Youre in the right place.
I was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest but moved away for a while.
It didnt take long for me to miss the epic nature, breathtaking scenery and beautiful cities.
Best Places to Live in the Pacific Northwest
Needless to say, I ended up moving back.
But before returning home to my beloved Pacific Northwest, I did a lot of research.
So without further ado, lets cover the best places to live in the PNW from a locals perspective!
Best Places to Live in the Pacific Northwest
The variety of residents span the gamut.
From artists and tech moguls to nature lovers and coffee connoisseurs.
Everyone flocks to Seattle for its vibrant culture and stunning scenery.
Best Neighborhoods in Seattle (Shutterstock/f11photo)
Likewise, the booming job market makes it easy to settle down long-term.
So theres something for everyone in the Emerald City.
If youre not looking for a traditional career, Portland may still be a great place to call home.
The streets of Portland are lined with food carts, art galleries, and microbreweries.
The city lacks the pretension that neighboring cities have, without compromising a strong sense of culture.
So if you want to align your move with a greener lifestyle, Portland will be perfect for you!
Best Places to Live in the Pacific Northwest
Just north of the U.S. border, Vancouvers downtown is perched on a peninsula.
Locals love the 25-mileBoise River Greenbelttrail system, perfect for biking, jogging, or enjoying a family picnic.
This charming Pacific Northwest city can be found in the Eastern corner of Washington State.
Most homes in this area are bungalows and cottages (many more than a century old!).
Making this one of the best places to live in the Pacific Northwest for families with children.
Its easy to get around town by pairing the convenient Pierce Transit buses with the Link Light Rail.
Those commuting into Seattle can use the Seattle Sounder commuter train as well.
Owning a car is helpful for longer distances or taking trips into the neighboring natural wonders.
There are year-round nature-based programs that little ones and adults will love, making this location perfect for families.
Its one of the more prominent college towns and is home to the University of Oregon.
Bellevue, Washington
Bellevue is located off of Lake Washington in the east side of king county.
But not without reason!
(Very) slightly justifying the absurdly high home prices.
Retirees also find a lot to do in the city, with plenty of outdoor activities and attractions.
Most people drive in Belleview, but there are ample transit options around town.
Bend previously had an older population of late-career couples, singles, and retirees.
The city is also near several major universities, includingBellingham Technical CollegeandWestern Washington University.
Homes cost an average of$621,528in this area, and the housing market is extremely competitive.
Making this one of the best places to live in the Pacific Northwest for access to nature.
Three rivers run through Missoula, creating the perfect atmosphere for outdoor lovers.
Farmers market fanatics will love Missoulas mission to empower and support local agricultural communities.
Markets are common and most residents grow at least a bit of their own food or spices at home.
The town is family-friendly and a great place to consider for families looking to settle down in the PNW.
Making this one of the best places to live in the PNW for water enthusiasts.
The average cost of a home in Ashland is$542,481with variable and accessible rental rates available.
As with most other cities in the Pacific Northwest, theres plenty of nature to enjoy.
you’re free to check out Crater Lake, Mt.
Shasta, and the Redwoods easily from this location.
Families, couples, and joggers can enjoy visiting over 20 parks that are interconnected by urban trails.
Most residents in the city own their homes, which lends itself to the overall suburban energy.
However, the homes are densely packed together, maintaining an urban feel as well.
In this stretch, youll find boutiques, high-quality restaurants boasting fresh seafood, and cages.
This makes Port Townsend one of the best cities to live in the Pacific Northwest for social butterflies.
TheSaturday Farmers Marketis a great way to meet locals, support the neighborhoods economy, and enjoy weekend events.
Sandpoints median home price is$538,098, which sits just 2.8% above the national average.
The small city is quickly expanding and has seen home appreciation rise 8.9% in the past year.
Map of the Best Cities in the Pacific Northwest | Best PNW Cities
Cheers!
