Things to Know About Living in Seaside Oregon

If you’ve lived in or near the greater Portland area, you know the many advantages of living in the big city. It offers excellent food, plenty of social and cultural opportunities, and access to lots of outdoor spaces. But there are also good reasons to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

If you’ve been thinking about moving to the coast, Seaside, Oregon, is a great option. You can still enjoy many advantages of being in a city, like great food and cultural activities. But you’ll leave behind rush hour traffic and have access to the beautiful Pacific Ocean year-round.

Explore life in this welcoming coastal town – and discover the best places to live in Seaside, Oregon!

What is it Like Living in Seaside, Oregon?

Many interesting and inviting towns dot Oregon’s scenic coastline. But Seaside offers the easiest transition for someone moving from a larger city.

Sandy stretches of beautiful, windswept beach are available to explore within walking distance. Yet you’ll also find all the modern conveniences you need in Seaside. From outlet shops to art galleries, fast-food restaurants to fine dining, surf shops to cycle shops, and more, many of Seaside’s main attractions are right off Oregon Coast Highway 101, which runs through town.

But the stand out is the famous Seaside Boardwalk, where both tourists and locals head for fun and entertainment. Although the boardwalk shops and arcades are much busier in the summer, you can find plenty of activities, shows, food, and special events along this popular Seaside destination at almost any time of the year.

If you’re looking for ways to get out and enjoy the beach each day, you’ll find bike paths, walking paths, and miles of sand, perfect for an early morning run or a sunset stroll.

With a population of just over 7,200, it’s easy to see why many people choose to leave big city living for the slower pace offered in Seaside. On average, you can expect a daily commute of just 19 minutes in Seaside, compared to a national average of 26. And classroom sizes are much smaller here, averaging 21.4 students per teacher in Seaside’s local schools.

Cost of Living in Seaside, Oregon

According to recent research data, the overall average cost of living in the state of Oregon is 124.4. Far below that average, Seaside comes in with an overall cost of living score of 105.1. When compared to the national average cost of living, Seaside ranks 5.1% above the national average. However, housing costs are on par if not lower than other nearby cities like Portland and Seattle, with the average median home cost at just over $300,000.

Average rent prices for a 2-bedroom home in the greater Seaside area are about $866—substantially less than some other popular metro areas in Oregon. So, depending on your needs and income, you may rent or purchase a home for a fraction of the cost that you could expect in Portland.

Preparing for Winter in Seaside, Oregon

If you are unfamiliar with the Pacific Northwest, winters are mild and feature lots of rainfall as you move into spring.

While Seaside is located along the Pacific Ocean, you won’t find many scorching hot days on the beach here after mid-September. The weather can change quickly on the Oregon coast, but it shouldn’t be too difficult if you’re prepared to go with the flow. On average, you can expect temperatures in the 60s throughout the fall and spring months and high temperatures reaching the mid-90s in the summer. The winter months stay very mild by Midwest standards, with an average daily temp dipping into the 50s or 40s during the harsher winter days.

For many people, the most enjoyable months in Seaside are July, August, and September; the coast’s wet and wild weather comes in December and January. If you are familiar with the winter weather in Portland, Seaside and much of the Oregon coast often fluctuate by about 10 degrees warmer or cooler most of the time.

Pros & Cons of Living in Seaside, Oregon 

It’s helpful to know some essential things about a new town before moving. Let’s sum up the top pros and a few cons to consider if you’re thinking of living in Seaside, Oregon:

Advantages

Beautiful setting: The Oregon coast’s spectacular natural setting is second to none. And Seaside’s beaches offer unparalleled stretches of sandy beauty to walk, run and explore year-round. Getting outdoors is easy to do and adds to quality of life.

Easy lifestyle: Coastal living moves at a slower, more relaxed pace. And a smaller community lets you get to know your neighbors.

Amenities: While being a coastal town, Seaside is large enough to provide services, including stores and necessities associated with city living. Shopping, outlet stores, restaurants, and healthcare are available to meet your daily needs.

Commute/Access: The direct route from Seaside to Portland via Hwy 26 offers an easy 1½ hour commute to big city amenities and services when needed. Seaside is also a terrific Oregon Coast home base, providing access to coastal points north and south, from Astoria to Banning, that open a world of exploration.

Disadvantages

Small town: Being a smaller city comes with drawbacks. While Seaside does offer food, shopping, and entertainment, choices are much more limited than in a big city.

Healthcare: Seaside has local providers and a 25-bed hospital to meet medical needs. However, medical emergencies or health issues that require specialists may be better met in Portland or other larger cities.

Weather: Oregon coast weather can be rainy, gray, and stormy, even in the middle of summer. On the flip side, there are mid-winter days with blue skies, sunshine, and not a puff breeze. Making beach plans can be tricky. You have to be ready for anything!

Contact Priority Moving Today

If you’re ready to move to Seaside, Oregon to enjoy the many benefits of living on the coast and are looking for reliable movers, we’re here to help. Priority Moving is Oregon’s trusted moving company, offering experience you can count on. Our team of professional, licensed movers will pack, load, and unpack your household with care, transporting you to the Oregon Coast safely, efficiently, and stress-free.

Have questions about moving to Seaside? Call us at (503) 544-7972 to speak with one of our friendly coastal moving specialists, or request a quote online to get your move started today.