Washington State grabbed me by the heart and never let go. Standing on my friend’s deck in Bellingham watching orcas breach in the bay while Mount Baker loomed in the background, I realized this place offers a lifestyle that seems almost too good to be true. The perfect mix of nature and city living here is something special.
From the buzzing streets of Capitol Hill in Seattle, where I could walk to the best coffee shops in America, to the best places in Washington State like Spokane, where river trails and downtown restaurants compete for your attention, these 12 spots deliver the Pacific Northwest dream without the insane prices of California. After exploring this incredible state from coast to mountains, I’ve found the spots where you can actually build a life worth bragging about.
Top-Ranked Places to Live in Washington State
Looking for the best places to live in Washington State? Enjoy the thriving economy and excellent amenities in Bellevue, experience the charm and coastal beauty of Bellingham, embrace the suburban comfort of Bothell, and explore the scenic landscapes of Issaquah. Whether you’re interested in job opportunities, nature, or community, here are the top cities to consider in Washington State.
- Best for suburban living: Bellevue
- Best for college students: Bellingham
- Best for small-town feel: Bothell
- Best for community vibe: Issaquah
- Best for waterfront living: Kirkland
- Best for luxury: Mercer Island
- Best for outdoor activities: Olympia
- Best for tech jobs: Redmond
- Best for families: Sammamish
- Best for arts and culture: Seattle
- Best for retirees: Spokane
- Best for affordability: Tacoma
1. Bellevue
Kicking off this list, Bellevue is a place that just gets it right. It’s got the big-city perks—booming job market, top-notch dining, and sleek high-rises—but without the stress and chaos. Nestled between Lake Washington and the Cascade foothills, it feels like a peaceful retreat while still being a major tech hub, home to Microsoft, T-Mobile, and a wave of startups.
What I love about Bellevue is how easy it is to switch between work and play. You can spend your morning kayaking on Lake Washington, grab lunch at one of the city’s amazing restaurants, and wrap up your day with a sunset hike at Cougar Mountain. Families love it here too, thanks to excellent schools and plenty of parks.
Its thriving downtown, strong community vibe, and quick access to Seattle, makes Bellevue one of the best places to live in Washington.
2. Bellingham
If you love the idea of waking up to mountain views and ending your day by the water, Bellingham might just be your dream spot. Tucked between the North Cascades and the Salish Sea, this charming city is all about outdoor adventure, small-town vibes, and a strong sense of community.
Bellingham is a haven for nature lovers. You can hit the slopes at Mt. Baker, kayak around Bellingham Bay, or hike through Whatcom Falls Park—all within a short drive. The city’s waterfront is buzzing with breweries, coffee shops, and seafood spots serving up the freshest catch. It’s also home to Western Washington University, bringing a youthful energy and artsy scene to town.
With a laid-back lifestyle, stunning scenery, and plenty of outdoor activities year-round, Bellingham is one of those places that makes everyday life feel like a getaway.
3. Bothell
Bothell might not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking of Washington, but that’s exactly what makes it special. Tucked between Seattle and Woodinville’s wine country, this underrated gem offers the best of both worlds—big-city convenience with a small-town feel.
The heart of Bothell is its charming Main Street, lined with local boutiques, craft breweries, and cozy cafés. The city is also a dream for outdoor lovers, with the scenic Sammamish River Trail perfect for biking and kayaking, and Blyth Park offering plenty of green space for weekend picnics.
Top-rated schools, growing tech scene, good communities—Bothell makes an ideal spot for families and young professionals alike. Whether you’re exploring the thriving local food scene or enjoying the peaceful suburban vibe, it’s easy to see why more people are calling this place home.
4. Issaquah
Issaquah is where nature and community come together. Nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, this scenic city offers a peaceful suburban vibe with easy access to Seattle’s job market. Outdoor lovers will find paradise here—hiking Tiger Mountain, exploring Cougar Mountain trails, or kayaking on Lake Sammamish.
The historic downtown adds to Issaquah’s charm, with local shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and events like the famous Salmon Days Festival. It’s a city that values connection, whether through community gatherings or outdoor adventures.
Issaquah is an easy pick for families and professionals thanks to its strong local economy and safe neighborhoods. It strikes the perfect balance between small-town warmth and big-city convenience.
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5. Kirkland
Kirkland is the kind of place that makes you wonder why you didn’t move sooner. Perched along the shores of Lake Washington, this city blends waterfront beauty with a lively downtown full of cafés, boutiques, and art galleries. Whether you’re strolling through Marina Park, catching a lakeside sunset, or enjoying a wine tasting at a local vineyard, Kirkland always feels like a mini getaway.
Beyond the views, Kirkland is practical too. It boasts top-rated schools, a strong job market, and a thriving arts scene. The city’s proximity to Seattle and Bellevue makes commuting easy while still offering a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
With outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and a strong sense of community, Kirkland has a little something for everyone.
6. Mercer Island
Sitting right in the middle of Lake Washington, Mercer Island offers the perfect mix of tranquility and convenience. It feels like a peaceful retreat, yet Seattle and Bellevue are just a short drive away. Known for its stunning waterfront homes, top-rated schools, and strong sense of community, this island city is one of Washington’s most desirable places to live.
Outdoor lovers will appreciate the scenic trails of Pioneer Park, paddleboarding on the lake, or simply catching a sunset over the water. The town center has charming cafés, boutiques, and local markets, adding to its small-town appeal. Despite its quiet atmosphere, Mercer Island is well-connected, making it easy to enjoy the best of city life while coming home to a calm, suburban escape.
For those seeking a high quality of life in a stunning setting, Mercer Island truly delivers.
7. Olympia
As Washington’s capital, Olympia is more than just a political hub—it’s a city packed with charm, creativity, and outdoor beauty. With views of the Puget Sound and a thriving arts scene, it offers a unique mix of culture and nature that makes it a fantastic place to live.
Downtown is filled with independent cafés, bookstores, and live music venues, giving it a vibrant yet laid-back feel. The Olympia Farmers Market is a local favorite, showcasing fresh produce and artisanal goods year-round. Nature lovers can explore the scenic trails of Priest Point Park, kayak on Capitol Lake, or take in the beauty of the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge.
Affordable housing, a strong local economy, and a welcoming community make Olympia a great choice for families, professionals, and creatives alike. Here, work-life balance isn’t just a concept—it’s a way of life.
8. Redmond
If you love tech, biking, and the perfect blend of city and nature, Redmond might just be your dream town. Known as the “Bicycle Capital of the Northwest,” this vibrant city is home to Microsoft’s headquarters and a growing community of innovators, outdoor lovers, and families.
Life here is active and outdoorsy. The Sammamish River Trail is a favorite for cyclists and joggers, while Marymoor Park is the go-to spot for concerts, off-leash dog walks, and weekend picnics. Redmond Town Center offers great shopping and dining, making it easy to balance work and play.
Despite its tech-heavy reputation, Redmond has a friendly, small-town feel with plenty of community events and green spaces. Whether you’re here for career opportunities, the bike-friendly streets, or the unbeatable quality of life, Redmond proves that a high-tech city can still feel like home.
9. Sammamish
Sammamish feels like an escape without being far from the action. Perched on a scenic plateau between Lake Sammamish and the Cascade foothills, this city is perfect for those who want nature at their doorstep while still enjoying easy access to Seattle and Bellevue.
Life here is all about balance. Residents spend weekends kayaking on the lake, hiking Pine Lake Park’s wooded trails, or teeing off at Sahalee Country Club. Excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community make Sammamish a top pick for families.
Though it’s quieter than its neighbors, Sammamish isn’t lacking in convenience. Local shops, cafés, and farmers’ markets bring a small-town feel, while nearby Redmond and Issaquah offer everything else. If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-filled lifestyle with all the perks of city living close by, Sammamish is worth checking out.
10. Seattle
Seattle is the kind of city that just pulls you in. One minute, you’re grabbing a fresh cup of coffee at Pike Place Market, and the next, you’re hiking up to Kerry Park for that postcard-worthy skyline view. It’s a place where cutting-edge innovation meets outdoor adventure, making it one of the most exciting places to live in Washington.
Sure, it’s home to tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft, but Seattle isn’t all about work. Locals love unwinding in its lush green spaces, exploring the waterfront, or heading out to the San Juan Islands for a weekend getaway. Each neighborhood has its own vibe—whether it’s the artsy energy of Capitol Hill or the cozy, tree-lined streets of Ballard.
Yes, the cost of living is up there, but for those who crave a dynamic city with endless opportunities, Seattle is hard to beat.
11. Spokane
If you want city perks without the Seattle price tag, Spokane might just be the perfect fit. Tucked in eastern Washington, this city offers a little bit of everything—urban convenience, outdoor adventure, and a strong sense of community.
Nature lovers thrive here, with the Spokane River running right through downtown and the stunning Centennial Trail offering miles of scenic biking and walking paths. In the winter, top-tier ski resorts like Mt. Spokane are just a short drive away. Plus, Spokane’s cost of living is way more affordable compared to other major Washington cities.
The arts scene is surprisingly vibrant, with live performances at the historic Fox Theater and local talent showcased at the First Friday Art Walk. Whether you’re drawn to the outdoors, the city’s growing economy, or just a more relaxed pace of life, Spokane delivers on all fronts.
12. Tacoma
Last but far from least, Tacoma is a city with its own personality—artsy, outdoorsy, and full of charm. Nestled along the shores of Puget Sound, it offers waterfront living without the Seattle price tag, making it an increasingly popular choice for those looking to settle in Washington.
The city’s creative scene is thriving, with the Museum of Glass, historic theaters, and local art galleries adding a cultural spark. Outdoor lovers can explore Point Defiance Park’s scenic trails, kayak along Ruston Way, or simply enjoy the stunning mountain and water views.
With a strong job market, more affordable housing, and a tight-knit community, Tacoma strikes a great balance between city convenience and small-town warmth. Whether you’re drawn to its creative energy or its laid-back coastal vibe, this is a place where you can truly feel at home.
