The Best Places to Live on the Oregon Coast for Retirees
- littlefieldmarly
- Mar 1
- 2 min read
Retirement should feel like exhaling.
If you’ve been dreaming about ocean air, slower mornings, and a lifestyle that feels intentional instead of rushed — the Oregon Coast might be exactly what you’re looking for.
From quiet fishing villages to walkable seaside towns, here are the best places to retire along the Oregon Coast — depending on what kind of retirement you want.
🏖️ 1. Cannon Beach – Refined, Walkable & Scenic
If you want beauty with culture, Cannon Beach delivers.
Walkable downtown
Art galleries & boutique shops
Incredible dining
Easy beach access
Strong property values
This is ideal for retirees who want:✔️ A vibrant but peaceful community✔️ Access to fine dining & events✔️ A polished coastal aesthetic
It’s one of the pricier areas on the coast — but for many retirees, that stability and lifestyle are worth it.
🌲 2. Manzanita – Quiet Luxury Without the Crowds
Manzanita is understated and beautiful.
Wide sandy beaches
Small-town feel
Golf nearby
Stunning views of Neahkahnie Mountain
Less tourism than Cannon Beach
Perfect for retirees who want:✔️ Serenity✔️ Nature at your doorstep✔️ A tight-knit community feel
It feels exclusive — without feeling flashy.
🎣 3. Garibaldi – Affordable & Waterfront-Focused
If you love boating or fishing, Garibaldi is worth a look.
Marina lifestyle
Lower price points (compared to north coast resort towns)
Authentic coastal charm
Slower pace
Ideal for retirees who want:✔️ Waterfront access✔️ Affordability✔️ A laid-back vibe
🌅 4. Seaside – Energy + Amenities
Seaside gets a reputation for tourism — but it also offers:
Medical services nearby
Grocery & shopping options
Flat terrain (great for walking)
Community events
Retirees who want convenience + coastal life often choose Seaside for practicality.
🐚 5. Rockaway Beach – Relaxed & Real
Rockaway Beach feels like the Oregon Coast before it was “discovered.”
More attainable homes
7 miles of walkable beach
Community-driven feel
Incredible sunsets
For retirees who want simple, peaceful coastal living — this one is hard to beat.
Things Retirees Should Consider Before Moving
Living on the coast is dreamy — but here’s what people don’t always factor in:
Winter storms
Medical access
Insurance costs
Tourism season traffic
Maintenance (salt air is real)
Choosing the right town depends on how you want your retirement to feel — quiet? social? active? low-maintenance?
The Oregon Coast offers all of it — just in different pockets.
If you’re exploring retirement on the Oregon Coast, I’m happy to help you compare towns based on lifestyle, healthcare access, walkability, and budget.
The right coastal town makes all the difference.
Let's work together!
Marly
KW Coast Life
971.227.5140