Medford OR

Medford, Oregon is a lively city nestled in the heart of the Rogue Valley. Known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and small-town charm, Medford has a lot more going on than meets the eye. Here are 10 fun facts about this Southern Oregon gem:

1. Birthplace of Harry & David – The world-famous gourmet gift company, Harry & David, started in Medford in 1910 and remains a huge part of the local economy.
2. Sunshine Surprisingly Often – Medford boasts around 195 sunny days per year, making it one of Oregon’s sunniest cities!
3. Gateway to Crater Lake – Medford is just a short drive from Crater Lake National Park, the deepest lake in the U.S. formed by a collapsed volcano.
4. Home to Southern Oregon’s Largest Mall – The Rogue Valley Mall in Medford is the largest shopping center in Southern Oregon.
5. Wine Lover’s Paradise – With over 80 wineries nearby, Medford is in the heart of one of Oregon's fastest-growing wine regions.
6. Aviation Started Early – Medford’s airport was one of the first in Oregon, starting commercial flights as early as 1926.
7. Largest City in Southern Oregon – With more than 85,000 residents, Medford is the largest city in the southern half of the state.
8. Film-Worthy Beauty – The area’s stunning landscapes have been featured in multiple films, thanks to its rivers, mountains, and forests.
9. Historic Downtown Vibes – Downtown Medford has over 30 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, giving it old-town charm with a modern twist.
10. Rogue River Adventures – Just minutes from the city, the Rogue River is one of the best places in Oregon for whitewater rafting, fishing, and kayaking.

Medford, Oregon is a growing city in the heart of the Rogue Valley with a diverse economy rooted in healthcare, agriculture, education, and trade. The job market here is ideal for those seeking a balance between career growth and quality of life amid natural beauty. Below are some of the most in-demand jobs in Medford.

Top 5 Jobs in Medford, OR

Medford, Oregon, offers a variety of high-performing public and private high schools. These schools focus on academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and preparing students for college and successful careers.

Top Public High Schools in Medford, Oregon

• South Medford High School – Known for strong academic programs, sports, and a broad range of student clubs. The school emphasizes community involvement and leadership development.
• North Medford High School – Offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and career and technical education options. It’s recognized for its high graduation rate and engaged teaching staff.
• – While primarily a middle school, Hedrick offers strong high school transition programs and academic pathways that prepare students for success in local high schools.
• Central Medford High School – A flexible and alternative public high school that supports students who may need a more personalized learning environment. It promotes student growth through tailored academic plans and counseling.
• Rogue Valley Adventist Academy (Public Program Partnerships) – Though primarily private, the school partners with public programs for dual-enrollment options, giving students a hybrid experience with public school benefits.

Top Private High Schools in Medford, Oregon

• St. Mary's School – A private, college-preparatory school offering rigorous academics, AP and honors classes, and a strong focus on leadership and service. It’s one of the top-ranked schools in Southern Oregon.
• Rogue Valley Adventist Academy – A Christian-based high school focused on faith, academics, and student wellness. The school provides an inclusive environment and small class sizes for individualized attention.
• The Valley School of Southern Oregon – A part-time private school that supports home-schooled students with classes in humanities, science, and fine arts. It offers strong teacher engagement and project-based learning.
• Grace Christian Schools – Offers a safe, values-based education with small class sizes and personalized instruction. The curriculum emphasizes academic growth and spiritual development.
• Living Waters Christian School – Focused on faith-centered learning, this private school offers both academic support and character-building programs in a nurturing setting.

Medford, Oregon, offers access to a mix of well-regarded public and private colleges and universities that serve Southern Oregon and the surrounding region. With its beautiful location in the Rogue Valley, the city supports institutions known for strong academic programs in liberal arts, science, healthcare, and career-ready fields.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Medford

Rogue Community College (RCC) – Serving the Medford area for over five decades, RCC provides associate degrees, certificates, and workforce development programs in fields like nursing, business, computer science, and automotive technology.

Southern Oregon University (SOU) – Medford Campus – A branch of SOU located in nearby Ashland, this extension center offers flexible degree completion programs, especially popular among working adults and transfer students in education, business, and social sciences.

Oregon Institute of Technology (Oregon Tech) – Klamath Falls Campus (regional presence) – Though the main campus is located in Klamath Falls, Oregon Tech has a growing presence in Southern Oregon, especially in healthcare and engineering tracks, offering accessibility to Medford-area students through distance learning and regional support services.

South Medford High School Early College Program – In partnership with local colleges like RCC, this program allows high school students to earn college credit early, giving them a head start on post-secondary education at public institutions.

University of Oregon – Medford Outreach – While the University of Oregon is based in Eugene, it extends educational outreach and continuing education programs to Southern Oregon, including professional development courses, teacher preparation, and remote learning options.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Medford

Pacific Bible College – A faith-based private college in Medford offering associate and bachelor’s degrees in Biblical studies, Christian leadership, and liberal arts, ideal for students seeking a Christ-centered education in a small-campus setting.

– Though not located in downtown Medford, OHSU partners with Southern Oregon University to offer its highly rated nursing program nearby in Ashland, providing healthcare-focused private education to students from Medford and the Rogue Valley.

University of Phoenix – Medford Learning Center (closed but formerly active) – Although no longer in operation, the former Medford center served as a hub for working adults pursuing degrees in business, education, and criminal justice through online and on-site hybrid programs.

Corban University – Medford Extension (select online programs) – This Salem-based private Christian university offers online and extended learning opportunities in Southern Oregon, including faith-based degrees in ministry, education, and interdisciplinary studies that reach the Medford population.

Southern Oregon School of Massage – A privately owned vocational school in Medford, it provides professional training in therapeutic massage and bodywork, preparing students for state licensure and careers in wellness and healthcare.

Medford, Oregon, is a small but vibrant city nestled in Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley. While it doesn’t host any major league professional sports teams, Medford takes pride in its strong connection to sports through minor league teams and regional athletic programs that contribute to the area's lively sports culture.

⚾ Baseball – Medford Rogues (WCBL)

• Medford Rogues – The Medford Rogues are a collegiate summer baseball team that plays in the West Coast Baseball League (WCBL). Founded in 2012, the team is known for giving college athletes a chance to play at a high level during the offseason. Games are played at Harry & David Field, a local ballpark known for its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic backdrop. The Rogues are a big part of the local community, promoting youth development and hosting events throughout the year.

🏀 Basketball – Southern Oregon University Raiders (NAIA)

• SOU Raiders Men’s and Women’s Basketball – While not professional, the Southern Oregon University (SOU) Raiders play a vital role in Medford's sports scene. Located just a few miles away in nearby Ashland, these teams compete in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and attract significant local support. Their competitive spirit and skilled rosters offer exciting action during the basketball season.

🏈 Football – Southern Oregon University Raiders (NAIA)

• SOU Raiders Football – The Raiders football team is another staple of the local sports community. In 2014, the program made headlines by winning the NAIA National Championship, building a strong fanbase in Southern Oregon. Though technically collegiate, the Raiders draw widespread attention in the area and offer a high level of play and entertainment.

⚽ Soccer – Rogue Valley Timbers (Youth & Developmental Leagues)

• Rogue Valley Timbers – Though not a professional team, the Rogue Valley Timbers are an important part of local soccer development. They are affiliated with the Portland Timbers of Major League Soccer and provide competitive youth soccer opportunities across varying levels. Through clinics, competitive leagues, and tournaments, the Rogue Valley Timbers help grow the love for soccer in Medford and beyond.

🏒 Hockey – RRRink Ice Arena Programs

• Southern Oregon Spartans (formerly) – Medford once had a junior hockey team, the Southern Oregon Spartans, which competed in various amateur leagues including the Western States Hockey League. Although the team suspended operation in 2021, the sport remains popular locally. The Rogue Valley Ice Arena (RRRink) maintains youth and adult hockey programs, allowing the community to continue enjoying ice sports.

While Medford may not boast major league teams, its vibrant local sports scene, community involvement, and passion for athletics keep the city active and connected through sports year-round.

Medford, Oregon, may be smaller than some bustling cities, but it offers a range of cool places where students can unwind, relax, and enjoy some downtime. Whether you love the outdoors, crave artistic experiences, or just want a chill spot to chat with friends, Medford has something for you.

Roxy Ann Peak & Prescott Park – This spot is perfect for students who love nature and hiking. You can trek to the top of Roxy Ann Peak for stunning views. It's a great spot for a morning hike or an evening picnic with friends.

Bear Creek Park – A local favorite, Bear Creek Park offers walking trails, a skate park, and picnic areas. The park creates a lively atmosphere for playing frisbee, catching up with friends, or just stretching out on the grass and enjoying a good book.

Southern Oregon Historical Society – If history intrigues you, spend some time exploring the rich history of Medford and Rogue Valley at this engaging museum. It's both educational and interesting, offering insight into the area's past.

Fourth Street Mall – This shopping area in downtown Medford is perfect for a leisurely afternoon. With a mix of shops, coffee spots, and eateries, it offers a laid-back vibe where you can grab a coffee, shop for unique finds, or just people-watch.

Camelot Theatre – Located in nearby Talent, Oregon, this theater offers an array of performances, from musicals to plays. It's a wonderful spot for a night out with friends taking in some local culture and entertainment.

Harry & David Country Village – Known for its gourmet foods and chocolates, Harry & David provides a quaint shopping experience. Sample free treats, enjoy a tour, or shop for delicious goodies to share. It's a sweet stop to indulge your taste buds.