When you retire to Oregon, you can enjoy the best that the Pacific Northwest has to offer. The temperate weather and sublime scenery make it easy for active adults to get out and explore the great outdoors, giving some of the best places to live. Thriving cities in this state serve up great coffee in quirky coffee shops and boast a unique culture.
NewHomeSource has compiled the top 10 cities for retirees in Oregon. Each has something wonderful to offer for those who want to make the most of their newfound freedom in retirement.
Top 10 Cities to Retire in Oregon
1. Ontario
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 19.9%
Median Home Value: $217,500
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 79
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 511
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 2
Ontario is a charming community on the Oregon and Idaho border. Home to nearly 12,000 this fantastic town is great for retirees who want to save money during their retirement, have easy access to Boise, Idaho, and engage with sublime scenery. If you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, Ontario is the perfect pace for you!
It is conveniently located about 55 miles west of Boise. The surrounding area boasts natural beauty, including the Snake River and the Owyhee Mountains. Spend your free time hiking, biking, fishing, and bird watching. The Ontario State Recreation Site offers views, boating, and swimming opportunities. The Four Rivers Cultural Center features Japanese Gardens and hosts events like the Japanese Nite Obon Festival. City parks such as Beck-Kiwanis Park and Lions Park offer green spaces for recreation and relaxation.
Healthcare in Ontario is anchored by Saint Alphonsus Medical Center Ontario with more specialized care available at Boise's larger medical facilities. Find what speaks to you in an Oregon retirement in Ontario.
2. Klamath Falls
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 15.5%
Median Home Value: $257,400
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 133
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 743
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1
Klamath Falls is a beautiful and affordable community where retirees can enjoy their golden years, especially considering all the amazing activities found here. The beautiful Upper Klamath Lake affords people of all ages a plethora of lakeside entertainment, ranging from boating to swimming.
Situated in south-central Oregon near the California border, Klamath Falls is home to less than 25,000. The area is renowned for its proximity to Crater Lake National Park, just about an hour's drive north. Make frequent trips and scenic drives to enjoy hiking and boat tours. Klamath Lake is the largest natural lake in the state ready to have you out boating, fishing, and birdwatching including a significant bald eagle population.
Healthcare in Klamath Falls is primarily served by Sky Lakes Medical Center, a community-owned and internationally accredited hospital. The well-being of seniors is important and seen through social activities, health programs, and volunteer opportunities. Within a reasonable driving distance are several state parks, including Collier Memorial State Park with its logging history museum and the unique geological formations of Fort Rock Cave.
Choosing Klamath Falls for retirement can be attractive due to its lower cost of living compared to the Oregon state average, particularly in housing. Along with scenic beauty and amenities, Klamath Falls is a great Oregon community.
Find a new life in Klamath Falls.
3. Hermiston
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 11.4%
Median Home Value: $244,700
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 53
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 740
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1
Hermiston is a gorgeous town in northern Oregon with about 20,000 residents calling it home. Its location offers relatively easy access to the Tri-Cities area in Washington (about 30-45 miles away) for more extensive shopping and entertainment options.
The surrounding landscape features the Columbia River and fertile farmlands, contributing to the area's economy and providing scenic views. Retirees looking to get outdoors and reconnect with Mother Nature will love Hermiston’s numerous parks that make it easy to stay active and healthy. The city boasts numerous parks, such as Butte Park and Riverfront Park, offering green spaces for relaxation and recreation. Nearby McNary Wildlife Nature Area and Hat Rock State Park provide opportunities for enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
The Harkenrider Senior Activity Center serves as a hub for social gatherings, programs, and events specifically for seniors. Golfing is also an option in the area. Healthcare is provided by Good Shepherd Health Care System.
Don't miss the annual Watermelon Festival. With a drier climate and great location, Hermiston balances a quieter lifestyle with proximity to larger urban centers.
4. La Grande
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 18.2%
Median Home Value: $244,200
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 55
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 282
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1
Retiring in La Grande is perfect for people who want to enjoy outdoor adventures and have an affordable cost of living. This rustic community sits between the Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests, so you can explore beautiful scenery and see spectacular views every day.
Nestled in the Grande Ronde Valley of northeastern Oregon, La Grande offers its roughly 13,000 residents a charming and relatively affordable setting for retirement. Healthcare needs are met by Grande Ronde Hospital, a regional medical center offering a range of services.
Stay active on hiking and biking trails in the nearby mountains or take a leisurely stroll at scenic at Riverside Park or Pioneer Park. Stay engaged at Eastern Oregon University with its cultural events and the Nightingale Gallery. The historic Elgin Opera House is also a short drive away.
The cost of living is about 15% lower than the national average. This affordability, combined with access to outdoor recreation and a close-knit community, makes it an attractive option for retirees.
5. Pendleton
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 17.8%
Median Home Value: $276,400
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 54
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 723
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1
Retirees looking to reengage with Mother Nature should head over to Pendleton. This beautiful city allows residents to enjoy a peaceful and private community near the Umatilla National Forest, while still giving them easy access to large cities like Portland. Pendleton truly has the best of all possible worlds.
Found in the northeastern part of the state near the foothills of the Blue Mountains, Pendleton sits about 20,000 residents strong. The city's location provides access to the scenic beauty of Eastern Oregon, with opportunities for outdoor activities. The Pendleton Round-Up, a world-famous rodeo held annually since 1910, is a significant cultural event. The Tamastslikt Cultural Institute provides insights into the history and culture of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.
Healthcare in Pendleton is provided by CHI St. Anthony Hospital, a full-service hospital with a family clinic and various specialty services. Praxis Health also has clinics in Pendleton offering primary and urgent care.
Give Pendleton some consideration for your golden years.
6. Lebanon
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 18.4%
Median Home Value: $295,900
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 27
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 211
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4
Lebanon is a picturesque community south of Portland and Salem. If you’re looking to surround yourself with some of the best scenery Oregon has to offer, you can’t go wrong retiring in Lebanon. Explore amazing national forests and spend lazy days on the South Santiam River when you make your home here.
Situated in the Willamette Valley, approximately 20,000 people make up this city that's about a 25-minute drive from both Corvallis and Albany. The Lebanon Senior Center is a hub for individuals aged 50 and older, providing educational programs, health and social services, recreational activities, arts and cultural experiences, social events, and more. Healthcare in Lebanon is provided by Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital, a full-service critical access hospital.
The South Santiam River running beside the town and the Cascade Mountains nearby, providing opportunities for scenic drives and outdoor excursions. Lebanon has several city parks, including Cheadle Lake Park with walking trails and fishing, and Ralston Park. Nearby state parks like Sodaville Springs State Park offer natural retreats and opportunities for enjoying Oregon's landscape. The city also hosts the annual Strawberry Festival, a popular community event.
Choosing Lebanon for retirement could be attractive due to its lower cost of living compared to some other Oregon cities, particularly in terms of housing and rent. The small-town charm, access to essential services, and proximity to both natural beauty and larger cities create a balanced and potentially affordable retirement destination.
7. Coos Bay
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 23.4%
Median Home Value: $272,100
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 152
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 857
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4
Who says waterfront living has to be expensive? Coos Bay is a sublime city on Oregon’s coast that lets retirees enjoy the best of coastal living in a thriving community. The best part of it all: Coos Bay is shockingly affordable, making retiring here a no brainer.
Enjoy a unique coastal charm as Coos Bay is the largest city on the Oregon Coast with a population estimated at around 16,000. The area is known for its natural beauty, being near the southern end of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. This popular spot is perfect for hiking, off-roading, and playing in the dunes. The city itself features the Coos Bay Boardwalk, providing scenic views and historical insights.
The Coos History Museum provides a look into the region's past, while the historic Egyptian Theatre hosts events and performances. The Oregon Coast is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for fishing, crabbing, clamming, and bird watching. Several senior activity centers in the area, including the Bay Area Senior Center and the North Bend Senior Center, offer social gatherings, meals, and various programs for older adults. The Bay Area Hospital serves Coos Bay.
Coos Bay provides a range of activities suitable for a comfortable and engaging retirement.
8. Prineville
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 20.1%
Median Home Value: $364,600
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 62
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 136
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 1
On the edge of the Ochoco National Forest sits Prineville, a safe, beautiful and affordable town, perfect for retirees who want to stay active with plenty of hiking and exploring. There are also plenty of community events throughout the year at the Crook County Fairgrounds, including dog and horse shows, plus the annual county fair.
Prineville, Oregon, situated in the high desert of Central Oregon along the Crooked River, is home to about 12,000 residents. It's not located near major cities. The city itself has several parks, including Ochoco Creek Park and Pioneer Park, providing green spaces for leisure. Nearby state parks like Prineville Reservoir State Park and Ochoco Lake Campground offer camping, boating, and fishing.
Healthcare in Prineville is primarily served by St. Charles Prineville, a critical care hospital offering a range of services, including an emergency department, primary and urgent care clinics, and visiting specialists. For more specialized medical needs, Bend's larger medical facilities are readily accessible.
The drier climate with sunny days appeal to many retirees. Check out Prineville.
9. Cottage Grove
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 15.8%
Median Home Value: $318,800
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 38
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 181
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 4
Cottage Grove prides itself on its picture-perfect scenery. The area’s Covered Bridges Scenic Tour Route allows residents to drive or ride bikes through the beautiful landscape and take in these amazing historical bridges. Cottage Grove also offers boating, fishing and swimming in the nearby lakes, rivers and swimming holes.
Located at the southern end of the Willamette Valley, this small community reaching more than 10,000, is 20 miles south of Eugene, the third-largest city in Oregon. Cottage Grove itself boasts a historic downtown area with art galleries, museums, shops, and cafes. Healthcare in Cottage Grove is supported by PeaceHealth Cottage Grove Community Medical Center.
Cottage Grove is surrounded by natural attractions. It's known for its six historic covered bridges, offering scenic drives and bike rides along the Covered Bridges Scenic Tour Route. Nearby Dorena Lake and the Row River provide opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. The 17-mile Row River National Recreation Trail is perfect for leisurely bike rides and walks.
Check out its blend of small-town charm, access to nature, and proximity to a larger city when you take look at Cottage Grove.
10. Roseburg
Percentage of the Population Over 65: 20.8%
Median Home Value: $266,600
Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 79
Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 1,065
Number of Hospitals Within 25 Miles of the City: 2
Roseburg is full of exciting attractions and adventures. You can check out the local museums to learn about Oregon pioneers and local Native American cultures. The town also has baseball fields, tennis courts, swimming pools and golf courses open for recreational use.
Found in the scenic Umpqua River Valley in southwestern Oregon, Roseburg offers a small-city atmosphere without being isolated. It's located about 67 miles south of Eugene and 123 miles north of the California border. The mild climate allows for year-round engagement in outdoor pursuits such as hiking, fishing in the Umpqua River, and exploring nearby waterfalls like the famous Toketee Falls and Watson Falls.
The city itself boasts several parks, museums, and excellent healthcare. The area is also part of Oregon's wine country, with several vineyards and wineries hosting tastings and events. Schedule to attend local events and the farmers' markets.
NewHomeSource pulled data from the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Services, Medicare’s Hospital Compare and the U.S. Census Bureau. In the event exact crime data was unavailable, estimates were used. These factors were entered into an algorithm to calculate a score for each city.
Common Questions About Retiring in Oregon
Is Oregon a Retirement Friendly State?
Oregon is a somewhat friendly state for retirees. While it does tax pension income, and doesn’t allow deductions on income from retirement accounts, the state has no sales taxes, and retirees below a certain income threshold can claim a 9% credit on that income.
How Much Do You Need to Retire in Oregon?
To retire comfortably in Oregon, you should plan to have between $66,000 to $70,000 a year for expenses.
| City Name | People over 65 | Violent Crimes | Property Crimes | Hospitals Within 25 Miles | Median Home Price |
| Portland | 14.2% | 4,478 | 36,983 | 20 | $557,600 |
| Salem | 15.3% | 798 | 5,830 | 7 | $382,400 |
| Eugene | 17.7% | 620 | 5,826 | 4 | $435,400 |
| Gresham | 14.6% | 424 | 3,323 | 17 | $440,000 |
| Hillsboro | 11.7% | 314 | 2,731 | 20 | $483,400 |
| Beaverton | 14.5% | 263 | 2,051 | 20 | $543,100 |
| Bend | 17.4% | 193 | 1,697 | 1 | $646,800 |
| Medford | 19.1% | 341 | 3,326 | 4 | $387,000 |
| Springfield | 16.1% | 194 | 1,709 | 4 | $323,800 |
| Corvallis | 13.8% | 116 | 1,812 | 4 | $480,600 |
| Tigard | 16.7% | 162 | 1,870 | 21 | $585,700 |
| Albany | 16.4% | 110 | 1,204 | 7 | $352,900 |
| Keizer | 18.1% | 95 | 805 | 7 | $396,700 |
| Lake Oswego | 22.9% | 22 | 533 | 20 | $894,000 |
| Grants Pass | 22.3% | 156 | 1,414 | 2 | $364,200 |
| Oregon City | 14.1% | 86 | 600 | 19 | $531,400 |
| McMinnville | 19.3% | 78 | 693 | 8 | $391,100 |
| Redmond | 16.4% | 73.00 | 78 | 792 | $435,000 |
| Tualatin | 13.9% | 57 | 840 | 21 | $595,800 |
| West Linn | 19.1% | 14 | 289 | 20 | $733,300 |
| Woodburn | 17.2% | 92 | 740 | 10 | $308,400 |
| Forest Grove | 15.0% | 115 | 391 | 14 | $464,300 |
| Wilsonville | 16.8% | na | na | 20 | $584,700 |
| Newberg | 15.3% | na | na | 19 | $453,700 |
| Roseburg | 20.8% | 79 | 1,065 | 2 | $266,600 |
| Happy Valley | 15.2% | na | na | 20 | $671,800 |
| Klamath Falls | 15.5% | 133 | 625 | 1 | $257,400 |
| Ashland | 28.6% | 32 | 362 | 3 | $573,700 |
| Milwaukie | 17.4% | 32 | 208 | 20 | $477,200 |
| Sherwood | 10.6% | 19 | 405 | 20 | $564,200 |
| Central Point | 16.9% | 33 | 259 | 4 | $357,700 |
| Canby | 19.3% | 23 | 156 | 19 | $329,700 |
| Hermiston | 11.4% | 53 | 740 | 1 | $479,500 |
| Lebanon | 18.4% | 27 | 211 | 4 | $295,900 |
| Pendleton | 17.8% | 54 | 723 | 1 | $276,400 |
| Dallas | 22.8% | 43 | 375 | 6 | $355,700 |
| Coos Bay | 23.4% | 152 | 857 | 4 | $272,100 |
| Troutdale | 13.3% | na | na | 17 | $437,700 |
| The Dalles | 19.8% | 57 | 517 | 4 | $318,400 |
| St. Helens | 14.7% | 43 | 151 | 10 | $350,900 |
| La Grande | 18.2% | 55 | 282 | 1 | $244,200 |
| Cornelius | 12.8% | 34 | 211 | 20 | $419,000 |
| Gladstone | 20.2% | 23 | 199 | 20 | $463,600 |
| Sandy | 14.7% | 7 | 159 | 13 | $450,200 |
| Ontario | 19.9% | 79 | 511 | 2 | $217,500 |
| Newport | 29.5% | 26 | 296 | 2 | $404,800 |
| Silverton | 16.9% | na | na | 6 | $461,800 |
| Monmouth | 11.9% | 17 | 147 | 8 | $380,500 |
| Cottage Grove | 15.8% | 29.00 | 399.00 | 4 | $318,800 |
| Prineville | 20.1% | 38 | 181 | 1 | $364,600 |
| Independence | 10.8% | 18 | 115 | 9 | $345,200 |
Access to Doctors is calculated by finding the number of hospitals, discounting children’s hospitals and VA hospitals within one mile of the city.
Other Oregon Resources
Best Tiny Home Builders in Oregon
The Healthiest States to Live In
The 10 Best and Worst U.S. Cities for Allergies
How to Build a House in Oregon
The Most Affordable Cities in Oregon
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Oregon
Jessi Gonzalez
Jessi Gonzalez writes on the topics of home-buying, home decor, and home-ownership for NewHomeSource. She has a degree from Coastal Bend College and is currently enrolled in the English degree program at Texas A&M Corpus Christi.