Part 1 of 4: Introduction & Southern Communities (Yachats & Waldport)

Buying a Home on the Central Oregon Coast

Discovering Lincoln County's stunning 60-mile shoreline from Yachats to Lincoln City

Welcome to Lincoln County's Central Coast

Lincoln County stretches over 60 miles along Oregon's central coast, encompassing some of the state's most diverse and captivating coastal communities. Known as "The Heart of the Oregon Coast," this region offers everything from dramatic oceanfront properties to peaceful riverside retreats, all within two hours of Portland and an hour from the I-5 corridor.

From Yachats in the south to Lincoln City in the north, the coastline encompasses the communities of Lincoln City, Gleneden Beach, Depoe Bay, Newport, South Beach, Seal Rock, Waldport, and Yachats. The region boasts natural wonders from Cascade Head and Cape Perpetua to the lush evergreen forests of the Coast Range.

Why Buy on the Central Oregon Coast?

Unlike California and Washington coastal properties, Oregon's central coast remains remarkably affordable while delivering unmatched scenic beauty. The state's unique public beach access laws ensure that all Oregon coastline remains open to everyone, making this one of the most desirable coastal destinations in the nation.

Lincoln County features more state parks and public waysides than any other Oregon county, offering endless opportunities for beach walks, whale watching, lighthouse exploring, fishing, crabbing, and storm watching. Communities support thriving fishing and tourism industries while providing modern amenities, healthcare, shopping, and dining.

2025 Market Snapshot

Lincoln County's real estate market has undergone a significant transformation in 2025. After years of seller-dominated markets with bidding wars and lightning-fast sales, the region has shifted to a buyer's market, creating remarkable opportunities.

What This Means for You: Buyers now have time to be selective, negotiate effectively, and find properties that meet exact criteria. The pressure of instant decisions and overbidding has eased considerably, while property values continue trending upward long-term—suggesting current conditions may represent an excellent entry point.

Your Local Real Estate Partner

Advantage Real Estate, located at 205 East Olive Street in Newport, stands as Lincoln County's premier locally-owned agency. Their experienced team serves all of Lincoln County with unmatched local expertise, providing comprehensive access to every property listing from every Lincoln County realtor in one convenient location.

Their dedicated agents understand the nuances of each coastal community, from market dynamics to coastal property considerations like ocean-view premiums, flood zones, weather impacts, and community-specific regulations. This local knowledge proves invaluable throughout your home buying journey.

Yachats: The Gem of the Oregon Coast

Yachats (pronounced "YAH-hots") derives its name from the Chinook Indian word meaning "dark waters at the foot of the mountain." This small resort town of around 700 residents has earned a reputation as Oregon's premier coastal destination, combining dramatic oceanfront scenery with a vibrant artistic community.

Yachats Real Estate Profile

Yachats commands the highest prices in Lincoln County, with an average listing price of $559,000. Properties range from $49,500 (lots) to $2.7 million (luxury homes), with 66 active listings averaging $417 per square foot. The market features everything from charming historic oceanfront cottages to sophisticated modern homes with panoramic Pacific views.

The real estate landscape includes both oceanfront properties and riverside treasures along the picturesque Yachats River that winds through the heart of town. Following Yachats River Road eastward leads to tranquil countryside in the Pacific Coast Range, offering working farms, spacious acreage, undeveloped land, vacation rental opportunities, and private homes surrounded by Oregon's lush forests.

What Makes Yachats Special

Yachats offers exceptional natural beauty with pristine beaches, proximity to Cape Perpetua, and a slower pace that attracts buyers seeking the perfect blend of natural splendor and cultural richness. The town embraces an artistic atmosphere with galleries, intimate dining, and a close-knit community spirit.

Residents enjoy easy access to hiking trails, beach exploration, and river recreation. The combination of natural beauty, small-town atmosphere, and strategic location makes Yachats real estate particularly attractive to discerning buyers seeking a permanent residence, vacation property, or investment opportunity.

Explore Yachats Properties with Advantage Real Estate

Waldport: Where the Forest Meets the Sea

True to its motto, Waldport sits at the junction of lush coastal forests and sandy Pacific beaches, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with excellent value.

Waldport Real Estate Profile

Waldport provides more affordable coastal living compared to neighboring Yachats, with diverse options from ocean-view homes to properties along the Alsea Bay and River. The town offers everything from beach bungalows to architecturally unique properties with panoramic ocean views and separate studios or workshops.

Many properties feature hillside locations providing both privacy and close beach access. The diverse market includes waterfront homes with docks, forested properties, and homes near town amenities.

What Makes Waldport Special

Waldport excels in outdoor recreation—windsurfing, kayaking, boating, fishing, crabbing, hiking, and cycling are all readily accessible. The Alsea Bay ranks in Oregon's top five for annual recreational usage, making this a haven for water enthusiasts.

The town features a family-friendly golf course, skateboard park, and antique stores, creating something for everyone. The Alsea Bay Bridge provides a picturesque gateway to the community, and the Alsea Bay Interpretive Center offers insights into local history and landmarks.

Community Character

Waldport maintains a relaxed, working-class sensibility with strong connections to both fishing and tourism industries. The town is easy to navigate and offers convenient access to both ocean and river recreation. The Waldport Chamber of Commerce, located at the Alsea Bay Interpretive Center, provides information on local businesses, maps, and directories.

Schools include Crestview Heights Elementary (K-6) and Waldport Middle & High School (7-12), making this an excellent choice for families seeking coastal living with quality education options.

Discover Waldport Properties and Community Information