Living in Washington state means immersing yourself in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, a region known for its stunning natural beauty, cultural diversity, and rich history. Whether you’re drawn by the towering presence of Mount Rainier, the slopes of Crystal Mountain, or the waters of Puget Sound, Washington offers a unique lifestyle that attracts newcomers year after year.
Nicknamed the Evergreen State for its lush landscapes and abundant forests, Washington boasts everything from rolling hills in the Palouse to busy urban centers like Seattle and Spokane. The state’s music scenes have helped shape American culture (think grunge in the 90s), while its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and outdoor living has helped define its values.
With roots that trace back to Native American heritage and early frontier exploration, the state officially became a part of the United States in 1889. Since then, it has grown into the beautiful state that we know today.
If you’re considering moving to Washington, there are plenty of benefits of living in Washington state, from easy access to year-round outdoor adventures to a strong job market. But like any relocation, there are also things to know before moving to Washington. For many, however, the rewards outweigh the trade-offs.
Living in Washington state means waking up each day with access to amazing scenery and endless opportunities. Washington truly offers something for everyone. So, if you’re thinking about making the move, now might be the perfect time to explore what living in Washington state is like.
Is Washington a Good Place to Live?
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Washington is a good place to live. When living in Washington State, you can enjoy vibrant cities, friendly people, and plenty of amazing natural attractions to explore. Additionally, Washington offers an abundance of job opportunities, making it attractive to young professionals.
What Is Washington State Known for?
Washington state is known for its stunning natural scenery, outdoor activities, majestic mountains, and thriving economy. When living in Washington state, you can enjoy bustling cities such as Seattle and Bellevue, or calmer, rural communities like McCleary. A move to Washington State offers something for everyone.
Where Is Washington State?
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If you’re thinking about living in Washington State or moving to Washington, it’s important to understand its location. Washington is in the far northwest corner of the continental United States, part of the Pacific Northwest. It borders Oregon to the south, Idaho to the east, and British Columbia, Canada, to the north, with the Pacific Ocean forming its western edge.
When living in Washington State, you’ll find that the area is geographically very diverse. The Cascade Mountains split the state into two distinct regions: the rainy, green west, home to Puget Sound and cities like Seattle, and the drier, agricultural east, known for its open green spaces. Major natural features include Mount Rainier, Crystal Mountain, the Columbia River, and forests that give Washington its nickname of the Evergreen Space.
People settling in the South Sound from another state can work with long distance movers to Olympia to coordinate transportation, delivery, and any packing or storage support required for the relocation.
Transportation in Washington
Living in Washington state means having access to a wide range of transportation options, from highways to ferries and public transit.
What Are the Major Highways in Washington?
Washington’s main roads include Interstate 5 (I-5), which runs north-south through major cities like Seattle and Tacoma, and I-90, which spans east-west across the state. Highways like I-405 and State Route 520 help connect the Puget Sound region, though traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, is common in urban areas.
For people relocating between cities without leaving the state, movers for a within-Washington move can plan the route, loading schedule, and delivery around Washington’s major highways.
Does Washington Have Public Transportation?
Yes. Seattle and nearby cities offer solid public transit through Sound Transit (light rail and buses) and King County Metro. Other cities like Spokane and Tacoma have bus systems, but you’ll want your driver’s license if you live in a rural area.
How Many Airports Are in Washington?
Washington has many airports, with Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) being the largest. Other key airports include Spokane International and Bellingham International.
Are Ferries a Common Form of Transportation?
Yes! A ferry ride is a regular part of commuting in the Puget Sound area. Washington State Ferries is the largest system of its kind in the United States and serves both residents and tourists.
What Is the Population of Washington State?
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The population of Washington state is 7.7 million, which is a 14.5% increase over the past decade. According to Axios, Washington is the sixth-fastest growing state since 2019. When living in Washington State, you’ll be a part of the 13th-most populous state and the 18th-largest state. Although the area is very populous, the majority of residents living in Washington state are located in the Seattle metropolitan area, which has a population of 4.01 million.
Washington State Demographics
- Sex ratio: 50.4% male, 49.6% female
- Median age: 38.2
- Racial & ethnic composition: 76.3% White (64.2% non-Hispanic), 10.8% Asian, 5.4% two or more races, 4.7% Black or African American, 2.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9% Native Hawaiian
- Median household income in Washington state: $94,952
- Educational attainment: 92.2% high school degree (or higher), 38.8% bachelor’s degree (or higher)
- Foreign-born population: 15.1%
What Famous People Are From Washington?
When living in Washington state, you may share a zip code with a notable celebrity. Here are a few famous people from Washington.
- Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos
- Musician Brandi Carlile
- Actress Anna Faris
- Guitarist Jimi Hendrix
- Novelist Tom Robbins
- NBA player John Stockton
- Model Chrissy Teigen
What Are the Largest Cities in Washington?
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If you’re moving to Washington or considering living in Washington state, you’ll find a wide range of communities, from big cities in Washington to smaller towns with a unique culture. The state is commonly divided into Western Washington, Eastern Washington, and Central Washington, each with its own unique qualities.
Western Washington, where most of the population lives, includes the iconic Emerald City (Seattle), as well as several other urban hubs. Eastern Washington is known for its wide-open spaces, agriculture, and growing cities. Central Washington offers a little bit of both.
Here are the major cities in Washington by population.
- Seattle (755,078): One of the most livable cities to explore, with a growing economy and outdoor lifestyle.
- Spokane (229,447): Largest city in Eastern Washington and great for art lovers living in Washington state.
- Tacoma (222,906): A port city in Western Washington with easy access to Puget Sound
- Vancouver (196,442): One of the best cities in Washington, located directly across the river from Portland, Oregon.
- Bellevue (151,574): A tech hub and one of the best cities in Washington for jobs and schools.
- Kent (133,378): Diverse suburb with easy access to Seattle and Tacoma.
- Everett (111,180): Home to major Boeing facility and ferry access to the San Juan Islands.
Cities in Washington Map
What Are the Best Places to Live in Washington?
Whether you’re drawn to vibrant city life, peaceful rural areas, or somewhere in between, living in Washington State offers something for everyone. From Puget Sound to the Columbia River, from the Pacific Ocean to the inland plains of Central Washington, this diverse state is home to some of the most scenic and livable cities in the country. Here’s a closer look at the best cities to live in Washington based on lifestyle, life stage, and personal preferences.
What Is the Best Part of Washington State to Live In?
The best place to settle down when living in Washington State depends on what you’re looking for.
- Western Washington: This is perfect if you enjoy a mild climate and easy access to the tech and cultural hubs of Puget Sound.
- Eastern Washington: Eastern Washington has a drier climate, more space, and a lower cost of living. Cities like Spokane and Walla Walla appeal to those seeking a slower pace of life.
- Central Washington: Central Washington strikes a balance between the two, with both larger and smaller cities to explore.
Where Are the Best Places to Live in Washington for Families?
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For families living in Washington state, the priorities often include excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and family-friendly activities.
- Redmond: Home to Microsoft and top-rated schools.
- Sammamish: Known for its parks and family-focused community.
- Vancouver: Affordable housing and close proximity to Portland.
- Spokane: A great Eastern Washington option with strong schooling options.
- Richland: Located in the Tri-Cities region of Central Washington with a strong education system and plenty of outdoor recreation.
Families planning a visit can explore BetterTrips to book Washington rentals close to schools, parks, and family-friendly attractions, a simple way to test out neighborhoods before making the move.
Where Are the Best Places to Live in Washington for Young Adults?
If you’re a young professional or a recent graduate moving to Washington, you’ll likely want a city with job opportunities, nightlife, and public transit.
- Seattle: Ideal for career growth in tech, healthcare, and creative industries. Seattle also offers nightlife, culture, and access to Lake Union and outdoor recreation.
- Tacoma: More affordable than Seattle with a growing arts scene.
- Bellingham: A laid-back college town with a youthful vibe and easy access to Seattle and Vancouver, B.C.
Where Is the Prettiest Place to Live in Washington?
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Living in Washington state means you’re never far from breathtaking scenery.
- Leavenworth: A charming Bavarian-style village in the Cascades.
- Port Townsend: A historic town on the Olympic Peninsula with Pacific Ocean views.
- Gig Harbor: A cozy waterfront town on Puget Sound.
- Chelan: A lakeside community in Central Washington surrounded by vineyards and mountains.
What Is the Cost of Living in Washington State?
How much does it cost to live in Washington? Is Washington State expensive? Before moving to Washington, you may be asking yourself these questions. According to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, the Washington Cost of Living Index is 114.2, meaning that living in Washington state is 14.2% more expensive than the national average.
The state has a fairly high cost of living, ranking 10th in the nation. Here are a few Cost of Living Indexes for major metro areas in Washington.
- Kennewick-Richland: 97.9
- Mount Vernon-Anacortes: 117.4
- Olympia: 115.3
- Everett: 127.5
- Seattle: 144.6
- Spokane: 101.1
- Tacoma: 120.1
Typical Living Expenses in Washington
These are a few things that contribute to the average cost of living in Washington state, including the average cost of utilities in Washington state.
- Average monthly electric bill: $121
- Average monthly gas bill: $99
- Average monthly water bill: $162
- Average monthly phone bill: $108
- Average monthly auto loan bill: $490
- Average monthly health insurance bill: $100
- Average monthly mortgage bill: $2,083
Source: Doxo
Taxes in Washington
Living in Washington state has a major tax advantage: there is no state income tax. This means residents do not pay taxes on wages, salaries, or other personal income at the state level. The absence of state income tax makes Washington an attractive option for individuals seeking to reduce their overall tax burden.
However, property taxes in Washington can be relatively high compared to other states and are a significant source of local revenue.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Washington?
Is Washington affordable? Living in Washington state can certainly be affordable, especially in a few specific areas. A few affordable places to live in Washington where the Cost of Living Index is below the national average include Kennewick and Yakima.
Washington Housing Market
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When living in Washington state, housing costs are a significant factor to consider. There are many options as a first time home buyer living in Washington state, whether you’re heading to a rural mountain town or the busy Downtown Seattle area. According to Redfin, the Washington real estate market is fairly steady, with home prices only rising about 1.8% from last year. Hiring a real estate agent in the area can help you navigate the market when living in Washington state.
If you’re trying to decide whether to buy or rent, renting is currently the most affordable option. According to the 2022 Rental Affordability Report, it is generally more affordable to rent than to buy when living in Washington state.
What Is the Average Rent in Washington State?
If you’ll be renting when living in Washington state, you can expect fairly reasonable prices. According to Redfin, the average rent in Washington is $1,731 per month. The most expensive places to rent include Issaquah ($3,004), Bellevue ($2,875), and Sammamish ($3,092), while the most affordable places to rent include Tacoma ($1,744), Vancouver ($1,884), and Olympia ($1,740).
What Is the Average Home Price in Washington State?
Are you planning on buying a house after moving to Washington? According to Redfin, the median home price in Washington is $629,600, which is higher than the national average of $431,000.
What Is the Weather Like in Washington?
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Living in Washington state means experiencing a diverse climate. From the rainy coasts to the dry interior, weather patterns shift dramatically depending on location, making it perfect for year-round outdoor activities.
What Climate Type Does Washington Have?
According to the Köppen Classification, western Washington has an oceanic climate (cool, wet, and cloudy), while eastern Washington is semi-arid with hot summers and colder winters. The Washington climate offers everything from coastal drizzle to high desert heat.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Washington?
The summer months (June-September) are ideal, especially for whale watching, hiking, and exploring the state’s natural beauty.
What Is the Average Temperature in Washington State?
The average temperature in Washington state ranges from 50ºF in the west to more extreme highs and lows in the east. Summer highs can reach the 90s in eastern regions, while the winter months can bring temperatures below 20ºF.
Does It Snow in Washington State?
Yes, especially in the mountains and eastern Washington. Western cities like Seattle see gray winters with light snow, but it’s more frequent and heavier in places like Spokane.
Are There Extreme Weather Events in Washington?
While the state boasts generally mild temperatures, it has its fair share of snow and rain, with occasional wind or flood events.
Things to Do in Washington State
With its diverse landscapes, from lush forests and mountain peaks to sparkling lakes and coastal islands, Washington offers endless opportunities for adventure, culture, and family fun. Whether you’re living in Washington state or planning your move, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re exploring Seattle, relaxing by Lake Washington, or discovering hidden gems in small towns, this list covers some of the best things to do in Washington state, including top picks for families looking for Washington activities for kids and those just seeking fun things to do in Washington state.
Space Needle – Seattle
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An iconic symbol of Seattle, the Space Needle offers panoramic views of the city skyline, Mount Rainier, and Elliot Bay.
Pike Place Market – Seattle
One of the oldest continuously operating farmers markets in the U.S., Seattle’s Pike Place Market is famous for its flying fish, locally sourced foods, and artisanal goods.
Museum of Pop Culture – Seattle
This vibrant museum celebrates music, movies, video games, and more.
Mount Rainier National Park – Ashford
Towering at over 14,000 feet, Mount Rainier offers hiking, wildflowers, glaciers, and amazing views.
Olympic National Park – Port Angeles
Home to rainforests, alpine peaks, and miles of coastline, this park is a must-see for anyone living in Washington state.
San Juan Islands – Northwest Washington
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A top pick for what to do in Washington state, the San Juan Islands offer kayaking, whale watching, and ferry rides.
Lake Washington – Seattle Area
Bordering Seattle, Lake Washington is great for swimming, paddleboarding, and lakeside picnics during the warmer months.
Lake Chelan – Central Washington
Lake Chelan is a glacier-fed lake and is popular among water lovers living in Washington state.
Leavenworth – Leavenworth
A charming Bavarian-themed village surrounded by mountains.
North Cascades National Park – Northern Washington
Often called the “American Alps,” this park has peaks, valleys, and fewer crowds than the national parks in many other states.
Spokane Falls – Spokane
Right in the heart of Spokane, these falls are surrounded by Riverfront Park, great for walking, biking, and things to do in Washington with kids.
Washington State Capitol – Olympia
Take a free tour of this historic and architecturally impressive building.
Tacoma Art Museum – Tacoma
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Showcasing Northwest and American art, this museum is a must-see for those living in Washington state.
Chihuly Garden and Glass – Seattle
A beautiful collection of glass art by Dale Chihuly, this exhibit is one of Seattle’s most popular attractions.
Those relocating from outside the state and settling farther north can use Seattle long distance movers to plan a move into Seattle and the surrounding Puget Sound region.
Stevens Pass – Cascade Mountains
A year-round recreation area, Stevens Pass offers skiing in the winter and mountain biking and hiking in the summer.
Map of Washington Attractions
Washington Sports Teams
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Living in Washington state means having access to a passionate sports culture. Washington professional sports teams include major league favorites like the Seattle Seahawks, one of the most well-known NFL teams in Washington, and the Seattle Mariners in Major League Baseball. While there are currently no NBA teams in Washington, fans still celebrate the legacy of the former Seattle SuperSonics.
The state also boasts the Seattle Kraken (NHL), OL Reign (NWSL), and Seattle Sounders FC (MLS), making Washington pro sports teams a key part of the state’s identity. For sports fans, living in Washington State offers plenty of excitement from some of the most competitive professional sports teams in Washington.
Is Washington Safe?
If you’re planning on moving to Washington, you may be wondering, “Is Washington dangerous?” For the most part, living in Washington state is very safe, but it’s important to have a good understanding of crime in Washington.
What Is the Crime Rate in Washington?
When living in Washington state, you’ll want to be aware of the Washington crime rate.
- Overall crime rate in Washington: 3,732 crimes per 100,000 people (46.4% higher than the national average)
- Violent crime rate in Washington: 376 crimes per 100,000 people (1.6% higher than the national average)
- Property crime rate in Washington: 3,356 crimes per 100,000 people (52.8% higher than the national average)
What Are the Safest Cities in Washington?
Trying to find the city with the lowest crime rate in Washington? Here are a few safe cities to check out when living in Washington state.
| City | Population | Crime Rate | Crime Rate Compared to State Average |
| Algona | 3,194 | 2,411 crimes per 100,000 people | 35.4% lower |
| La Center | 4,412 | 1,168 crimes per 100,000 people | 56.6% lower |
| College Place | 9,907 | 2,301 crimes per 100,000 people | 38.3% lower |
| Bonney Lake | 22,898 | 3,323 crimes per 100,000 people | 11.0% lower |
| Walla Walla | 33,899 | 3,431 crimes per 100,000 people | 8.1% lower |
What Are the Most Dangerous Cities in Washington?
Here are a few cities in Washington with higher-than-average crime rates.
| City | Population | Crime Rate | Crime Rate Compared to State Average |
| Clarkston | 7,267 | 5,312 crimes per 100,000 people | 42.3% higher |
| Bremerton | 44,256 | 4,675 crimes per 100,000 people | 25.3% higher |
| Renton | 103,619 | 4,997 crimes per 100,000 people | 33.9% higher |
| Spokane | 229,292 | 6,408 crimes per 100,000 people | 71.7% higher |
| Seattle | 729,691 | 6,559 crimes per 100,000 people | 75.8% higher |
What Is the Murder Rate in Washington?
The murder rate in Washington is 5 per 100,000 people.
Washington Economy
Are you moving to Washington to explore the job market? There are plenty of amazing job opportunities to explore when living in Washington State. According to USA Facts, the gross domestic product in Washington state in 2024 was $702 billion. The job market is robust, providing plenty of opportunities for medical professionals, engineering specialists, and sales employees living in Washington state.
What Is the Largest Employer in Washington?
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If you’re looking for jobs in Washington state, you’ll find no shortage of amazing options. Additionally, some of the top employers in Washington state also happen to be some of the best places to work in Washington state. Of course, it is also possible to work remotely in Washington state for an international company through an Employer of Record (EOR) solution. Here are Washington state’s top employers, according to BizJournals.
- Amazon: 1.5 million employees
- Boeing: 156,354 employees
- Microsoft: 230,000 employees
- University of Washington Seattle: 58,815 employees
- Joint Base Lewis-Mchord: 55,000 employees
What Is the Livable Wage in Washington?
According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, the livable wage in Washington is $33.40. This means that a family of four with two working adults would need to earn $33.40 per hour to live in Washington without falling below the poverty line.
What Is the Average Income in Washington State?
Curious about the average income you can expect when living in Washington State? The average salary in Washington state largely depends on the industry you are in. According to the latest calculations from the Washington State Office of Financial Management, the average salary for those living in Washington state is $83,655.
Okanogan and Wahkiakum counties had the lowest average wages at $43,048 and $43,045, respectively. The highest average wage goes to King County at $114,693.
Education in Washington
If you’ll be living in Washington State with children, then you may be curious about schooling in the area. You’ll find plenty of schooling options, from amazing Washington state high schools to top-rated elementary schools in Washington.
Where Does Washington Rank in Education?
According to WalletHub, students living in Washington state are the 9th-most educated students in the country.
What Are the Best School Districts in Washington?
When it comes to education, many families look for a top-rated Washington school district when deciding where to live. Some of the best-performing districts include Bellevue School District, Lake Washington School District, and Mercer Island School District.
What Are the Best High Schools in Washington State?
Washington state is home to several top-ranked schools, both public and private. Families exploring private schools in Washington state will find excellent options alongside top public schools.
Here are some of the best high schools in Washington State:
- Lakeside School, Seattle (Private): One of the most prestigious private schools in Washington state, known for notable alumni like Bill Gates.
- Tesla STEM High School, Redmond (Public): Focused on science, technology, engineering, and math, consistently ranked among the top public high schools in the country.
- Newport High School, Bellevue (Public): Offers a strong AP program and high college acceptance rates.
- The Overlake School, Redmond (private): A leading private school with an emphasis on academics, leadership, and global citizenship.
What Are the Best Colleges in Washington?
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Washington universities are known for their strong academics and beautiful campuses. The University of Washington in Seattle is the state’s flagship public university, ranked among the top research institutions in the world. Washington State University in Pullman is another major public university known for its programs in agriculture, engineering, and business.
For those seeking smaller liberal arts experiences, Whitman College in Walla Walla and Gonzaga University in Spokane are both wonderful options.
Washington Fun Facts
Living in Washington state is more exciting than you may think! Here are some interesting facts about Washington.
- Washington produces more apples than any other state (over half of the U.S. supply)
- Lake Washington is the second-largest natural lake in the state
- Mount Rainier is an active volcano
- Washington has more glaciers than the other 47 contiguous states combined
- Washington was the first state to legalize same-sex marriage by popular vote
- Spokane hosts the world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament, Hoopfest
Pros and Cons of Living in Washington State
Here are a few pros and cons of living in Washington state.
Pros
- No state income tax
- Incredible natural beauty
- Thriving job market
- Mild climate
- Endless outdoor activities
Cons
- High cost of living, especially in big cities like Seattle
- Frequent rain and gray winters
- Traffic congestion in major metro areas
- Limited sunshine compared to many other states
Is Living in Washington State Right for You?
Should I move to Washington State? For many people, the answer to this question is a resounding yes. There are plenty of reasons to move to Washington State, and living in Washington State opens up endless opportunities. The Evergreen State truly has something to offer everyone.
If you’re thinking about moving to Washington, get in touch with All Ready Moving, an experienced Olympia moving and storage company ready to help every step of the way. Call (360) 507-2447 today for a free quote.
