A city born from a contest, Lincoln City is a mosaic of five coastal communities.

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Incorporated in 1965 to avoid the controversy of choosing one name over another, Lincoln City united five distinct coastal settlements. Today, this Oregon destination thrives on tourism and retirement, boasting unique geographic features like one of the world's shortest rivers and a tradition of hiding glass floats along its beaches.

Lincoln City, Oregon, is a relatively young municipality, officially incorporated on March 3, 1965. Its formation was a pragmatic solution to local tensions; rather than selecting one name from the five existing communities of Oceanlake, Taft, Cutler City, Nelscott, and Wecoma Beach, officials held a contest for local school children to suggest a new identity. The resulting name honors the county, which itself was named for President Abraham Lincoln. The city's geography is defined by its position along the Pacific coast, stretching across approximately 5.68 square miles.

The city's development is deeply tied to its coastal environment. It is home to the D River, which holds a reputation as one of the world's shortest rivers, serving as a direct connection between Devils Lake and the Pacific Ocean. This aquatic landscape influences local culture, which includes the annual Summer and Fall kite festivals at the D River Wayside. The city has even earned the moniker 'Kite Capital of the World'. Beyond the water, the community maintains a unique engagement program called Finders Keepers, where glass floats are hidden along seven miles of beach for visitors to discover.

Economically, the city relies on a blend of tourism, healthcare, and retirement. Major institutions like the Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital and the Chinook Winds Casino, opened by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz in 1995, anchor the local economy. The population, recorded at 9,815 in the 2020 Census, reflects a demographic leaning toward older residents, with a median age of 50.8 years. While the city has grown through annexations—most notably the 2013 forced annexation of Roads End—it remains a distinct coastal hub shaped by its history of unification and its ongoing commitment to public recreation and cultural engagement.

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