Washington state boasts a natural wonderland, showcasing stunning landscapes like national parks, pristine lakes, and a picturesque Pacific Ocean shoreline. In 2022, the median household income reached $84,247, surpassing the national average by approximately $6,000. Here, we’ve curated a selection of some of the best places to call home in Washington.
Seattle Is the Emerald City of Opportunities
As the Pacific Northwest’s tech hub, Seattle is known for its high-paying jobs, professional growth prospects, and tech innovation. Seattle also boasts a vibrant music scene, renowned art museums, and excellent restaurants.
Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, it offers a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The cost of living, with a median home sale price of $834,000, reflects the city’s desirability.
Bellevue’s Got Views, Parks, and Schools
Nestled between Lake Sammamish and Lake Washington, Bellevue is famous for its breathtaking views of Seattle and Mount Rainier.
This young city, incorporated in the 1950s, is beloved by families for its abundance of parks (2,700 acres) and top-tier schools. The real estate market here is hot, with 45% of homes pending sale within a week of listing.
Woodinville’s Got Wine, Nature, and City Access
Woodinville, set in a scenic river valley, is home to over 130 wineries and provides proximity to Seattle.
With parks, restaurants, boutique shops, excellent schools, and a median home value of $1,239,000, it’s an enticing place to live.
Olympia Is a Mid-Sized City With a Small-Town Feel
Olympia, the capital of Washington, offers a mid-sized city experience with minimal traffic, lower housing costs, neighboring markets, and proximity to Seattle and Portland.
With an active arts scene, beautiful scenery, quaint lifestyle, and no state income tax, it’s a popular choice, especially among retirees.
Bainbridge Island Has Two Lifestyles in One
Bainbridge Island, a 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle, offers a unique blend of urban and island living in Washington.
The island features natural preserves, top-ranking schools, shops, and waterfront properties, but it comes with a price tag averaging $2 million.
Whidbey Island Has Natural Beauty and Unique Lifestyle
Whidbey Island, nestled in Puget Sound in Washington, treats residents to stunning mountain views and an abundance of outdoor activities.
While the median home price is around $715,000, it’s lower in the island’s north end, offering various price points.
Bellingham Is a Taste of the Pacific Northwest
Bellingham, a coastal college city in Washington, combines stunning mountain scenery with proximity to North Cascades National Park.
There are numerous outdoor activities with a thriving craft brewery and farm-to-table scene. The median home price in the city is just over $700,000.