From the misty evergreens of the Olympic Peninsula to the snow-capped peaks of the Cascades and the endless shorelines of the Puget Sound, Washington is a place where nature is always within reach. Whether you’re navigating the packed streets of Seattle, enjoying the laid-back vibe of Bellingham, or settling into a quieter town on the east side of the state, there’s a little something for everyone. But living here isn’t just about stunning views and fresh coffee—it comes with its own set of perks and challenges. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of living in Washington, so you can get a clearer picture.
Renting in Washington snapshot
| Population | 7,958,180 |
| Avg. studio rent | $1,489 per month |
| Avg. one-bedroom rent | $1,790 per month |
| Avg. two-bedroom rent | $2,017 per month |
| Most affordable cities to rent in Washington | Pullman, Yakima, Cheney |
| Most walkable cities in Washington | Seattle, Tacoma, Lynnwood |
1. Pro: Melting pot of food and coffee
Washington’s food culture is a mix of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and global influences. From bustling seafood markets on the coast to farm-fresh dishes and wine in the inland valleys, there’s no shortage of delicious options. Seattle’s coffee culture is world-famous, but there’s much more than just the big names—neighborhood cafés take their craft seriously, and finding the perfect cup is practically a pastime here. And if you haven’t tried a Seattle Dog (a hot dog loaded with cream cheese and grilled onions), you’re missing out on a local staple.
2. Con: It’s expensive to live in certain regions
Washington’s strong economy has driven up the cost of living, especially in cities like Seattle and Bellevue. Buying a home in Seattle comes with a hefty price tag, with median prices hitting $840,000. Renting isn’t much easier—expect to pay around $2,157 for a one-bedroom apartment. Outside of the major cities, prices drop. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in Yakima averages around $910. So depending on where you’re looking within the state, you’ll be able to find something that fits your budget. If you’re unsure what you can afford, using tools like a rent calculator can point you in the right direction.
3. Pro: Mountains, lakes, sounds and forests
No matter where you live in Washington, you’re never far from an adventure, which makes this state a good place to live. The Hoh Rain Forest feels like something out of a fairytale, Mt. Rainier’s presence dominates the skyline, and the state’s coastline has miles of rugged, scenic beauty. Whether you’re hiking through meadows in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, skiing on fresh powder at Crystal Mountain, or paddling through quiet inlets like Portage Bay, there’s always a way to get outside and soak it all in.
4. Con: Traffic congestion in larger cities
Traffic congestion in larger cities of Washington, such as Seattle and Tacoma, can be a significant challenge for commuters, with congested highways and crowded streets leading to long commute times and frustration. For instance, Interstate 5, which runs through Seattle, is notorious for its heavy traffic during peak hours, causing delays for drivers traveling to and from the city center. Additionally, major thoroughfares like Interstate 405 and State Route 520 often experience congestion.
5. Pro: Commitment to sustainable living
Washington is serious about sustainability, with policies aimed at reducing emissions and promoting clean energy. The state is working toward 100% renewable electricity by 2045, and its commitment to preserving natural spaces is evident in its vast network of parks and wilderness areas. Whether you’re walking through the old-growth forests of Olympic National Park or biking along Seattle’s many urban trails, it’s easy to see why Washington is at the forefront of environmental efforts.
6. Con: Gray skies in western regions can wear you down
Western Washington is known for its long, gloomy winters, where overcast skies and drizzle seem endless. The lack of sunlight can take a toll, leading to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) for some residents. Many combat the winter blues with light therapy, weekend getaways to sunnier places, or simply embracing the coziness of indoor activities. If you love crisp fall air and misty mornings, you might not mind—but if you need constant sunshine, the western half of the state might be tough to get used to.
7. Pro: Cultural events are found throughout the entire state
Wherever you are in Washington, you’ll never run out of things to do. Music lovers flock to festivals like Bumbershoot and Capitol Hill Block Party, while sports fans fill stadiums for Seahawks and Mariners games. The Washington State Fair in Puyallup is a beloved tradition, and smaller towns host everything from tulip festivals to rodeos. Whether you’re into live music, cultural celebrations, or quirky local events, there’s always something happening.
8. Con: Risk of earthquakes and tsunamis
Living in Washington means accepting the possibility of earthquakes and tsunamis, especially with the looming threat of the Cascadia Subduction Zone. The state also has several active volcanoes, including Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens, which could pose serious hazards. While major disasters are rare, locals stay prepared with emergency kits and evacuation plans—just in case.
9. Pro: It’s easy to pick up an outdoor hobby
With endless trails, waterways, and mountains to explore, it’s almost impossible to live here and not find a new favorite activity. Hikers dream of tackling the Enchantments, kayakers weave through the San Juan Islands, and campers stake out spots under the stars. Even if you live in the city, you can escape for a quick paddleboard session on Lake Union or a morning hike in the foothills. If you’re looking to be more active, Washington makes it easy.
10. Con: Tourism influx during the summer months
Tourism brings a surge of visitors to Washington, especially in the summer. Pike Place Market overflows with tourists, ferries fill up fast, and popular hikes like Rattlesnake Ledge turn into crowded photo ops. Even national parks see traffic jams, with cars lined up for miles to get into Mt. Rainier or the Olympics. If you’re planning to visit a hot spot, go early or explore lesser-known areas for a little breathing room.
11. Pro: Island life is just a ferry ride away
Washington’s islands are just a ferry ride away, offering everything from rugged hikes to cozy waterfront towns. The San Juan Islands, accessible from Anacortes, are a prime spot for whale watching, with Orcas Island’s Moran State Park boasting panoramic views from Mount Constitution. Whidbey Island, reachable by ferry from Mukilteo or via the scenic Deception Pass Bridge, is home to historic Coupeville, famous for its Penn Cove mussels, and the dramatic coastal trails of Ebey’s Landing. Closer to Seattle, Bainbridge Island is a quick 35-minute ferry trip, where you can explore Winslow’s charming cafés and bookstores or wander the serene Japanese gardens of the Bloedel Reserve.
12. Con: Limited parking in urban areas
Parking in urban settings in Washington, such as Seattle, is often limited and expensive, with high demand for parking spaces and restricted street parking. Residents may face challenges finding parking near their homes or workplaces, leading to frustration and inconvenience. Additionally, the scarcity of parking options can result in longer commute times and increased reliance on alternative transportation methods.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.
