Ontario, Oregon is located in Malheur County, near the Idaho border. The city has an estimated population of 11,009, making it one of the more diverse cities in Oregon. According to the U.S. Census, the city’s ethnic makeup is 54.5 percent white, 41.7 percent Latinx, and 4.4 percent multiracial. The city also has a small ethnic population of 0.7 percent Native American and 0.4 percent African-American, but the majority of its residents identify as non-Latinx white.
The weather in Ontario is quite pleasant. The wettest month is December, while the driest month is July. With 78.5 rainy days a year, this region has one of the least rainy climates in Oregon. The wettest season is spring, with 35% of precipitation falling in this season. Autumn, on the other hand, has a 12% chance of rain. Snowfall is significant in four months: December, March, and April, while only three months receive less than 10 inches.
Before you plan your trip to Ontario, OR, check the nearest airports. If you need to leave for a day trip or take an overnight trip, you can try flying to nearby cities. The closest airports are in Portland and Boise, which are both less than four hours away. If you’re not sure where to stay, check out the various accommodations in the area. You’ll be glad you did. If you’re looking for an inexpensive place to stay near Ontario, Oregon, you should check out these nearby cities.
Founded on June 11, 1883 by developers, Ontario’s first post office was established in 1884. Ontario received its name from James Virtue, who named the city after his native country. In 1884, Richard Welch began operations in the post office. Later, Joseph Morton applied for a post office in 1885. Oscar Scott served as postmaster. In 1886, the town’s first newspaper, the Malheur Gazette, published every day. Despite this short-lived beginning, the town’s population has remained stable. Currently, Ontario has an estimated population of 11,645.
The city’s Japanese population is the largest in Oregon by per capita, but many people on the West Coast were against it. However, Ontario Mayor Elmo Smith encouraged the Japanese to settle in the city. He called the decision “cowardly.” At the time, there were only 134 people in the city, and the county had recruited farm workers to fill positions. By 1950, the Japanese-American population was at its highest per capita in Oregon.
The town has numerous recreational opportunities, including the Four Rivers Cultural Center, which is a popular local spot. Nearby, the Ontario State Recreation Site and the Ontario Municipal Golf Course offer facilities for local golfers. Every August, Ontario hosts the Malheur County Fair. For those who prefer to fly, the Boise Airport provides air transport services. Similarly, Boise State University and Eastern Oregon University offer higher education in the area. The city is a convenient place for travelers and locals.