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What is micro-retirement? See the five best places in Oregon to ‘micro-retire’
Five Oregon towns rank as top “micro-retirement” escapes, according to a survey by Careerminds.
Five Oregon towns were featured in a new study ranking the Top Spots for a ‘Micro-Retirement.’
The survey, conducted by Careerminds, a global career development firm, asked more than 3,000 workers where they would spend an extended break from their careers.
The company describes micro-retirement as a temporary pause from work, lasting weeks or months, meant to help people reset, reflect, and recharge.
“Micro-retirement isn’t about quitting,” said Careerminds President Raymond Lee. “It’s about taking the space to reimagine what life could look like — before burnout forces the issue.”
The company found that most people seek places offering a calm environment, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life.
Here are five places in Oregon to micro-retire.
#34 — Cannon Beach
With its dramatic coastal scenery and artistic atmosphere, Cannon Beach ranked among the top 50 micro-retirement destinations nationwide.
Careerminds described the town as a “serene seaside retreat” where daily life flows between beach walks by Haystack Rock, gallery visits, and time spent soaking in the ocean’s rhythm.
#70 — Ashland
In southern Oregon, Ashland earned praise for its lively arts scene and mountain setting.
The town’s creative energy, anchored by the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and the peaceful gardens of Lithia Park, makes it ideal for those seeking inspiration and balance.
#77 — Bend
High-desert views, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community helped Bend land in the top 100.
Careerminds highlighted Bend’s “dynamic setting for micro-retirement,” with activities like floating the Deschutes River, hiking Pilot Butte, and sampling the city’s well-known craft breweries.
#82 — Yachats
Nestled on Oregon’s central coast, Yachats stood out for its tranquility and connection to nature.
The report called it a place for “deep peace and reflection,” where residents can walk the 804 Trail, explore tide pools, or take in sweeping ocean views from Cape Perpetua.
#97 — Sisters
Known for its western charm and views of the Cascade Mountains, Sisters rounded out Oregon’s top five.
Careerminds praised the town’s “frontier character and creative spirit,” with highlights like hiking in the Three Sisters Wilderness and exploring the local arts scene.
How are people choosing to ‘Micro-Retire?’
Careerminds’ survey also explored how workers use their time away from traditional work and how they fund it.
They found that during a micro-retirement, most people want to use their time intentionally.
About a quarter of respondents said they would travel and explore, while others planned to focus on health and wellness, rest, or learn new skills.
When asked how they would fund their time away, more than half said they would rely on personal savings, followed by freelancing, part-time work, or family support.
Curious about the best Washington towns for a micro-retirement? Check out our article on Careermind’s top choices here.
