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Key Takeaways
- Astoria, Oregon is the first permanent U.S. settlement west of the Rockies.
- Astoria is about a half an hour from the end point of the Lewis and Clark expedition, making it a historically rich area.
- The Astoria urban area is home to just under 16,000 people.
- Retirees may be drawn to the region’s beauty, rich history, and the ease of access to the outdoors. However, it is not the most affordable retirement destination.
With a population of under 16,000, the small coastal town of Astoria, Oregon at the mouth of the Columbia River has an outsized role in the history of U.S. expansion. Despite its modest size, Astoria provides a rich combination of a beautiful setting, vibrant arts and culture, and walkability, making it an often-overlooked potential destination for retirees.
The Ins and Outs of Living in Astoria
When considering a place to retire, cost of living may be one of the first and most important factors. The median household income in Astoria is just under $70,000, slightly below the median income nationwide of $78,538. At the same time, though, home values are above average: the average home value in Astoria is just under $475,000, which is higher than the national median of $360,727.
Note
Though higher-than-average home prices might be a deterrent, Oregon does not have a general sales or use/transaction tax.
Another thing to consider is health care availability. Astoria is served primarily by the Columbia Memorial Hospital network, which has 30 health care facilities in the region. And for patients seeking specialized care, Portland is less than two hours away by car.
Astoria’s Outsized History, Culture, and Community
Astoria is the first permanent U.S. settlement west of the Rockies. It’s also the site of beautiful Victorian-era homes with a view of the Columbia River and close proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
As the setting of the cult classic film “The Goonies,” retirees may already be familiar with its seaside charm and may see some similarities with San Francisco or even Scandinavia.
The town’s maritime roots remain active, with, for example, the Columbia River Maritime Museum, the Pacific Rim Institute of Marine Artists, and via a variety of boating excursions available in the area.
The region is also an important site in early American history, with cultural centers and events related to the indigenous population of the area as well as the Lewis and Clark expedition and the Oregon Trail. The famed expedition westward across the country ended in the Astoria region near Fort Clatsop, which now exists as a commemorative replica and historical site.
Known for its rugged weather, the north coast of Oregon is home to many outdoor adventures, from windy beaches to boating to walking trails. You may also be drawn to the charming town of Astoria itself, with its very walkable downtown.
If you’re seeking a coastal life with beautiful (if gritty) scenery, close proximity to the Pacific Ocean, and a deep sense of local and national history, you may find Astoria to be just the town you’re looking for in your retirement.
