Hermiston continues to be the fastest growing city in Eastern Oregon, reaching a population of 19,354 in the 2020 census.
According to numbers released this month by the U.S. Census Bureau, Hermiston has grown by 2,609 residents since 2010. This is a faster rate of growth than predicted by the Portland State University population report, which estimated a July 1, 2020 city population of 18,775.
“Hermiston’s growth can be attributed to many things — a can-do spirit, a supportive business community, strong schools, proactive housing development, an investment in infrastructure and a united sense of purpose” said Hermiston Mayor Dave Drotzmann. “This city has always been a welcoming and inclusive community with an eye on the future. We celebrate our diversity and I’m happy to see so many people enjoying success in growing their families, businesses, and lives here.”
Hermiston officially became Eastern Oregon’s largest city in the 2010 census and has nearly doubled in size in the past 30 years. The population in 1990 was 10,366.
Developers have added 360 new housing units in Hermiston since January 2018, including 48 subsidized apartment units for low-income households.
Meanwhile, new industrial and commercial development have diversified the workforce. The addition of data centers, health care facilities, food processors, and other new job creators have aided the city’s growth.
“Although a lot is made of the impact of updated census numbers on things like state and federal funding coming to the community, we’re more excited about the level of private investment that a growing community attracts,” said Mark Morgan, assistant city manager. “We know that the community regularly prioritizes needs for new retail, restaurants, and other businesses; and having these new verified growth figures really help as we make the case to investors in our community.”
The city is anticipating continued growth and is seeking the public’s input in planning for the years ahead. A 2040 Committee was created to create a guiding vision for the city’s future.
“It’s so exciting to see new faces and families coming to Hermiston, and to be part of a city that wants to grow in the best way possible,” said Hermiston City Councilor Roy Barron, who also serves on the 2040 Committee. “When we look back on how much we’ve grown in the last 20 years, it’s hard not to think about what’s in store in the next 20 years. That’s why the 2040 Committee is asking what the community wants to see Hermiston grow into.”
To learn more about the 2040 Committee, fill out a survey, or find the next committee meeting, visit Hermiston2040.com.
