Commission
on Children & Families
County Profile
Location & Demographics
Tillamook County is a rural community on the north-central Oregon coast. The
Pacific Ocean forms its western boundary, Lincoln County shares its southern
border, Yamhill and Washington counties constitute its eastern neighbors and
Clatsop County lies to the north. Tillamook County's 75 miles of coastline
varies from sandy beaches to rugged headlands, while four bays and nine rivers
add further variety. The area's climate is West Coast marine, characterized by
mild summers and wet winters. The moderating presence of the Pacific keeps
temperatures within a relatively narrow range. Typical summer months see
temperatures in the low 60s, while in January they seldom fall below freezing at
lower elevations. Though 90 inches of rainfall is the norm, precipitation can
often exceed 100 inches annually resulting in major flooding in river valleys
and other low-lying areas.
With a year-round population of 24,927, Tillamook County ranks 22nd among the state's 36 counties in population size and accounts for less than 1% of the state's total population. Tillamook, with 4675 residents, is the largest community and county seat. Communities to the north include Rockaway Beach (1366); Bay City (1145); Garibaldi (881); Manzanita (618); Wheeler (389) and; Nehalem (212). Central county communities, along with Tillamook are Netarts (765) and Oceanside (335); and south are Pacific City (1056); Cloverdale (249); Hebo (237) and Beaver (145). More than half of Tillamook County residents reside in unincorporated areas of the county. While precise statistics aren't available, part-time residents and summer visitors cause the county population to nearly double during summer months. Because of its close proximity to the Portland metropolitan area and its attractive rural character, it is projected that Tillamook County will experience increased growth of additional residents in the next five to seven years.
Population growth between 2000 and 2008 was 2.7%. Anecdotal data suggests that some younger families are relocating to other areas where prospects for finding family wage job are better. Roughly one quarter of the citizens in Tillamook County are under the age of 18 while another one quarter are age 65 and over. Coastal communities are becoming increasingly popular for retirees.
According the most recent estimates, Tillamook County's residents are mostly Caucasian (95%). Minority groups comprise the remainder of 5% of Tillamook County's population. The fastest growing ethnic group in the county are those of Hispanic decent. Population estimates put Hispanics at 2.1 % of the total population, however there is little confidence that these figures are accurate. The 2000 Census results are eagerly awaited as most county social service providers believe that the actual percentage is between 5 and 7%.
The Environment
The county is comprised of 1125 square miles, a large portion of which is
in state owned forestland. Abundant natural resources were what first drew
settlers here, and they continue to play a vast role in providing a high
quality of life; the natural environment is perhaps the most significant
factor shaping life in Tillamook County. A 1998 survey of 864 households
(conducted by the Tillamook County Futures' Council) found that 87% of respondents
believe that "to sustain the most important qualities of life in Tillamook
County, we must protect the natural features of the area".
In spite of its long coastline, Tillamook is home to a relatively modest fishery; the absence of a deep-water port has limited the potential for land-based processing plants.
The desire to protect the natural environment often clashes with agricultural and other business interests.