Living in Pasco Washington - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
What is Living in Pasco Washington Like?
Pasco, Washington, is a city located in the southeastern part of the state, and it is one of the three cities that make up the Tri-Cities metropolitan area, along with Richland and Kennewick. Pasco has a diverse population of around 81,000 residents, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city is well-known for its warm weather and outdoor recreation opportunities, making it an ideal location for people of all ages to call home.
Like its neighboring cities, Pasco offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities for residents to enjoy. The Sacagawea Heritage Trail, a 23-mile paved trail that winds along the Columbia River, is a popular spot for jogging, biking, and walking. The city is also home to several parks, including the Memorial Park and the Chiawana Park, which offer picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. For golf enthusiasts, the Pasco Golfland features a driving range and a miniature golf course.
Regarding employment opportunities, Pasco has several major employers, including the Pasco School District, the Tri-Cities Airport, and the Hanford Site, which the U.S. Department of Energy is cleaning up. The city also has a growing agricultural industry, with companies like Lamb Weston and ConAgra Foods operating in Pasco.
The cost of living in Pasco is relatively affordable compared to other cities in the state. The average home price in Pasco is around $390,000, lower than the statewide average. The cost of living in Pasco is also lower than the national average, with lower prices for housing, groceries, and transportation.
Overall, Pasco offers residents access to a range of amenities, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a lower cost of living compared to many other cities in the state. If you're looking for a city with warm weather, outdoor activities, and affordable living, Pasco, Washington, may be the perfect place to call home. Keep reading to discover more about living in Pasco, Washington, including info on neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and pros and cons of living in Pasco so that you can decide if moving to and living in Pasco, Washington, is the right choice for you.
The Moving to Pasco Washington Team
Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in Pasco, Washington. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Pasco, Washington, CLICK HERE. To start receiving emails with homes that match your criteria anywhere in Washington, CLICK HERE and sign up for Listing Alert. With a little info on what, where, and how much, you'll get newly listed homes matching your criteria sent to your inbox as they hit the market. This can give you a big leg up in your home search.
The first step in the home-buying process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Todd Davidson is an experienced mortgage broker and can help you get the best financing option for your home purchase. Not quite ready yet? Todd can help you put together a plan to get you there. Whether you're thinking a few months or a year or more if you want to buy a home, reach out to Todd and he can help. CLICK HERE to email Todd and set up a call to get the process started or just call him at 971-275-2465.
Todd Davidson
Mortgage Broker
What is the Cost of Living in Pasco Washington?
If you're exploring a move to Pasco, Washington, or any place, the cost of living would be a significant factor in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in Pasco, Washington, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Pasco, Washington, and rent, you would need to make $44,000 a year. To live in Pasco, Washington, and buy a home, you would need to make $56,000 a year. Rental amount is based on current low end cost of studio or one bedroom, purchase is based on recent low end sales of a three bedroom and monthly payment with 20% down.
Living in Pasco Washington Tips/Info/Blog Posts
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Top Neighborhoods in Pasco Washington
Pasco, Washington is a diverse city with various neighborhoods to choose from. Below are six of the top neighborhoods in Pasco and their characteristics:
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Broadmoor: This neighborhood features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and some apartments. It's known for its quiet streets, mature trees, and proximity to amenities like shopping centers and parks.
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West Pasco: Located on the west side of the city, this neighborhood is primarily made up of single-family homes, ranging from modest bungalows to large, luxurious estates. It's close to the Columbia River, and residents enjoy easy access to outdoor recreation opportunities.
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Tierra Vida: This newer development features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, as well as some commercial space. It's located in south Pasco and is known for its modern, energy-efficient homes and community amenities like a pool and clubhouse.
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Casa Del Sol: This 55+ community features manufactured homes and is located in north Pasco. It offers a range of amenities for residents, including a clubhouse, pool, and fitness center.
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Zintel Canyon: This neighborhood is located on the east side of Pasco and features a mix of single-family homes and apartments. It's known for its beautiful natural setting, with homes nestled among hills and canyons.
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Riverview: Located on the banks of the Columbia River, this neighborhood features a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. It's known for its beautiful views, proximity to the river, and easy access to downtown Pasco and nearby Kennewick.
20 Pros and Cons of Living in Pasco Washington
Living in Pasco Washington Pros
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Affordable cost of living: The cost of living in Pasco, Washington, is lower than other cities in the region, making it an affordable place to live.
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Mild climate: Pasco has a semi-arid climate with mild temperatures and low humidity, making it comfortable to live in all year round.
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Abundant outdoor activities: Living in Pasco, Washington, you're surrounded by beautiful parks, rivers, and hiking trails, providing residents with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
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Strong job market: Pasco has a growing economy with diverse industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare, providing ample job opportunities.
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Excellent transportation: Pasco is conveniently located near major highways and has an airport, making it easy to travel in and out of the area.
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Quality education: Pasco has a good education system, with several highly rated public schools and higher education institutions like Columbia Basin College.
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Cultural diversity: Living in Pasco, Washington, you'll find it a culturally diverse city with a mix of Hispanic, Native American, and other ethnic groups, making it an inclusive and welcoming community.
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Community events: Pasco hosts several community events throughout the year, such as the annual Pasco Fiery Foods Festival and the Pasco Farmers Market, providing opportunities for residents to socialize and have fun.
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Family-friendly environment: Pasco is a family-friendly city, with several parks, community centers, and youth programs, making it an ideal place to raise a family.
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Rich history: Pasco has a rich history, dating back to the early 19th century, with several museums and historical landmarks providing opportunities to learn about the city's past.
Living in Pasco Washington Cons
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Hot summers: Living in Pasco you'll have hot and dry summers, with temperatures frequently reaching the 90s and 100s.
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Limited public transportation: Pasco's public transportation system is limited, which can make it difficult for some residents to get around.
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Limited job opportunities: While Pasco has several major employers, such as the Hanford Site and the Tri-Cities Airport, it does not offer the variety of jobs that larger cities provide.
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Higher than average crime rate: Pasco's crime rate is higher than the national average, particularly when it comes to property crimes.
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Limited shopping and dining options: While Pasco has several shopping centers and restaurants, it does not have as many options as larger cities.
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Harsh winter weather: Living in Pasco, Washington, you can experience harsh winter weather, occasional snow, and freezing temperatures.
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Limited healthcare options: While Pasco has several healthcare providers, it does not have as many options as larger cities. For more specialized care, you may need to travel to larger cities outside the Tri-Cities region.
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Limited public amenities: Pasco has limited public amenities, such as libraries and community centers, which may concern those seeking more community resources.
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Distance from major cities: Pasco is located in the southeastern part of Washington state, which may be far from major cities like Seattle or Portland, making it less accessible for some residents.
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Dust Storms: The area is located in a semi-arid region, and infrequently, strong winds can pick up dust and dirt, causing dust storms. The storms can cause respiratory issues for people with allergies or asthma.
FAQs About Living in Pasco Washington
What is Pasco known for?
Pasco, Washington, is known for being a hub for agricultural production, particularly for its apple and cherry crops. The region's climate and soil make it ideal for growing a variety of fruits, and Pasco is home to many orchards and farms. The annual Pasco Farmers Market, which features local produce and artisanal goods, is also a popular attraction for both residents and visitors.
What cities are nearby Pasco?
Pasco, Washington, is close to several other cities in the area. Some of the nearest cities to Pasco include Kennewick and Richland, which comprise the Tri-Cities metropolitan area. Both are right down the road. Spokane, the largest city on the east side of Washington, is located about 120 miles northeast of Pasco. Other nearby cities include Walla Walla, Hermiston OR, and Pendleton OR, all located about an hour's drive away.
What is the weather like in Pasco?
Living in Pasco, Washington, you can also expect mild weather throughout the year. During the winter months, the average high temperatures range from 42°F to 46°F, and the average low temperatures range from 25°F to 31°F. The city occasionally experiences light snowfall during the winter, with an average of 5 inches of snowfall annually. Summers in Pasco are hot, with average high temperatures ranging from 86°F to 93°F, and occasional heatwaves in the 100s. The city receives around 7 inches of rain each year, making it a relatively dry place to live.
Does Pasco Washington have good public schools?
Students in Pasco, Washington, attend public school in the Pasco School District, which serves the city of Pasco and parts of Franklin County. The Pasco School District is the largest in the Tri-Cities area and is home to 22 schools, including elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as alternative programs. According to Niche.com, for the 2022-23 school year the Pasco School District ranks #190 out of 252 school districts in Washington it ranked, with an overall C rating. The district has a diverse student population and offers a variety of academic programs, including Advanced Placement courses and dual enrollment programs with local colleges. The district also prioritizes extracurricular activities, such as sports and music programs, to provide students with a well-rounded education. Though not the best school district in the state of Washington, Pasco, has some highly rated schools in the district. If you plan to move to Pasco, Washington, and have school aged kids, do your research to make sure it's a good fit.
Is Pasco Washington safe?
Living in Pasco, Washington, you'll find it a relatively safe place. Property crime rates in Pasco are slightly higher than the national average, and violent crime rates are significantly lower than the national average. According to NeighborhoodScout.com, Pasco has a crime rate lower than 47% of all US cities. Though not the safest city in Washington, residents of Pasco should feel reasonably safe if they take standard precautions.
What is there to do living in Pasco, Washington?
Living in Pasco, Washington, you'll have plenty of outdoor recreation and entertainment options. The city is located near the Columbia River and offers boating, fishing, and other water sports opportunities. There are also several parks in Pasco, such as Chiawana Park and Columbia Park, which feature picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. Pasco is known for its vibrant Latino culture and hosts several annual events, including the Cinco de Mayo celebration and the Fiestas Patrias parade. The city is also conveniently located near other popular attractions in the region, such as the Sacajawea State Park and the Hanford Reach National Monument. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or cultural events, there's always something to do living in Pasco, Washington.
Who are large employers in Pasco, Washington?
If living in Pasco, Washington, some top employers include the Tri-Cities area's largest employer, the Hanford Site, which is located nearby and employs over 11,000 workers. The City of Pasco is also a significant employer, employing over 400 people, followed by the Franklin County government, with more than 300 workers. Other notable employers in Pasco include the Pasco School District, Columbia Basin College, and Tyson Foods, which has a large processing plant in the city and employs over 1,200 workers. Additionally, the Tri-Cities Airport, located in Pasco, is an important regional transportation hub and employer.
How is the healthcare in Pasco Washington?
Living in Pasco, Washington, puts you near the Lourdes Medical Center, which is a level IV trauma center and has 25 beds. This hospital would likely be able to provide you with most of your medical needs. If looking for a specialist and can't find them in the Pasco area, you're around 40 miles away from the Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, Washington, which is the regions largest hospital.
Is Pasco Washington a good place to live?
Pasco, Washington is a great place to live because of its affordable cost of living and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Additionally, the city offers a strong sense of community and a thriving economy.
I want to relocate to Pasco. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Pasco, Washington. There’s a lot of information on this website to help including some helpful links below. If you want to ask questions, try our Facebook Group > Moving to Washington where we have broad group of locals to answer any question you might have. If you’re looking to buy a home in the Pasco area, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your first step. For Mortgage Info, reach out to me. I would love to tell you more about what living in Pasco, Washington, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.