Quick Facts
| County | Washington County |
|---|---|
| Region | Portland Metro |
| Population (2020 Census) | 12,694 |
| Population (2010 Census) | 11,869 |
| Change 2010–2020 | +6.95% |
| Land area | 2.34 sq mi |
| Population density | 5,425 people per sq mi |
| Incorporated | 1893 |
| Status | Incorporated city |
| Official city website | ci.cornelius.or.us |
| Coordinates | 45.5186° N, 123.0553° W |
| Nearest major hospital | Tuality Community Hospital, Hillsboro, ~5 mi |
| Public transit | TriMet bus routes (Route 57) |
About Cornelius
Cornelius is an incorporated city in Washington County, in Oregon’s Portland Metro region, with a 2020 Census population of 12,694.
Cornelius is a city in Washington County, Oregon, United States. Located in the Portland metropolitan area. The population was 12,694 at the 2020 census, and was estimated at 15,520 in 2025. The city lies along Tualatin Valley Highway between Forest Grove to the west and Hillsboro to the east. Cornelius was incorporated in April 1893 and is named for founder Thomas R. Cornelius.
Source: adapted from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Moving to Cornelius
⚡ Utilities Checklist
- Electricity: Portland General Electric (confirm by address)
- Natural gas: NW Natural, Avista or Cascade Natural Gas (where available)
- Water & sewer: City of Cornelius
- Trash: Franchised hauler — verify by service address
- Internet: Compare providers at the FCC broadband map
💼 Jobs & Economy
- Notable employers: ["Reser's Fine Foods", 'Washington County', 'Cornelius School District', 'Nursery industry']
- WorkSource Oregon (free)
- iMatchSkills job board
🚗 DMV Steps
- Vehicle registration & Oregon license within 30 days
- New resident guide
- Find a DMV office
🎓 Schools
- Districts vary by address — verify before renting/buying
- Oregon Dept. of Education
- Contact the Washington County district office
🏥 Healthcare & Assistance
Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of Cornelius, Oregon?
Cornelius had 12,694 residents at the 2020 U.S. Census (up from 11,869 in 2010).
What is the cost of living in Cornelius, Oregon?
Cornelius lies in the Portland Metro region, where costs vary mainly by housing. Oregon charges no statewide sales tax.
What utilities do I set up when moving to Cornelius?
Electricity in this area is generally provided by Portland General Electric (confirm by address); natural gas, where available, by NW Natural, Avista or Cascade Natural Gas. Water, sewer, and trash are typically arranged through the City of Cornelius.
How do I find a job near Cornelius?
WorkSource Oregon offers free career coaching, and iMatchSkills is the state's largest job board.
Which schools serve families in Cornelius?
Assignment depends on your exact address. Start with the Oregon Department of Education directory or the Washington County district office.
How soon must I register my car after moving to Cornelius?
Within 30 days of establishing residency — both the vehicle registration and an Oregon driver's license.
Are there food banks or assistance programs near Cornelius?
Yes. Apply for SNAP at the ONE Oregon portal, find a pantry through Oregon Food Bank, or dial 211 for Washington County community resources.