Ten Things You Should Know before Moving to Washington State. Are you considering moving to Washington State? Consider all factors and weigh benefits before making a final decision. It is important to know the pros and cons of moving to Washington State, whether or not you are relocating from your current location.
We’ve put together a list of 10 Things to Know Before You Move to Washington State. This article is intended to simplify your move by giving you valuable insight into how to make informed choices.
1. What is it like to live in Washington State?
Washington State is a place where you can enjoy a mix of technology hubs, thriving business, scenic beauty, and urban life. Washington State is known for having diverse regions that each offer a unique experience. Weather varies widely depending on where you are. The state also has an international culinary scene and a vibrant arts community.
Washington’s population is steadily growing, and will reach nearly 7,9 million in 2023. This represents an increase of 1.1 percent over 2022. Washington is attracting newcomers from California and other states.
2. Cost of Living in Washington State
Washington State is not the most economical place to live, but it can offer financial benefits. Tax breaks allow you to save money, especially when it comes housing.
Washington has a wide range of affordability. Seattle, which is one of the largest and most expensive cities in America, has an elevated cost of living. This is especially true for housing. PayScale reports that Seattle’s cost of living overall is 49% more than the national average. Housing costs have also increased by 94%. In places like Tacoma the cost of housing is 3% lower than the national median, while the overall cost of living in Seattle is 49% higher.
Seattle is also the leader in terms of rent, with a median price of $1972 per month for a two-bedroom flat, which is significantly higher than the average national cost of $1372. Vancouver is a great option for anyone looking for a beautiful location close to Portland, without having to pay sales tax. Rents in Washington State have been relatively stable, but the median rent of a two-bedroom flat is $3,000 there, which represents a 6.8% rise over last year. Rent costs are a major factor in determining if Washington State is right for you.
3. Washington State Income Tax
Washington State has no income tax, but it does have a high sales tax. Washington State’s sales tax base is 6.5 percent. However, individual cities can levy an additional tax, which could result in a 10.4% overall rate.
4. Washington State’s Economy and Job Market
Washington is known as a state with a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. This is especially true in the technology sector which has attracted major players like Amazon, Microsoft and Expedia Group. Boeing, Nordstrom and Alaska Airlines are just a few of the companies with headquarters in Washington. Washington has a thriving aerospace, agriculture, and farming industries that contribute to the state’s GDP growth rate.
Washington has over 1,300 aerospace businesses and is a hub for commercial and military aircraft production. Washington’s diverse agricultural industry is often overlooked, despite the fact that it is a leader in US apple production. Washington farmers produce over 300 different commodities ranging from Christmas trees to cherries, which contributes significantly to the food production, agricultural production and trade industries.
5. Weather in Washington
Washington State is characterized by a variety of climates, from the mild winters and cool summers in Seattle to the arid conditions found in Eastern Washington.
Seattle has mild winters and cool summers, as well as a high rate of precipitation. The total amount of rainfall is still not excessive. Eastern Washington, on the other hand has a climate that is arid, with warmer summers and cooler winters. This makes it perfect for snow skiing and water sports during the winter and summer.
6. Explore the Great Outdoors of Washington
Washington State offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain-biking, climbing, fishing and more. Diverse geography from mountains to islands offers many opportunities for adventure.
At least 64 mountain ranges are named in the state, including major peaks like Mount Adams, Mount Baker, and Glacier Peak. Mount Rainier, in Tacoma, is a favorite among locals. It can be seen from downtown Seattle during clear days.
Washington is home to some of the most beautiful state parks in the country, including Olympic National Park and North Cascades National Park. You can also go camping, mountain biking and kayaking at these stunning locations. Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park, a geologic reserve with unique finds like petrified wooden, is one of Washington’s most beautiful state parks.
Exploring the San Juan Islands, with its 400 islands, is a unique maritime experience. Orcas Island is a horseshoe-shaped island that offers a mixture of natural beauty, arts and culture. The Friendly Isle, with its charming coastline, rolling farms, and bays is another gem. It’s a favorite destination for locals as well as visitors.
7. What is the culture of Washington?
Washington’s rich cultural tapestry is shaped by residents from Scandinavians and Native Americans. This supports a vibrant arts and culture scene. Diversity and cosmopolitanism blend seamlessly in cities like Seattle.
State is a haven of creativity and artists, with such events as the BAM ARTSfair, an annual event at the Bellevue Arts Museum that showcases different genres and a section dedicated to children, called KIDSfair. La Conner is a village on the waterfront between Seattle and Vancouver. It has performing arts venues and museums.
The Olympic Sculpture Park offers breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Washington’s historical landmarks offer a look into the rich history of the state. From the American and English camps from the 1859 Pig War in San Juan Island National Park, to the Fort Nisqually Granary Living History Museum at Tacoma’s Point Defiance Park which was the original European trading post along Puget Sound.
8. Food Scene in Washington
Washington’s culinary scene offers a delicious journey of diverse offerings that will appeal to everyone. This state is known for its bounty of agricultural products and seafood. It offers a delicious fusion.
Seattle is a culinary mecca with a vibrant seafood scene. Seafood lovers will enjoy the Pike Place Market where fresh fish is sold, as well as renowned seafood restaurants like The Crab Pot or Elliott’s Oyster House. If you’re looking for international cuisine in Seattle, its diverse neighborhoods have a wide range of choices, from the authentic Asian flavors found in the International District, to the vibrant Latin flavors found on Capitol Hill.
Washington’s culinary culture continues to be impressive, even beyond Seattle. Tacoma has a burgeoning food scene that features both trendy restaurants and historical diners. State’s agricultural prowess can be seen in places such as Yakima Valley. This region is known for its farm to table experiences and vineyards which produce exceptional wines.
9. Washington’s Nightlife
Washington’s vibrant nightlife caters to all tastes and preferences. The state has a variety of options for a fun night out, from lively urban scenes to cozy neighborhoods.
Seattle’s nightlife has as many different types of bars and clubs as the city. The city is dotted with trendy bars, historic pubs and rooftop lounges. Capitol Hill is a hotspot for nightlife, featuring a wide variety of bars, clubs and music venues. Pioneer Square, a historic district with many entertainment options, becomes a thriving nightlife hotspot after dark.
Tacoma has a vibrant nightlife, as an increasing number bars and breweries contribute to the social scene. Tacoma has a variety of dining options ranging from casual pubs to trendy cocktail bars. The waterfront is a beautiful setting for evening strolls and waterfront dining.
Washington’s smaller cities offer their own unique nightlife experiences. Everett has pubs, local breweries, and live music venues.
10. Washington Sports Scene
Washington State and Seattle in particular have a vibrant sports culture with many competitive teams, as well as devoted fans. Lumen Field, also known as CenturyLink Field, in Seattle’s SoDo district, is the home of the Seattle Seahawks (a well-known NFL franchise) and the Seattle Sounders (a dynamic soccer squad). T-Mobile Park is where the Seattle Mariners compete in Major League Baseball (MLB). It’s notable for its retractable rooftop and panoramic city views.
Seattle Storm is the city’s WNBA champion team for 2020, demonstrating the strength of women’s basketball. Seattle Kraken, NHL’s new team, debuted in 2021-22, adding to excitement about hockey.
Washington is a state that loves sports, and this includes college athletics. There are several large universities located in Washington. Gonzaga and University of Washington lead the way in college sports, which contributes to the competitive and dynamic sports landscape that is enjoyed by residents and visitors.
