Moving to Spokane Washington: Your Ultimate Guide (2023)

Thinking about moving to Spokane Washington?

The Spokane area is one of the best places to live in the United States, let alone all of Washington State. Spokane is the second-largest city in Washington, just behind Seattle. Located in the heart of the Inland Northwest, Spokane is a blend of natural beauty, urban charm, and a vibrant cultural scene. 

Moving can be scary business, especially if you’re moving from another state or part of the country. There’s new street names to learn, new watering holes to find, and a steep learning curve of finding a new community. Plus, not to mention – you have to change over all your mailing addresses, sign up for new utility providers, deal with packing and unpacking…

Ugh!

Well, hopefully, we can make things a bit easier for you when it comes to aiding your decision about moving to Spokane Washington. Our comprehensive guide about moving to Spokane Washington aims to provide you with a thorough understanding of what moving to Spokane entails, covering essential aspects such as cost of living, job opportunities, housing costs, lifestyle, weather, and more. Hopefully, this article will equip you with the insights you need to make an informed decision about making Spokane your new home.

So, without further ado, here is your ultimate guide to moving to Spokane Washington:

Is Spokane a Good Place to Live?

In short, yes.

Though, it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for a thriving city with lots of nightlife, star-studded events, and fast action – this is not the city for you. But then again, if you wanted to move to the PNW, you wouldn’t be looking for those things anyways, right?! 🙂

Spokane is a great place for a lot of life’s milestones: attending college, post-grad, starting a family, raising a family, and even retiring. But it’s also great for people who are looking for an affordable city in the Pacific Northwest that’s close to nature, has great restaurants, coffee shops/breweries/wineries, and has all of the modern amenities associated with suburbia. But life’s not all about good food and hikes (though we desperately wish it were) – so let’s go into some of the most important logistical aspects of moving to Spokane Washington:

Health Care

Being that Spokane is the second-largest city in Washington, the health care options are plentiful. Spokane is home to multiple reputable hospitals and medical centers, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, MultiCare Deaconess Hospital, and Spokane VA Medical Center. Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and MultiCare Deaconess Hospital are located several blocks south of Spokane’s Downtown Area, while the VA Medical Center is located in Northwest Spokane. All three hospitals are easily accessed by local streets and freeways, no matter where you are in Spokane. 

In addition to these three main hospitals, Spokane has a wide variety of private practice facilities and urgent care clinics that offer accessibility to preventive care, routine check-ups, and specialized treatments. The city’s healthcare landscape is characterized by a blend of modern medical advancements and a focus on holistic well-being, with a growing emphasis on integrative medicine and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, naturopathy, homeopathy, chiropractic, reiki, and electromagnetic therapy.

Schools

Whether you’re looking at preschools all the way up to higher education, Spokane excels in the schooling department.

For K-12, the Spokane Public School District ranks 4.5/5 stars and has a 90% graduation rate. The Spokane Public School District has 2,015 classroom teachers with an average 13.5 years of experience (Spokane Public Schools).

For higher education, Spokane is home to Gonzaga University, Eastern Washington University, and Spokane Falls Community College.

Neighboring Cities

It’s always a good idea to get a 360 degree view of where you’re going to be living. In the case of Spokane, there are four distinct smaller towns that neighbor your potential new home (or could maybe even become your new home?) This is what we’re working with here:

• West of Spokane: Cheney is a vibrant college town, home to Eastern Washington University, and exudes a youthful energy with its cultural events and outdoor recreational opportunities.
  
• East of Spokane:  Liberty Lake has a serene lakefront setting, and is perfect for water sports and relaxation. 
  
• North of Spokane: Mead boasts a blend of suburban comfort and rural beauty, featuring family-friendly neighborhoods and access to Mount Spokane State Park’s outdoor adventures. 
  
• South of Spokane: the city of Spokane Valley presents a dynamic commercial hub with shopping centers, dining options, and community parks.

It’s also worth noting that Coeur D’Alene, Idaho, while not a directly neighboring city, is a mere 40-minutes drive away from Downtown Spokane. The Idaho State Line is only about 26 minutes away from Downtown Spokane, so you’re also very close to another state!

Public Transport

Whether you have a car or not, it’s pretty easy to get around Spokane. If you do have a car, all parts of Spokane are accessible via local streets or freeway. It does snow heavily in Spokane in the winter months; the city does a great job of clearing the streets with snow plows and using ice. However, you should still be aware that you will need a car that is equipped to drive in snow and ice, or, at the very least, good snow tires.

If you don’t have a car, the Spokane Transit Authority offers a comprehensive bus system that serves various neighborhoods and key destinations, providing residents with an affordable and convenient way to navigate the city. The bus routes are strategically planned to accommodate daily commutes and leisure activities, catering to a diverse range of schedules and needs. The Spokane Transit Plaza acts as a central hub, facilitating easy transfers and providing amenities for riders. 

The city is also pretty accessible via bike, so long as you know that Spokane has lots and lots of hills – hey, your calves will never look better!

Nature

If you’re a nature lover, don’t worry: Spokane has plenty of outdoor activities and opportunities. Here are some of our favorites listed below:

• Riverfront Park: This 100-acre urban park (located along the Spokane River) is basically the heart of Spokane. Both the Spokane River and Spokane Falls are visible from several areas of the park, and the Spokane Parks & Recreation Department hosts many events here throughout the year. On a nice day, you’ll find a bevy of walkers, cyclists, and runners spending time on the trails. There’s also fun for the whole family – Riverfront Park has a carousel, gondolas, a beautiful clock tower, multiple bridges, and lots of open green spaces. 
  
• Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail: This 40-mile trail winds through eastern Washington from Nine Mile Recreation Area on Lake Spokane to the Idaho border. The mixed-use trail passes through high desert Ponderosa pine forests, basalt canyons, hip urban centers and cultural heritage sites. Hardy hikers, cyclists, inline skaters and other foot-powered travelers will find a delightful, insightful adventure on this rural-urban trail. The Riverside State Park section of trail also is horse-friendly. Once in Idaho, it is possible to hike or ride all the way to Coeur d’Alene on the North Idaho Centennial Trail. 
  
• Mount Spokane: Are you into skiing or snowboarding? You’re in luck! Mount Spokane is located an hour away from Downtown Spokane, and is the perfect place to ski, snowboard, and snowmobile during the winter. During the summer, Mount Spokane turns into a warm outdoor oasis: hiking, mountain biking, and camping are just some of the activities you can partake in here.
  
• South Hill: Is mountain biking your thing? Well, mountain bikers will rejoice to know that South Hill is home to over 8 miles of mountain biking trails – including both single and double track riding. These mountain biking trails have both steep and gradual climbs, offering up a challenging course to all who partake. 

What Are The Bad Areas of Spokane?

We won’t sugarcoat it: yes, there are some bad areas in Spokane. The bad areas in Spokane tend to be pretty bad, so it skews the property crimes and violent crimes rates for the entire city higher. The Spokane property crime rate is 1 in 21, and the Spokane annual violent crime rate is 1 in 158. Property crimes, such as theft and burglary, tend to be more common than violent crimes. The city’s law enforcement and community organizations have been actively working to address crime and enhance public safety through initiatives aimed at community engagement, crime prevention, and law enforcement cooperation. 

In general, Spokane’s safest and best neighborhoods are:

• North Indian Trail
• Five Mile Prairie
• Latah Valley
• Gonzaga University
• Manito-Cannon Hill
• Duncan
• Glenrose
• Dartford
• Whittworth
• Seven Mile
• Camp Sekani Park

In the same line, Spokane’s least safe areas are generally:

• Browne’s Addition
• West Central
• East Central
• Hillyard
• Whitman
• Bemiss
• Chief Garry Park
• Riverside
• Emerson/Garfield
• Nevada Lidgerwood

That being said, there are exceptions to every “rule,” so we highly recommend doing your own research before deciding to move (or not move) to one of these areas.

What is Spokane Known For?

One word: basketball.

Spokane is home to Spokane Hoopfest, which is the world’s largest 3-on-3 outdoor basketball tournament. Each year, thousands of teams and players of all ages and skill levels gather on the streets of Spokane to compete in this lively event. Spanning several city blocks, Hoopfest transforms the urban landscape into a basketball haven, with hundreds of courts set up for intense and friendly matchups. Beyond the actual basketball competition itself, Hoopfest fosters a festive atmosphere with live music, food vendors, and entertainment, drawing in not only players and fans but also a sense of community. This event encapsulates the city’s passion for sports, camaraderie, and the thrill of friendly competition.

Oh, and beyond Spokane Hoopfest, Gonzaga University has an incredible men’s basketball team (the Gonzaga Bulldogs) that has been to every NCAA tournament since 1999 – they’re an absolute powerhouse, and one of the City of Spokane’s biggest pride and joys.

Here are some other fun, notable things that Spokane is known for:

• Spokane is the second largest wine producer in the United States – isn’t that crazy?
  
• Spokane is home to the Bloomsday Run – an annual run held on the first Sunday in May. The Bloomsday Run is a 12 kilometer route through the city of Spokane, and runners get really spirited for it! You’ll find a large percentage of the participants adorned in creative costumes as they run, with enthusiastic crowds cheering them on as they go.
  
• Bing Crosby grew up in Spokane!
  
• Spokane is also home to Spokane Falls – the largest urban waterfall in the United States.

Is It Expensive to Live in Spokane Washington?

Let’s be honest: it’s expensive to live just about anywhere these days (thanks, inflation!)

However, living in Spokane is generally considered to be more affordable compared to many other cities in the United States. Let’s look into a few factors that lead us to come to this conclusion:

Average Price of Single-Family Homes

As of August 2023, the national average home price in the United States is $416,100 (Fool.com), while the average Spokane home value is $386,564 (Zillow.com)

Average Price of Rent

According to RentCafe, The average rent for an apartment in Spokane, WA is $1,353, whereas the average monthly rent in the U.S. is $1,726.

Of course, your personal cost of living is going to depend on several different lifestyle factors (such as whether or not you live in affordable housing, and how much you make), but in general, living in Spokane has a lower cost of living than most places in the PNW. Now, that’s a good reason for moving to Spokane Washington, right?!

What is The Main Industry in Spokane WA?

Job Opportunities

Spokane’s main industries of work are transportation, government, healthcare, education, manufacturing, and hospitality. The top employers in Spokane are:

• Fairchild Air Force Base
• Sacred Heart Medical Center
• U.S. Federal Government
• Spokane School District 81
• State of Washington
• Signature Genomic Laboratories
• Agilent
• Cisco
• General Dynamics
• Telect

However, there are so many other small-medium sized businesses in a wide range of industries that are looking for employees in the Spokane, WA area. We would highly recommend checking out a website like Indeed to search for opportunities prior to moving to Spokane Washington:

Remote Work

Many remote workers find that moving to Spokane Washington is a good idea. Due to the fact that there is no personal income tax in Washington State and that Spokane has a lower cost of living, being a remote worker in Spokane tends to provide some advantages. Here are some reasons why being a remote worker in Spokane can be beneficial:

• Affordable Cost of Living: Spokane’s cost of living is relatively lower compared to many major cities, allowing remote workers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the high expenses associated with more urban areas.
  
• Natural Beauty: Spokane is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including rivers, mountains, and forests. Remote workers can easily take advantage of outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and boating during their free time.
  
• Work-Life Balance: The city’s proximity to nature, coupled with a generally laid-back atmosphere, promotes a healthy work-life balance. Remote workers can enjoy both their professional responsibilities and recreational activities.
  
• Community Feel: Spokane offers a strong sense of community. Despite being a city, it often feels like a close-knit town, fostering connections and networking opportunities.
  
• Tech and Entrepreneurial Scene: Spokane’s tech industry is growing, providing opportunities for remote workers in tech-related fields. Additionally, the city’s supportive environment for startups and entrepreneurs can be advantageous for those with innovative ideas.
  
• Quiet and Productive Environment: Spokane’s relatively quieter environment compared to bustling cities can create a conducive atmosphere for focused remote work, minimizing distractions.
  
• Arts and Culture: The city has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, offering opportunities to explore galleries, theaters, museums, and events during off hours.
  
• Travel Access: Spokane International Airport provides access to domestic and regional flights, making it convenient for remote workers to travel when needed.
  
• Local Businesses and Restaurants: Supporting local businesses and enjoying a variety of dining options can be a rewarding aspect of living and working in Spokane.
  
• Strong Internet Infrastructure: The city’s infrastructure supports reliable and high-speed internet connectivity, essential for seamless remote work.

It’s important to note that individual preferences and work requirements vary, so it’s recommended to consider personal factors when deciding whether Spokane is the right place for remote work.

What is the Weather in Spokane WA?

First things first: Spokane is nowhere near as rainy as Seattle. Seattle gets around 35-40 inches of rain per year, whereas Spokane gets 15-20 inches of rain per year. However, Spokane’s “rain” is most often in the form of snow. So if you’re worried about moving to the “rainy PNW” – don’t be! Spokane actually gets less rain per year than the national average…surprise!

Now, let’s get into what the weather in Spokane is – Spokane has four distinct seasons:

• Spring: Spring in Spokane sees gradually warming temperatures. March can still be quite cool, with occasional snow showers, while April and May bring milder temperatures and the blossoming of flowers and trees.
  
• Summer: Spokane has dry and warm summers. The average high temperature in the summer ranges from the mid-70s to mid-80s, with occasional spikes into the 90s. This is the prime time for outdoor activities, and the city experiences a lower amount of rainfall during these months.
  
• Fall: Fall is marked by cooler temperatures and the changing of leaves. September is generally pleasant, with comfortable temperatures, while October and November gradually bring cooler conditions and occasional rain.
  
• Winter: Spokane has snowy and cold winters. Temperatures can drop well below freezing, and snowfall is common, creating a winter wonderland effect. The average temperature in the winter is between the single digits and the 30s. January is definitely the wettest month and the coldest month, so keep that in mind when making plans.

It’s important to note that Spokane’s weather can be quite…temperamental. It’s advisable to be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and conditions. The other caveat that we have, regarding the weather, is to ensure your new home (whether an apartment, condo, multi-family home, or single-family home) has both air conditioning and heat.

Trust us…you’re going to need it!

How Do I Get In and Out of Spokane?

In a nutshell: planes, trains, and automobiles.

Trains

Spokane is primarily served by Amtrak, the national passenger railroad service in the United States. Amtrak’s long-distance routes provide train access to Spokane through the Spokane Intermodal Center, also known as Spokane Station. The main train route that serves Spokane is The Empire Builder – a long-distance Amtrak route that runs between Chicago, Illinois, and Seattle, Washington. It stops at Spokane as one of its major stations along the route. The train passes through scenic landscapes, offering passengers a comfortable and picturesque journey.

Flights

Spokane International Airport (GEG) is the main airport for Spokane. Spokane International Airport is the second busiest airport in Washington. Here is a list of places of the wide variety of domestic non-stop flights throughout the week:

• Atlanta, Georgia via Delta
• Boise, Idaho via Horizon Air
• Chicago, Illinois via United
• Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas via American
• Denver, Colorado via SkyWest Airlines, United, Southwest
• Everett, Washington via Horizon Air
• Las Vegas, Nevada via Southwest, Frontier, Allegiant Air
• Los Angeles, California via  Alaska Airlines, SkyWest Airlines
• Minneapolis, Minnesota via Delta, Sun Country Airlines / MN Airlines
• Oakland, California via Southwest
• Phoenix, Arizona via Allegiant Air, Southwest, American
• Portland, Oregon via Horizon Air
• Reno, Nevada via ExpressJet Airlines LLC / aha!
• Sacramento, California via Southwest
• Salt Lake City, Utah via Delta, SkyWest Airlines
• San Diego, California via Alaska Airlines
• San Francisco, California via Horizon Air, SkyWest Airlines
• San Jose, California via Southwest
• Santa Ana, California via Allegiant Air
• Seattle, Washington via Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air, SkyWest Airlines

Roads

Spokane is accessible via several major freeways and highways that connect it to different parts of the Pacific Northwest. Some of the primary routes used to access Spokane include:

• Interstate 90 (I-90): This is the main east-west freeway that passes through Spokane. It connects the city to Seattle on the west and other major cities like Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and eventually reaches the East Coast.
  
• US Route 195 (US-195): Also known as the Inland Empire Highway, US-195 runs north-south and provides a direct route from Spokane to Pullman, Washington, and Moscow, Idaho.
  
• US Route 2 (US-2): US-2 is another major east-west route that passes through Spokane, connecting it to cities like Seattle, Everett, and ultimately reaching Michigan in the eastern United States.
  
• Washington State Route 395 (WA-395): This highway runs north-south and provides access to cities like Pasco, Kennewick, and Hermiston in Oregon, making it an important route for regional travel.

What is the Shopping Like in Spokane?

Let’s get the most important thing out of the way first: yes, Spokane has a Costco, multiple Starbucks, and several Targets. Great, now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s talk about the other shopping in Spokane. Spokane offers a variety of malls and shopping districts where residents and visitors can indulge in retail therapy and find a wide range of products. Some of the notable shopping destinations in Spokane include:

• River Park Square: Located in downtown Spokane, River Park Square is a premier shopping and entertainment center. It features a mix of high-end stores, boutiques, restaurants, and a movie theater, providing a diverse shopping experience in the heart of the city.
  
• NorthTown Mall: This is one of the largest shopping centers in Spokane, offering a mix of department stores, specialty shops, and dining options. It’s conveniently located near the North Division Street corridor.
  
• Spokane Valley Mall: Situated in Spokane Valley, this mall hosts a variety of stores, including national retailers, fashion outlets, and eateries, catering to the surrounding suburban community.
  
• Downtown Spokane: Beyond malls, downtown Spokane features a plethora of independent boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores. The vibrant shopping scene complements the area’s cultural attractions.
  
• The Flour Mill: A historic building turned shopping and dining complex, The Flour Mill houses a selection of unique shops, eateries, and even a brewery along the Spokane River.
  
• Garland District: This eclectic district offers a mix of vintage shops, antique stores, and locally owned boutiques, making it a great spot for unique finds.
  
• South Hill Shopping District: The South Hill neighborhood boasts an array of charming shops, cafés, and markets, creating a quaint and enjoyable shopping environment.

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it! Your comprehensive guide on moving to Spokane Washington. From its breathtaking landscapes to its diverse cultural scene, Spokane provides a welcoming environment for individuals and families alike. The city’s four distinct seasons cater to a wide range of interests, whether you’re a fan of skiing down snowy slopes or exploring hiking trails in the summer. While considering factors such as cost of living, job opportunities, and neighborhood safety is essential, Spokane’s charm lies in its balance between urban amenities and a connection to nature. As you embark on this new chapter, armed with the knowledge gained from this guide to moving to Spokane Washington, you’ll be better equipped to embrace the opportunities and experiences that Spokane has to offer. Welcome to your new home in the heart of the Pacific Northwest!