7 Towns in Oregon That Are Ideal for Seniors
The state of Oregon sits in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is a popular retirement destination, known for its abundance of green spaces, beachfronts, welcoming communities, and thriving cultural and arts scene. From tranquil coastal towns to quaint and cozy destinations, Oregon offers a slower-paced and peaceful life ideal for seniors. The state is also tax-friendly for retirement living, with more affordable housing options in the smaller towns compared to big cities, as well as plenty of healthcare options, perfectly suitable for the golden years.
Roseburg
Roseburg is one of the best small towns in the Pacific Northwest for retirees, hidden amongst Oregon’s Coast Range on the west and the Cascade Range to the east. A stroll along the Highway of Waterfalls offers views of the cascading falls, which retirees could enjoy every day if they choose to live in the area.
Aside from its outdoor beauty, the town boasts an attractive community, with arts and entertainment including the Umpqua Valley Arts, as well as plenty to do with the grandkids, such as a visit to the Douglas County Museum of Natural and Cultural History. The Umpqua Valley Farmers Market is a great spot to delve into the local culture, featuring a variety of small businesses, handcrafted goods, and freshly harvested fruits and veggies.
There are several retirement communities in the area, including Holiday Garden Valley, The Landing, and Linus Oakes Village. The average cost of living in Roseburg is $1,983 per person each month.
Brookings
Brookings sits on the Wild Rivers Coast, yet it offers some of the warmer temperatures on the coast. Retirees may enjoy the scenery along the 12-mile Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, featuring a dramatic coastline of rugged rock formations, while the picturesque Azalea Park is a great spot to bring the grandkids. The Pacific Ocean Harvesters Seafood Market is the ideal location to delve into the community's local fishing and indulge in some fresh seafood, while the Misty Mountain Brewing and Tap Haus is the best spot for retirees looking to enjoy local brews.
The Activities Center offers plenty of social activities for seniors, such as bridge, dancing, and swimming lessons. There are a number of retirement communities, such as the Sea View Senior Living Community, Azalea Gardens Senior Living, and Monarch Gardens Memory Care Community, and the cost of living sits around $2,666 per month.
Coos Bay
Coos Bay is one of the most charming towns in Oregon, offering a diverse blend of natural beauty and historic charm and neighboring North Bend and Charleston. Retirees may enjoy adventuring through the sand-filled Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area or visiting the historic Cape Arago Lighthouse by the Pacific Ocean. Scenic drives along Cape Arago Highway, Sunset Bay, and Shore Acres also offer unforgettable picturesque views. The Mill Casino is a great spot for retirees to make new friends and place a few bets, while local events such as the Coastal Farmers Market offer the chance to indulge in the local community.
Seniors may choose from retirement communities such as Evergreen Court and Inland Point Retirement Community, with the town's cost of living sitting around $3,500 each month.
Florence
The town of Florence is just an hour from Coos Bay and sits along the serene Siuslaw River, where it meets the Pacific Ocean. The Historic Old Town is one of the best destinations for seniors to spend afternoons or weekends, featuring a picturesque boardwalk, while the Rhody Express offers quick rides around town. The Heceta Head Lighthouse sits on the Oregon Coast and is one of the most photographed in the area, as are the many beaches, such as Heceta Beach. Plus, there are several annual events that bring the community together, including Winter Whale Watch Week, the Oregon Coast Tour, and Saturday Bird Walks.
Seniors may enjoy communities such as Sherwood Senior Living, Spruce Point, and Enchanted Gardens. The town's cost of living averages $2,962 monthly.
Dallas
Rolling hills and farmland surround Dallas, making it the ideal destination for those in search of a tranquil, laid-back life. Aside from its gorgeous grasslands, the town boasts a historic downtown, home to buildings such as the Polk County Courthouse and City Hall. There are also plenty of vineyards and wineries, such as Benedetto Vineyards and Illahe Vineyards and Winery.
There are several parks for afternoon strolls and visits with the grandkids, including the 35-acre Delbert Hunter Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which features an arboretum. The Polk County Historical Society and the Polk County Museum offer retirees the opportunity to delve into the town's history as well.
Retirees might enjoy retirement communities like the Dallas Retirement Village or Jefferson Lodge, with the average cost of living sitting at $4,000 monthly.
Ashland
Ashland comes alive in summer, but it features year-round activities for seniors to enjoy, such as the Festival of Light and golfing at Eagle Point Golf Course. It is also the gateway to one of the top five wine countries in the world, Rogue Valley Wine Country, where retirees can revel in the beauty of the rolling hills and locally made wines. Ashland's trail system is a great place to partake in a leisurely afternoon stroll, while several spas, such as Waterstone Spa, offer rejuvenation and relaxation. The area also has a distinct arts and cultural scene, home to spots like the Oregon Cabaret Theatre, the Schneider Museum, and the Camelot Theatre.
Healthcare facilities that cater to seniors include the Ashland Senior Center and Maple Ridge Senior Living, with an average monthly cost of living at $3,105.
Hood River
The Hood River-White Salmon Interstate Bridge
Hood River sits in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge and is just an hour from the big city of Portland, meaning retirees enjoy the laidback joys of the small town with the excitement of the city just a short ride away. The Downtown Historic Shopping District features historic buildings and local boutiques, such as Spruce Gifts and Provisions, Laurel Gallery, and Red Thread Co.
There are plenty of things to do in Hood River, including a scenic drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway, a visit to the rushing Multnomah Falls, or a day at the Farmers Market, which features plenty of local vendors and small businesses.
Healthcare facilities for seniors include Providence Down Manor, Hawks Ridge, and Brookside Manor, with the average cost of living sitting around $3,066 each month.
Retire to Oregon!
Oregon's picturesque environment, moderate climate, outdoor recreation areas, cultural scene, and tax-friendly benefits all make it an appealing destination for seniors who are looking to retire. Many of the charmed small towns are also near the bustling big cities, such as Portland, meaning the excitement of city life is just a short distance away.
