What’s Coming Next: Future Development
East Bend is experiencing significant expansion and infrastructure investment. The Stevens Road Tract Concept Plan is adding over 260 acres of new housing, parks, and mixed-use space, extending Bend’s urban growth boundary. Transportation upgrades, including roundabouts and corridor enhancements, are designed to improve safety and flow through high-traffic areas like Butler Market Road and 27th Street. These improvements point toward a more connected, livable Eastside, with increasing home inventory and long-term growth potential for buyers seeking new development.
West Bend is focused on enhancing recreation, connectivity, and quality of life. Ongoing projects like the Deschutes River Trail completion, Discovery West park additions, and West Bend Trails expansion are all designed to improve access to nature and enrich community engagement. A new roundabout at Skyline Ranch and Skyliners Road will also support smoother travel in growing residential pockets.
In short, East Bend is expanding outward, adding homes and updating key corridors, while West Bend is refining its core, with upgraded parks and enhanced public space. For buyers, both areas signal long-term investment in livability, just with different focuses.
Which Side Is Right for You?
First-time buyers and young families often gravitate toward East Bend. With more affordable pricing, larger lots, and newer construction, it’s ideal for those looking to maximize space and value. The proximity to schools, parks, and healthcare makes it especially practical for families starting out.
Retirees and lifestyle-focused buyers tend to prefer West Bend. The walkability, river access, and vibrant cultural scene make it perfect for those who value convenience, recreation, and community events. While prices are higher, many buyers see the investment as worth it for the daily experience and resale potential.
Investors and long-term planners can find opportunity on either side. East Bend offers growth potential with upcoming developments and expanding infrastructure, while West Bend’s established demand and scarcity often lead to stronger price appreciation and premium rental income.
Work With Team Fitch Real Estate
East and West Bend each offer a unique take on what it means to live in one of Oregon’s most sought-after cities. The Eastside delivers affordability, newer homes, and everyday convenience, ideal for growing families and buyers looking for space and value. The Westside offers walkability, riverfront charm, and cultural energy, perfect for those who prioritize lifestyle, community, and location.
Both sides provide access to great schools, healthcare, parks, and outdoor adventure. The choice isn’t about better or worse, it’s about what matters most to you.
If you’re ready to find the part of Bend that fits your lifestyle best, contact Nicole Fitch today. Whether you're buying your first home or your forever home, she can guide you to the right side of town.
