Looking for the best places to retire in Washington state? Here we’ll cover important factors to consider when deciding where to retire in Washington state: healthcare, climate, affordability, tax benefits, and recreation. By the time we’re done, you’ll have a better idea of where you’d like to settle and enjoy your Golden Years.
Retirees relocating from another region can plan their cross-country move to Washington around their housing timeline, shipment size, travel distance, and any packing or storage support they may need.
Is Washington State a Good Place to Retire?
Yes, Washington can be a great place to retire, but it is one of the more expensive retirement states due to its higher living costs. If you prioritize maintaining your retirement savings, then you’ll want to reconsider living in cities like Seattle and Tacoma, where the cost of living is well above the national average.
Washington Taxes
One of the biggest perks of retirement in Washington state is that there is no state income tax–so if you’re wondering, “Does Washington state tax Social Security?” the answer is no. Your retirement income is safe.
Thinking of buying a house? Property tax averages about 0.84% of a home’s assessed market value, and the state does not charge an inheritance tax. But an estate tax is assessed on estates exceeding $2.1-$2.2 million, and the state imposes a state capital gains tax, which is 7%.
While you’ll find some of the best places to retire in Washington state, know that sales tax is high. Washington has the fourth-highest sales tax rate in the nation, with a combined average rate of 9.43% (6.5% state tax rate plus the local tax rate).
Washington Climate
Washington has a reputation for being cold, wet, and gloomy–especially in the western part of the state. But in reality, it has many microclimates. The weather ranges from cold and wet to warm and dry, and everything in between.
If a Washington state retirement is in your future, research the climate in the areas you’re considering so you’re not stuck shoveling snow or routinely driving in the rain. And while important, weather shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when researching the best places to retire in Washington state.
Public Transportation
Washington offers excellent public transportation (Tacoma public transportation is fantastic), whether you’re living in a larger city or a small town. It includes city buses, light rail, commuter trains, and ferries that carry people and vehicles.
Attractions, Recreation, and Amenities
There are countless attractions and recreational opportunities throughout Washington state for retirees. Love the outdoors? The best places to retire in Washington state have national parks like Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park, and the North Cascades National Park for outdoor activities. There are also college towns where you can attend lectures, take a class, or enjoy local events. Certain towns, such as Port Townsend, have thriving arts communities. Washington also has excellent public libraries offering many valuable resources.
Quality of Life
According to U.S. News, Washington quality of life ranks high; it’s their #10 pick in overall state rankings. The best places to retire in Washington state rank well in:
Infrastructure: The state uses its renewable energy well, roads and bridges are properly maintained, and residents have access to quality high-speed internet.
Healthcare: Washington offers easy access to high-quality care, with numerous world-class hospitals, including the University of Washington Medical Center and Virginia Mason Medical Center.
Natural Environment: Air and water quality are excellent, with minimal pollution. This is essential for everyone, but especially those with respiratory or breathing disorders.
Best Places to Retire in Washington
The following are some of the best cities to live in Washington state; the list also includes towns and one 55+ type community.
Sequim – Mild Climate, Minimal Rain, and Affordable Homes
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- Population: 8,199
- Share of population 65+: 42%
- Crime rate: 3,910 per 100,000 people
Sequim WA is one of the best places to retire in Washington state thanks to its mild, dry climate, strong sense of community, and access to quality healthcare. It averages just 16 inches of rain per year, making it sunnier than much of Western Washington and ideal for outdoor living.
Retirees have access to care at Olympic Medical Center, as well as active lifestyle activities like pickleball leagues, golf at Sunland Golf & Country Club, and countless outdoor and social clubs.
The Sequim median home price is $495,000, which is more affordable than many larger Washington cities. Altogether, Sequim combines natural beauty, livability, and senior-friendly amenities in a way that feels comfortable and easy to settle into. It’s one of the best places to retire in Washington state on a budget if you’re looking for affordable housing options.
Gig Harbor – Year-Round Community Events, Plentiful Outdoor Recreation
- Population: 12,029
- Share of population 65+: 30.8%
- Crime rate: 6,308 per 100,000 people
Gig Harbor is a waterfront city known for its charming harbor, scenic views, and relaxed lifestyle–another of the best places to retire in Washington state. With easy access to Tacoma via the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, Gig Harbor is an easy 15-mile drive to larger city amenities. Downtown Gig Harbor is walkable, filled with shops and restaurants, and features waterfront paths for leisurely harbor strolls.
Gig Harbor residents enjoy year-round community events, including Christmas festivities, summer celebrations, and music in the park. The annual Waterfront Artwalk and Chalk the Harbor event bring the waterfront to life.
Outdoor recreation is a major draw. It features parks, Mount Rainier views, and water activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, gondola rides, and boating. Gig Harbor receives about 48 inches of rain annually (the U.S. average is 38 inches), and it rarely snows.
The median home price is $815,000—reflecting Gig Harbor’s appeal as a scenic, activity-rich place to live in the South Puget Sound region. Another popular housing option for retirees is Heron’s Key, a senior living retirement community considered one of the best places to retire in Washington state.
Port Townsend – Victorian-Style Homes, Arts Community
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- Population: 10,148
- Share of population 65+: 41%
- Crime rate: 1,569 per 100,000 people
Port Townsend is one of the best places to retire in Washington state for a slower pace without sacrificing culture or quality healthcare. Historic Port Townsend features Victorian-style homes, a walkable downtown, and shops. There is a thriving arts community, including art galleries and writing groups.
Port Townsend offers easy access to outdoor recreation. Fort Worden State Park and Olympic National Forest are nearby for day trips. As for healthcare, Jefferson Healthcare is highly rated and offers a variety of services for seniors.
The cost of living in Port Townsend is expensive, with a median home price of $612,000. And thanks to the town’s public transportation and small size, it’s easy to get around without a car. Port Townsend’s climate is mild with warm and dry summers and wet but temperate winters. The average rainfall is 23 inches per year, much lower than the national average. Annual snowfall is 2 inches.
Overall, Port Townsend is among the best places to retire in Washington state.
Panorama in Lacey – 62+ Retirement Community, Premiere Retirement Destination
- Population: 53,526
- Share of population 65+: 19%
- Crime rate: 3,361 per 100,000 people
Panorama in Lacey is a good fit for retirees who want a true community feel along with built-in support as their needs change—but it’s important to note that this is a premium retirement community Washington that may not be ideal for retirees on a fixed income, and the pricing reflects that.
It operates on a fee-for-service model, with two main costs: a one-time Entrance Fee and an ongoing Monthly Fee. Entrance fees currently range from about $105,000 to $650,000+, depending on the home’s size, location, and features, while monthly fees start around $1,450.
Panorama residents have access to on-site amenities, fitness centers, walking paths, dining options, social clubs, and on-site health services. They also have access to hospitals and specialists throughout the Olympia–Lacey area.
The lifestyle at Panorama, combined with Lacey’s mild Pacific Northwest climate, makes it one of the best places to retire in Washington state for retirees who prioritize long-term stability, community, and an active lifestyle.
Anacortes – Mild Weather, Great Healthcare Access
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- Population: 17,636
- Share of population 65+: 31.1%
- Crime rate: 3,374 per 100,000 people
Anacortes consistently ranks as one of the best places to retire in Washington state. It offers a nice balance of coastal beauty, accessibility, and everyday livability. Located on Fidalgo Island, Anacortes feels peaceful and tucked away, but is well-connected. There is bridge access to the mainland and the Anacortes ferry terminal, and it is about a 90-minute drive from Seattle.
Retirees enjoy Anacortes’ mild, relatively dry climate with comfortable summers and cool winters that rarely see snow (4 inches annually) or ice. And thanks to the Olympic rain shadow, it sees less rain (26 inches annually) than much of Western Washington.
Health care access is one of the most important draws of Anacortes, and Island Health is the primary provider. In addition to Island Health, there are nearby hospitals in Mount Vernon and major medical systems in nearby Seattle.
There are many opportunities for an active, outdoor-oriented retirement in Anacortes. It offers miles of trails, waterfront dining, local parks, marinas, and golf options. It also offers strong senior resources, including a dedicated senior center and multiple transportation services.
Anacortes real estate is on the expensive side, with a median home price of $827,780. But retirees looking for the best places to retire in Washington state find the cost worth it for the quality of life, walkability, and stunning natural beauty.
Spokane – Good Healthcare, Affordable Homes
- Population: 228,989
- Share of population 65+: 16.4%
- Crime rate: 1,569 per 100,000 people
Spokane is one of the best places to retire in Washington state for retirees who want an affordable place to live in Eastern Washington. It offers access to quality health care and a comfortable pace of life while maintaining access to larger city amenities. Homes in Spokane are affordable, with the median home price around $380,000, roughly 13.6% below the national median.
Spokane summers are dry and warm–perfect for outdoor activities like walking, biking, and golfing. Winters are cold with 44 inches of annual snowfall, which means retirees with mobility concerns may require some adjustment.
Another possible downside to retiring in Spokane is the crime rate, which is much higher than the national and state averages. But as with any major city, some neighborhoods are safer than others. Be sure to research the safest neighborhoods in Spokane.
There’s no shortage of primary care doctors in Spokane, along with several hospitals like Multicare Deaconess Hospital. Spokane is bikeable, has a fairly walkable layout, and offers easy access to parks and riverfront trails. Additionally, it has a good mix of cultural and community events.
Map of Best Towns in Washington to Retire
Ready to Move to The Evergreen State?
Have you found the best place to retire in Washington state? Let us help make your move easy and stress-free! At All Ready Moving, we have you covered with local moves, long distance moves, and even packing and storage. Give us a call today at 360-507-2447 for a free, zero-obligation moving quote.
