Located near Portland in rural Washington County, Banks offers its citizens and visitors the best of both worlds. Agriculture and the timber industry are very important to the economy of the Banks area. There are many farms, dairies and livestock operations located here. Private and public forest land provides employment for timber workers. Although the area is primarily agricultural and forest land, many citizens of Banks are not involved in agriculture or timber work.
Many residents commute to jobs in the Portland metropolitan area.
The citizens of Banks are a diverse group of people. Farmers, loggers, merchants, retirees and professionals from all walks of life can be found here. In spite of recent growth and a rise in property values, Banks still keeps its friendly small town atmosphere. Nestled in the scenic foothills of Oregon's coast mountain range, the Banks area offers a wide variety of cultural and recreational opportunities. Three golf courses and several parks are nearby.