Living in Cannon Beach, Oregon [Complete Moving Guide]

Cannon Beach rests pleasantly along the northwestern coast of Oregon. A crown jewel of the state’s coastline, it’s known for its scenery and gorgeous landscapes. The area is both a distinctly vibrant and peaceful destination for locals and visitors alike. If you like the idea of settling down in a charming coastal town with breathtaking views, but don’t want to sacrifice a spirited nightlife and abundant activities, then living in Cannon Beach, Oregon may be the perfect solution. Its awe-inspiring natural environment combined with its cultural significance has made the town a well-known representative of the beauty and magic of Oregon.

If you’re considering a move to Cannon Beach, you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to tell you all about this iconic location in the PNW so you know what to expect. From local attractions and fun facts, to the pros and cons of being a permanent resident, keep reading to learn if Cannon Beach could be the perfect home for you!

What To Do In Cannon Beach, Oregon

Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, Oregon

Many people who dream of living in a coastal town are hesitant to make the jump because they’re afraid that the small-town feel will become boring with nothing to do. Luckily, Cannon Beach is anything but boring! With an abundance of shops, restaurants, museums, and recreational activities, you’ll always have access to new and exciting opportunities for culture and adventure.

Cannon Beach has always been known for its exceptionally beautiful views. The area was even awarded a spot on National Geographic’s list of “100 Most Beautiful Places” in 2013. Once a territory of the Native Tillamook Tribe, it was discovered by European travelers during the Lewis and Clark expedition. In fact, during his exploration of the area, Clark himself described his view from the western cliffs: “From this point I beheld the grandest and most pleasing prospects which my eyes ever surveyed, in my front, a boundless Ocean.” This historic peak (now known as “Clark’s Point of View”) is open to the public along one of the walking trails in Ecola State Park. You can learn more about Cannon Beach’s unique history at the Cannon Beach History Center and Museum.

There are also a variety of quaint shops, eateries, art galleries, and more located along the remarkably walkable streets. Despite the area’s fast growth and popularity, the stunning views and natural landscapes have remained as beautiful and transcendent as ever. If you choose to make the move to Cannon Beach, you’ll be able to visit any one of its beautiful beaches and extraordinary natural landmarks whenever you want. Haystack Rock, famously featured in the 1985 film The Goonies, stands tall and visible along the main beach. You can even swim up close to visit the diverse wildlife that surrounds it, including sea stars and various bird species. You can also visit Ecola State Park for outdoor activities in its many secluded coves and hiking trails.

Whether you’re interested in its vibrant nightlife and cultural centers or its iconic scenery, you’ll never run out of things to do in Cannon Beach.

Moving to Cannon Beach, Oregon: Facts & Figures

When it comes to understanding the unique and charming ambiance that makes Cannon Beach so special, you’ll have to experience it in person. However, you can still learn a lot from getting more familiar with the town by the numbers. Here are a few key facts and figures about Cannon Beach that you might want to consider:

  • As of 2020, Cannon Beach had a population of 1,768.
  • The town has a median age of 49.1.
  • The cost of living has an index rating of 139.7.
  • The median income of Cannon Beach residents is $44,432 with an average home price of $710,500.
  • Cannon Beach has a cool marine climate, with an average of 92 inches of rain per year.
  • The largest industries in Cannon Beach are accommodation and food services, healthcare and social assistance, and retail trade.
  • Cannon Beach is just 90 minutes from Portland.

The Pros & Cons of Living in Cannon Beach, Oregon

Hiking in Cannon Beach, Oregon

Like any place, Cannon Beach offers both advantages and disadvantages to its residents. Before you move anywhere, it’s a good idea to get a feel for both the bad and the good involved in any spot. Here are some of the main pros and cons of moving to Cannon Beach, Oregon:

Pros

  • You’ll never get tired of the gorgeous natural environment. If one thing is abundantly clear, Cannon beach is a beautiful place to live. From dense forests to breathtaking beaches, you’re just a short walk away from some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. And it’s not just pretty views either, there are also endless activities and opportunities for outdoor recreation if you’re looking for a bit of adventure.
  • It has a quintessential beach-town feel. For those who prefer a sprawling city to a small town, this may turn out to be a downside. But for others who are looking to embrace small-town beach life with all that it entails, from a warm local community to quaint antique stores and fresh seafood restaurants, to relaxing daily strolls along the shore, it couldn’t be a more perfect location.
  • It’s extremely walkable. One of the best parts of living in Cannon Beach, especially if you live near the city center, is that you rarely have to drive. You can spend all day checking out local businesses, visiting the town’s many art centers and museums, and walking down to the beach without ever having to get in your car.

Cons

  • It can get pretty busy in the summer. Because Cannon Beach is so famous for its stunning views and amenities, it’s no wonder people love visiting from out of town. This can cause occasional crowds and can definitely take a toll on the parking situation. However, it’s rarely busy enough to bother the locals, and most people save their trips for the summer months when the weather is nice.
  • Cost of living is high. The cost of living in Cannon Beach is 39.7% higher than the national average, so having access to all the beauty that Cannon Beach has to offer will cost you a pretty penny.
  • You might want to bring an umbrella. The PNW is well-known for its rainy weather, so it’s no surprise that Cannon Beach averages about 185 rainy days a year. However, it’s worth noting that most days just bring a light drizzle and all that moisture mixed with the trees and surrounding ocean helps to keep the air fresh and cool.

Let Us Help You Make the Move to Cannon Beach, Oregon

Are you considering a move to Cannon Beach? The area is truly one of a kind and offers too many advantages to count! Regardless of where you choose to call home, one thing is certain: moving can be stressful. But it doesn’t always have to be. If you’re thinking about moving to Cannon Beach, or any other place in the PNW, why not let us handle the heavy lifting and frustrating logistics so you can have more time to explore your new home? West Coast Moving offers detailed support and storage services to make your move as simple and stress-free as possible!

Contact us today to get a free consultation and get more info about our services!