Best Places To Live In Washington State For A Fulfilling Living Experience
When it comes to finding the perfect place to call home, one can hardly overlook the breathtaking diversity and opportunities that Washington State has to offer. Among this diverse landscape, some locations truly stand out as the best places to live in Washington State.
Author:Tyreece BauerReviewer:Tobey StricklandOct 17, 20236.8K Shares116.8K Views
When it comes to finding the perfect place to call home, one can hardly overlook the breathtaking diversity and opportunities that Washington State has to offer. Among this diverse landscape, some locations truly stand out as the best places to live in Washington State.
These communities not only provide a range of amenities but also offer a fulfilling living experience for people from all walks of life. In this article, we will explore the top destinations that encompass the essence of a fulfilling life in the beautiful state of Washington.
Seattle
Seattle, often hailed as the Pacific Northwest's technology hub, has long been a magnet for those seeking high-paying jobs, avenues for professional advancement, and a hotbed of technological innovation. But even if the tech world isn't your arena, Seattle offers a myriad of attractions.
Its vibrant music scene has birthed some of the greatest rock bands in history, and the city boasts an array of world-class art museums and restaurants. Beyond the urban landscape, Seattle is blessed with a breathtaking natural backdrop, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Seattle's enviable location offers a wealth of summer and winter activities right on your doorstep. Water enthusiasts can take to the waves of Puget Sound or explore the serene waters of Lake Washington on a stand-up paddleboard.
Nearby, picturesque peaks beckon hikers of all skill levels, from novices to seasoned mountaineers. When winter arrives, a mere 1.5-hour drive leads to an array of snow sports destinations. It's fair to say that Seattle is a haven for recreational enthusiasts.
Seattle is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each brimming with its own unique energy and character. From the laid-back charm of Magnolia to the historically rich Ballard with its Nordic heritage, the upscale allure of Laurelhurst on the shores of Lake Washington, and the vibrant, hillside community of Queen Anne with its awe-inspiring city views, there's a neighborhood to match every taste.
The one drawback to Seattle's allure is the steep cost of living, particularly for those looking to purchase homes. The median home sale price is a substantial $826,000, according to Zillow, and properties tend to fly off the market in a mere eight days.
Walla Walla
Nestled on the border of Oregon and the enchanting Walla Walla Valley, this picturesque town is a wine lover's paradise with access to a plethora of over 120 nearby wineries. What sets it apart from other renowned wine regions in the country, like Napa or Sonoma, is its relatively affordable real estate market, boasting a median home value of $407,000, according to Zillow.
The town is also experiencing a surge in new construction homes, offering prospective buyers a wider range of opportunities. Among the preferred neighborhoods, the Pioneer Park area stands out. Here, residents are treated to the charm of well-established landscaping and the allure of beautifully preserved historic homes. Additionally, this neighborhood offers the convenience of being within a short walking distance to parks and the heart of downtown Walla Walla.
Woodinville
If Woodinville's idyllic location in a picturesque river valley doesn't already pique your interest, there are more compelling reasons to consider a move to this enchanting place. With over 130 wineries, ranging from well-established names to promising newcomers, the area is a haven for wine enthusiasts.
Woodinville also offers an array of parks, delightful restaurants, charming boutique shops, and top-tier schools. And should you ever long for the hustle and bustle of big-city life, Seattle is just a short 20-mile drive to the south.
Among the standout neighborhoods in Woodinville, we highly recommend exploring the captivating Wellington, where lush landscapes seamlessly blend with exquisite architectural designs. For those seeking an elegant rural charm, Hollywood Hill is a notable choice.
Meanwhile, Saybrook's serene streets provide an ideal sanctuary for families in search of a close-knit community, complete with access to outstanding schools and recreational amenities. It's worth noting that the median home value in Woodinville currently stands at $1,227,000, representing a five percent decrease since the previous year.
Bainbridge Island
Bainbridge Island is often likened to the Nantucket of the West, offering a delightful spectrum of lifestyles, from the charms of main street and small-town living to the allure of waterfront estates. Situated just a 35-minute ferry ride away from downtown Seattle, Bainbridge Island provides residents with a unique fusion of two distinct ways of life.
The island boasts treasures like the expansive 240-acre Grand Forest, a nature preserve replete with hiking and cycling trails, highly-rated schools, as well as an array of shops and dining establishments. In sought-after locales like Port Madison, Crystal Springs, and Lynwood Center, waterfront properties reign supreme.
Bainbridge Island's architectural landscape is a diverse tapestry, reflecting a blend of styles. The majority of homes on the island adhere to the Pacific Northwest aesthetic, with their natural wood elements that harmoniously embrace the beauty of the surrounding natural environment and the broader Pacific Northwest region.
Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island stands out as a truly remarkable destination on our planet. Enveloped by natural beauty, it offers a breathtaking backdrop, stretching from the Salish Sea to towering forests.
This 37-mile-long island in the heart of Puget Sound is situated roughly 30 miles to the north of Seattle, affording its residents awe-inspiring vistas of the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. Life on Whidbey Island revolves around savoring the great outdoors, with a plethora of activities including hiking, boating, fishing, wine tasting, and leisurely strolls along its numerous public beaches.
One of the most coveted waterfront locales is Mutiny Bay, sometimes referred to as the 'Gold Coast of the Northwest.' This sought-after gem is renowned for its 180-degree views of the Olympic Mountain range, sandy shores, and evening sunsets that leave you utterly enchanted.
Bellevue
Nestled gracefully between Lake Sammamish and Lake Washington, Bellevue is renowned for offering some of the most spectacular views of Seattle and the majestic Mount Rainier. Despite its relatively young status, as it was officially incorporated in the 1950s, the city has quickly become a beloved choice among families, thanks to its abundant parks spanning over 2,700 acres and a stellar education system in the form of top-tier schools.
The city council has thoughtfully shaped Bellevue's skyline, presenting it as a 'tiered wedding cake' design. In this arrangement, the taller skyscrapers are clustered in the heart of the city, with building heights gradually tapering down as you move outward. This innovative urban design ensures ample sunlight, picturesque vistas, and an array of splendid amenities for everyone to enjoy.
However, Bellevue's real estate market is currently sizzling hot, with a remarkable 45 percent of homes finding buyers within a week of being listed. For prospective homebuyers, Eastgate emerges as a prime location to explore. It's a burgeoning hub for new construction homes, offering the convenience of excellent schools, easy access to downtown, and exceptional value for the price.
Mercer Island
Imagine the allure of an island living between two of Washington's largest cities. It may sound almost too good to be true, but for the fortunate residents of Mercer Island, situated in the heart of Lake Washington, this is their reality. In a matter of minutes, they can leave behind the urban hustle and bustle of Bellevue and Seattle and find themselves immersed in the epitome of waterfront living.
Mercer Island, boasting over 473 acres of parkland and lush green spaces, offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its winding walking trails, three inviting public beaches, and captivating panoramic views. Living on Mercer Island feels like an everlasting lakefront vacation, and prospective residents have a multitude of home styles to select from.
The architectural tapestry of the island is a captivating journey through time and design eras. Mercer Island's origins as a vacation retreat are evident in the presence of charming vintage cottages that have been gracing the landscape since the early 1900s.
The '50s and '60s introduced the allure of mid-century aesthetics, while the '70s ushered in the Northwest Contemporary style, often referred to as the 'tree house' design. The '80s marked a shift towards traditional two-story residences with charming brick accents, and the '90s placed emphasis on Craftsman elements. The only caveat to this island paradise is the swiftness with which available homes are snapped up, frequently selling above the asking price.
Olympia
Olympia is the ideal choice for those seeking the charms of a mid-sized city, characterized by minimal traffic congestion and housing costs more affordable than those in the neighboring northern and southern markets. Situated as the capital of Washington, Olympia boasts an advantageous location, just an hour's drive from Seattle and a two-hour journey from Portland, Oregon. This strategic positioning offers residents the best of both worlds, with access to the attractions of major cities and the natural beauty of beaches, lakes, and a wealth of urban amenities.
Olympia's vibrant downtown creative district spans an impressive 30 city blocks, serving as a thriving epicenter for local breweries, art galleries, theaters, and a bustling farmers market. The active arts scene, an abundance of medical facilities, easy access to outdoor recreational opportunities, and the breathtaking scenery of the Pacific Northwest make Olympia an inviting place to call home. Moreover, the absence of state income tax in Washington ensures that any income from pensions, Social Security, and retirement account withdrawals remain free from taxation, enhancing the city's allure as a retirement destination.
Spokane
Nestled in the embrace of the Spokane River, with natural wonders like Spokane Falls and Riverfront Park at its doorstep, Spokane is a haven for those in search of a serene and family-friendly urban environment. This city, with a population of around 229,000, offers a peaceful and laid-back lifestyle.
It's an ideal place to raise a family, with abundant recreational opportunities such as hiking and biking trails, not to mention the convenience of five winter resorts within an hour's drive, over 70 lakes, a dozen golf courses, and a burgeoning wine scene. These attributes collectively make Spokane a delightful place to call home.
Moreover, what sets Spokane apart from many other Washington cities is its real estate affordability. As of October 2023, the median sale price stands at a reasonable $378,000, as reported by Zillow.
The current real estate market in Spokane is slightly less frenetic than in previous years, owing to rising interest rates, which have paused some plans for selling and buying. Nonetheless, this market shift has resulted in a welcome increase in inventory, offering more choices to prospective homebuyers, following the significant shortages experienced during the pandemic.
For those in pursuit of homes with character, the Perry District, located on the lower South Hill of Spokane, is an excellent choice. Alternatively, if you lean towards a more modern lifestyle, townhomes and condos in Kendall Yards, overlooking the Spokane River, offer a perfect match.
Bellingham
This coastal college town, with a population of approximately 100,000, is located 90 miles north of Seattle and provides a quintessential taste of the classic Pacific Northwest lifestyle. Offering breathtaking natural beauty, close proximity to North Cascades National Park, a plethora of water-based activities, winter sports, and a vibrant scene of craft breweries and farm-to-table restaurants, Bellingham encapsulates the essence of the region. What's more, Bellingham offers a diverse array of housing options, ranging from timeless Craftsman-style bungalows to more contemporary residences.
Although the current real estate inventory is relatively higher, the market remains stable. Anticipated surges in demand are expected once interest rates stabilize, driven by pent-up buyers eager to make their move to Bellingham. If you're considering a relocation to this charming city, we recommend visiting multiple times to experience its various seasons and truly appreciate all it has to offer.
Best Places To Live In Washington State - FAQ
Where Do Most People Live In Washington State?
Most of the people live in the highly urbanized area around Puget Sound which includes Seattle, Everett, Tacoma, and other cities. Area 71,298 square miles (184,661 square km).
What Are The Cities In Washington?
Washington state has a population of 7.7 million people (2021 est.). The capital is Olympia, the largest city is Seattle; and the largest urban area is Metro Seattle (Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, with a population of nearly 4 million people). Other major cities are Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver (WA), Bellevue, Kent, and Everett.
What Is The Richest Town In Washington State?
Of all places in Washington with populations between 1,000 and 25,000, Yarrow Point ranks as the wealthiest.
Conclusion
In Washington State, the pursuit of a fulfilling living experience takes you on a remarkable journey through communities that offer natural beauty, cultural richness, and diverse opportunities for all. From the scenic wonders of the Pacific Northwest to vibrant urban centers, the best places to live in Washington State encapsulate a lifestyle that caters to the dreams and aspirations of its residents.
Whether you're seeking the tranquility of a coastal town or the vibrant energy of a bustling city, Washington State has something for everyone, ensuring that your journey towards a fulfilling life is both unique and memorable.
Tyreece Bauer
Author
Tobey Strickland
Reviewer
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