You’ve heard it rains all the time in Washington. That’s only half true. Yes, western Washington sees its fair share of gray skies and drizzle, but eastern Washington is sunny and dry. Washington is a land of contrasts. Majestic mountains and rugged coastlines neighbor arid deserts and rolling farmland. Its diverse landscapes support a huge range of outdoor activities, from skiing to whale watching.
Whether you prefer sipping locally roasted coffee in a hip urban neighborhood or relaxing lakeside after a day of fishing, Washington offers something for you. But with perks come downsides. Let’s explore the pros and cons of calling the Evergreen State home.
The Natural Beauty of Washington State
Towering Mountains and Forests
You’ll be surrounded by jaw-dropping natural scenery in Washington. The mighty Cascade Mountain range carves through the state, offering countless hiking trails and alpine lakes. Iconic peaks like Mt. Rainier and Mt. Baker loom large over the landscape. Beyond the mountains, you’ll find lush evergreen forests blanketing much of the region. Old-growth trees tower overhead, creating a sense of tranquility and wilderness. The fresh scent of pine hangs in the crisp air.
Wild Coastlines and Waterways
Washington’s coastline stretches for miles along the Pacific Ocean. Rugged sea stacks and sandy beaches await exploration. You can watch powerful waves crash against the rocky shoreline or search for treasures in the tide pools.
Inland, the state features countless lakes, rivers and streams perfect for fishing, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water’s edge. Highlights include the vast Lake Chelan, the raging Skykomish River and the glacier-fed Ross Lake.
City Parks and Gardens
Even in Seattle and other cities, nature is never far away. Massive parks like Discovery Park provide an urban oasis of trails, beaches and forests right in the metro area. The stunning Washington Park Arboretum showcases meticulously landscaped gardens alongside hiking trails. No matter where you live in Washington, opportunities for outdoor adventures and appreciating natural beauty are boundless. The state’s incredible landscapes are a huge perk for residents.
A Hiker’s Paradise
You’ll never run out of trails to explore in Washington. With lush rainforests, towering mountain peaks and serene waterways, the state offers many hiking opportunities for all skill levels. Lace up your boots and hit iconic routes like the Enchantments or Skyline Divide. Feeling adventurous? Test your mettle on formidable climbs up Mount Rainier or Glacier Peak.
Water, Water Everywhere
Being surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, Puget Sound and countless rivers and lakes means water activities are a way of life here. Kayak through the San Juan Islands or whitewater raft down the Skykomish River. Beach lovers can soak up rays along the rugged coast or kick back on the sandy shores of lakes like Chelan. And don’t forget fishing – Washington’s streams are teeming with trout, salmon and more.
Four-Season Fun
When the snow falls, Washington transforms into a winter wonderland. World-class ski resorts like Stevens Pass, Crystal Mountain and Whistler Blackcomb (just over the Canadian border) attract powder hounds from around the globe. Or strap on some snowshoes and explore snowy forests and meadows. Love camping? Pitch a tent among the towering evergreens at spots like Ohanapecosh or Dosewallips State Park. With so much nature at your doorstep, there’s always an adventure waiting in the Evergreen State all year around.
The Pros and Cons of Living in Seattle
The Emerald City’s Appeal
Seattle has a magnetic allure that draws people from all over. The mild temperatures, lush greenery and stunning natural scenery are huge selling points. You can go hiking, kayaking, or skiing all within an hour’s drive of downtown. And with major tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft based there, job opportunities abound.
Not to mention, Seattle overflows with culture. You’ll find incredible food from every cuisine, vibrant arts and music scenes, major league sports teams and so much more. It’s an exciting, progressive city that celebrates diversity. The summers are simply glorious too – warm, sunny days are perfect for strolling the waterfront or picnicking in the park.
Rain, Traffic and Costs
The “Seattle freeze” is real. Many transplants struggle to make lasting friendships with the notoriously reserved locals. And yes, it does rain a lot – the constant cloud cover can take a toll on your mood during the long, gray winters. Traffic congestion is another major headache, with sprawling suburbs and bottlenecked highways.
Housing costs are exorbitant as well. Bidding wars are the norm and even modest homes can sell for $800,000 or more. The high cost of living makes it challenging to get by, even on a tech salary. You’ll pay through the nose for basics like groceries, gas, and parking, too.
A Unique PNW Lifestyle
Ultimately, living in Seattle is a very particular Pacific Northwest lifestyle. You’ll adore the unmatched natural splendor and plethora of things to do. But you must embrace the gray, drizzly days and eye-watering real estate prices. For the right person though, the Emerald City could be your sparkling jewel of a hometown.
What Life Is Really Like in Small-Town Washington
A Slower Pace
Living in a small town in Washington often means trading the hustle and bustle for a slower, more relaxed way of life. You’ll quickly get used to friendly waves from neighbors as you stroll down quiet streets. The peaceful atmosphere provides a stark contrast to big city living.
Things just seem to move at a different cadence here. You can take your time grabbing a coffee and catching up with friends without the typical rush. Even running errands feels less hectic without battling heavy traffic and crowds.
A Tight-Knit Community
One of the biggest charms of small-town life is the palpable sense of community. You’ll find yourself becoming a “regular” at the local shops and restaurants in no time. The owners and staff will know your name and place your order before you even ask.
From the annual town fair to high school football games, community events are the heartbeat that brings everyone together. You’re sure to make some lifelong friends just by being an active part of the close-knit social fabric.
Appreciating the Great Outdoors
With incredible natural scenery surrounding you, it’s easy to embrace an outdoorsy lifestyle in small-town Washington. Hiking trails, rivers, lakes and mountains are all right in your backyard, perfect for camping, fishing, climbing and more.
Weekends are often spent exploring and appreciating the area’s stunning landscapes. You’ll develop a new appreciation for the simple pleasures of spending quality time in nature away from the distractions of city life.
A Different Kind of Charm
While amenities and options are more limited, small towns have an undeniable charm of their own. The quaint main streets lined with family-owned businesses hearken back to a simpler era. You’ll grow to love the friendly, familiar atmosphere where everyone seems acquainted.
It’s a major adjustment trading the conveniences of a big city. But once you settle into the easygoing rhythms of small-town living, you may just find it was exactly what you were looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Washington
What’s the Cost of Living Like?
Living in Washington comes with a higher price tag compared to many other states. The cost of living is around 9% above the national average, largely due to expensive housing markets in Seattle and its suburbs. But you’ll find reasonable prices in smaller cities and rural areas. Utilities and transportation costs tend to be on par with other West Coast states.
Is the Weather Really That Rainy?
Yes and no. Western Washington gets a lot of rain from fall through spring – over 35 inches annually in Seattle. But summers are gloriously dry and sunny. Eastern Washington has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and snowy winters. Statewide, cloudy days outnumber sunny ones. But the mild temps make up for it.
What Are the Top Job Industries?
Major industries include aerospace (thanks to Boeing), technology, trade, healthcare, agriculture and military. Seattle is a major corporate hub with Amazon, Microsoft, Costco, Starbucks and more headquartered there. But jobs are available across the state in various sectors.
Still Considering a Move to Washington State?
Working with a professional moving company like United Van Lines can take the hassle out of cross-country moves to Washington. Our customized, full-service moving packages can cover all your moving needs. United’s experienced agents can manage storage, packing, unpacking, car shipping, debris removal and more.
Want to know more about living in other states and cities? Check out our city and state guides. Ready to make a move? Our blog is filled with helpful moving checklists, tips and tricks for settling in your new abode and our digital moving magazine, House Key, is designed to simplify and streamline your move.
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