Comparatively quiet Bend, Oregon, hasn't received as much publicity as larger, hipper Portland. But considering the growing popularity of the Northwest -- its pristine beauty, mild climate and free-spirited attitude -- it's just a matter of time before more tourists start turning their attention toward this city of 50,000 residents. If the the city's weather, recreational opportunities and natural resources don't convince tourists to become residents, the city's growing economy is likely to do the trick.

Located approximately 160 miles southeast of Portland, is near the center of Oregon at the base of the Cascade Mountains along their eastern slope. Bend's earliest residents were Native Americans, who thrived here until the early 1800s. These early populations depended upon Bend's streams for fishing and its rich forests for hunting. The population soon began to diversify as fur trappers discovered the region. At that time, settlers called the area "Farewell Bend" to signify its status as a departure point. Many settlers stopped here before moving on to their final destinations. Later, when Bend was officially incorporated as a city in 1904, the U.S. Postmaster decided that Farewell Bend was too long and cumbersome for address purposes, and so the name "Farewell" was dropped.

Tourism began to grow as a local industry when Mount Bachelor Ski Resort opened for business. While the city's economy has grown by leaps and bounds and continues to do so today, tourism remains a key part of the local economy. Retail is another large sector, as are wood products, given the rich natural resources within short distance. Health care and real estate are also large contibutors to the local economy.

If you're considering a move to the Bend area, you'll be greeted with fairly reasonable prices -- especially when compared to Seattle, where newcomers continue to experience sticker shock. The average price for a home in Bend currently stands at approximately $139.551, according to 1998 local economic statistics. If you're looking for some land with that house, you'll pay an average of $205,991 for a single-family residence on a parcel of land. The average price for a single family residence on rural acreage is $205,991. Homes in the Bend area remain on the market anywhere between 90 and 200 days on average.

If you're looking to rent in the Bend area, a two-bedroom, two-bath apartment will cost you approximately 550 per month -- again, a fairly reasonable cost when compared to larger metropolitan centers. Rents for three-bedroom, single-family homes start at about $750.

As most of us continue to bake right now in the middle of August, Bend is enjoying daily average temperatures in the mid-80s and an abundance of cool evenings. Approximately 12 inches of rain fall in this region each year, and the area receives an average of 34 inches of snow annually. Humidity remains relatively low throughout the year. Thanks to this mild climate, Bend is a year-round playground. Your imagination is your only limit when it comes to recreational opportunities here. From hiking, camping, fishing and skiing to golf, rock-climbing and rafting, it's impossible to run out of options in Bend's great outdoors. For great downhill skiing, head to nearby Mount Bachelor. For world-class golf, you'll want to head to one of three local resorts -- Black Butte Ranch, Eagle Crest and Sunriver -- all of them known for their golf courses.

It's well worth your time to explore the urban center of Bend, as well. The city recently completed some $3 million in urban renovations within the limits of its Central Business District. Bend has experienced a metamorphosis since then, coming into its own as a true walking city to be enjoyed by pedestrian sightseers. Landscaping projects, park benches and several new restaurants have helped round out the downtown sector as an enjoyable destination for work and for play. A number of outdoor events take place throughout the year on Bend's newly refurbished streets. Many new businesses have been spurred to move downtown following the recent renovation, and now space is at a premium. Property values subsequently have risen as a result.

The diverse and striking city of Bend no longer resembles the 19th century stop settlers dubbed "Farewell Bend." These days, it's hard to resist this beautiful spot in Central Oregon. Unlike bustling Seattle and Portland, Bend continues to maintain that careful balance between nature and commercialism. While its economy continues to grow and diversify, its surrounding beauty remains just quiet enough to provide respite. At the end of the work day, Bend's stunning surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for play -- no matter what your recreation of choice might be.

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