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📂 Category: Retirement Planning,Personal Finance
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Key takeaways
- Astoria, Oregon, was the first permanent American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains.
- Astoria is located about a half-hour from the end point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, making it a historically rich area.
- The Astoria metropolitan area is home to just under 16,000 people.
- Retirees may be attracted to the area’s beauty, rich history, and easy access to the outdoors. However, it is not the most affordable retirement destination.
The small coastal city of Astoria, Oregon, has a population of less than 16,000, is located at the mouth of the Columbia River, and plays a major role in the history of American expansion. Despite its modest size, Astoria offers a rich blend of beautiful surroundings, 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, the cost of living may be one of the first and most important factors. The median household income in Astoria is just under $70,000, which is just below the nationwide median income of $78,538. But at the same time, home values are above average: The median home value in Astoria is just under $475,000, which is higher than the national average of $360,727.
Note
Although higher-than-average home prices may be a deterrent, Oregon has no general sales tax or use/transaction tax.
Another thing to consider is the availability of health care. Astoria is primarily served by the Columbia Memorial Hospital Network, which includes 30 healthcare facilities in the region. For patients seeking specialized care, Portland is less than two hours away by car.
Astoria’s massive history, culture and community
Astoria was the first permanent American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. It is also the site of beautiful Victorian-era homes with views of the Columbia River and close to the Pacific Ocean.
As the location of the classic film “The Goonies,” retirees may be familiar with the charm of the seaside and may see some similarities to San Francisco or even Scandinavia.
The city’s maritime roots are still active, for example, through the Columbia River Maritime Museum, the Pacific Rim Institute of Marine Artists, and through the variety of boat tours available in the area.
The area is also an important site in early American history, housing cultural centers and events related to the indigenous people of the area as well as the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the Oregon Trail. The famous expedition westward across the country ended in the Astoria area near Fort Clatsop, which now exists as a memorial and historic site.
Known for its extreme weather, Oregon’s northern coast is home to many outdoor adventures, from windy beaches to boating and hiking trails. You may also be drawn to the charming city of Astoria itself, which has a walkable downtown.
If you’re looking for coastal living with beautiful (albeit gritty) scenery, proximity to the Pacific Ocean, and a deep sense of local and national history, you may find Astoria is the city you’re looking for in your retirement.
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