The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Washington State

Soon after you relocate to WA, you’ll notice how residents here take good care of their health, both physical and mental. It means that WA has fewer overweight individuals than many other states in the US. Also, the state’s among most educated ones — over 44% of its population owns Associates and higher degrees.

If you are in search of good employment, consider relocating to the Pacific Northwest. Some of the most successful companies have their headquarters here. Just to name a few – Amazon, Google, Boeing, and Starbucks have found their home in the WA.

The variety of industries is developing here, making WA so appealing for investors from other countries.

$9.47 – the amount that a standard worker in WA earns per hour, and this is the highest minimum wage per hour in the entire US.

Nature’s beauties, including forests, water, and parks make WA so appealing for newcomers. In 2005, WA was voted the number #1 bike-friendly area in the US. Good water and air quality, a lot of green space, amazing green buildings, and culture of waste recycling are the things that confirm how much WA appreciates and embraces nature.

WA’s national parks are suitable for different outdoor activities, including cycling, hiking, and rock climbing. Reservations of water such as the ocean, lakes, and rivers are typical for those who like to sail and kayak. If you are a winter sports enthusiast, mountain crests are perfect for them.

First of all, WA is proud of its universities, including the University of Washington, Western Washington University, and Central Washington University. In 2015 college students got the opportunity to reduce tuition by 20%. It means that they need less than four years to graduate.

WA is among the seven US states with no income taxes.

The possibility that a WA resident experiences a violent crime is almost 30% lower than in the other parts of the US. The probability rate is 1 in 331. There’s a bigger chance of property crime, though, almost 50% more than in the rest of the US.

Whether you are relocating to Vancouver or SEA, the cost of living in WA is higher than in most parts of the US. For instance, the cost of living in Seattle is almost 50% higher than the US average, while in Vancouver, you will have to pay more for most things than in some other parts of the nation.

Besides the benefit of non-existing income tax, the sales taxes are higher than in most places in the United States.

The Cascada Range splits WA into two climate zones. The state’s central and eastern parts have a dry climate with extreme temperatures, while the western part is characterized by a moderate climate with an abundance of rainfall. Also, there’s a considerable probability of hurricanes and storms, and you should know that WA has four active volcanoes.

Even though the market offers different employment opportunities, unemployment is still a problem here. Speaking in the language of figures, the rate in the WA is 6.4%, placing it in the top ten countries with the same problem in the US.

WA is on the top when it comes to property crimes in the US.

Do you know where the center of the Universe is? Well, if you ask residents of Fremont, they will tell you that it’s right there. This popular neighborhood is packed with trendy coffee shops, hippie clothes stores, and modern condominiums.

Fremont is a unique area with a carefree vibe, especially popular with the alternative folks. According to apartments.com, renting a two-bedroom apartment will cost you approximately $2,000 per month, while, according to Zillow, the median price of houses is $699,974.

Ballard is another SEA community famous for being a mixture of old apartment blocks and new condo developments. It is a family-oriented neighborhood filled with some of the best restaurants in Seattle, popular among all residents, especially on weekends. And, did someone say beach? Yes, Ballard also has a beach suitable for gatherings and outdoor activities, including picnics, barbecuing, and kite-surfing.

According to apartments.com, renting a two-bedroom apartment here will cost you around $2,000 while buying a house, according to Zillow, will cost you about $750,000.

If you are looking for a more affordable suburb in SEA, stop right here because Greenwood is a place for you. It is just 15 minutes from downtown, and it is ideal for young families. Here, you will see traditional single houses as well as modern constructions, including a lot of family-friendly restaurants and coffee shops and cocktail bars.

According to Zillow, to afford a two-bedroom apartment, you will need around $2,500 per month. On the other hand, the median price of houses is $649,000.

Though less affordable than Redmond, Sammamish is one of the most popular places for those relocating to WA. It has a population of 52,000, and it’s just 25 miles away from SEA. It sits next to the beautiful Lake Sammamish, and it is ideal for outdoor activities. The schooling system is also quite good, ranking the city as one of the most desirable places to raise a family.

Those who are in love with nature should consider moving to Bainbridge Island. Its residents are passionate about hiking, sailing, fishing, and generally enjoying the outdoors. SEA is just next door, and, in a poll conducted by CNN, the town once was the second-best place to live in Washington.

Tacoma is growing in popularity each year because Seattle’s high house prices force people to move out to the neighboring cities. It is known for its Museum of glass, which attracts visitors from around the state and beyond.

Tacoma is one of the best cities for young professionals, due to its much lower everyday expenses than the Emerald City. According to apartments.com, to rent a two-bedroom apartment, you will need around $1,200, while, according to Zillow, $314,950 is the median price of houses.

Famous for being one of the prettiest cities in the country, Spokane is just 92 miles away from the US-Canada border, and within an hour’s drive from over 70 rivers and lakes, including gorgeous Lake Coeur d’Alene.

However, the city itself can be proud of its outdoors, too, including the Selkirk Mountains and Spoken River running through it. So, if you are an outdoor person, Spokane could be the place you are looking for.

According to apartments.com, renting a two-bedroom apartment here can cost you around $1,200 per month. On the other hand, according to Zillow, the median price of homes currently listed in Spokane is $259,972. Housing options and everyday expenses in Spokane are more affordable than in many other parts of the country.

Known for its history, Mercer Island has a lot to offer to all who want to relocate here. It was named for the Mercer family of Seattle and received its first residents between 1870 and 1880. Ever since then, it has been a thriving and growing community with plenty of nature and activities for all. Not to mention the famous Mercer Island Farmers Market that can be visited between June and October.

Mountlake Terrace is located on the southern border of Snohomish County and offers a lot of housing options. It was originally built by real estate developers to provide low-cost housing for veterans, but it immediately started growing and today it has around 20,000 residents living in this city. And it’s also home to many Seattle commuters due to its proximity.

Microsoft, a brainchild of Bill Gates, is one of the most significant exports of WA. Other exemplary businesses, including Zillow, Expedia, and Amazon, are also here.

Facebook, Twitter, Google, Apple, and eBay have engineering offices here. The industry is not going to slow down any time soon because over 220,000 people are employed in tech-related businesses, from game developers to software engineers.

With more than 1,400 companies providing jobs, building products and services for the likes of Airbus, Embraer, Boeing, and Bombardier, the Aerospace industry is also one of the state’s leading industries. With more than 80,000 employers, Boeing is SEA’s top employer.

At number three of WA’s manufacturing sectors is the Forest Products Sector. Since 165 years ago, the industry has been providing a vast assortment of jobs for Washington’s residents, and it’s still going strong. There is always a need for forest products such as window frames, doors, furniture, and paper.

With fabulous 39,500 farms that grow over 300 different crops, farming is also an essential sector in WA. The region grows over 2.5 million tons of apples per year, and six out of every ten apples consumed in the United States come from WA.

According to data provided by specialized website Numbeo, the regular SEA resident spends around $400 per month on groceries, which is around $50 more than the national norm. According to the US Department of Agriculture, the national average cost of groceries each month is $345.

Opposite groceries, utility bills are more affordable, and it will cost you around 25% less than the national average.

Those who are in the middle of looking for a reliable company that offers auto transport services should know that, according to Gas Prices, a gallon of gas in the WA will costs, on average, $2.611. It is higher than the national average of $2.071 per gallon.

Compared to the national average, people in WA spend 17% less on their annual healthcare insurance.

According to Avalara, the WA sales tax is currently 6.5%. However, local municipalities have the right to raise it higher, so the total tax rate can be as high as 10.4$.

Washington State has a relatively high cost of living compared to other states in the US. The cost of housing is particularly high, with the median home price in Washington State being around $560,400, according to the official website of Washington State. The cost of groceries and healthcare is also higher than the national average, while the cost of transportation is relatively low. However, Washington State does not have a state income tax, which can help offset some of the higher costs. The cost of living in Washington State varies depending on the specific location, with the Seattle area being particularly expensive.

If you’re looking for a place to live in Washington State, there are a few things to consider. First, determine your budget and preferred location. Washington State is home to a range of urban, suburban, and rural areas, so it’s important to think about proximity to work, school, or other activities. Once you’ve narrowed down your search, start looking online at rental listings or reach out to a local real estate agent. It’s also important to consider factors such as parking availability, public transportation access, and the overall safety of the neighborhood. By doing your research and taking the time to find the right place to live, you can ensure a smooth transition to life in Washington State.

Washington State has several cities that are popular among young professionals. Seattle is perhaps the most popular city, with a thriving tech industry, lively nightlife, and a range of cultural attractions. Bellevue, located just outside Seattle, is also a popular option, with a growing tech industry and a high standard of living. Tacoma is another popular destination, offering a more affordable cost of living and a growing arts and culture scene. Bellingham, located near the Canadian border, is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, with access to hiking, skiing, and other recreational activities. Spokane, located on the eastern side of the state, offers a more affordable cost of living and a growing healthcare industry.

Washington State has a strong job market, with a diverse range of industries that offer a variety of job opportunities. The state is home to several major tech companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing, which provide employment opportunities in areas such as software development, engineering, and aerospace. Additionally, the healthcare industry is a major employer in Washington State, with several large hospital systems and research institutions located in the Seattle area. The state also has a growing clean energy sector, as well as a thriving agricultural industry in eastern Washington. The minimum wage in Washington State is higher than the federal minimum wage, which can help support workers in entry-level positions.

Washington State has a diverse climate, with different regions experiencing different weather patterns. The western side of the state, which includes cities like Seattle, has a mild and rainy climate due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Summers are typically mild and pleasant, while winters are cool and wet. The eastern side of the state, which includes cities like Spokane, has a drier and more arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Temperatures in the summer can reach into the 90s, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing.

If you don’t plan on hiring an auto transport company, note that getting around Washington State without a car is possible. Major cities such as Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane have extensive public transportation systems, including buses and light rail. Seattle also has a streetcar system and a monorail that serves popular destinations such as the Space Needle and the Seattle Center. Additionally, Washington State has a network of bike paths and trails, making it relatively easy to bike around certain areas. However, in more rural areas, public transportation options may be limited, so hiring a car shipping company and transporting your car may be necessary.

Washington State has a varied public transportation system, with options ranging from buses and light rail to ferries and streetcars. Seattle has one of the largest public transportation systems in the state, operated by King County Metro Transit. The system includes buses, streetcars, and a light rail system called Sound Transit, which connects Seattle to nearby cities such as Bellevue and Tacoma. Additionally, Washington State Ferries provides service to many of the islands in Puget Sound, as well as to Victoria, British Columbia. In Spokane, the Spokane Transit Authority operates a bus system, while in Tacoma, Pierce Transit offers bus service throughout the city.

Washington State is known for its thriving culinary scene, with a range of restaurants and bars offering something for everyone who looks to hire a long-distance moving company and move here. Seattle is home to several top-rated restaurants, including Canlis, which offers fine dining with a view of Lake Union, and Westward, a seafood-focused restaurant with a waterfront patio. The city also has a thriving coffee culture, with popular spots such as Starbucks and independent cafes like Victrola Coffee Roasters. The Pike Place Market is a must-visit destination for foodies, with vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses. In Spokane, Clover serves locally sourced American cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting, while in Tacoma, Marrow offers a unique dining experience featuring nose-to-tail butchery and whole animal cooking. For drinks, Washington State has a thriving craft beer scene, with popular breweries such as Fremont Brewing in Seattle and Bale Breaker Brewing Company in Yakima. There are also several wine regions in the state, including the Yakima Valley and Walla Walla, with tasting rooms and vineyards to explore.

Washington State has a wide variety of tourist attractions, from natural wonders to cultural landmarks. Some of the top tourist destinations include:

• Mount Rainier National Park – home to Mount Rainier, the highest peak in the Cascades, this park offers hiking trails, camping, and stunning views of the mountain and surrounding landscape.
• Pike Place Market – located in downtown Seattle, this historic market is a must-visit destination for foodies and shoppers, with vendors offering fresh produce, seafood, and handmade crafts.
• Space Needle – a Seattle landmark, Space Needle offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains from its observation deck.
• Olympic National Park – this park features rugged coastlines, rainforests, and alpine peaks, and is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
• Chihuly Garden and Glass – located in Seattle, this museum showcases the glass art of local artist Dale Chihuly, with a stunning indoor garden and outdoor installations.
• North Cascades National Park – this park offers stunning views of the rugged Cascade Mountains, with opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

Washington State has a diverse nightlife scene, with options ranging from trendy bars and clubs to live music venues and performance spaces. Seattle is known for its lively music scene, with venues such as The Crocodile, Neumos, and The Showbox hosting both local and national acts. The city also has a range of bars and clubs, including The Unicorn, a carnival-themed bar, and The Baltic Room, a popular dance club. In Spokane, The Bartlett is a popular venue for live music, while The Observatory serves craft cocktails in a speakeasy-style setting. Tacoma has several popular nightlife spots, including The Swiss, a historic tavern, and The Mix, a dance club and music venue.

Washington State is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of activities available for every level of adventurer. Some of the top outdoor activities include:

• Hiking – Washington State has an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging alpine climbs. Some popular hikes include Mount Si, Rattlesnake Ledge, and the Enchantments.
• Skiing and Snowboarding – with several world-class ski resorts, including Whistler Blackcomb and Stevens Pass, Washington State offers plenty of opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts.
• Biking – The state has several dedicated bike trails, including the Burke-Gilman Trail in Seattle and the Centennial Trail in Spokane, as well as many scenic routes for road cyclists.
• Kayaking and Canoeing – With its many lakes, rivers, and coastlines, Washington State is a prime destination for kayaking and canoeing. The San Juan Islands, Lake Chelan, and the Skagit River are all popular spots.
• Rock Climbing – Washington State has several excellent rock climbing destinations, including Index, Vantage, and Leavenworth.

If you live in Washington State, it’s important to be prepared for earthquakes since the state is prone to seismic activity. To prepare for an earthquake, make sure to have a disaster kit with enough food, water, and supplies to last at least three days. You should also identify safe places in your home, workplace, and community to take cover during an earthquake. It’s also a good idea to secure heavy objects such as bookcases and water heaters, and to practice drop, cover, and hold-on drills with your family and coworkers. Finally, stay informed about potential hazards and emergency notifications by signing up for alerts from your local emergency management agency.

Washington State is home to several excellent schools across its various regions. Some of the best schools in Washington include Garfield High School, Interlake High School, and Lakeside School in Seattle; Newport High School in Bellevue; Olympia High School in Olympia; and International School in Redmond. The University of Washington is also a top-ranked public university in the state, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in a wide range of fields. Additionally, the state has a number of well-regarded private universities, including Gonzaga University and Seattle University.

Washington State has a diverse and vibrant cultural scene that is influenced by its Pacific Northwest location, Native American heritage, and urban centers such as Seattle and Tacoma. The state is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and performing arts venues, including the Seattle Art Museum, Tacoma Art Museum, and the Museum of Glass. Seattle is also known for its music scene, particularly for being the birthplace of grunge music and the home of famous music venues like the Crocodile and the Showbox. The state is also home to numerous cultural festivals and events, such as the Seattle International Film Festival, the Bumbershoot Music and Arts Festival, and the Washington State Fair. Additionally, Washington State has a rich history and culture of Native American tribes, and many cultural events and museums highlight their traditions and contributions to the state’s heritage.

Moving to a new state can be exciting, but it can also be daunting when it comes to making new friends. Fear not, there are plenty of ways to connect with people in Washington State! You could try joining a hiking club and exploring the great outdoors with like-minded adventurers. Alternatively, head to a coffee shop and strike up a conversation with the person next to you in the line – it is the home of Starbucks, after all! Or, why not take up a new hobby or class, such as pottery or salsa dancing, where you can meet new people while learning a new skill? And if all else fails, just start yelling “Go Seahawks!” at anyone wearing blue and green. It might not make you any friends, but it’ll definitely start a conversation!