Oregon offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, mild weather, and friendly communities. Is Oregon a good place to retire? Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural richness, or a peaceful, relaxing spot, you'll find great options.
Oregon does not tax Social Security benefits, benefiting retirees who rely on this income. Oregon offers tax exemptions for certain retirement incomes and has lower property taxes than many states. However, it does impose a state income tax on other income types.
Ashland
Average Cost of a Home: $560,654
Population: 21,360
Cost of Living: 6.1% higher than the US average
Ashland, a charming city popular among retirees, is known for its vibrant arts scene, notably the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Surrounded by scenic mountains and forests, it offers ample outdoor activities like hiking and bird-watching opportunities. Ashland offers comfortable living for seniors with excellent healthcare, a warm community atmosphere, and various activities for retirees. Its reasonable cost of living allows seniors to afford a high quality of life.
Bend
Average Cost of a Home: $747,228
Population: 99,178
Cost of Living: 27.0% higher than the US average
Bend attracts retirees who enjoy nature. It offers fishing, skiing, and golfing near the Cascade Mountains. The scenic landscape promotes an active, healthy lifestyle. The city offers events and workshops for older adults, promoting an active and connected lifestyle.
Bend offers accessible healthcare with quality facilities for seniors. The city has manageable living costs and diverse housing options, including homes and service-oriented retirement communities.
Portland
Average Cost of a Home: $547,575
Population: 652,503
Cost of Living: 27.7% higher than the US average
Portland appeals to retirees seeking urban living and it’s the best city to retire in Oregon. It has diverse arts, culture, and dining options, with museums, theaters, and restaurants for all tastes. The city's parks and gardens provide serene spaces for relaxation. Portland's excellent healthcare system, with numerous specialized facilities for seniors, makes it the best place to retire in Oregon to receive high-quality medical care.
Portland offers numerous social activities for seniors through clubs and organizations, providing opportunities to meet people, pursue hobbies, and engage in community events. Its diverse amenities offset Portland's higher living costs, making it an attractive retirement option for those seeking a vibrant lifestyle.
Grants Pass
Average Cost of a Home: $407,014
Population: 39,189
Cost of Living: 2.5% higher than the US average
Grants Pass offers retirees small-town charm and outdoor adventures. It is located along the Rogue River and provides excellent fishing, rafting, and scenic beauty, perfect for active nature lovers that want to retire in Oregon.
Grants Pass provides various healthcare options, including clinics and a hospital, with services well-suited for seniors. This accessible medical care offers peace of mind to local retirees. Grants Pass offers a lower cost of living than larger cities, helping retirees extend their savings. Its community spirit and natural beauty make it an attractive Oregon retirement destination.
Lake Oswego
Average Cost of a Home: $920,998
Population: 40,731
Cost of Living: 33.7% higher than the US average
Lake Oswego, an upscale suburb, offers a luxurious Oregon retirement. It’s known for its high living standards, beautiful homes, and well-kept neighborhoods. Many retirement communities with high-end amenities are also available, making it one of the best places to retire in Oregon.
Lake Oswego boasts a lively cultural scene with art galleries, theaters, and community events like farmers' markets and park concerts. These activities build community and offer engaging entertainment, making it a great place to retire in Oregon.
There are also support services for seniors. Healthcare services are excellent in Lake Oswego, with numerous healthcare providers and specialty services available. This ensures that retirees have access to top-notch medical care close to home. Lake Oswego's high cost of living is offset by its quality of life, amenities, and beautiful setting.
Eugene
Average Cost of a Home: $478,322
Population: 176,654
Cost of Living: 6.6% higher than the US average
Eugene is an attractive city for Oregon retirement, especially if you value a vibrant community life. The city is full of parks and natural spaces, so residents stay active and enjoy the outdoors. The Willamette River, running through Eugene, provides beautiful trails and parks along its banks.
Numerous clubs and organizations focus on senior activities and interests, helping retirees stay connected and involved. Healthcare is accessible and high-quality, with several hospitals and clinics serving the community. This ensures that healthcare needs are met promptly.
Ontario
Average Cost of a Home: $290,526
Population: 11,645
Cost of Living: 19.9% lower than the US average
Ontario is one of many places that come to mind when you think of retirement destinations. But that's part of its charm. Straddling the Oregon-Idaho border, this small town offers a unique mix of cultures you won't find in your typical Oregon retirement hotspot.
The agricultural scene is where you'll find fresh, local produce. Life moves slower, which is perfect if you just want to relax. The cost of living here is low, meaning your income will go further than in many other places, so it’s one of the best places to retire in Oregon.
Roseburg
Average Cost of a Home: $351,882
Population: 23,683
Cost of Living: 10.5% lower than the US average
Roseburg, situated in Umpqua Valley, is a great place to retire in Oregon. Natural beauty and surrounding community make it perfect for those seeking a peaceful retirement. Roseburg's lush forests and hills appeal to nature-loving retirees.
A mild climate enables year-round outdoor activities, making it. Roseburg's vineyards and wineries also host tastings and events, attracting wine enthusiasts with a vibrant social and cultural scene.
A major benefit of retiring in Roseburg is its low cost of living compared to other Oregon areas. Thanks to affordable housing and reasonable expenses for healthcare, transportation, and utilities, retirees can live comfortably without straining their finances.
King City
Average Cost of a Home: $473,548
Population: 23,683
Cost of Living: 28.1% higher than the US average
King City, Oregon, is highly regarded as a top retirement destination due to its affordability, zero percent sales tax rate, and proximity to Portland's extensive amenities. The town boasts retiree-friendly features like sustainable living and easy access to top healthcare professionals.
Community spirit is strong in King City, highlighted by various events, festivals, and recreational facilities, including a golf course and hiking trails. These attributes make it one of the best places to retire in Oregon for a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Harbor
Average Cost of a Home: $499,918
Population: 4,919
Cost of Living: 0.4% lower than the US average
Harbor, located along the beautiful southern Oregon coast, offers retirees a serene, picturesque setting with a mild climate. The community is small and close-knit, providing a peaceful retirement with the benefits of ocean views and ample outdoor activities.
The cost of living in Harbor is lower compared to more urban areas, making it an affordable choice. It’s one of the best places to retire in Oregon if you’re looking to maximize retirement savings while enjoying the coastal lifestyle.
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Stewart Willis is the founder and president of Asset Preservation Wealth & Tax, a financial planning firm in Phoenix, Arizona. Investment advisory services offered through Foundations Investment Advisors, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser.
A Roth conversion may not be suitable for your situation. The primary goal in converting retirement assets into a Roth IRA is to reduce the future tax liability on the distributions you take in retirement, or on the distributions of your beneficiaries. The information provided is to help you determine whether or not a Roth IRA conversion may be appropriate for your particular circumstances. Please review your retirement savings, tax, and legacy planning strategies with your legal/tax advisor to be sure a Roth IRA conversion fits into your planning strategies.
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