Looking for popular places to live in Washington State? From the bustling city life of Seattle to the stunning natural beauty of the Cascade Mountains, Washington has something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular places to live in the Evergreen State. From the stunning San Juan coastline, the majestic Mt. Rainier to the meandering Puget Sound, Washington is home to diverse natural landscapes, offering breathtaking views and a host of outdoor recreational activities.
From picturesque coastal towns to bustling cities, the state has it all. Couple that with intriguing museums, fascinating boutiques, impressive art galleries, and a lively nightlife scene.
The state is also home to reputed companies the likes of Apple, Amazon, Costco, and Starbucks, leading to plenty of lucrative job opportunities.
This along with no state income tax and numerous excellent universities draws a lot of young adults to take up residence here.
Planning to move to Evergreen State?
List of Popular Places to Live in Washington:
Seattle #1
Seattle is one of the most happening cities in the state featuring a vibrant arts and culture scene.
From appreciating the exquisite architecture of historic buildings, soaking up art at the Seattle Art Museum, enjoying panoramic city views from the Space Needle, shopping in Pike Place Market, and exploring the Museum of Pop Culture to attending exciting live music events, the city is brimming with entertainment options.
The original home to Starbucks, Seattle has excellent restaurants, cafes, and bars. With many tech giants calling the city home, there is a host of job opportunities here.
Love an active lifestyle?
There are plenty of options for outdoor recreation too such as fishing, sailing, bicycling, camping, and hiking.
The University of Washington and Seattle University also draw many young adults to the vibrant city. Housing can be expensive here but the offerings make it worth every penny.
Bellevue #2
Looking for a tranquil suburban vibe with access to the big city entertainment scene?
Head to Bellevue.
From picnicking in Downtown Park, fishing in the nearby Lake Sammamish, or hiking the Coal Creek Trail, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors here.
The suburb also features many upscale dining and shopping options and plenty of bars and restaurants that make up its lively nightlife scene. Various exciting festivals are held throughout the year that bring the community together.
With Seattle nearby and many companies in the suburb itself, there are a host of job opportunities here.
Although housing prices here are higher than the national average if budget is not a constraint, go for it.
Olympia #3
Looking for a place with a vibrant arts and culture scene? Olympia won’t disappoint.
The capital is home to the Olympia Symphony Orchestra and the Olympia Family Theatre, drawing many theatre enthusiasts to attend lively performances.
The city takes its name from the nearby Olympic mountains that elevate its beauty.
With such a scenic location and a host of natural parks, there are ample outdoor recreational activities to enjoy here.
Looking for a well-paying job?
The state government is the biggest employer in the city. Couple that with an affordable cost of living and you get a great place to settle down in Washington as a young adult.
Spokane #4
If outdoor recreation options are on top of your checklist for the perfect city, head to Spokane.
This Eastern Washington city is home to stunning parks such as Riverfront Park and Manito Park and offers a host of outdoor recreation activities including hiking, snowboarding, mountain biking, and more.
The city also features numerous bars, breweries, restaurants, and cafes, making for a lively nightlife scene.
Its friendly community vibe, four-season living, vibrant downtown, and numerous universities add to its appeal for young adults looking to settle down.
It also offers a relatively lower cost of living as compared to many other places on the list.
Bellingham #5
Bellingham offers the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and a big city entertainment scene.
The city’s proximity to the San Juan Islands and the North Cascades offers a host of outdoor recreation activities.
Whatcom Falls and Whatcom Lake are also nearby the city centre, offering easy access to activities such as swimming, boating, and hiking.
No wonder the city has a reputation for adventure travel. Bellingham is also known for its craft breweries and has a lively cultural scene with live music, impressive museums, and delicious local cuisine.
What’s more?
Enjoying all these offerings won’t break the bank as the city offers an affordable cost of living. With so much to offer, it is one of the most popular places to live in Washington.
Vancouver #6
The mesmerising natural landscapes of the Columbia River Gorge region and numerous parks in the city offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
It also offers a host of entertainment options for young professionals and families alike.
From soaking up history at Fort Vancouver or the Clark County Historical Museum, attending local events at Esther Short Park, or exploring the dining options at Waterfront Park, there are endless activities to indulge in here.
Its proximity to Portland offers easy commutes for those who work there. Couple that with affordable housing options.
Tacoma #7
Located 30 minutes from downtown Seattle, nestled along the edge of Puget Sound, Tacoma offers picturesque views and a host of recreation options.
From hiking in the nearby Mount Rainier National Park, exploring vintage shops in Downtown Tacoma, witnessing wildlife at Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium to appreciating art at Tacoma Art Museum, there are endless activities to enjoy here.
The city is also home to the University of Puget Sound and the University of Washington Tacoma Campus, drawing many young adults to call it home.
It also offers a vibrant arts and culture scene as well as a lively nightlife. Couple that with an affordable cost of living.
What’s more?
Its proximity to Seattle opens up access to a plethora of job opportunities for residents.
So, choose the one that attracts you the most and get ready to start the next chapter of your life in your brand-new home!
FAQs: Popular Places to Live in Washington State
Q. What is the coolest city in Washington state?
Seattle and Bellingham are amongst the most happening cities in Washington.
Q. What is the most affordable city in Washington state?
Olympia is considered one of the most affordable cities to live in Washington State.
Q. Is Washington State cheaper than California?
Yes, Washington is approximately 6.9% cheaper than California.