## FAQ
**Q:** Where is Medford located? **A:** Medford is in southern Oregon, in the Rogue Valley, along Interstate 5.
**Q:** Is Medford the county seat? **A:** Yes. Medford is the county seat of Jackson County.
**Q:** What is Medford known for? **A:** It is known as a regional hub for healthcare, shopping, transportation, and access to outdoor recreation.
**Q:** What airport serves Medford? **A:** Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport serves the city and wider region.
**Q:** Is Medford near Ashland? **A:** Yes. Ashland is just south of Medford and is closely connected economically and culturally.
**Q:** What is the climate like in Medford? **A:** Medford has warm to hot, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters.
**Q:** Does Medford get snow? **A:** Snow can occur, but valley snowfall is usually less severe than in nearby mountain areas.
**Q:** Is Medford a good base for visiting Crater Lake? **A:** Yes. Many visitors use Medford as a practical base for regional travel, including Crater Lake trips.
**Q:** What river is near Medford? **A:** The Rogue River is nearby, and Bear Creek runs through the Medford area.
**Q:** What are the biggest safety concerns? **A:** Common concerns include property crime, traffic safety, summer heat, and wildfire smoke.
**Q:** Is Medford expensive? **A:** Costs have risen in recent years, especially housing, though prices vary by neighborhood and market conditions.
**Q:** What school district serves the city? **A:** Medford School District 549C is the main public school district.
**Q:** Are there colleges in Medford? **A:** Rogue Community College serves the city, and Southern Oregon University is nearby in Ashland.
**Q:** What industries are important in Medford? **A:** Healthcare, retail, logistics, government services, agriculture-related business, and tourism-related activity are all important.
**Q:** Is Medford walkable? **A:** Some districts are more walkable than others, especially parts of downtown, but many trips are still car-dependent.
**Q:** Does Medford have public transit? **A:** Yes. RVTD provides regional public transit service in the Rogue Valley.
**Q:** What is downtown Medford like? **A:** Downtown includes civic buildings, theaters, restaurants, events, and a mix of historic and newer commercial activity.
**Q:** Is Medford family-friendly? **A:** Many residents find it family-friendly due to parks, schools, youth sports, and access to nature.
**Q:** What natural hazards affect the city? **A:** Wildfire, smoke, heat, and occasional winter travel impacts are the main regional hazards.
**Q:** Why do people move to Medford? **A:** Common reasons include climate, access to nature, regional services, retirement, and a smaller-city lifestyle.
