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Yes, Washington is a good place to retire. Each year, retirees move to the Evergreen State for its scenic beauty, strong healthcare, and tax-friendly benefits. But settling here isn’t just about stunning views. It’s also about finding the right fit for your lifestyle and budget.
Some prefer the peaceful pace of Port Townsend or Friday Harbor, while others enjoy the energy of Seattle or the sunshine of the Tri-Cities. Whether you value outdoor access, culture, or comfort, this guide explores the pros and cons of retiring in Washington State.
What You’ll Learn
The benefits of retiring in Washington
The challenges of being a retiree in the Evergreen State
The frequently asked questions people ask about retiring in the Pacific Northwest
Summary
Pros of Retiring in Washington
No State Income Tax
Washington is one of nine U.S. states without a personal income tax. States such as Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, and Wyoming also do not charge this tax. Living in Washington can help you keep more of your earnings since you won’t pay state income tax.
Many people view states without income taxes as appealing places to live and work because they tend to attract residents and businesses. If you want to live where you can keep more of what you earn, Washington could be a strong choice.
This is because:
No taxes for retirement income: You don’t have to pay taxes on your pension, 401(k), or Social Security.
Great for high-income retirees: They have the most to gain from not paying a state income tax, according to local finance experts.
Moderate Property Taxes
Washington offers retirees a favorable property‐tax environment. With an average effective rate of about 0.76 percent, the burden is modest compared with many states. In fact, Washington ranks 29th in the list of the highest effective property tax rates in the country. The Evergreen State’s rate is less compared to that in nearby Oregon.
For older homeowners, the lighter tax load can make housing expenses easier to manage and help savings last longer.
Nevertheless, some counties in the state impose higher property taxes, such as:
Pierce County: Imposes an average effective property tax rate of 0.98 percent. Home to cities such as Tacoma and Puyallup.
Thurston County: Imposes an average effective property tax rate of 0.92 percent. Home to Olympia, Washington, which is the state’s capital.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Washington lives up to its nickname, the Evergreen State, with its lush forests, mountain views, and year-round greenery. If you’re looking for things to do in Washington State that are easy to enjoy, there are several that welcome visitors, including those mobility challenges.
Olympic National Park offers ADA-compliant areas, including parts of the Hurricane Ridge Trail. Mount Rainier National Park also features smooth paths and wide viewing areas perfect for sightseeing or mountaineering in Washington. On San Juan Island, Lime Kiln Point State Park includes paved routes that lead to scenic coastal overlooks.
Other areas worth visiting include:
Walla Walla Valley: A fertile agricultural region known for sweet onions, more than 120 wineries, and a blend of rural charm and growing wine culture.
Cascade Loop: A 440-mile scenic byway looping over mountain passes, through vineyards, forests, and rivers
Diverse Culture and Entertainment
The state’s cultural heartbeat runs deep. Music icons like Jimi Hendrix and Quincy Jones began here, but art, theater, and festivals add to its creative energy. The Seattle Symphony and the Seattle Art Museum host regular performances and exhibits.
For those who prefer a slower pace, coastal towns like Gig Harbor and Port Townsend offer quiet waterfront charm, historic sites, and views of the Salish Sea. Each town provides easy access to local shops, marinas, and scenic trails.
In contrast, Seattle brings a fast-moving city vibe with outstanding food, markets, and cultural events, all within reach of hiking trails and national parks.
There are numerous other attractions in the city, such as:
Museum of Flight: A major aviation museum with more than 175 exhibits. It participates in Seattle’s Age-Friendly Discount Program.
Fyre Art Museum: This museum offers arts-based programs for older adults, including those living with memory-related conditions.
Leading Healthcare Systems
Washington ranked seventh nationwide for overall health in 2024, according to the UnitedHealth Foundation’s America’s Health Rankings. A key reason is the state’s strong focus on healthcare access. It works to promote wellness through its “Be Well WA” initiative, which encourages healthy eating, physical activity, and quitting smoking.
Washington also has many hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers, making it easier for residents to get timely care.
Some healthcare systems in the state that are nationally recognized include:
University of Washington Medical Center: Nationally ranked in specialties such as cancer care and urology.
Virginia Mason Medical Center: Nationally recognized as high-performing in numerous procedures like hip replacement and abdominal aortic aneurysm repair.
Cons of Retiring in Washington
Higher Cost of Living
Your Washington retirement often comes with higher living costs than many other states. Housing is the biggest factor, with home prices about 48% higher than the national average.
Rent follows a similar pattern, especially in metro areas such as Seattle and Bellevue. Groceries are another major expense, as Washington residents rank third in weekly grocery spending nationwide.
Nevertheless, other cost factors are lower in Washington than in the rest of the country:
Electricity: Washingtonians pay around 14 percent less than those living in other states.
Healthcare: Washingtonians pay around 10 percent less than the rest of the country.
The table below shows how retiring in Washington costs compared to the national average:
Higher Sales Tax
The Washington sales tax is among the highest in the nation, with a base rate of 6.5% and combined local rates reaching about 10% in some areas. While the state doesn’t tax income, this higher sales tax can raise everyday living costs.
For retirees, that means spending more on non-exempt items like dining out or household goods, slightly increasing the overall cost of living in the state.
Dealing with this may mean:
Considering areas with low sales tax rates: One is Klickitat County, with a maximum sales tax rate of 8%.
Looking for local programs that offset purchase costs: One example is the Farmers Market Nutrition Program, or FMNP. This helps participants access fresh and locally grown produce.
Weather
One drawback of choosing to retire in Washington State is the weather, especially in western Washington. That region is notably wetter and cloudier than much of the country, with many locations averaging precipitation on more than 150 days a year.
In cities like Seattle, you’ll find frequent light rain, overcast skies, and shorter daylight hours during the fall and winter. While the mild temperatures appeal to many, the persistent gray skies and damp conditions may not suit everyone’s lifestyle or mood.
Some tips to manage the weather include:
Wear layered, loose-fitting clothes when outdoors: Older adults lose warmth more quickly and layers help stay comfortable.
Stay socially connected during rainy days: Poor weather can increase isolation and affect mood.
Traffic and Population Density
Driving in the Puget Sound region can be tough, especially during commutes. The area added more than 50,000 new residents, after all. This means more commuters on the roads, leading to heavy congestion across Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, Everett, and Federal Way.
Seattle itself ranked second for congestion and third for overall traffic among 49 major U.S. metro areas. Adding to that, the stretch of Interstate 5 between Tacoma and Olympia, the capital of Washington, saw speeds of 36 mph.
Managing the traffic may involve:
Considering alternate transportation options: One example is the Hyde Shuttle rideshare program. It is aimed at older adults, especially those with disabilities.
Maintaining your vehicle: This helps improve visibility, especially in heavy traffic or poor weather.
Natural Disasters
Natural disasters can pose a significant challenge for older adults. The state has the second-highest risk of a major damaging earthquake in the U.S. due to its geologic setting. Coastal zones face tsunami threats from the Cascadia Subduction Zone that could bring waves up to 23 feet near Puget Sound.
In fact, between 1980-2024, Washington experienced 36 weather or climate-related disasters exceeding $1 billion each. Many of these are either wildfires or droughts.
Preparing for these disasters can mean:
Monitoring air quality during fire events: This is especially helpful if you have respiratory or heart conditions.
Assembling emergency kits: Items such as medications, medical records, and masks must be included.
Final Thoughts: Retiring in Washington
The Evergreen State offers access to areas rich in scenery, culture, and reliable healthcare. From Walla Walla’s vineyards to Seattle’s energy, you can find comfort and variety. While costs, rain, and traffic pose challenges, careful planning helps make Washington a rewarding place to live.
Ship Your Car to the Evergreen State with AmeriFreight
AmeriFreight Auto Transport makes moving your vehicle simple and worry-free. As a trusted car shipping broker, we connect you with licensed carriers nationwide and handle every step from pickup to delivery. Before flying to Washington, let our experienced agents coordinate your car shipment.
With over two decades in the industry, AmeriFreight Auto Transport helps ensure your vehicle reaches your new home safely and on time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the most accessible, low-impact hiking trails in Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park for seniors?
Two of the most accessible, low-impact trails for seniors in Washington are the Hurricane Ridge paved loop at Olympic National Park and the Myrtle Falls Viewpoint trail at Mount Rainier. Both offer scenic, wheelchair-friendly routes with gentle grades and wide views.
How much rainfall should I realistically expect in areas like Port Angeles or Bellingham compared to the sunnier climate near Tri-Cities or Spokane?
In places like Port Angeles, you’ll see about 25–30 inches of annual rainfall. Meanwhile, areas like the Tri‑Cities in Eastern Washington receive just about 7–10 inches a year.
What are the social and community-building opportunities for new retirees moving to smaller towns on the Olympic Peninsula or the San Juan Islands?
In Port Townsend, the Port Townsend Senior Association offers exercise classes, games, lunch club socializing, and cultural events. On San Juan Island, the Mullis Community Senior Center in Friday Harbor hosts meals, foot-care services, art groups and off-island trips.
Both places foster connection, making these one of the best places to retire in Washington.
What door-to-door paratransit services are available for non-King County seniors in smaller Washington towns?
Many smaller Washington towns offer door-to-door paratransit for seniors and those with mobility needs. For example, “Dial-A-Lift” in the Olympia/Lacey area and county-run paratransit in Whatcom County provide reserved, accessible rides within local boundaries.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content, laws, regulations, and local conditions are subject to change without notice.
Readers should not act upon this information without seeking appropriate professional counsel, especially in financial and legal matters.
