Hood river : Oregon

What Hood River is like for active adults
If you are looking for a retirement community and you are also an outdoors person, Hood River, Oregon might be the ideal place for you. Located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Hood River is also one of the world's premiere wind surfing spots due to the high winds generated by the gorge and its 4,000-foot cliffs. The Lewis and Clark Trail, Multnomah Falls, and Mount Hood appeal to other outdoor adventurers. Other local attractions for active adults 55 plus include visiting orchards and vineyards. The population is just over 5,800, although over 20,000 people live in the area.

If you are active and like being around like-minded folks, Hood River has much to like as a retirement community. Its economy is strong thanks to tourism and the popularity of Oregon’s climate and atmosphere. Tourism  also provides seasonal jobs for retirees who are interested. There are many nice outdoor shops and good restaurants in the downtown.

Housing choices as you get away from the river often have stunning views. Architecture tends to the Victorians and Craftsmens. There do not appear to be many apartments or developments for active adults. According to the local MLS the average selling price in February 2009 was about $249,000, down 15% from the year earlier period. Condos are available from about $140,000, but those with great views will approach $400,000. Homes tend to go from about $350,000 to over a million. The hottest properties are those with river views and walkable to town. Property taxes are assessed at $16 per $1000 assessed value. State law restricts annual property tax increases to 3%.

Hood River is located in Hood River County. The city of Portland is about 60 miles away.

For a list of profiles of over 400 cities and towns go to retirement community reviews.  Use this link for information on taxes and what it is like to retire in Oregon. Here is our review of Bend or Eugene as retirement communities.
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What is special about this retirement community
• Wonderful scenic and recreational activities • Views of Mount Hood  • Wind surfing capital of the world • Blossom Festival • Harvest Fest • Charming downtown by the river • The International Museum of Carousel Art • Oregon Cascades Birding Trail • Farmers Market • NY Times article on Hood River
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What is not special about this retirement community
Not for those looking for an urban environment. Hood River is a bit seasonal.
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What kinds of people like retiring here
Active adults will like living here because of its beautiful natural surroundings and a vital and prosperous downtown. There is a strong economic base with ample opportunities for work. Baby boomers who especially enjoy outdoor living will love it here.
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Local economy is driven by
Tourism, education
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Climate and Physical Environment
Hood River is located on the Columbia River near Portland. The terrain is hilly as you leave the river and rises to major mountains such as Mount Hood and Mt. Saint Helens
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Cultural environment
There are several museums in the area, including the International Museum of Carousel Art and a Historical Museum. The Columbia Center for the Arts presents plays and other cultural events. The community has a number of festivals and other events through the year to make for a lively scene.
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Medical facilities
The Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital is here
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Transportation
Portland International Airport is 74 miles away. There is a bus station.
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Facts about HOOD RIVER
  • State: OR
  • Environment: Mountains,Small Town,
  • City Population: Less than 10,000
  • Median age of Population: 25-44
  • Avg Jan Temperature: 21-40
  • Median HH Income: 20,001-40,000
  • Average Home Price (MLS): $200,001-$300,000
  • Annual Property Tax on a $200,000 house: 2000-4000
  • Total Crime Index: 81-90 (low)
  • Cost of Living Index: 101-110 (slightly above average)
  • Culture Index: 81-90 (low)
  • State Sales Tax: No
  • State Income Tax: Yes
  • Name of the Guide: jfb

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1. Overall Retirement Ratings Discuss

1. Rating: 4.0/5 ( 3 votes cast)

2. Expense:
Inexpensive to Luxury Discuss

2. Rating: 2.5/5 ( 2 votes cast)

3. Taxes:
Inexpensive to Expensive Discuss

3. Rating: 3.3/5 ( 3 votes cast)

4. Culture:
None to Cosmopolitan Discuss

4. Rating: 3.5/5 ( 2 votes cast)

5.Recreation:
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5. Rating: 3.5/5 ( 2 votes cast)

6. Transportation:
Boondocks to World Hub Discuss

6. Rating: 2.0/5 ( 1 vote cast)

7. Security:
Dangerous to Ft. Knox Discuss

7. Rating: 3.3/5 ( 3 votes cast)

8. Medical Facilities:
None to Excellent Discuss

8. Rating: 2.5/5 ( 2 votes cast)

9. Political Situation:
Conservative to Liberal Discuss

9. Rating: 4.0/5 ( 1 vote cast)

10. Environmental:
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10. Rating: 5.0/5 ( 1 vote cast)