Oregon has an incredibly diverse landscape, including everything from snow-capped mountains and evergreen forests to sandy beaches and flowing rivers. The Oregon Coast, in particular, stretches for more than 360 miles and features numerous attractions, landmarks, and communities, making it a highly sought-after region for those seeking to relocate.
There are many reasons to live in a gorgeous area like the Oregon Coast. Let’s explore some of the primary aspects that make it such a desirable place to live.
Stunning Coastal Scenery
With hundreds of miles of Pacific Ocean coast, it is only natural that the Oregon Coast will have some scenic and beautiful beaches. Towns like Astoria, Seaside Beach, and Cannon Beach are famous for their combination of rocky cliffs, deep forests, and sandy beaches that give them a storybook look. Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach might be the most famous landmark in this area.
The coastal setting makes these communities perfect for those who love outdoor water recreation. Fishing is incredibly popular here, with waters teeming with salmon, steelhead, and tuna. Many also enjoy kayaking and canoeing in these deep blue waters.
Quaint Towns with Affordable Options
While the rugged coastal setting makes many flock to this area, the coast is also lined with quaint towns and communities with lots to see. There isn’t a city on the Oregon Coast with a population of more than 20,000, so if you like small-town living in places with abundant natural beauty, this is the place for you.
The biggest city in the region is Coos Bay, home to around 17,000 people. Coos Bay is an artistic community lined with excellent restaurants and shops, and surrounded by water and emerald forests. Newport is a small city home to roughly 11,000, known for the Yaquina Bay Bridge, its iconic lighthouse, and excellent aquarium. There are small but welcoming towns throughout the coast with gorgeous scenery and great local food and shops.
Unlike many other coastal areas, you’ll find that real estate and the cost of living in Coastal Oregon are quite affordable. For example, homes in Coos Bay have a median cost of $330,000, according to Redfin. Redfin also reports that the median cost of homes in Astoria is $480,000. While these aren’t cheap, they are affordable for homes in coastal locations, especially with such incredible nearby attractions.
Scenic Trails and Forests
While the beaches and water access are drivers of the appeal of Coastal Oregon, they are far from the only aspect of this region’s natural beauty. The Oregon Coast has many parks, forests, and trails, making it a hiker’s dream. Coastal Oregon boasts more than 80 state parks and recreation areas with beautifully preserved natural settings that invite exploration.
There are many different trails and parks worth exploring across this region that can satisfy hikers of all experience levels. The Tillamook Head Trail is a winding six-mile trail between Seaside and Cannon Beach that leads to one of the state’s most famous lighthouses. Neahkahnie Mountain is also located near Cannon Beach and has sweeping vistas of the coastal region. The Cape Falcon trail leads to vantage points on cliffs high above the water, with jaw-dropping views and hidden caves.
