Moving to Washington – Your Ultimate Relocation Guide

You’re not just moving to a new place; you’re rewriting your story.

Moving to Washington isn’t just a change of address; it’s a whole new chapter. And let us tell you, this isn’t your average relocation.

And we know that you are not here for the fluff; you want the ultimate relocation guide to Washington, and that's exactly what this is.

Let’s start with the basics: over 212,000 people moved to Washington in 2024, and some people packed up and left (because the cost of living in Washington isn’t exactly pocket-friendly).

However, the state still attracts dreamers and doers. Why? Because Washington offers something a lifestyle that blends opportunity with adventure.

But here’s the thing: moving to Washington isn’t just about picking a city and calling it a day.

You’ve got questions. Like:

Is Washington a good place to live?

What’s the vibe in different neighborhoods?

How do I even start planning this move?

What are the real pros and cons of living in Washington?

That’s why you need this guide. So, if you're the kind of person who likes to know what they're getting into, then keep reading.

Washington at a Glance

Where Is Washington?

Let’s clear up the confusion right away: Washington State is not where the White House is located. That's Washington, D.C.

Washington State is in the Pacific Northwest, bordered by Oregon to the south, Idaho to the east, Canada to the north, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

It’s basically nature’s penthouse suite—mountains, forests, coastline, and even a desert or two if you drive far enough east.

Seattle is the largest city in the state of Washington, and Olympia is the state's capital. It’s smaller, quirkier, and full of charm.

Quick Facts

Let’s give you some fast facts about Washington:

• Population: As of 2025, Washington is home to about 8.06 million people, which makes it the 13th most populated state in the U.S.
• Geography: From the rugged peaks of the Cascade Range to the misty shores of Puget Sound, Washington’s landscape is like a greatest hits album of natural beauty.
• Culture: Washington is the birthplace of grunge music, Starbucks, and Amazon. People here care about sustainability, local food, and getting outside. It’s also one of the most educated states in the country.

Washington is one of the most diverse states in the Pacific Northwest. The racial makeup includes 67.8% White, 9.4% Asian, 4% Black or African American, and a growing multiracial population.

Want to know where everyone else is moving (and why)? Check the Latest Moving Trends and see if you’re riding the wave or blazing your own trail.

Pros and Cons of Living in Washington

Cost of Living in Washington

Moving to Washington without knowing the cost is like jumping into a lake without checking the water temp.

Let's break down the cost of living in Washington.

Housing

Let’s start with the big one: rent. If you’re eyeing a one-bedroom apartment in Seattle’s city center, you’re looking at around $1,710/month.

If you want something more affordable, a modest one-bedroom outside the city might cost you $1,421 per month.

Got a family or just like extra space? A three-bedroom in the city center will cost you $3,108/month.

And if you’re thinking of buying, then the average price per square foot in the city is about $489/sqft, which means a 1,000 sqft condo could cost you nearly half a million bucks.

Utilities

For one person, expect to pay around $123 per month for electricity, heating, water, and garbage.

Got a family? That comes out to about $188 per month.

Internet? Around $65 per month for a decent plan.

Groceries 

Groceries in Washington are slightly above the national average but not significantly so. Here's a quick look at what you'll be tossing in your cart:

So, if you're a foodie or simply enjoy eating three meals a day, budget around $300–$500 per month for groceries.

Transportation

If you’re living in Seattle or another big city, you might be able to skip the car. A monthly public transit pass costs about $72, and a single ride is around $2.50.

However, if you're in the suburbs or smaller towns, you'll likely need a vehicle.

Gas is about $1.12 per liter, and a basic 5-mile taxi ride will cost you around $18.

Add in insurance, maintenance, and the occasional parking ticket, and you’re looking at $300–$600/month if you’re driving regularly.

Healthcare

Healthcare isn't cheap; on average, you’ll spend about $4,700 per year per person on healthcare, which is roughly $390 per month. This includes insurance premiums and doctor visits.

Childcare & Education

Daycare or preschool can cost around $1,870 per month. And if you're going the private school route, international primary school tuition can reach $23,000 per year.

Public schools are generally free, but the quality of education varies significantly by district.

Entertainment & Lifestyle

Let’s not forget the good stuff. You’re not just moving to work and pay bills.

So, if you're living your best life, you’ll want to budget at least $200–$400 per month for fun and self-care.

The Bottom Line

If you’re a single person living modestly in a mid-sized city, your total monthly cost (including rent, food, transport, and fun) will cost you around $2,600–$3,000/month.

For a family of four, you’re looking at $6,000–$6,500/month, depending on your lifestyle.

Looking for movers in Washington? Browse our full list of Washington moving companies and find the right crew for your move.

Best Places to Live in Washington

Top Cities & Towns for Families

If you’re moving in Washington with kids, you’re probably looking for safety, good schools, and a sense of community.

Here are some family-friendly gems:

• Redmond: It is the home of Microsoft and a suburban dream. Great schools, a lot of parks, and a median household income of over $160K. It's clean, green, and full of families who love biking to weekend farmers' markets.
• Sammamish: This place is like a parenting Pinterest board that comes to life. Safe, scenic, and packed with top-rated schools. It's a bit pricey, but if you can swing it, it's worth every penny.
• Olympia: The state capital is more than just politics. It has a small-town feel, solid public schools, and a strong, artsy, and eco-conscious community. Plus, it's way more affordable than Seattle.
• Spokane: If you want a mix of affordability and family-friendly vibes, Spokane’s your spot. It’s got great parks, a growing job market, and a slower pace that’s perfect for raising kids.
• Bellingham: Located between Seattle and the Canadian border, Bellingham is a college town with a cozy, outdoorsy feel. Great for families who want nature and culture in one package.

Best Areas for Young Professionals

Now, if you’re flying solo or just starting your career, you want energy, opportunity, and a decent happy hour.

• Seattle: If you’re in tech, healthcare, or just love city life, Seattle is your best option. Capitol Hill is walkable, artsy, and buzzing with nightlife. South Lake Union is Amazon territory; modern apartments, rooftop lounges, and food trucks galore.
• Bellevue: It’s clean, upscale, and packed with job opportunities in tech and finance. Plus, it’s got a killer skyline and some of the best sushi in the state.
• Kirkland: A little more laid-back than Bellevue, but still close to the action. It's got a beach-town vibe with a startup spirit. Great for people who want a balance between work and weekend paddleboarding.
• Tacoma: More affordable than Seattle, with a growing arts scene and a cool industrial-chic downtown. It’s perfect if you want city energy without the Seattle price tag.
• Issaquah: Situated at the base of the Cascades, this spot is ideal for professionals who want quick access to both the office and the outdoors. It has a strong job market and a laid-back, community-focused vibe.

Not sure which route to take? Explore the Popular Moving Routes in Washington and find movers who know the Evergreen State like the back of their moving van.

Job Market

Major Industries & Employers

Washington’s job market is like a buffet; there’s a little something for everyone, but tech is definitely the main course.

• Amazon and Microsoft are headquartered here.
• Boeing still holds strong in aerospace and manufacturing.
• Starbucks, Costco, and T-Mobile also call Washington home.
• The healthcare sector is booming, too, with major employers like Providence, MultiCare, and UW Medicine.

Outside the big names, there’s a strong presence in clean energy, agriculture, education, and biotech. So whether you’re a coder, a nurse, a teacher, or someone who just wants to work with their hands, there’s a lane for you.

Average Salaries and Job Growth

• The average annual salary in Washington is around $76,000, which is well above the national average.
• In tech-heavy areas like Seattle and Bellevue, salaries can easily hit six figures, especially in software development, data science, and engineering.
• Healthcare professionals, especially nurses and specialists, are also pulling in strong paychecks—think $90K – $120K+, depending on experience.

And the best part is job growth is on the rise. According to the Washington Employment Security Department, the state is projected to add over 400,000 new jobs by 2033.

Unemployment Rates & Career Outlook

As of early 2025, Washington’s unemployment rate is at a healthy 4.4%, which is above the national average.

The career outlook is especially bright for:

• Software developers
• Registered nurses
• Construction managers
• Renewable energy technicians
• Logistics and supply chain analysts

Education in Washington

Overview of the Public School System

The state has 242 public school districts, serving over 1.1 million students across urban, suburban, and rural communities.

The Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) oversees the system, and they've been pushing hard on equity, digital learning, and career readiness programs.

You’ll find everything from STEM magnet schools to dual-language immersion programs—even some schools offering aerospace and cybersecurity tracks.

Top-Rated School Districts

If you’re moving with kids (or planning to), you’ll want to zero in on the districts that consistently knock it out of the park.

Here are a few of the top-rated school districts in Washington for 2025 based on academic performance, graduation rates, teacher quality, and parent/student reviews:

Weather & Climate

Washington Seasons

Washington is basically two states in one when it comes to weather. The Cascade Mountains slice the state down the middle, creating two totally different climates:

• Western Washington (Seattle, Olympia, Bellingham): misty mornings, lush greenery, and rain. Summers are mild (highs in the 70s °F), winters are cool and wet, and snow is rare unless you’re up in the mountains.
• Eastern Washington (Spokane, Yakima, Tri-Cities): It’s drier, sunnier, and more extreme. Summers can hit the 90s °F, and winters bring real snow and freezing temps. It’s more of a high-desert vibe, with rolling hills and golden sunsets.

Here’s a quick seasonal breakdown:

Best Time to Move

If you want to avoid hauling boxes in a downpour or slipping on icy sidewalks, timing is everything.

Best time to move to Washington is late spring through early fall; specifically May to September. 

Here’s why:

• May–June: Mild temps, fewer tourists, and blooming landscapes. Great for settling in and exploring.
• July–August: Peak sunshine, perfect for outdoor adventures and neighborhood scouting. Just be ready for higher moving costs and busier roads.
• September: Still warm, but with fewer crowds and better rental deals. A sweet spot for budget-conscious movers.

Avoid November through February unless you’re a fan of soggy socks and seasonal affective disorder.

Not sure which full-service movers to trust? Our list of the Best Moving Companies in the USA makes it easy to compare and choose without the headache.

Comparing Washington to Nearby States or Cities

Tips for a Smooth Move to Washington

Plan Like a Pro

Start early. Whether you’re hiring movers or doing it DIY with a U-Haul, give yourself at least 6–8 weeks to plan. Make a checklist, set a budget, and start decluttering.

Choose the Right Time to Move

Remember what we said in the weather section? May to September is your golden window. Avoid the rainy season unless you enjoy soggy cardboard and slipping on wet sidewalks with a couch in your arms.

Lock Down Housing Before You Arrive

Washington’s housing market moves fast, especially in cities like Seattle and Bellevue. Whether you’re renting or buying, secure a place before you roll into town. If you’re unsure where to land, consider short-term rentals while you explore.

Hire Movers (or Bribe Friends With Pizza)

If you’re crossing state lines, hire a licensed interstate moving company. Get quotes from at least three movers, check reviews, and ask about hidden fees. If you’re local or on a budget, rally your crew and pay them in pizza, beer, and eternal gratitude.

Update All the Boring Stuff

It’s not glamorous, but it’s gotta be done:

• Change your address with the USPS
• Transfer your driver’s license and vehicle registration within 30 days
• Update your voter registration
• Set up utilities and internet before move-in day (trust me, you’ll want Wi-Fi on Day 1)

Explore Before You Commit

If you can swing it, visit neighborhoods in person before signing a lease or mortgage. Walk around, grab coffee, and chat with locals. Online research is great, but nothing beats boots-on-the-ground vibes.

Job First, Move Second (If Possible)

If you’re not relocating for a job, try to line one up before you move. Washington's job market is strong, but competition can be particularly stiff, especially in the tech and healthcare sectors. Use LinkedIn, local job boards, and networking groups to get a head start.

Don't want to forget a single thing on a moving day? Grab our Ultimate Moving Checklist – Printable Edition it’s simple, handy, and covers every step you’ll need to pull off a stress-free move.

How Much Does It Cost To Move To Washington

You’re probably wondering, “How much  this move will cost you?”

Whether you’re moving from the next state over or clear across the country, here’s what you need to budget for:

Moving Company or DIY Truck Rental

If you're hiring professionals, the cost depends on how far you're moving and how much stuff you've. Cross-country moves are not cheap.

Pro tip: If you’re going DIY, don’t forget to factor in gas, tolls, and your sanity.

Packing Supplies

You'd be shocked at how fast cardboard and tape add up.

Hack: Go to local liquor stores or bookstores for free boxes. They’re sturdy and usually clean.

Transportation & Travel Costs

If you're flying to Washington while your stuff is on a truck or driving your own car, don't forget to budget for the following:

• Gas: Depending on distance, $150–$600+
• Flights: $100–$500 per person (domestic)
• Hotel stays: $100–$200/night if it’s a multi-day drive
• Meals on the road: $30–$60/day per person

Temporary Storage (If Needed)

Sometimes your new place isn’t ready when you are. That’s why you need storage units.

Some moving companies offer 30 days of free storage—ask before you book!

Pet Relocation (If You’ve Got Fur Babies)

Flying with pets? Shipping them? Boarding them during the move? Here’s what to expect:

• Pet airline fees: $125–$500
• Ground transport services: $300–$1,000+
• Vet check-up & travel certificate: $75–$150

Total Estimated Cost of Moving to Washington

Here’s a rough idea depending on how you roll:

Curious about what it'll cost to haul your life to Washington? Use our Moving Cost Calculator and avoid those wait, how much?!” moments.

Is Washington Right for You?

Living in Washington isn’t for everyone. If you need year-round sunshine, hate traffic, or break into a cold sweat at the thought of paying $6 for a latte, you might want to think twice.

The cost of living in Washington is no joke, and the weather is unpredictable.

That said, if you’re adaptable, open-minded, and ready to embrace a state that’s equal parts innovation and evergreen magic, then Washington could be the perfect fit.

So ask yourself:

• Do you want access to world-class jobs and outdoor escapes in the same zip code?
• Are you cool with a little drizzle if it means lush forests and mild summers?
• Can you handle a fast-paced housing market if it means living in one of the most dynamic states in the country?

If you’re nodding along, then yeah—moving to Washington might just be the best decision you’ll ever make.

Recommended Resources

• Who Regulates Moving Companies

• Tips For Moving in With Roommates

• How to Finance Your New Home and Plan Your Move

• Common Moving Mistakes People Make When Moving