9 Oregon Coastal Towns Where You Can Actually Live on Nothing but Social Security

Dreaming of coastal living but worried your Social Security check won't cover it? Good news: you don't need a fortune to enjoy Oregon's spectacular coastline.

According to the Social Security Administration, the average monthly benefit for retired workers is $2,008.31 as of August 2025. Your benefits may be more or less, or you might share expenses with a spouse who also receives benefits or other income. Either way, you can make your dream a reality.

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves, strolling through quaint fishing villages, or spending your afternoons watching the sunset over dramatic cliffs. These nine towns offer affordable housing and plenty to enjoy while helping you keep more cash in your wallet.

Editor's note: Average rent prices are from Apartments.com, and housing costs are from Zillow.com.

Average rent: $1,307

Average home value: $477,259

Where the mighty Columbia River meets the Pacific, there you'll find Astoria. It's a little pricey, but lower-cost rentals are available. You'll be inspired by the breathtaking scenery, as well as numerous art galleries, museums like the Oregon Film Museum, and a fabulous range of dining options. Astoria is a port city with a highly walkable downtown, and the closest beach is about 20 minutes away.

Health care is available at Columbia Memorial Hospital for emergencies and general care.

Average rent: $1,118

Average home value: $488,463

Lincoln City's population is around 10,000, and since it relies heavily on tourism, the town gets busy during the summer. That also means there's plenty to see and do. Seven miles of sandy beaches are all yours. Become mesmerized by tidal pools, fly a kite, or light a campfire as the sun sets. Visit the cultural center, the historic districts for their unique shops and dining, or hike to the top of Cascade Head for spectacular views.

Lincoln City offers more services, including public transit and health care, than some other coastal towns, so if you want the coastal life without feeling isolated, this town may be for you.

Average rent: $952

Average home value: $468,707

Around 90 minutes from Portland by car or 2.5 hours by bus, Seaside is a lively beach town. You'll love the 1.5-mile promenade and gorgeous ocean views. Restaurant options seem endless, and shopping includes tax-free downtown boutiques and an outlet mall. Feed the seals at the Seaside Aquarium, and make friends at the Visitors Bureau.

Full medical services are available here. It's more connected than some coastal towns, but still retains its relaxed seaside feel.

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Average rent: $804

Average home value: $324,103

In Coos Bay, beaches aren't right outside your door. But when you get to Sunset Bay State Park or Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area & Horsfall Beach, your efforts will be generously rewarded. Go fishing one day, and visit the Coos Art Museum or The Dolphin Playhouse the next. Stroll the Coos Bay Boardwalk or relax in Mingus Park after shopping downtown. You'll never run out of things to do and see in Coos Bay.

Average rent: $779

Average home value: $460,754

If you love cheese, you'll love Tillamook. Have a free tour of the Tillamook Creamery and watch cheesemaking in action, or grab a bite in the dining hall. Other unique attractions include the Tillamook Air Museum, the Latimer Quilt & Textile Center, and the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad. The town is about 20 minutes from the beaches, which are, of course, stunning. Portland is about 90 minutes away.

There's a regional medical center for comprehensive health care and a drop-in senior center for fun, socializing, and more.

Average rent: $686

Average home value: $420,619

If you love a quiet seaside lifestyle, Florence might be for you. Spectacular sand dunes stretch 40 miles up the coast. And the historic Old Town, with its lovely shops, art galleries, museums, and restaurants, sits along the Siuslaw River. You can explore the city from a canoe or kayak, or visit the fascinating Sea Lion Caves.

In Florence, you'll never get bored. Plus, health care services are good, and Eugene is just a little over an hour away.

Average rent: $666

Average home value: $469,834

There's much to see and do in Brookings, the warmest spot on the Oregon coast. Residents enjoy whale watching, the Second Saturday Art Walk, music festivals, a golf course, and countless parks and beaches. Choose from three rivers and the Pacific Ocean if you enjoy fishing, or just kick back and enjoy life in Azalea Park.

Brookings offers good general and emergency health care, and Crescent City, California, approximately 30 minutes away, has more comprehensive services.

Average rent: $642

Average home value: $464,408

Rockaway Beach is a quiet little town surrounded by nature's beauty. You'll enjoy seven miles of accessible beaches and the Big Tree Boardwalk (also accessible), where you can admire the largest cedar tree in Oregon. Have fun at the annual kite festival, or take a scenic train ride. Of course, there's always whale watching, fishing, and tidepooling, too.

You'll find all your essentials in local shops and stores. Health care is limited, but the regional medical care center is in nearby Tillamook.

Average rent: $528

Average home value: $436,391

At the mouth of the Rogue River, you'll find Gold Beach. It's rugged and remote, with extraordinarily scenic beaches, mountains, and harbor views. Visit the Prehistoric Gardens, tour the river by boat, or go fishing for salmon or tuna. Enjoy birdwatching, crabbing, or a round of golf just outside of town.

The Community Center is a favorite, and although big-city amenities are a few hours away, Curry General Hospital is nearby.

Depending on Social Security doesn't have to mean giving up your dream of ocean breezes and seaside sunsets. You can live that life and maximize your retirement savings.

But be sure to examine all your options. Investigate health care access, and check for public transportation. What do you need for the lifestyle you're dreaming of? Then, match up your needs with what Oregon's coastal towns offer. It might be just the place to enjoy your golden years.