Medford, Oregon is gaining a reputation as one of the best places in the Pacific Northwest to retire. Nestled in the Rogue Valley of southern Oregon, Medford offers a blend of mild climate, natural beauty, and small-city convenience that appeals to many seniors. Retirees are drawn by its affordable cost of living, low-key lifestyle, and access to quality healthcare.
Cost of Living
Living in Medford is relatively affordable, especially compared to other West Coast areas. Medford’s overall cost of living is about 6% higher than the national average, but still slightly lower than Oregon’s state average. This means that while you might pay a bit more than the U.S. average for goods and services, Medford is more budget-friendly than Portland or other Oregon cities.
Housing remains reasonably priced – the typical home price in Medford is around $398,000, which is about 11% higher than the U.S. median of $338,000, yet 20% cheaper than the Oregon median home price. Renting is also reasonable – a two-bedroom apartment rents for roughly $1,260 per month, notably less than the U.S. average of $1,430.
Other everyday costs are at or below average. Groceries in Medford cost about the same as nationwide, and utility bills run lower than average (thanks in part to the temperate climate).
| Cost of Living Metric | Medford, OR | U.S. Average | Oregon Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost Index (US=100) | 106 (6% above US) | 100 | ~114 (estimate) |
| Median Home Price (2025) | ~$398,000 | ~$338,000 | ~$485,000 |
| Median 2-BR Rent (month) | $1,260 | $1,430 | $1,520 |
| Utilities Cost Index (US=100) | 89 (11% below US) | 100 | N/A |
| No State Sales Tax? | Yes | – | – |
Retirees on fixed incomes often find Medford manageable. Oregon’s lack of a sales tax means you won’t pay extra at the cash register for purchases. Many seniors also appreciate that Oregon does not tax Social Security benefits, which helps stretch retirement income further.
Safety Profile
Safety is an important concern for retirees, and Medford has a mixed picture. Violent crime in Medford is around the national average, but property crime rates are higher than average. According to recent FBI data, Medford saw about 341 violent crimes in 2023, which is a rate of roughly 400 incidents per 100,000 people.
However, property crimes (like theft, burglary, and vehicle break-ins) are relatively high in Medford. In 2023 there were over 3,300 property crimes reported, a rate of about 3,897 per 100,000 people. This is roughly 1.7 times the national average for property crime.
For retirees, it’s worth noting that most of Medford’s crime is non-violent. Taking common-sense precautions can go a long way in staying safe. Many neighborhoods in Medford are quite peaceful, and the city as a whole still feels safe compared to larger urban areas.
Housing Market
Medford’s housing market has grown significantly over the past decade. Median home prices have nearly doubled from 2010 to 2025. In 2010, the typical house cost around $220,000, whereas by 2025 the median price is about $398,000.
Despite the long-term growth, Medford’s homes remain more affordable than many other parts of Oregon. Property types in Medford cater well to retirement lifestyles. You can find plenty of single-story ranch homes and cozy bungalows, which are great for aging in place. There are also modern townhouses, condominiums, and a number of 55+ manufactured home communities for those seeking lower-maintenance living.
Recent Housing Trends
Medford experienced a housing boom followed by a cooling-off. During the early 2010s, home prices in Medford were still recovering from the late-2000s housing crash – values dipped in 2011–2013 (yearly drops of 5–13%). Starting in 2014, the market turned around and saw annual gains. From 2014 through 2019, Medford’s median home prices rose steadily, often by 5% to 10% per year.
The housing market surged in 2020–2022. In 2021, Medford’s median home price jumped by about $35,500 (nearly +12%), and 2022 saw an even larger increase of roughly $55,000 (+16%) in one year. By 2023, the trend shifted. Medford saw a slight dip in prices in 2023 (a modest -0.6% year-over-year change) as the market cooled off. In 2024 and into 2025, home prices began inching up again at a slower pace (about +0.6% in 2024 and +1.8% in 2025 year-over-year).
For retirees, these trends mean that Medford’s home values are holding strong but not skyrocketing uncontrollably at the moment.
Lifestyle and Leisure
One of Medford’s key attractions is its lifestyle – it offers a pleasant balance between relaxed and active living. Unlike bigger cities, Medford has a more low-key pace. The city scores moderately on “quietness,” meaning it’s generally peaceful without too much urban noise. Neighborhoods are calm, especially in the evenings, which many retirees appreciate.
Medford is very car-friendly. Most residents rely on cars to get around, and traffic is light to moderate. You can drive across town in 15–20 minutes, and parking is usually easy to find. For those who prefer walking, Medford has some walkable areas, especially in the downtown core and parks, but overall it’s a spread-out city.
The city boasts numerous parks – like Bear Creek Park with its walking trails and gardens, and Prescott Park on Roxy Ann Peak which offers hiking with panoramic views. The Rogue River and several lakes are nearby for fishing, boating, or rafting. With over 195 sunny days a year and only about 19 inches of annual rainfall, Medford’s climate encourages year-round outdoor activity. Summers are warm but not too extreme (average high ~85°F) and winters are mild (average high ~49°F, with very little snow).
Retirement Friendliness
Medford is often seen as a “just right” sized community for retirement – not too small, not too big. With a population around 85,000, it has the infrastructure and services of a small city, but still retains a friendly, community feel. About 18% of Medford’s residents are age 65 or older, which is a significant (and growing) segment of the population.
The city has a number of senior centers and programs – for example, the Medford Senior Center offers classes, meals, and events for older adults. Organizations like the Rogue Valley Council of Governments have resources to assist seniors with everything from transportation to meals.
Looking at broader demographics, Medford appeals to a range of age groups. It’s family-friendly (with parks and decent schools for grandkids who might visit), and it also has some appeal to younger singles and professionals. This diversity means the city isn’t solely a “retirement town” – it’s a multi-generational community.
Local clubs, volunteer organizations, and hobby groups (like gardening clubs, hiking groups, or book clubs) are active and often have many retired members. The community tends to be welcoming; people often say Medford has a “small-town feel” where neighbors look out for each other.
Demographics
- College Friendliness: 26.46
- Family Friendliness: 37.32
- Young Singles Appeal: 49.63
- Retirement Friendliness: 43.07
- First-time Homebuyer Friendliness: 10.71
- Vacation Home Appeal: 0.00
Medford, OR shows moderate appeal for young singles and retirees, yet its attractiveness for college students, families, and particularly first-time homebuyers is considerably low. The data clearly indicates it is not a destination for vacation home ownership, emphasizing a practical and permanent residential focus rather than seasonal or temporary living.
Healthcare Access
Access to good healthcare is a crucial factor for retirees, and Medford excels in this area for a city its size. It serves as the medical hub for southern Oregon, meaning residents have several high-quality healthcare facilities and specialists available locally.
The city is home to two major hospitals: Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center and Providence Medford Medical Center. These hospitals provide full-service care, including emergency services, surgery, and a range of specialties (cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, etc.). Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center is highly regarded – it has been rated as a Top 100 Hospital in the nation in recent years and was ranked among the top 10 hospitals in Oregon. U.S. News & World Report gives Rogue Regional high marks, rating it “high performing” in 8 adult procedures and conditions. Providence Medford Medical Center is also rated high performing in multiple areas (5 adult procedures/conditions).
For day-to-day medical needs, retirees will find a robust network of clinics, primary care doctors, and specialists in Medford. Healthcare access is a big draw – you typically won’t need to travel to Portland or Eugene for most treatments. The region even has a notable cancer center and heart institute affiliated with the local hospitals. For veterans, the Southern Oregon VA Clinic in White City (just outside Medford) offers many services as well.
Another plus is that Medford’s healthcare system is geared toward serving an older population in the Rogue Valley. You’ll find resources like geriatric care managers, home health agencies, and skilled nursing facilities readily available.
Tax Considerations
Taxes can significantly affect retirees, and Oregon’s tax environment is a mix of pros and cons. On the positive side, Oregon has no state sales tax. This means whether you’re buying a new appliance or just groceries, you won’t pay extra tax at the register. Additionally, Social Security income is fully exempt from Oregon state income tax.
However, Oregon does tax other forms of retirement income. Pensions, 401(k) distributions, IRA withdrawals, and any other income are generally subject to Oregon’s state income tax if you’re an Oregon resident. Oregon’s income tax rates are progressive, with a top rate of 9.9%, one of the higher rates in the nation.
Property taxes in Medford and Oregon are around the national average – roughly 0.8% of a home’s value effective rate. For a $400,000 home, property taxes might be in the range of $3,000–$4,000 per year, depending on exemptions and local levies. Oregon does have programs that allow senior homeowners (who meet certain criteria) to defer property taxes until the home is sold.
One more tax consideration: Oregon is one of a handful of states with an estate tax. If you have a very large estate (over $1 million), Oregon estate tax could be a factor.
Transportation and Accessibility
Getting around Medford is convenient, which is a big benefit for older residents. The city’s layout and infrastructure make it easy to drive and park almost anywhere. Traffic congestion is minimal – most areas are a 10-20 minute drive apart, even during peak times.
The city also has a public transportation system called RVTD (Rogue Valley Transportation District). RVTD operates bus routes around Medford and to nearby towns like Ashland, Central Point, and Jacksonville. Seniors and people with disabilities can get discounted fares, and there’s a door-to-door paratransit service for those who can’t use regular buses.
For longer travel, Medford is served by the Rogue Valley International–Medford Airport (MFR). The airport offers direct flights on major airlines to West Coast hubs like Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, as well as some seasonal flights to destinations like Denver or Phoenix.
In terms of local accessibility, Medford’s city center and shopping districts are quite senior-friendly. Sidewalks are present in most areas, and there are efforts to improve crosswalk safety and curb cuts for those with mobility aids.
Amenities and Entertainment
Medford may be mid-sized, but it doesn’t lack for things to do. The city and its surrounding area offer a rich variety of amenities and entertainment. Outdoor recreation is one of the biggest draws. Medford is surrounded by natural beauty – the Rogue River, numerous wineries, hiking trails, and parks. Fishing, bird watching, golfing, and even skiing at nearby Mount Ashland (about a 30-minute drive) are all accessible.
Within the city, parks and green spaces are plentiful. When it comes to arts and culture, Medford holds its own thanks to the influence of the nearby city of Ashland (home of the famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival) and a growing local arts scene. The Craterian Theater in downtown Medford hosts plays, concerts, and community events, including performances by the Rogue Valley Symphony and traveling shows.
The city’s downtown has undergone revitalization and features a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops. You’ll find a mix of cuisines – from classic American diners to farm-to-table eateries and some surprisingly good global fare.
For those who enjoy shopping, Medford has the Rogue Valley Mall and a charming collection of boutiques especially in downtown and nearby Jacksonville. Wineries are a big attraction in the area – the Rogue Valley and Applegate Valley vineyards have tasting rooms where you can enjoy local wines, often with live music on weekends.
Economic Stability
While many retirees are fully retired from work, some plan to work part-time or simply value living in a place with a stable economy. Medford’s economy is diverse and relatively stable. Today, the healthcare industry is the largest employer – the hospitals and medical networks employ thousands of people.
The unemployment rate in the Medford area tends to be a bit higher than the national average, but not dramatically so. As of 2025, Jackson County’s unemployment is around 5–6%, slightly above the U.S. rate (~4%).
For semi-retired individuals who might want to stay engaged in work, Medford offers several options. Many retirees pick up part-time roles in education, in healthcare, or in non-profits. Medford has a strong sense of community service – volunteering is big here, whether it’s at the hospital, food bank, or local museums.
Conclusion
Medford, Oregon combines many of the qualities that retirees seek: a comfortable climate, reasonable living costs, a strong sense of community, and access to top-notch healthcare. Its charming mix of small-town feel with enough amenities ensures that retirement here can be both relaxing and enriching. As one of the best retirement towns in Oregon, Medford offers retirees the chance to savor the Pacific Northwest’s beauty and culture without the hassle or expense of big-city life.
References
- Medford, OR Cost of Living – Best Places
- Medford, OR – Profile data – Census Reporter
- Oregon Tax Rates & Rankings – Tax Foundation
- Oregon Department of Revenue: Personal Income Tax – State of Oregon
- Medford, Oregon Total Number and Rate of Violent and Property Crimes in 2023 – Beautify Data
- Moving to Medford, OR – Best Place to Live in the U.S. in 2024 – Livability
- Medford, OR Demographics – Neilsberg
- America’s Best-in-State Hospitals 2025 – Oregon – Newsweek
- Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford, OR – U.S. News & World Report
- Providence Medford Medical Center – U.S. News & World Report
- Medford, OR | Data USA – Data USA
- What is the unemployment rate in Oregon right now? – USAFacts
- Medford, OR – Niche
