12 Best Places To Retire On The Pacific Coast
Viewing the US map, the Pacific Coast appears to be relatively small compared to the country's enormous landmass, and some may be surprised to learn the Pacific Coast only consists of five states: Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington. Despite this, well over 54 million residents call the region home.
Aside from year-round mild weather, there are several advantages to retiring on the Pacific Coast, including access to world-class outdoor recreational activities, cultural attractions, and, as we will see, affordable housing options in certain towns. This article will explore the 12 best places to retire on the Pacific Coast.
Eureka, California
Starting off the list is Eureka. Located 270 miles north of San Francisco, this stunning port city boasts a population of over 26,000 and offers a wide range of places to see and things to do.
One such place is Redwood National and State Parks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and network of federal and state parks, spanning 139,000 acres. The park is home to nearly half of all remaining coastal redwoods in the US, which once covered two million acres in the Pacific area. But after aggressive logging during the Gold Rush years, much of the forest diminished. Luckily for seniors in Eureka, they will have year-round access to these wondrous trees, some of which are known to grow 350 feet tall.
For a different option, consider traversing the 175-year-old Old Town, a historic district spanning 350 acres and home to 154 vintage buildings, mostly Victorian. Among these storied buildings are the Clarke Historical Museum, a bookstore, and the local favorite Gazebo Fountain.
To make Eureka your dream retirement town, average house prices cost $425 K according to Zillow.
Barstow, California
Barstow is a small town with just 25,000 people, but as the saying goes, "big things come in small packages." Thanks to the lack of light pollution, residents here experience ethereal stargazing opportunities thanks to minimal light pollution amid the tranquil desert.
The days aren't too shabby either, thanks to Outlets at Barstow—an expansive mall that provides countless designer stores and a lively eatery to fulfill your taste buds. Another option, a few minutes away, lies Dana Park, where you can indulge in a friendly tennis match, catch some shade under a tree, or relish a savory outdoor BBQ.
While many struggle to find affordable homes in California, Barstow grants spacious homes at an average price of $289.5 K. Not bad, considering the $1.2 million average price tag in major cities like Los Angeles.
Crescent City, California
This town is aptly named after a crescent-shaped shore. In any case, Crescent City offers prospective retirees much more than just a shape. This town is nothing short of a nature lover's paradise as residents here embrace a variety of thrilling outdoor activities, such as horseback riding near the beach, whale watching, seeing tidepools, and hiking through forests. One of the more popular parks is Beachfront Park, a waterfront spot with a sandy shoreline and vast green recreational spaces. Not to be outdone, the latter also features a heritage-rich lighthouse and a scenic pier.
To truly appreciate the stunning geography of the area, the nearby Crescent Beach Overlook provides mesmerizing ocean views from a wooden observation deck. If you're lucky, you may even observe passing whales from afar.
If this town has piqued your interest, you're in luck. The median sold home price for April was just $265 K per Realtor's data, in what is currently a buyer's market.
Ocean Shores, Washington
Coastal city? Check. Oceanic climate? Check. Scenic views? Also check. The scope and magnitude of Ocean Shores' wild adventures cannot be overstated. Retiring here grants access to 14 trails and parks, including the highly acclaimed Ocean Shores Beach and Pacific Paradise tourist attraction.
The first spot is a favorite among horseback riders who frequent the coastline amid the crashing waves, while the latter, Pacific Paradise, is a family-friendly amusement center that features two mini golf courses, bumper boats, and a thrilling arcade for games.
For a less touristy beach, Copalis Beach—fondly known to locals as "Home of the Razor Clam"— presents stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, making it the perfect spot to escape all the noise of cities and treat yourself to some peace and solitude.
Making Ocean Shores your dream retirement town will require an investment of $ 355 K.
Port Angeles, Washington
Port Angeles has been inhabited by the indigenous Klallam people for around 3,000 years. This rich history can be attributed to the area's strategic location and rich natural resources. Today, Port Angeles remains a vibrant community with access to some of the finest parks in the nation.
For example, this town is considered one of the main gateways to Olympic National Park thanks to its proximity of 7.2 miles. The latter encompasses more than 922,000 acres and is famous for its dense forests, glaciers, beaches, and stunning mountain peaks, attracting roughly 2.95 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited parks globally.
Conversely, if you're seeking something within the city, Ediz Hook Park is filled with breathtaking shorelines, beaches, and picturesque mountains.
Given all the perks of living in Port Angeles and its natural scenery, typical home prices cost $456 K according to Zillow.
Coos Bay, Oregon
Coos Bay was previously included in my article "Best College Towns on the Pacific Coast." While it remains one of the top college towns, retirees can also enjoy a fruitful life in Coos Bay.
A quick journey away will take you to Shore Acres State Park, a captivating place to witness dramatic cliffs and experience colorful botanical gardens with serene walking paths. The park also lights up during the holidays to celebrate the season.
Not to be outdone, the Coos Bay Boardwalk is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely walk with waterfront views while witnessing a plethora of historic plaques. And, for extra measure, the boardwalk features a delicious seafood market to get a taste of the town's local cuisine.
Finally, explore your creative side at the Coos Art Museum—the venue has rotating exhibits to ensure something new and provides art classes for those seeking to learn a new hobby.
According to Realtor, median listing homes are priced at $ 390 K.
Astoria, Oregon
Astoria is one of the oldest towns in the Pacific Northwest. Its name can be traced back to John Jacob Astor, who established Fort Astoria amid the fur trade and, before that, Native Americans who lived here. One of the biggest benefits of retiring in Astoria is its endless restaurants and art galleries located in its walkable downtown.
For example, Commercial Street hosts The Art Stall art gallery, ARTstoria Gallery, and the Silver Salmon Grille, where you can indulge yourself in Oregon's world-famous seafood. A short distance away stands Astoria Nordic Heritage Park, showcasing unique sculptures, signs, and railings influenced by Nordic culture and Astoria's maritime history.
A brief stroll will take you to Exchange Street, where the famous Flavel House Museum stands. This dreamy mansion once belonged to George Flavel, an Irish-American entrepreneur who became one of the region's first millionaires. The mansion features vintage furniture, vintage woodwork, and a lush garden. Pop culture fans may remember this house, as it was featured in the 1985 adventure-comedy movie "The Goonies."
Realtor's latest figures show that the median sold home price was $490 K for April 2025.
Brookings, Oregon
Prefer spending time with yourself? You'll make the most of Brookings. The closest major city to Brookings is 75 miles away, and the nearest town (Harbor) is an unincorporated community, allowing individuals in their golden years to relish a quiet and peaceful life.
Brookings' most significant advantage is its breathtaking scenery, sea stacks off the coast, and endless outdoor opportunities. The Chetco Point Park is one of many parks featuring panoramic overlooks with coastal trails. Additionally, it's also a local favorite to savor a relaxing outdoor picnic.
Alternatively, Sunset Point provides an excellent lookout with fewer people around. And as its name suggests, the sunsets here are nothing short of enchanting—for those yearning to stay the night, Harris Beach State Park Campground is an eight-minute walk away, where you can sleep to the sound of waves amid the pine trees and fresh crisp air of nature.
Based on 246 homes for sale in the area, a typical home costs $609.5 K, with prices ranging from $38 K to $ 3.6 M.
Kailua, Hawaii
Can't get enough of the ocean? Kailua is calling your name. Notable beaches here include Castles Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Kailua Beach Park. The latter is famous for its soft, velvety sand and crystal blue waters. What's more, it features amenities like restrooms, outdoor showers, and shaded spots to cool down to maximize comfort.
A short nine-minute drive away is the Kawainui Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, ideal for observing native birds in the vast green landscape and enjoying a refreshing jog or bike ride. The nearby mountains and casual wildlife sightings are therapeutic and an excellent spot to test your photography skills.
Finally, stop by the Kaneohe Klipper Golf Course and treat yourself to panoramic views as you take a swing and fill your lungs with the fresh coastal breeze. The prices are reasonable, and members are welcoming, making the course an excellent spot to network and meet new friends.
To retire in the Aloha State, the median sold home price in Kailua, according to Realtor, costs $1.4 M, with listings ranging from $439 K to $ 50 M.
Lihue, Hawaii
Lihue is the primary commercial and government center on Kauai, yet it still maintains a small-town charm. For instance, Ahukini Recreational Pier State Park is widely acclaimed by different community groups, where animal lovers can rejoice at the abundance of stray cats, sea turtles, and fish near the ocean, while runners and hikers utilize the park for a picturesque jog while getting their steps in. And finally, opacarophiles (people who love sunsets) frequent the area for killer views of the sky once twilight kicks in.
15 minutes away is the 128-year-old Ninini Point Lighthouse, standing 86 feet tall to provide jaw-dropping photographs of the rugged coastline.
To fully appreciate Hawaii's geography, immerse yourself in the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge, a lush rainforest with rare native birds, stunning waterfalls, and towering mountains. To date, the area is closed to the public, but it can still be accessed through authorized guided tours like the Da Life Outdoors agency.
While Hawaii's real estate market tends to be expensive, Realtor's data indicates median sale prices in Lihue stand at a modest $ 725 K.
Hilo, Hawaii
Hilo boasts a little of everything: excellent cuisine, outdoor adventures, scenic hikes, and much more. The Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine and Kuhio Grille serve mouthwatering dishes, with the latter known for having some of the best miso butterfish specials in a warm and welcoming environment. Next, a visit to Coconut Island will make you forget all your worries as you bask in the sun and relish the calm blue waters of the Aloha State, with swimming and snorkeling both serving as popular pastimes. The park offers top-notch views of Hilo Bay, a crescent-shaped bay with plenty of calendar-worthy photo opportunities.
Finally, Hilo is home to the Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo—the only rainforest zoo in America—giving visitors an exclusive chance to witness 80 different animal species, 40 different plants, and 12 acres of land to explore the rare zoo. The establishment features mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles.
To retire here, homebuyers can expect to pay $650 K, with homes ranging from $225 K to $ 650 K.
Homer, Alaska
This list would not be complete without at least one town from the Last Frontier state. And what better town to choose than the town known as the "Halibut Fishing Capital of the World."
Aside from the massive halibuts one can catch, which in some instances weigh over 100 pounds, retiring in Homer grants one of the most unique places on Earth to settle down, where the rugged wilderness of Alaska can be viewed every day.
The Homer Spit is one such spot to witness Alaska's unparalleled beauty, where you can observe eagles soar over the sky, enjoy a kayaking session through guided tours, or browse one of many local shops, such as Homer's Goldmine Gifts & Fine Jewlery—offering Alaskan souvenirs, vintage clothes, and a wide array of quirky merchandise to gift your loved ones.
Not too far from the shop lies Ptarmigan Arts, an art gallery housing a treasure trove of art and handcrafted items. Unlike other galleries, the pieces here reflect the Last Frontier's unique geography, culture, and history. Whether you end up getting a ceramic mug, painting, or woven textile, each piece tells a story.
Given Alaska's remote position, a typical home in Homer costs $379 K per Zillow, making Homer one of the best and most affordable places to live on this list.
Final thoughts
Suffice it to say, states in the Pacific Region offer prospective retirees endless opportunities to get out and relish the region's mild climate. Whether it's the crystal-clear blue waters of Hawaii, the sea stacks in Brookings, or proximity to the UNESCO-designated Redwood National and State Parks, each town presented has its unique benefits and reasonably priced real estate markets to enrich your golden years.
