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Fossil, OR

View of Fossil, OR
Image credit: Finetooth / CC BY-SA 3.0
Population
456
U.S. Census Population Estimates Program · 2025
Elevation
2,654 ft
Median Home Value
$210,500
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Rent
$754/mo
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
Median Income
$54,167
U.S. Census American Community Survey 5-Year · 2024
General Quality
Overall rating out of 100

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OverallBest places in OregonPopulation rankingHighest population places in OregonNearest larger communityPrineville, Oregon58 miles away · 11,994 residents.

About Fossil

Tucked into the rugged landscape of north-central Oregon, Fossil is a quiet, scenic town with fewer than 500 residents. True to its name, the area is famous for prehistoric discoveries and sits right near the stunning John Day Fossil Beds. Life here moves at an unhurried pace, surrounded by rolling hills, high desert canyons, and miles of open sky.

Fossil City Hall in Fossil, Oregon

As the seat of Wheeler County, the town revolves around its historic 1898 courthouse, which anchors popular local traditions like the summer bluegrass festival and the annual county fair. Daily life has its own unique quirks, such as being able to dig for ancient leaf impressions right behind the high school. With a small local school system and deep ranching heritage, Fossil offers a peaceful, grounded setting where neighbors quickly become friends.

Top Rating Signals

Highest current ratings for this town.

Lower FEMA County Hurricane Risk IndexA+100.0ratingLower Projected Late-Century County-Area Exposure to Sea-Level RiseA+100.0ratingLow PopulationA+100.0rating

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