According to the Portland State University Population Research Center, the Preliminary Population Estimate as of July 1, 2012 is 12,920 and the Certified Population Estimate as of July 1, 2011 is 12,890.  The Certified Census Figure as of April 1, 2010 is 12,883. The Certified Census figure from 2000 was 10,019. That reflects a growth of about 2,864 people in approximately 11 years.

St. Helens is located in southeastern Columbia County, on the Columbia River, approximately 30 miles northwest of Portland, Oregon. Near the riverfront, the Olde Towne portion of St. Helens features a Nationally Registered Historic District encompassing 10 blocks, which includes residences and civic buildings dating back nearly a century. Originally settled by New England loggers, St. Helens' basalt rock quarry was also a major industry in the early 1900s. Major employers today include forest products, mining, and manufacturing operations.

Historic City Hall Built in 1906 of basalt rock. In use as Columbia County Bank until 1937. Located downtown adjacent to Historic Columbia County Courthouse.

Historic Train Depot  Built in 1923. Revitalized in 2000 as the Chamber of Commerce. Located adjacent to Highway 30 at the railroad.

Historic Columbia County Courthouse Built in 1906 of basalt rock, located  downtown on the Columbia River.	Another view of St. Helens Historic Train Depot
St. Helens Marina on the Columbia River	View from Plaza of Historic City Hall