Living
Moving to Olympia Washington: Your Ultimate Guide (2024)
As the capital city of Washington State, Olympia WA boasts a unique character that appeals to those seeking a dynamic blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Are you considering moving to Olympia Washington? If so, you’re in for an exciting journey! In this guide, we delve into everything you need to know about moving to the Olympia area:
What is Olympia Washington known for?
First things first! If you’re considering moving to Olympia Washington, you may want to know what it’s known for. Well, the most important thing Olympia is known for is being the capital of the State of Washington. Olympia boasts a rich history and serves as the epicenter for legislative decisions, policy-making, and administrative functions. The iconic State Capitol Building, with its majestic dome, stands as a testament to the city’s importance in shaping the destiny of the Evergreen State.
Beyond being the State Capital, Olympia is known for its vibrant and eclectic downtown area. Lined with historic buildings, trendy boutiques, and diverse dining options, Downtown Olympia is a focal point for locals and visitors alike. The energy of downtown Olympia is further enhanced by a lively arts and culture scene, featuring galleries, theaters, and events that showcase the city’s creative spirit.
Logistics
Now that you know a little bit more about what Olympia is known for, it’s time to get into the logistics. You know, those kind of important things like cost of living, safety, schools, and transportation:
Is it expensive to live in Olympia Washington?
Currently, the median home value in Washington State is $605,400. As of December 2023, the median home value in Olympia Washington was $575,000. So, Olympia has a slight rate of savings when it comes to homeownership.
But what about earning potential? Job applicants can rest easy knowing that the City of Olympia has a relatively low unemployment rate (4.10%) and a fair amount of job opportunities available. The biggest employers in Olympia, WA are the State of Washington, Providence St. Peter Hospital, Group Health Cooperative, and Columbia Capital Medical Center. The largest employer is the State of Washington.
Olympia, Washington, may not be immune to economic fluctuations, but it generally offers a favorable cost of living in the Pacific Northwest. With a low cost of living, reasonable median home values, a strong economy, and ample job opportunities, Olympia stands out as an attractive place to reside. Prospective residents can find solace in the fact that, in comparison to the state average, Olympia, Washington, remains a city where individuals can enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
Is Olympia Washington safe?
Safety is undoubtedly one of the most important factors to consider when deciding to move to a new area. On paper, Olympia has relatively high violent crimes rates (48 per thousand residents) compared to the rest of the Pacific Northwest. However, there are some neighborhoods and areas that are generally known as being the safest in Olympia (they have lower crime rates):
- Lake Lucinda Park
- Cooper Point Road NW / 62nd Avenue NW
- Schneiders Prairie
- 19th Avenue SE / Oakwood Street SE
- Boston Harbor / North Olympia
- South Bay
- Littlerock
- Kellys Korner
- Yelm Highway SE / Johnson Road SE
- State Route 8 West / US Highway 101
If you are considering a move to Olympia, it would be a good idea to stick to one of these areas, or to meet with a real estate agent who can help you figure out which safe areas to move to. By staying informed and considering various aspects of safety, residents and prospective newcomers can make well-informed decisions about living in this picturesque city, enjoying its cultural richness while feeling secure in their surroundings.
What are the easiest ways around, in, and out of Olympia?
Olympia provides convenient options for getting around, with public transportation playing a significant role in facilitating movement within Olympia and its close proximity to neighboring areas. Public transportation services offer a reliable and efficient means of commuting, ensuring that residents can navigate the city seamlessly. Whether it’s buses, shuttles, or other public transit options, Olympia’s transportation system is designed to provide residents with accessibility and convenience, making it easy to explore the city and nearby regions without the hassle of long commutes. The focus on easy access and efficient public transportation enhances the overall mobility experience in Olympia, contributing to the city’s reputation as a well-connected and accessible community.
Olympia, WA, is accessible through various transportation options. The main ways to get in and out of Olympia include:
- Interstate 5 (I-5): Olympia is conveniently located along Interstate 5, a major north-south highway on the West Coast. I-5 connects Olympia to cities such as Seattle to the north and Portland to the south.
- State Route 101 (SR 101): SR 101 is a state highway that runs along the western coast of Washington. It provides a scenic route and connects Olympia to other communities on the Olympic Peninsula.
- Olympia Regional Airport: The Olympia Regional Airport (OLM) serves as a local airport for general aviation. It is not a major airport, but it accommodates private and small aircrafts. Larger cities with airports (such as Seattle and Portland) are only 1.5 hours away in either direction.
- Public Transit: Intercity Transit buses connect Olympia with neighboring communities, providing a public transportation option for those without cars.
- Amtrak Cascades: Amtrak Cascades is a passenger train service that connects Olympia to cities along the Pacific Northwest, including Seattle and Portland. The Olympia-Lacey Amtrak station serves as a stop for this service.
- Greyhound Bus Service: Greyhound buses provide intercity bus transportation, connecting Olympia with other cities and regions.
- Cycling and Walking: For shorter distances or within the city, cycling and walking are also common modes of transportation.
These transportation options offer residents and visitors various choices for traveling to and from Olympia, depending on their preferences and needs.
Schools
One of the city’s standout features is its excellent public schools. Olympia is home to four school districts: Olympia School District, Tumwater School District, Wa He Lut Indian School, and Griffin School District.
Find out more from GreatSchools
Culture
Now that we’ve got the logistics behind moving to Olympia Washington down, let’s delve into something else that’s just as important: culture!
Is Olympia Washington a good place to live?
Known for its small-town feel and friendly community, Olympia offers residents a perfect blend of charm and modern amenities. Families find Olympia to be an ideal place for raising children, given the abundance of good schools and hands-on learning opportunities like the Hands-On Children’s Museum. Young professionals also find Olympia to be an ideal place to live, with there being ample job opportunities and a populous city for networking.
The outdoor recreational opportunities in Olympia are unparalleled, making it a great city for nature enthusiasts. From the serene Priest Point Park, featuring scenic picnic areas and tennis courts, to the breathtaking Evergreen State College campus, residents can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities. Water enthusiasts have their fill of options, with water activities available in the picturesque Puget Sound.
But Olympia is not just about its natural beauty – it’s a great place for cultural experiences as well! Live music aficionados will appreciate the vibrant local scene, while the city’s commitment to the arts is evident in events and festivals throughout the year. The community spirit is palpable, creating an excellent place for residents to connect and build lasting friendships.
In summary, Olympia, Washington, is more than just a city – it’s an excellent place to call home. With its small-town feel, great schools, outdoor recreational opportunities, and cultural vibrancy, Olympia stands out as one of the best places to live in the Pacific Northwest.
What food is Olympia Washington known for?
If you like good food, never fear: you’re moving to a culinary hotspot! Though Olympia is not often as recognized as some of the major cities in the Pacific Northwest, it has a surprisingly good food scene. Olympia, Washington, is renowned for its diverse and delectable culinary scene, offering a plethora of flavors that showcase the region’s commitment to locally sourced and fresh ingredients. The city’s downtown area is a haven for food enthusiasts, boasting an array of great restaurants that cater to diverse palates. Olympia’s coffee culture is particularly noteworthy, with charming coffee shops dotted throughout the city where locals and visitors alike can savor the perfect brew.
The Olympia Farmers Market is a culinary gem, bringing together local vendors and artisans to offer an enticing array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and unique treats. This vibrant marketplace is not just a place to shop; it’s an experience that captures the essence of Olympia’s community spirit.
Here are a few other of our favorite spots you should check out in Olympia:
- Shiny Prize: an excellent place to get some artisanal cocktails
- Curry Corner: if you like Indian food, this is the place to go!
- Uptown Grill: they have an amazing mac and cheese here!
- Chicory: like Cajun food? Chicory won’t steer you wrong 🙂
- Chelsea Farms: if oysters and champagne are your thing, Chelsea Farms will be your place!
- Wayside: vegan? Check it out!
- South Bay Pub and Eatery: perfect place to nurse a hangover with some greasy food
- Sofie’s Scoops: you’re guaranteed to have a good time eating the gelato here!
Weather
If you’re considering moving to the Pacific Northwest (or already live in the Pacific Northwest), you already know that the area sees more rain per year than the U.S. average. But how about the rest of the time? Here are answers to some of the most frequently-asked questions pertaining to Olympia weather:
What is the hottest month in Olympia Washington?
The hottest month in Olympia typically occurs during the summer, with July claiming the title as the warmest month of the year. Daytime highs often reach into the upper 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 25-30 degrees Celsius). The warm weather weather in July provides an opportunity for outdoor activities, making it an ideal time to explore the scenic landscapes, parks, and waterfront areas that Olympia has to offer.
What are winters like in Olympia Washington?
Winters in Olympia are characterized by a mild climate, offering a welcome break from harsher weather conditions experienced in other parts of the country. Olympia residents enjoy relatively mild winters, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit (around 7-15 degrees Celsius). Though occasional rain is not uncommon during this season, heavy snowfall is a rarity, contributing to a more temperate and manageable winter experience. This mild winter climate allows Olympia residents to continue to explore the city’s outdoor attractions, maintaining an active lifestyle year-round.
Making the Move
So, there you have it! Your guide to everything you need to know when moving to Olympia Washington. Before you decide to make the move, however, we highly recommend that you visit Olympia to make sure it’s the right place for you to call home.
Is Olympia Washington worth visiting?
Yes!
Embarking on the journey of moving to a new home, particularly to a new city, is undoubtedly a significant life decision. As you navigate the complexities of moving, enlisting the assistance of a reputable real estate agent to find your ideal home is crucial. Olympia’s real estate market, with its diverse housing options, can be navigated with the expertise of a knowledgeable agent. We highly recommend that you drive around with your real estate agent for a day or two so you can really get the feel of the city.
The PNW Report Tip
Whether you’re moving for a local transition or long distance relocation, definitely reach out to professional local movers or a reputable moving company to help you! Nobody wants to break their back for some pizza and beer.
Whether you’re thinking about moving to Olympia Washington this year or the following year, remember this: Olympia’s charm lies in its vibrant downtown, proximity to scenic landscapes, and a myriad of cultural activities, making it a destination that transcends the label of a mere relocation spot – it beckons as a place to truly experience, embrace, and call home.
Thinking about moving to Spokane, WA or Bellingham, WA instead of moving to Olympia Washington? Check out our articles below!
