9 Best Places To Retire In Oregon
Seniors dreaming of retiring to the Pacific Northwest will love the stunning options that Oregon brings to the table. From relaxing mountain retreats to cottages on the coast, and with homes not far from major cities, retirees can truly have their pick. Oregon shares its borders with Washington, Nevada, Idaho, and California, and is home to cities such as Eugene, Salem, and Portland. The expansive beauty that is the Pacific Ocean runs along the west side of the state, and further inland, seniors can live amongst the Cascade Range. There's absolutely no shortage of wonderful places to settle down and live out your golden years. And so, without further ado, here are the nine best places to retire in Oregon.
Mount Angel
Mount Angel is truly a unique town, in that it showcases German heritage and culture in America. Just past Silverton and a half hour from Salem, Mount Angel's streets are lined with European-esque buildings, art, and plenty of food options. A giant glockenspiel downtown goes off four times daily. Plus, homes in Mt. Angel hover right around the Oregon state average, at $550,000. The closest 24/7 medical facility is less than 10 minutes away in Silverton, but the town itself has a wellness clinic, dental clinic, and chiropractor, as well as home health and a general practice. Retirees can spend their days exploring the Mt. Angel Abbey's museum, featuring a monastery, seminary, library, and brewery. The town's public library offers not only books, but writer's workshops, book clubs, crafting sessions, and computer classes. Evergreen Golf Course is just outside the town; other outdoor activities include walking alongside and fishing on the Pudding River. Seniors can dine out at popular hotspots like Mt. Angel Sausage Company and shop for essentials at the Mt. Angel Market and Deli, as well as plenty of European-style markets and shops selling meat, honey, and more.
Baker City
Just off Interstate 84 and near the Idaho border is the town of Baker City, known as the base camp of Eastern Oregon. It features over 100 historic buildings, such as the Geiser Grand Hotel, and the median price for homes here is $372,500. The main hospital in town is Saint Alphonsus Medical Center, and the Baker County Community Center runs senior programming, including meals, exercise, and games. Seniors who wish to embrace their creative side can spend their time at the Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, and history buffs can enjoy the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. Spending time outdoors is easy with the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest a short drive away, as well as Philips Lake, and Geiser Pollman Park right in town along the Powder River. The Oregon Trail Restaurant and The Cabyn Cocktail Bar are two must-eat-ats in town, and groceries are a snap with Safeway, Dollar Tree, Grocery Outlet, and Albertsons, as well as the Cheese Fairy for some freshly made dairy products. NEOTransit provides bus service throughout town, as well as trips to nearby La Grande and rural destinations.
The Dalles
Located on the Columbia River, which marks the border between Oregon and Washington, the Dalles offers retirees laid-back living while still having access to big-name amenities. One of the gateways to the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area, the Dalles provides seniors with dozens of recreational opportunities, along with a median home price of $450,000. Adventist Health Columbia Gorge is the major hospital in The Dalles, and the Mid-Columbia Senior Center is home to a thrift store and also offers medical assistance, games, and day trips. Retirees can walk the paths and buildings of the Fort Dalles Museum and Anderson Homestead or attend events at the public library. The Aquatic Center is an outdoor pool located in Thompson Park, perfect for hot days, or residents can walk the Riverfront Trail along the Columbia River. Sorosis Park is another fantastic option, with a disc golf course, plenty of trails, and on-site washrooms. Bargeway Pub is right by the river with excellent views and plenty of patio seating, or for retirees craving something different, Rio Grande Taqueria cooks up delicious Mexican dishes. The town has a Safeway, Fred Meyer, Grocery Outlet, and Rite Aid for all major shopping needs, and Gorge Transit can get you there in a snap with a dedicated shopping bus, rural shuttle, and dial-a-ride services.
Enterprise
Right by the Wallowa River and situated in Wallowa Valley is the town of Enterprise, known for its current and past engagement with agriculture, mining, and timber. With views of the stunning Wallowa Mountains, Enterprise is a sleepy escape with a median home price of $427,000. Wallowa Memorial Hospital serves the community as a 24/7 facility, and the town is also home to Wallowa Valley Senior Living for retirees who want the added support. The complex specializes in memory care and assisted living and is next to the hospital. Seniors can browse the Enterprise Library, or attend a concert at OK Theater, established in 1918. Outdoor enthusiasts can walk the trails in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest or spend the day on the water at Wallowa Lake in the nearby village of Joseph. Terminal Gravity Brewery and Pub and Hurricane Coffee Co. are both perfect for meeting with friends and relatives, depending on the vibe you're searching for. Safeway and Dollar Stretcher provide seniors with a comfortable place to pick up their weekly shopping. NEOTransit operates a dial-a-ride service, as well as routes to La Grande, and shuttles to and from Joseph and Wallowa Lake.
Cottage Grove
The picturesque town of Cottage Grove is only 25 minutes from Eugene and is located along the Row River, which runs through the core. A major spot during the Bohemian Mountains gold rush in 1863, Cottage Grove is now a sleepy escape from city life while still being within a short distance of major amenities. Plus, the median price for homes is around $475,000, compared to Eugene's median of $550,000. Peace Health Community Medical Center serves the area, and the seniors center, along with medical initiatives, provides retirees with a place to go for bingo, card games, painting workshops, and craft events. For seniors seeking out other indoor activities, the Bohemian Gold Mining Museum is full of interesting facts and historical pieces, or residents can visit the library located inside the community center. One of the cutest aspects of Cottage Grove is its covered bridges, with some being right in town. Feel like you've journeyed to Vermont while walking or driving under these iconic structures. Seniors can also take a stroll around Row River Nature Park or spend the afternoon at Dorena Lake. After a day of fun, shopping is made easy with a Walmart, Safeway, and Grocery Outlet within town limits. Retirees can then dine out at local establishments like Stacy's Covered Bridge Restaurant or Coast Fork Brewing. South Lane Transit operates the bus system in town, with door-to-door service, an on-demand option for seniors, and rides into Eugene.
Redmond
Twenty minutes outside of Bend is the town of Redmond, which refers to itself as the hub due to its vast array of activities and businesses, offering so much to do residents will never become bored. The median price for homes is $550,000, compared to Bend's $845,000. St. Charles Hospital offers retirees peace of mind with its always open location, and the senior center, alongside health initiatives, puts on movie nights, craft groups, dance classes, bingo nights, crochet classes, and coffee groups. Seniors hoping to stay active indoors can also attend the Cascade Swim Center, or for those days when you just want to sit back and relax, Redmond Cinemas plays all the latest releases. Outdoor adventures are only a short trip away, with breathtaking options like the Cline Falls State Scenic Viewpoint along the Deschutes River, or the Redmond Caves. Ochoco National Forest, Crooked River National Grassland, Prineville Reservoir State Park, and Deschutes National Forest are also only an afternoon drive away, perfect for a day or weekend getaway. Seniors can dine out at delicious spots like Redmond Burger Company or Elements Public House. There are also plenty of cafes and bakeries, including Junction Roastery. There is a Fred Meyer, Safeway, Grocery Outlet, and Walmart for residents' convenience, and Cascades East Transit is a free service with dial-a-ride options and busses to Bend.
Brookings
Seniors hoping to retire along the Pacific Ocean's stunning beaches will fall in love with Brookings. Located right near the border of California, Brookings is a part of the Oregon Coastal Highway system and also sits right at the mouth of the Chetco River. Curry Medical Center is the town's hospital, and the Chetco Activity Center offers retirees a place to go for lunch, sign up for Meals on Wheels, and play games in their lounge. Other laid-back indoor activities for rainy days include the Chetco Community Public Library, or meeting with friends for breakfast at Mattie's Pancake House on the harbor. There are two state parks close by for outdoor enthusiasts: Alfred A. Loeb State Park and Harris Beach State Park. Chetco Point Park is another fabulous option for walks along the coast and also features a dog park. Plus, the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is just a short drive north of Brookings. Retirees can shop at major grocers such as Fred Meyer, Grocery Outlet, Dollar Tree, and McKays Market, as well as support local by visiting the Brookings Harbor Farmers Market. Popular eateries include Zola's on the Water for some dinner at sunset and Super Fly Martini Bar and Grill for those fun nights out. Curry Public Transit gets residents where they need to go, and Coastal Express runs along the Oregon Coastal Highway to nearby communities.
McMinnville
An hour from Portland is the town of McMinnville, located in the heart of Oregon's wine country. The median home price is $527,000, compared to Portland's $534,500, and features far less crime and crowding while still being in close proximity to an international airport and other city amenities. Willamette Valley Medical Center is the town's hospital, and the senior center offers health services as well as art classes, fitness groups, games, trips, and volunteer opportunities. Seniors who are fans of aviation can spend their days at the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum, a major attraction home to the Spruce Goose. Retirees can also purchase a membership to the Michelbook Country Club and gain access to its exclusive golf course. Outdoor adventures include a wide range of town parks, such as Huber Park, Ed Grenfell Park, and Discovery Meadows Community Park. McMinnville is also surrounded by dozens of nearby wineries and vineyards, including Lemelson Vineyards and Bryn Mawr Vineyards, White Rose Estate Winery, and Maysara Winery. And if you're looking for a fun place for you or visiting family or friends to stay, consider Hotel Oregon, owned by the popular McMenamins chain. For retirees who want to sample some craft beer alongside their wine, Golden Valley Brewery and Restaurant is the perfect evening hotspot. For a fancier dinner out, Bistro Maison specializes in French fare. Seniors can shop at Walmart, Albertsons, WinCo, and Safeway, as well as retailers offering oils and vinegar, organics, and farm fresh produce, such as Farmer Johns Produce and Nursery. Yamhill County Transit services the area, with dial-a-ride options and paratransit.
Gold Beach
Gold Beach is another great option for coastal living, and it also falls along the Oregon Coastal Highway. It is right by the Rogue River, where it got its name due to the gold discovered on the beaches near the mouth. The median home price here is $599,000, a steal compared to many other oceanside areas. Retirees can feel at ease with Curry General Hospital, the town's 24/7 medical facility. The senior center offers community meals, food delivery, workshops, and games, and even has an on-site boutique. Seniors who are fans of the arts can browse the creations at the Gold Beach Books and Art Gallery while picking up their new favorite read and a coffee at the attached cafe. Other delicious cafe options include Kissing Rock Coffee, right by the river. Seniors can get out and enjoy nature with activities like birdwatching, crabbing, and clamming all available right in town. There's also the Ceder Bend Golf Course, as well as Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest a short drive away. Shopping can be done with Rays Food Place, McKay's Market, and Old Agness Store, which sells tons of local goods. There are also plenty of seafood markets, health food stores, and convenience shops. Afterwards, retirees can sit down for a bite to eat at Barnacle Bistro or have a night on the town at Arch Rock Brewing Company. The town offers dial-a-ride services and is also a part of the Coastal Express that journeys to nearby towns, including Brookings.
Conclusion
Whether retirees are hoping to settle down along the coast with jaw-dropping views of the ocean or further inland amongst the mountains, they will find the town of their dreams in Oregon. From areas famous for gold mining to the Wild West, to impressive vineyards, there's something for everybody in this Western state. Pick any of the nine best places to retire in Oregon, and you'll be off to a great start on the way to the rest of your life.
