7 Safest Towns In Oregon For Senior Living

When it comes to choosing a place to call home, safety is one of the most significant factors, especially for retirees seeking peace of mind, and Oregon, with a violent crime rate below the U.S. rate, delivers on that. Places like Lake Oswego and Ashland show what that looks like on the ground, pairing low violent crime with strong senior services and reliable access to care. In the article below, we will explore towns in Oregon that are safe for seniors, based on real-world data including proximity to emergency services, crime rates, senior living facilities, walkability, and community programs for the elderly. Here is a list of the 7 safest towns in Oregon for senior living.

Lake Oswego

Located to the south of Portland, Lake Oswego is well-known for its safety and exceptional public services. According to the FBI crime database, the crime rate in Lake Oswego is lower than the national and Oregon averages, with fewer than 25 violent crimes per year. The Lake Oswego Adult Community Center (ACC) offers a range of services for seniors, including the Senior Law Project, which provides legal advice and services to retirees. The center also offers monthly services, including Senior Grocery Shopping and the Senior Scholar Program (free academic classes for older adults).

Local cafes such as La Provence Boulangerie and Patisserie and the Babica Hen Cafe are a great place to grab brunch, spend the weekend with friends, or enjoy a hearty meal in your own company. For fun, retirees can head to the Lake Theater & Cafe, which has been open since 1940 and has regular movie showings, or head to Millennium Plaza Park for a stroll.

Ashland

Like Lake Oswego, Ashland, located in Jackson County, has low rates of violent crimes and declining property crimes as reported by the FBI database. The area is known for its strong community vibe and is considered one of the best places to retire in Oregon. For seniors in the area, Asante Ashland Community Hospital provides 24/7 emergency care. Additionally, the Ashland Senior Center offers several programs for retirees in the area focused on fitness, education, the arts, and fun.

The town has several fun events worth attending, such as the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the town's premier event, which attracts thousands of visitors annually. Ashland is also well-loved for Lithia Park, a 100-acre park that features sand volleyball and pickleball courts, picnic areas, and waterfalls. The North Mountain Park Nature Center is another excellent spot for a stroll, especially for dog owners.

McMinnville

McMinnville has lower crime rates than the national average, and property crime rates are also declining. Willamette Valley Medical Center is where residents go to seek both specialty and emergency care. Most residential areas have low-speed mandates, and the downtown area is extremely walkable for seniors.

For residents looking for things to do and see, the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is a great attraction. There are several wineries dotted throughout the Willamette Valley, which make for excellent day trips. In fact, A Vineyard Wine Tour offers private, full-day tours that are educational and fun. Lastly, the Chegwyn Farms Neighborhood Park is a great spot for a troll. The park's farm theme celebrates the town’s agricultural history.

Newberg

According to the FBI crime database, Newberg has low rates of violent crime. From April to October, the Newberg sky is filled with hot air balloons launched from the Sportsman Airpark. It is a great adventure for retirees and a wondrous sight to witness. Culturally, Newberg has a lot to offer seniors. With a Newberg Cultural Pass, retirees can enjoy free entry to local and nearby attractions such as the Evergreen Space and Aviation Museum, and the Oregon Garden. The Chehalem Aquatic Center is the spot for retirees looking for relaxation and exercise. The Center boasts a swimming pool, sauna, and hot tubs. Furthermore, Friendsview is a privately owned retirement community in Newberg that partners with the community to bring all the above to its senior residents.

Sherwood

Sherwood, located in Washington County, Oregon, has no reports of aggravated assault, burglary, or homicide in the past five years, making it a very safe place to settle down. One of the town's best features for retirees is the Marjorie Stewart Senior Community Center. The Center is a great place for retirees to mingle, find support, learn, exercise, play, or enjoy a scrumptious meal. Another excellent option for seniors is the Springs at Sherwood, which offers assisted living, memory care services, and independent living. At the heart of Sherwood is the historic Old Town, dotted with specialty and antique shops and charming buildings. Every summer, the town hosts the Cruisin’ Sherwood car show, and also puts on the Sherwood Robin Hood Festival. Sherwood also boasts seven vineyard estates perfect for wine tastings and tours.

Central Point

Like Sherwood, Central Point has had very few violent crimes or property theft in the past five years, according to the FBI crime database. It is a quiet, community-oriented town that is fairly close to larger cities such as Medford for day trips. The town was named for its location in the heart of the Rogue Valley. It is well known as the home of the Rogue Creamery, a renowned cheese factory.

The town is also located very close to the deepest lake in the United States, Crater Lake, which is also Oregon’s only national park. For seniors interested in moving here, the Central Point Retirement Community offers affordable housing options for retirees with views of Mount McLoughlin and Table Rock.

Canby

Canby is renowned for its lush gardens bursting with vibrant seasonal flowers, making it a great little town for seniors with a green thumb looking to retire in a beautiful, natural setting that is quiet and welcoming. The town has had very few reports of assault, burglary, or homicide in the past five years and is, therefore, extremely safe. With so many lush blooms in sight, it is no wonder the town is best known for its annual Canby Dahlia Festival.

Hope Village is a 46-acre senior retirement community in Canby, roughly 30 minutes from Portland, Oregon. This quaint and safe retirement community offers residents 62 and over a choice of homes, cottages, or apartments, along with full lawn and home maintenance services, and it has excellent walking paths amidst a well-maintained yet natural landscape.

Retiring With Peace Of Mind In Oregon

The seven towns listed above are small, close-knit communities that welcome retirees with open arms. These tucked-away towns prioritise healthcare accessibility, senior-friendly programs, and above all else, safety. Each town offers its residents natural beauty, abundant recreational opportunities, and rich culture without compromising security. From Lake Oswego’s thoughtful senior programs to Newberg’s cultural pass, each town has its own unique offerings. For retirees seeking a slower-paced, quieter lifestyle with services they can trust, the seven small towns in Oregon listed above are a great place to start.