Moving to Washington? Making The Move To The Evergreen State

October 9, 2023 Leave a comment

Washington – the gem of the Pacific Northwest. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and bustling job market, it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to make the move to Washington.

With thriving cities such as Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland and Bellingham – plus hidden treasures such as the San Juan Islands – there’s something for everyone in this beautiful state.

Whether you are moving your family or making a professional transition, read on to learn everything you need to know about putting down roots in the Evergreen State.

Are you thinking of moving to Washington State? Find out what it’s like living here!

If you are contemplating a move, get in touch with us for assistance with your relocation.

Getting To Know Washington

Located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, Washington is nestled between the Pacific Ocean to the west, Oregon to the south, Idaho to the east, and British Columbia, Canada, to the north.

This majestic state is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in America, with majestic mountains, lush forests, and stunning coastlines.

Washington has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The first inhabitants were Native American tribes living off fishing and hunting for centuries before European settlers arrived in 1792. Washington was officially admitted as a state on November 11th, 1889, and was named (naturally) after George Washington!

Today, the state boasts around 7.7 million residents across six distinct regions:

Puget Sound Region
Olympic Peninsula Region
Southwest Washington Region
Central Washington Region
North Central Washington Region
Eastern Washington Region.

Each region offers something unique for visitors to explore, such as beaches along Puget Sound or mountain ranges in Central Washington.

Contrary to popular belief, the capital city of Washington isn’t Seattle – the state’s capital is Olympia, which is located in Thurston County in Western Washington. Other major cities include Seattle (the largest city), Spokane (the second largest city), Tacoma (the third largest city), and Bellevue (the fourth largest city).

The state also boasts numerous attractions, such as:

Mount Rainier National Park which features breathtaking views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks
Olympic National Park
North Cascades National Park
Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument
San Juan Islands

And between each of these incredible attractions are friendly and welcoming towns and villages.

The Economy of Washington

Washington is home to a flourishing economy, boasting some of the strongest industries in the United States. These include aerospace, agriculture, biotechnology, clean technology, software development, and maritime services.

The state also has a booming retail sector thanks to its many shopping outlets along Puget Sound and other major cities.

The unemployment rate in Washington is also low, hovering around 3-4%. This means job seekers have a good chance of finding employment in the state – although competition can be fierce depending on the industry.

The clean technology sector has also seen tremendous growth in recent years as companies look to reduce their environmental impact while still remaining profitable. Companies like Microsoft and Amazon have invested heavily in this sector and are helping to drive innovation in this area.

Moving To Washington – 5 Things You Need To Know

With so much to do, see, and experience, Washington is the perfect place to call home. Best of all, the state has something to offer everyone, regardless of lifestyle or interests. Here are a few tips to help make your move as smooth and successful as possible:

1. The Cost Of Living In Washington

The housing market in Washington State is dynamic, with prices and trends changing constantly. And with six different regions to live in, you’ll find something for every style and taste

Love the city life? You’ll find plenty of city homes in Seattle and Tacoma. Prefer a quieter, more rural feel? Go explore Central Washington or the Olympic Peninsula! Olympia has been voted one of America’s most livable cities due to its small-town feel and affordability.

The cost of living in Washington is slightly higher than the national average, but this is mostly due to housing costs. Transportation and food are relatively affordable, and residents enjoy access to some of the best healthcare in the country.

Washington Housing Market

The Washington housing market is hot – with many professionals looking to move to the area. Areas such as Seattle and Tacoma have seen rapidly rising home values in the past few years – which can create lasting wealth for those who invest in homes early.

While the properties within cities have seen the biggest increase in value, rural areas have remained relatively stable – offering a more affordable option for those on a budget. For instance, most residents’ average property taxes come in at $1,731 (though they can vary from county to county).

The good news is that the Washington housing market is expected to remain strong in the coming years, with new construction and development projects continuing to increase demand.

Washington Taxes

When you think of the cost of living, you likely want to know what types of taxes you’ll be paying.

Washington has no state income tax, which can lead to substantial savings. The state also offers a variety of tax incentives and credits that can reduce your taxes. The average sales tax is 6.5%, which helps offset living costs.

Washington Education And Healthcare

Washington is home to some of the top universities and colleges in the country, including the University of Washington, Washington State University, Gonzaga University, and Pacific Lutheran University.

The state also has an excellent healthcare system, with multiple hospitals and clinics offering quality care – so you can trust that you’ll get the best care when you need it.

Washington Job Market

The job market in Washington is strong, with the unemployment rate hovering around 3-4%. Technology and healthcare are two of the most sought-after industries in the state – but you’ll also find plenty of opportunities in retail, hospitality, agriculture, banking, and finance. Much of the state is remote-friendly, so you’ll find plenty of jobs listed for remote contractors and freelancers.

2. Weather

When you think of Washington, you might think of rain – but the truth is that it’s not all wet! While the state enjoys nearly 40 inches of rain each year, it also has plenty of sunny days to enjoy.

In Western Washington, Seattle and its surrounding areas experience mild temperatures year-round, with an average temperature of about 60 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months and 40 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter months. Rainfall is common throughout the year, but most fall during winter when snow is also possible.

Eastern Washington has a much different climate than its Western counterpart. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures reaching the 90s on some days. Winters are cold and dry, with temperatures dipping below freezing at night. Snowfall is also common in this region, especially in higher elevations such as Spokane or Yakima.

There are plenty of ways to offset Washington’s rainy or cold days. The many outdoor activities, such as hiking and kayaking, are some of the best ways to enjoy yourself – and you won’t break the bank doing it! Skiing and snowboarding are widely popular activities during the winter months, with multiple resorts located around the state.

3. Washington Offers Excellent Education Opportunities

Washington is home to some of the best higher education institutions in the country. School districts such as Seattle Public Schools and Spokane Public Schools are considered some of the best in the nation, and there are several excellent private schools as well.

For those seeking higher education, Washington has multiple universities, colleges, and community colleges to choose from.

The University of Washington is one of the most prestigious universities in the country, and its College of Education offers a wide range of degree programs. Tuition for in-state students is $11,822 per year, while out-of-state tuition is $37,914 per year.
Gonzaga University offers a variety of tuition rates for students depending on their program and residency. For the 2023-24 academic year, undergraduate tuition is $52,540.
Central Washington University is another excellent option for those looking to pursue higher education in Washington. Tuition for in-state students is $7,944 per year, while out-of-state tuition is $20,876 per year.
Western Washington University Extended Education offers a variety of degree programs and certificates to help students reach their educational goals. Tuition for in-state students is $6,724 per year, while out-of-state tuition is $17,364 per year.
Bates Technical College provides an affordable option for those pursuing higher education in Washington. With low tuition rates and flexible class schedules, Bates Technical College makes it easy for students to get the education they need without breaking the bank. Tuition for in-state students is $4,620 per year, while out-of-state tuition is $10,680 per year.

From preschool to doctoral studies, students have many opportunities to pursue their educational goals in Washington. With some of the best schools and universities in the country and plenty of affordable tuition options, there’s something for everyone. Regardless of your educational goals, you can rest assured that Washington has something to offer.

4. There’s Tons to Do In Washington

Outside of work and school, there’s plenty to do in Washington. With its incredible natural beauty and bustling cities, there’s no shortage of things to explore and experience.

Top 10 Washington Attractions

Looking to take the family on a fun outing? Washington has tons of attractions to explore:

Space Needle – Towering 605 feet (184 meters) above downtown Seattle, the Space Needle is an icon of the city—and it’s the number one tourist attraction in Washington State.
Lake Chelan – Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and other water activities at this beautiful lake in central Washington.
Columbia River Gorge – This stunning canyon offers breathtaking views of the Columbia River and plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping.
Spokane – Visit this vibrant city for its many museums, art galleries, parks, and gardens.
Snoqualmie Falls – Take in the majestic beauty of this 268-foot waterfall located just outside Seattle.
North Cascades National Park – Explore over 500 miles of trails through lush forests and rugged mountains in this national park located in northern Washington state.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium – Get up close with exotic animals from around the world at this famous zoo located in Tacoma, WA.
San Juan Islands – Take a ferry ride to these beautiful islands off the coast of Washington for some relaxing beach time or whale-watching excursions!
Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument – Learn about the 1980 eruption of Mount St Helens while exploring its unique landscape filled with lava fields and volcanic features like lava tubes and craters!
10.Olympic National Park – Discover diverse ecosystems ranging from temperate rainforests to snow-capped peaks at this national park on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula!

Best Places to Eat In Washington

All of that exploring is sure to fire up your appetite – so here are some of the can’t-miss spots for foodies in Washington:

In Seattle, 84 Yesler is a must-visit. Located near the Smith Tower, this restaurant offers an array of delicious dishes emphasizing local ingredients.

In Tacoma, Archipelago is a great spot for those who want to experience something unique. This restaurant serves up a variety of Asian-inspired dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Olympia’s Mercato Ristorante is another excellent option. This upscale casual restaurant specializes in simple yet flavorful Italian cuisine and offers catering services and private dining options.

Plus, you’ll find a variety of chain restaurants as well as locally-owned treasures scattered across the state – each featuring the unique flavors of their respective area.

5. Moving to Washington

Moving can be a stressful experience, but rest assured that Washington is an easy place to relocate. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high quality of life, job opportunities, and educational options. Plus, the cost of living in Washington is fairly reasonable compared to other states.

If you’re considering relocating to Washington State or preparing to move, here’s a short list of tips to make your move effortless!

1. Partner With A Proven Realtor

No matter where you’re on the moving timeline, having an experienced and knowledgeable realtor guide you through the process is essential. This way, you’ll be sure to find a place that fits your needs—and budget!

We have years of experience helping people move to Washington at Den Finder Real Estate. With the right partner in your corner, you’ll find your next home.

2. Get Familiar With The Area & Neighborhoods

Research the neighborhood and city beforehand. Washington is a big state with lots of diversity, so make sure you’re aware of what each area has to offer before committing to buy or rent! From Seattle’s bustling downtown life to Spokane’s quiet streets, there’s a place for everyone in Washington.

3. Start Planning Early

The earlier you start planning your move, the better. Don’t wait until the last minute to find accommodations or make transportation arrangements! With enough time and preparation, your move can be hassle-free and enjoyable.

4. Don’t Fear The Movers

Hiring a reliable moving company is worth it—trust us! Make sure to contact several companies and get quotes from each one before deciding. This way, you won’t have to worry about the packing and transporting your belongings.

5. Get Involved In Your Community

Washington is an incredibly friendly and welcoming place, so feel free to get involved in your community. Whether it’s joining a local club, volunteering at the library, or attending weekly farmers markets—getting out there will help you meet new people and make connections!

By planning ahead, you’ll be sure to have a successful and stress-free move. With the right guidance and resources, there’s no reason not to make Washington your new home.

Ready To Move to Washington?

At Den Finder Real Estate, we know a thing or two about Washington. We’ve been helping people relocate to the Evergreen State for over 25 years and are dedicated to making your move as stress-free and successful as possible.

Check out the complete listing of available properties across the state on our website, and contact us to start a conversation about your next move. We also offer commercial property services for businesses or individuals looking to invest in Washington.

We’re here to help make your move to the Evergreen State a smooth and enjoyable experience. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need advice along the way. Welcome to Washington – we know you’ll love it here!

Hi! I’m Jolene Baijot, the founder of Den Finder Real Estate and the creator of this website. I’m also a Real Estate Agent in Washington State. Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post. You can contact me through this website. I’d love to hear from you.