5 Best West Coast Cities for Retirees To Buy a Home in 2025
If you’re planning to retire on the West Coast, there’s a lot to consider. From great healthcare and a variety of fun outdoor activities to an affordable cost of living, finding the perfect place to buy a home can feel overwhelming.
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To give you a start, GOBankingRates spoke to real estate experts to find the top five West Coast cities for retirees to buy a home in 2025.
Bend, Oregon
Number one on this list is Bend, Oregon. With the average house price sitting around $735,000, it’s a bit pricier than some other options on the West Coast. However, the lifestyle Bend offers is hard to beat, especially if you love nature.
There are an endless number of outdoor activities, such as golfing, skiing and fishing. Plus, it’s near the Cascade Mountains and has all the amenities you can enjoy in city life without the traffic or high crime. Bend has it all.
“Bend has long been appreciated for its stunning natural landscapes, recreational opportunities and slower pace of life,” said Samuel Kile, founding partner at Loyal Home Buyers. “It offers retirees a desirable mix of tranquility and activity. The real estate market in Bend provides a variety of options, from low-maintenance townhomes to spacious single-family homes, making it suitable for different needs and budgets.”
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Vancouver, Washington
Vancouver, Washington, is an affordable choice on the West Coast, with the average home price around $500,000. This area has a high number of retirees, a lower cost of living and no state income tax, making it an appealing choice for many. With recreation opportunities such as hiking, beaches, nature, art, history and tons of dining options, you won’t run out of things to do.
“Vancouver, Washington, has been seen as an increasingly popular choice for retirees due to its affordability and advantageous tax environment,” said Kile. “Vancouver provides access to a range of housing options, including affordable condos and single-family homes in peaceful neighborhoods.”
Eugene, Oregon
Eugene, Oregon, is best known for its mild climate, with cooler winters and warm summers. The area is also full of natural beauty, featuring the Cascade Mountains, forests, and rivers. If you enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, biking, or hiking, this is the perfect spot for you. The average home price in Eugene is around $465,000, and it’s a great spot for retirees who value peace, quiet and a close-knit community.
“In the center of the Willamette Valley, Eugene is a quaint city renowned for its unhurried way of life and scenic surroundings,” said Grace Chisom, real estate expert at Alberta Property Buyers. “With theaters, galleries and museums, it has a flourishing arts and culture scene. Eugene is a great choice for retirees on a tight budget because of its reasonably priced homes.”
Palm Springs, California
With an average home price of $638,000, Palm Springs, California, is a lovely place to consider retiring. With around 300 annual days of sunshine, it’s easy to enjoy the outdoors year-round. Plus, this area of California is known for its top-rated medical facilities and recreational activities like golf, tennis and hiking. There’s also a strong sense of community with the large retiree population here.
“While housing costs may be higher than in some other markets, downsizing or relocating from pricier regions like Los Angeles often makes Palm Springs an attractive option,” Kile said. “Retirees appreciate the city’s strong sense of community, bolstered by frequent events, festivals and cultural activities.”
Bellingham, Washington
Last but not least is Bellingham, Washington. This charming city located on the coast has an average home price of $652,000.
If you’re a fan of art, this is the spot for you. This thriving art scene features festivals throughout the year and multiple galleries. Plus, you can still enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, like hiking, biking and boating.
The Bottom Line
Choosing where to retire is a really exciting decision, but it can be a little stressful if you don’t know where to start. Any of these five West Coast cities would be a great choice for natural beauty, affordability and top-rated facilities.
Editor’s note: Average home prices were sourced from Zillow and are accurate as of Dec. 26, 2024.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Best West Coast Cities for Retirees To Buy a Home in 2025
