Looking for the best places to live in Washington state?
This local has you covered!
This helpful list of the best cities in Washington was created using a handful of important factors.
From median home prices and age to amenities and outdoor recreation.
Were not keen on small talk, so lets dive right in!
5 Best Large Cities in Washington
1.
Heavy hitters like Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing all call Seattle home.
A nod to the surrounding lush greenery, Seattles nickname is the Emerald City.
Its beautiful, but its so green because Seattle is extremely rainy.
For some, this is a plus, but many consider it a drawback, especially during the winter.
Spokane residents enjoy one of the lowest costs of living in the state.
Tacoma
Fun fact: Tacoma is a much larger port than Seattle.
As you might expect from this large portside city, Tacoma life largely revolves around the water.
There are dozens of museums in the city and its a major hub for glass art.
Two museums are dedicated to glass, the Museum of Glass and the Tacoma Art Museums Chihuly section.
Living in Vancouver does have some downsides.
The weather is gloomy most of the time and Portlands growing homeless problem is not-so-slowly creeping across the river.
The$1,283,145average home value points to just how upscale it really is.
Significantly more expensive than even Seattle, not many people can afford Bellevue.
Lake Washington is at your doorstep, with the backdrop of Seattles distinct skyline.
The shopping is fantastic, and many major companies are based in Bellevue.
5 Best Mid-sized Cities in Washington
6.
Everett
Less than 30 miles north of Seattle, Everett is a popular alternative to the bigger city.
Like Seattle, many Everett residents work for Boeing.
In fact, the companys largest production facility is here.
The healthcare sector is also booming, offering plentiful and diverse job opportunities.
Bellingham
In Washingtons northwest corner, Bellingham sits nestled between the Cascades and the bay.
Its also home to Western Washington University.
The$628,288median home price is higher than many other areas, but considerably lower than Seattle and Vancouver.
Speaking of Vancouver, its just 1.5 hours from Bellingham.
Also nearby is gorgeous, iconic Mount Baker, providing four-season recreation (and unbeatable scenery!).
The city also has excellent nightlife, largely due to it being a college town.
Unfortunately, jobs arent quite as easy to come by, with the main industries being forestry and agriculture.
Kirkland
Just north of Bellevue also on Lake Washington, Kirkland is best-known as the major brand in Costco.
The companys headquarters is nearby, and Kirkland Signature is indeed named after the city.
Unlike the store famous for great deals, Kirklands$1,088,159average home price isnt exactly affordable.
Downtown is vibrant with great dining and entertainment, and its considered a very safe city.
One drawback is traffic congestion, due to both the 405 and 520 running through town.
However, major corporations including Facebook, Microsoft, and Nintendo keep the local economy thriving.
The city is also a fantastic homebase for startups and innovative companies.
Redmond is also exceptionally bicycle-friendly.
If youre looking for indoor entertainment, though, the city is somewhat lacking.
Olympia
One of the countrys smaller capital cities, Olympia is a postcard-worthy destination with lots to offer.
For starters, theres the waterfront location and proximity to Seattle, just over an hour away.
Because Olympia is the state capital, it makes perfect sense that many residents work government jobs.
5 Best Small Cities in Washington State
11.
Wenatchee
Everyone knows apples are synonymous with Washington.
Exact numbers vary, but there are thousands of apple orchards here!
Fruit-growing is just one of many reasons people flock to Wenatchee.
No place, including Wenatchee, is perfect.
Walla Walla
With 120-plus wineries and vineyards, Walla Walla is a charming small town in extreme southeastern Washington.
However, Walla Wallas property crime rate is a little over8% higherthan the national average.
On the plus side, violent crimes occur much less frequently here than nationwide.
Wine and food are just the tip of the iceberg in Walla Walla.
Thats significantly lower than thestatewide median home price, and for a coastal town, to boot!
Modern-day Port Angeles was actually built on top of the former town of the same name!
In 1914, the citys streets were raised 10-14 feet using dirt, water, and elbow grease.
you’re able to still take underground tours!
Indeed, Friday Harbor is a true coastal getaway.
There are endless outdoor activities including boating, fishing, and whale-watching.
The colorful German-style buildings give the town a unique festive vibe year-round.
Of course, people consider Leavenworth one of the best places to live in Washington for other reasons.
The$671,957average home price isnt low by any means, but its on par with many other cities.
Leavenworths major draws are fantastic access to outdoor activities and Christmastown.
Every November, the entire town transforms into a winter wonderland with severalmillionlights!
On the downside, there arent many jobs here, which makes it especially popular for retirees.
Map of the best cities to live in Washington
Cheers!
