Bend, Oregon, a beautiful city in central Oregon, is often recognized for its vibrant culture, stunning outdoor scenery, and a unique entrepreneurial spirit. Known as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, Bend attracts both tourists and new residents, fueling a diverse and thriving local economy. While many types of businesses can succeed in Bend, several stand out as exceptionally well-suited to the city’s unique character and booming demographics.
Outdoor Recreation and Adventure Tourism
With its proximity to the Cascade Mountains, Deschutes River, and miles of scenic trails, Bend has become a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Businesses specializing in outdoor recreation, from kayak rentals to mountain biking and guided hiking tours, are highly successful in the area. Companies like REI and local adventure outfitters have seen steady growth as they cater to both residents and tourists eager to explore Bend’s natural playground. Local entrepreneurs have also successfully created gear shops, rock climbing gyms, and bike repair shops, capitalizing on the active, nature-loving community that defines Bend.
Craft Beer Breweries and Distilleries
Bend’s craft beer scene has reached near-iconic status, with more breweries per capita than almost any other U.S. city. Known as “Beer Town USA,” Bend is home to over 20 breweries, including Deschutes Brewery, 10 Barrel Brewing, and Crux Fermentation Project. These breweries are not only popular with locals but also with visitors who come for brewery tours and craft beer events. The unique culture around beer and community engagement has fostered the success of this industry. Craft spirits are also growing in popularity, with small-batch distilleries like Oregon Spirit Distillers carving a niche.
Hospitality and Tourism
Bend’s tourism industry is booming, with visitors flocking to the city for both winter and summer activities. This demand has created a strong hospitality sector, including hotels, vacation rentals, and RV parks. Boutique hotels and unique lodging options have particularly thrived, catering to travelers looking for a more personalized experience. Companies offering guided tours, retreats, and wellness experiences—such as hot spring tours, yoga retreats, and spa services—are also thriving, as they appeal to the increasing number of tourists seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in a beautiful setting.
Health and Wellness Businesses
With a focus on active, healthy lifestyles, Bend has seen a surge in health and wellness businesses. Yoga studios, fitness centers, and wellness retreats are highly successful in this fitness-oriented community. Holistic health services, including massage therapy, acupuncture, and naturopathic medicine, have also become popular. The growing population of active retirees moving to Bend also fuels demand for high-quality health services, from general practitioners to specialists in sports medicine.
Real Estate and Construction
Bend’s rapid growth has led to an increased demand for housing and commercial spaces, making real estate and construction another booming sector. New developments, home construction, and property management services are in high demand. Real estate agencies, contractors, and construction companies are finding strong opportunities to grow as people flock to the region for its lifestyle appeal and quality of life. This sector shows no signs of slowing, as Bend remains a desirable location for new residents and investors.
Tech Startups and Remote Workspaces
As remote work becomes more common, many professionals are moving to Bend for its quality of life while maintaining tech or corporate jobs elsewhere. This trend has sparked the growth of coworking spaces and tech startups, creating a small but dynamic tech ecosystem. Businesses supporting remote work and creative services—such as coworking spaces, digital marketing, and IT consulting—have gained traction, catering to the influx of remote workers and freelancers.
Final Thoughts
Bend’s economic success is largely fueled by businesses that align with the city’s lifestyle, community values, and natural resources. From outdoor adventure companies to breweries, wellness centers to real estate firms, Bend offers plenty of opportunities for entrepreneurs who understand its unique appeal. As the city continues to grow, so does the potential for these industries to expand and thrive, making Bend an attractive spot for those looking to start a new venture in a beautiful, booming community.