Astoria, Oregon

Astoria sits at the mouth of the Columbia River, and just happens to be the first American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. It’s where I call home, and it has my whole heart. It’s famous for being the site of several films, most notably The Goonies, Short Circuit, and Kindergarten Cop (just to name a few!). With a population of around 10,000, Astoria offers a wide array of amenities while maintaining is undeniable small-town charm.

What I love about it:

Astoria is undeniably gorgeous. You can’t help but fall in love with the beautiful Columbia River, dotted with ships and fishing boats, and teaming with wildlife like sea lions, sea birds, and sometimes even a whale! Astoria is has a ton of restaurants, and is home to seven craft breweries. My favorites are Restaurant Daphne, Fort George Brewery, Peter Pan Market & Deli, Bowpicker Fish & Chips, El Jarocho, The Portway, Inferno Lounge, Buoy Beer Co, Obelisk Beer Co, The Columbian Theater, Brut Wine, and The Rusty Cup. My favorite outdoor spaces include Shively Park, The Cathedral Trail, the Astoria Riverwalk (on the East end), and Youngs River Falls. If you don’t mind steep hills, Astoria is incredibly walkable, and very dog-friendly!

What’s the housing market like?

As of August 2024, the average home price in Astoria is $565,000. Homes here tend to be historic (especially if you want a view of the Columbia River), with newer homes on the sunnier South Slope. Buyers should expect to compete with multiple offers, and anticipate lots of yearly maintenance due to damp weather and coastal windstorms.