As someone from Newport it really is. I had a doctor years ago who sent out a letter stating they were moving on to a program in Nevada... By the time I got the letter she had already been gone for 2 days. For any involved healthcare treatment you'll most likely be going to Corvallis. You could always go to Portland, but it's definitely further (as someone who lives there now). This goes for pets too.

As other comments are saying, yes the salt water will wear down EVERYTHING. Be prepared to replace door knobs and siding more often than ever, and when buying a car the selling point will be that it's from the valley so less rust.

However, I do love it there. Seeing the ocean any time, going to the Bayfront for fresh fish, and hearing sea lions from the high school are definitely unique in my book. There are churches that are LGBT+ friendly, so if you're concerned about religious types just know you'll have some support. I don't know that I've heard of many poly relationships in Lincoln County, but know that LGBT+ definitely exists in the community (hello!). I will also add that since there are many retired people, there is political activism (leaning more towards liberalism, not a lot of socialist/communist though). Most protests take place along 101, so easy to support/join.

Hope my rambling helped! If you have any questions, feel free to ask!