The Oregon Coast totally flipped my idea of a beach living on its head. Forget endless summer—here I found myself watching storms roll in from cozy coffee shops, spotting whales on my morning runs, and exploring moody beaches that look like they’re from another world. It’s wild, raw, and exactly my kind of perfect.
The best places in Oregon to live along the coast pack serious charm. Like Newport, where I watched fishing boats cruise past the old bayfront while hunting for the best clam chowder in town. Or Cannon Beach, where my dog and I would walk past Haystack Rock as locals shared their favorite storm-watching spots. Ready to see what coastal living really looks like? Let’s dive in.
Most Awesome Places on the Oregon Coast in 2025
Looking for the best places on the Oregon Coast in 2025? Explore the historic charm of Astoria, known for its scenic waterfront and rich maritime history. Enjoy the coastal beauty of Brookings, with stunning ocean views and a mild climate. Experience the iconic Cannon Beach, famous for Haystack Rock and its artistic community. Discover Coos Bay, a vibrant hub for outdoor recreation and coastal adventures. Whether you love history, nature, or small-town charm, these are some of the top places to visit on the Oregon Coast.
- Best for history and arts: Astoria
- Best for mild climate: Brookings
- Best for scenic beauty: Cannon Beach
- Best for urban amenities: Coos Bay
- Best for retirees: Florence
- Best for upscale living: Gearhart
- Best for outdoor activities: Gold Beach
- Best for inland living near the coast: Lake Oswego
- Best for vibrant community: Lincoln City
- Best for marine life: Newport
- Best for family-friendly beach living: Seaside
- Best for small-town charm: Yachats
1. Astoria
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,200 – $3,800 (budget to mid-range lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Historic riverfront, Victorian homes, scenic Columbia River views
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: May to September 🌞 (mild weather, best outdoor activities)
- 🏆 Perfect For: History buffs 🏛️, nature lovers 🌲, retirees ⛵
Perched at the mouth of the Columbia River, Astoria is a city where history, culture, and coastal charm converge. As the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, it blends Victorian architecture, maritime heritage, and a thriving arts scene into a truly unique place to live.
The historic downtown is filled with art galleries, independent bookstores, and cozy cafés, while the Astoria Column offers panoramic views of the river and Pacific Ocean. The riverfront trolley and working waterfront maintain the town’s old-world appeal, yet Astoria also embraces modern amenities, with a growing food scene and craft breweries.
Outdoor lovers will appreciate the hiking trails in Fort Stevens State Park, while film buffs can explore famous locations from The Goonies. With its tight-knit community, rich cultural scene, and access to both nature and city life, Astoria is a standout coastal town with an irresistible charm.
2. Brookings
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,000 – $3,500 (budget-friendly lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Stunning ocean views, mild climate, access to state parks
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: April to October ☀️ (warmest and sunniest months)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Outdoor enthusiasts 🚴, artists 🎨, retirees 🌅
For those who crave sunshine and spectacular scenery, Brookings is an Oregon Coast gem. Often called the “Banana Belt”, it enjoys a milder, sunnier climate compared to other coastal towns, thanks to the Chetco Effect.
Life here is defined by natural beauty. The Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor features rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and breathtaking ocean vistas, while the Chetco River is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. The town’s Harbor district provides a relaxed, seaside atmosphere with local seafood restaurants and waterfront shops.
Brookings maintains a small-town feel but offers plenty of community events, farmers’ markets, and arts festivals. With its affordable cost of living, stunning coastal scenery, and a climate that allows for year-round outdoor activities, Brookings is a dream for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
3. Cannon Beach
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,500 – $4,200 (mid-range to upscale lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Iconic Haystack Rock, charming downtown, beautiful beaches
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: May to September 🌤️ (warmest months, less rain)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Photographers 📸, beach lovers 🏖️, weekend retreat seekers 🏕️
With its iconic Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach is as picturesque as it is welcoming. This small town is a haven for artists, nature lovers, and those who crave a slower pace of life.
The town’s miles of sandy beaches provide the perfect backdrop for morning walks, sunset bonfires, and tide-pooling adventures. Beyond the coastline, Ecola State Park offers hiking trails with panoramic ocean views and opportunities to spot elk and bald eagles. It’s a paradise for nature lovers!
Cannon Beach isn’t just about scenery—it’s also an artistic and cultural hub. The town is home to art galleries, live theater performances, and annual festivals, including the Sandcastle Contest and Stormy Weather Arts Festival. While it’s a popular tourist destination, the tight-knit local community, excellent schools, and walkable downtown make it an ideal place to call home.
- Read next: 15 Epic Locations To Live on the West Coast
4. Coos Bay
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,900 – $3,400 (budget-friendly lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Largest city on the Oregon coast, great seafood, fishing hub
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: June to September 🌞 (warmest and driest months)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Seafood lovers 🦀, boaters 🚤, families 👨👩👧👦
As the largest city on the Oregon Coast, Coos Bay offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventure. With its working waterfront, historic downtown, and stunning coastal landscapes, this is a town that has something for everyone.
Coos Bay’s waterfront boardwalk is lined with local seafood restaurants, shops, and museums, reflecting its strong maritime heritage. The town is also a gateway to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where residents enjoy off-roading, hiking, and sandboarding on the towering dunes.
Despite its growing economy, Coos Bay maintains a relaxed coastal vibe, with community events, farmers’ markets, and a thriving arts scene. With its affordable housing, access to healthcare, and numerous outdoor activities, Coos Bay is an excellent choice for those who want the convenience of city-living with the beauty of the Oregon Coast.
5. Florence
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,100 – $3,700 (budget to mid-range lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Sand dunes, historic Old Town, Siuslaw River views
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: May to October ☀️ (comfortable weather, fewer storms)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Adventurers 🏄♂️, retirees ⛵, small business owners 🏪
Tucked between the Siuslaw River and the Pacific Ocean, Florence is a town where coastal beauty meets small-town warmth. Known for its walkable historic district, fresh seafood, and scenic surroundings, it’s a beloved destination for retirees and nature lovers alike.
Florence’s Old Town district is filled with charming shops, galleries, and waterfront dining, offering a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Just outside town, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area provides endless opportunities for dune buggy rides, sandboarding, and hiking. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Sea Lion Caves and Heceta Head Lighthouse are must-visit spots.
With its mild climate, strong sense of community, and excellent healthcare options, Florence is perfect for those looking to embrace a slower pace of life while staying connected to nature. Whether you’re exploring the dunes or enjoying a sunset by the river, Florence offers a peaceful yet vibrant coastal lifestyle.
6. Gearhart
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,300 – $4,000 (mid-range lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Quiet beaches, golf courses, relaxed atmosphere
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: June to September 🌤️ (warmer months, great beach days)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Retirees 🏡, families 👨👩👧👦, golfers ⛳
Quiet, charming, and effortlessly scenic, Gearhart is one of the most desirable coastal communities in Oregon. This small, upscale town offers uncrowded beaches, historic homes, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful, high-quality lifestyle.
Unlike busier tourist destinations, Gearhart remains serene and unspoiled, with wide, sandy beaches perfect for long walks, clamming, and beachcombing. The town is also home to one of the oldest golf courses in the Pacific Northwest, giving it a classic, timeless appeal.
Though small, Gearhart has a close-knit, welcoming community and is just a short drive from Seaside and Astoria, providing easy access to shopping, dining, and healthcare. With its charming coastal cottages, quiet atmosphere, and strong community ties, Gearhart is an ideal place for those looking to enjoy coastal beauty without the crowds.
7. Gold Beach
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,000 – $3,500 (budget-friendly lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Rogue River, whale watching, remote and peaceful setting
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: April to October ☀️ (best for outdoor activities)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Nature lovers 🌿, boaters 🚣, those seeking solitude 🌊
Where the Rogue River meets the Pacific Ocean, Gold Beach offers a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility. This small coastal town is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts, with world-class fishing, kayaking, and hiking right at its doorstep.
The coastline here is wild and rugged, with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and miles of unspoiled beaches. Jerry’s Rogue Jets offers thrilling boat tours up the river, while Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor provides panoramic ocean views. The town itself is peaceful, with local cafés, art galleries, and a strong sense of community.
Gold Beach is a place where nature dictates the pace of life. With mild weather, friendly locals, and easy access to some of Oregon’s most breathtaking landscapes, it’s an ideal destination for those looking to embrace the beauty of the coast while enjoying a slower, more intentional way of living.
8. Lake Oswego
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $3,000 – $5,500 (upscale lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Private lake, luxury homes, high-end restaurants and shops
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: May to September ☀️ (best for outdoor activities)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Professionals 💼, families 🏡, luxury home buyers 🏠
Just a short drive from the coast, Lake Oswego offers the perfect blend of nature, luxury, and convenience. This upscale city is centered around its stunning namesake lake, where residents enjoy boating, paddleboarding, and scenic lakefront living.
The downtown district is lively yet refined, featuring boutique shopping, high-end restaurants, and local art galleries. The city is also known for its top-rated schools, well-maintained parks, and extensive walking trails, making it one of Oregon’s most desirable places to live.
Though not directly on the ocean, Lake Oswego provides easy access to the Oregon Coast and Portland, offering the best of both worlds. With its safe neighborhoods, strong community feel, and high quality of life, this is an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful, upscale lifestyle with all the benefits of coastal and urban living.
9. Lincoln City
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,200 – $3,800 (budget to mid-range lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: 7 miles of beaches, annual kite festival, casino entertainment
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: May to September 🌞 (warmer months, outdoor-friendly)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Beachcombers 🏖️, festival lovers 🎭, retirees 🌅
Stretching along seven miles of coastline, Lincoln City is a vibrant, energetic community with beautiful beaches, thriving arts, and plenty of outdoor activities. It’s a town that celebrates coastal living year-round.
Beachcombers flock here for treasure hunting, as the city hosts the famous Finders Keepers glass float program, where handcrafted glass orbs are hidden along the shore. The Devil’s Lake Recreation Area offers excellent kayaking and fishing, while the Cascade Head Preserve provides breathtaking hiking trails with panoramic ocean views.
Beyond the outdoors, Lincoln City has a dynamic cultural scene, with music festivals, theater productions, and art galleries. The town’s restaurants and seafood shacks serve some of the freshest catches on the coast. With its lively atmosphere, strong sense of community, and endless recreation, Lincoln City is a fantastic choice for those who want a fun and active coastal lifestyle.
10. Newport
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,300 – $4,000 (budget to mid-range lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, Oregon Coast Aquarium, seafood capital
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: May to October ☀️ (best weather for coastal activities)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Marine life enthusiasts 🐟, families 🏡, seafood lovers 🦞
Sitting at the heart of the Oregon Coast, Newport is a bustling seaside city known for its marine life, historic bayfront, and strong community vibe. Whether it’s the fishing industry, the Oregon Coast Aquarium, or the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, the ocean plays a central role in life here.
The historic bayfront is lined with seafood restaurants, quirky shops, and working fishing boats, giving the town a lively yet laid-back feel. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is a major attraction, offering an up-close look at sea otters, sharks, and giant Pacific octopuses. Outdoor lovers will enjoy beach walks, whale watching, and hiking at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area.
With great schools, a thriving job market, and a strong sense of local pride, Newport is more than just a tourist town—it’s a vibrant community that blends ocean adventure with small-town charm.
11. Seaside
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,400 – $4,200 (mid-range lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Beach promenade, family-friendly attractions, summer hotspot
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: June to September 🌞 (best weather, less rain)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Families 👨👩👧👦, beach lovers 🏖️, weekend retreat seekers 🏡
Seaside is where coastal fun meets small-town warmth. This energetic beach town is famous for its wide sandy beaches, family-friendly attractions, and lively promenade, making it a fantastic place to live for those who love an active coastal lifestyle.
The Seaside Promenade (or “The Prom”) stretches along the ocean, offering stunning views, casual strolls, and easy access to the town’s vibrant shops and restaurants. Families enjoy visiting the Seaside Aquarium, while outdoor enthusiasts take advantage of surfing, biking, and nearby hiking trails in Ecola State Park.
Though popular with visitors, Seaside has a strong year-round community with local events, farmers’ markets, and a growing arts scene. With its walkable downtown, easy beach access, and a welcoming vibe, Seaside is an excellent choice for those who want coastal beauty with plenty of energy and entertainment.
12. Yachats
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $2,000 – $3,600 (budget to mid-range lifestyle)
- 🌟 Unique Features: Rocky coastline, artsy community, quiet and serene
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: May to October ☀️ (best for hiking and beach walks)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Artists 🎨, nature lovers 🌲, retirees 🏡
Tucked between the Siuslaw National Forest and the Pacific Ocean, Yachats is a hidden coastal paradise known for its dramatic landscapes and tight-knit community. It’s a place where rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and lush forests create a truly breathtaking setting.
Yachats is small but filled with character. The town has charming cafés, bookshops, and a deep appreciation for the arts and nature. The nearby Cape Perpetua Scenic Area offers some of the best hiking and coastal views in Oregon, while Thor’s Well is a must-see natural wonder.
Despite its size, Yachats has a strong community spirit, with year-round festivals, farmers’ markets, and locally owned businesses. It’s a place where residents know each other by name, and nature is always within reach. If you’re looking for a quiet, beautiful retreat with a vibrant heart, Yachats is a perfect fit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Best Places to Live on the Oregon Coast
Interested in learning more about the top living destinations along the Oregon Coast? I often receive inquiries about the best places to settle down on this scenic coastline. Here’s a rundown of the most frequently asked questions regarding the prime locations to live on the Oregon Coast.
Where is the best place to live on the Oregon Coast?
The best place to live on the Oregon Coast really depends on what you’re looking for in a coastal community. Each town has its unique charm:
- Astoria: Rich in history with a vibrant arts scene, perfect for those who appreciate a blend of culture and coastal beauty.
- Brookings: Known for its mild climate and stunning natural surroundings, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Cannon Beach: Offers an artistic atmosphere with iconic landscapes, suited for those seeking inspiration from nature’s beauty.
- Coos Bay: Largest city on the Oregon Coast, providing a mix of urban amenities and natural wonders.
- Florence: Ideal for retirees and those seeking a slower pace of life, with access to dunes and beaches.
- Gearhart: Quiet and upscale, perfect for a peaceful, yet refined coastal living.
- Gold Beach: Offers a wild, natural setting, great for adventurous spirits and outdoor activities.
- Lake Oswego: Though not directly on the coast, it offers a luxurious inland experience close to coastal attractions.
- Lincoln City: Known for its long beaches and vibrant community, a fit for those who love a lively atmosphere.
- Newport: A hub for marine science and a strong sense of community, ideal for families and ocean enthusiasts.
- Seaside: Family-friendly with a fun, resort-like atmosphere, great for an active lifestyle.
- Yachats: Small and scenic, offering a tight-knit community feel amidst dramatic coastal beauty.
Ultimately, the best place for you would align with your personal preferences in lifestyle, community, and scenic beauty.
What is the most beautiful part of the Oregon Coast?
The Oregon Coast is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, and several areas stand out:
- Cannon Beach: Famous for Haystack Rock and its long, sandy beaches, it’s a photographer’s dream.
- Yachats: Known for its dramatic and rugged coastline, offering stunning views, especially around Cape Perpetua.
- Brookings: Located near the California border, it’s cherished for its mild climate and the striking Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor.
- Gold Beach: Here, the Rogue River meets the Pacific Ocean, creating a magnificent landscape of river, forest, and ocean.
- Seaside: Popular for its lively boardwalk, expansive beaches, and the picturesque view of the sunset over the ocean.
- Newport: Offers a unique beauty with its historic bayfront and the Oregon Coast Aquarium, providing views of both marine and coastal life.
- Florence: The nearby Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area presents a fascinating landscape of shifting sand dunes.
Each part of the Oregon Coast has its own unique charm, making it difficult to pinpoint the single most beautiful area. It’s a region where every turn along the coastal highway unveils a new, breathtaking vista.
Which Oregon Coast town has the best weather?
The town of Brookings, often referred to as the “Banana Belt” of the Oregon Coast, is renowned for having the best weather. Here’s why:
- Mild Climate: Brookings enjoys a uniquely mild microclimate, thanks to the Chetco Effect, a local weather phenomenon. This results in warmer temperatures and less fog compared to other coastal towns.
- Sunny Days: It receives more sunny days on average, making it an ideal spot for those who prefer a sunnier coastal experience.
- Moderate Temperatures: The temperatures in Brookings are generally moderate, avoiding the extremes of too hot or too cold. This makes it comfortable year-round.
- Reduced Rainfall: While the Oregon Coast is known for its rainy weather, Brookings tends to have less rainfall than its northern counterparts.
Brookings’ pleasant weather conditions make it a favorite for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenic beauty of the coast without the typical overcast and foggy conditions found elsewhere.
What is the sunniest town on the Oregon Coast?
The title of the sunniest town on the Oregon Coast goes to Brookings. This charming town is known for its exceptional weather, characterized by more sunny days and a milder climate compared to other coastal towns. Here’s what makes Brookings stand out:
- The Chetco Effect: A unique local weather phenomenon that often clears out the fog and clouds, leading to sunnier skies.
- Mild Temperatures: Even when sunny, the temperatures in Brookings are usually comfortable, avoiding the heat extremes that can occur inland.
- Fewer Rainy Days: Compared to the typically rainy Pacific Northwest climate, Brookings enjoys a significantly reduced number of rainy days.
Brookings’ sunny disposition makes it a popular destination for those seeking to enjoy the coastal beauty under clear, blue skies.
Where is the warmest place to live on the Oregon Coast?
The warmest place to live on the Oregon Coast is Brookings. This town’s unique climate features make it notably warmer than other coastal areas:
- Microclimate: Brookings benefits from a microclimate that results in warmer temperatures. This is due to the Chetco Effect, a weather pattern where warm air is funneled down the Chetco River Valley to the coast.
- Sunny Days: The town sees more sunny days compared to the typically overcast Pacific Northwest coast, contributing to its warmer feel.
- Moderate Coastal Climate: Despite being warmer, Brookings still enjoys the moderate temperatures characteristic of coastal climates, avoiding the extreme heat of inland areas.
Brookings’ warm and pleasant climate, coupled with its stunning coastal scenery, makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a warmer coastal living experience in Oregon.
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Live on the Oregon Coast
The Oregon Coast offers a spectacular tapestry of living experiences, each town a unique thread contributing to the region’s vibrant character. From the historic allure of Astoria to the sun-kissed shores of Brookings, the coast is more than just a series of towns; it’s a collection of communities, each with its own personality and charm.
For those seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility, places like Gold Beach and Cannon Beach are perfect. They provide a picturesque backdrop for a life that balances relaxation with outdoor excitement. Towns like Florence and Yachats, with their slower pace and breathtaking landscapes, appeal to those looking for peace amidst nature’s splendor.
Affordability and lifestyle go hand in hand in towns like Coos Bay and Newport, where the cost of living is balanced with quality life experiences. These towns demonstrate that living on the Oregon Coast can be both affordable and fulfilling. For city lovers, Lincoln City and Seaside offer a more urban coastal experience, brimming with cultural events and community activities.
In conclusion, the best places to live on the Oregon Coast depend on what you cherish most in your ideal living situation. Whether it’s the serene beauty, the vibrant community, or the blend of nature and urban life, the Oregon Coast is not just a place to live; it’s a lifestyle, a dream crafted by the sea and shaped by the warmth of its communities.
Need help planning your trip? Check out these helpful links:
- 🛡️ Get travel insurance – Don't risk your trip. With all the uncertainty in the world, every traveler needs insurance in 2025.
- ✈️ Find cheap flights – I use this to snag deals you won't find elsewhere
- 🏨 Book accommodations – From boutique hotels to budget-friendly stays
- 🚗 Compare rental car prices – Great rates from trusted companies
- 🎟️ Discover affordable tours and day trips – Skip the line and explore more
- 📱 SIM Cards + eSims – My go-to phone plan I've used in 50+ countries
