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Living in Pullman Washington - EVERYTHING You Need to Know

Palouse Falls in Pullman Washington

What is Living in Pullman Washington Like?

Pullman, Washington, is a small city in the southeastern part of the state, near the Idaho border. With a population of approximately 33,000 residents, it is home to Washington State University, which gives the town a lively and youthful atmosphere. The city is situated in the heart of the Palouse region, a vast agricultural area known for its wheat fields, lentil crops, and stunning landscapes. It is about 75 miles south of Spokane and 300 miles east of Seattle.

One of the main attractions in Pullman is the WSU campus, which offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The Museum of Art and the WSU Performing Arts Center host various events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, musical performances, and theatrical productions. Another popular attraction is the Lentil Festival, held annually in August, celebrating the region's agricultural heritage.


Pullman also offers several parks and recreational areas, including Sunnyside Park, where visitors can enjoy picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. The Bill Chipman Palouse Trail is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and jogging and offers stunning views of the Palouse region's rolling hills and farmland.

One of the largest employers in Pullman is Washington State University, which provides job opportunities for students and locals. Other major employers include Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories and Pullman Regional Hospital. The cost of living in Pullman is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Washington state. Housing costs are moderate, with an average home value of around $400,000, and the overall cost of living is slightly below the national average.

If you're looking for a vibrant and youthful town, a more rural setting, a lower cost of living, beautiful scenery, and much to do, living in Pullman, Washington, is for you! Keep reading to discover more about living in Pullman, Washington, including info on neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and pros and cons of living in Pullman so that you can decide if moving to and living in Pullman, Washington, is the right choice for you.

The Moving to Pullman Washington Team

Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in Pullman, Washington. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Pullman, Washington, CLICK HERETo 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. 

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Todd Davidson

Mortgage Broker

What is the Cost of Living in Pullman Washington?

If you're exploring a move to Pullman, 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 Pullman, Washington, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Pullman, Washington, and rent, you would need to make $42,000 a year. To live in Pullman, Washington, and buy a home, you would need to make $62,000 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.

Cost of Living

Living in Pullman Washington Tips/Info/Blog Posts

Helpful Tips for Moving to Oregon and Buying a Home

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NEED TO SELL? FOR A FREE MARKET ANALYSIS > CLICK HERE

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Top Neighborhoods in Pullman Washington

Pullman, Washington, has a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics and attributes. Here are five of the neighborhoods in Pullman, along with some information about each one:

  1. College Hill: College Hill is located just east of Washington State University and primarily comprises student housing. The neighborhood features a variety of apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. It has several parks, including Sunnyside Park and Military Hill Park, and is within walking distance of the university and downtown Pullman.

  2. Pioneer Hill: Pioneer Hill is located on the west side of Pullman and is known for its historic homes, many of which were built in the early 1900s. The neighborhood is also home to the Pullman Regional Hospital and is within walking distance of downtown Pullman.

  3. Military Hill: Military Hill is located on the east side of Pullman and is primarily made up of single-family homes. The neighborhood has several parks, including Military Hill Park and Sunnyside Park, and is within walking distance of Washington State University.

  4. Sunnyside Hill: Sunnyside Hill is located on the south side of Pullman and is mostly single-family homes. The neighborhood has several parks, including Sunnyside Park and Lawson Gardens, and is within walking distance of downtown Pullman.

  5. Airport Hill: Airport Hill is located on the north side of Pullman and is primarily made up of single-family homes. The neighborhood has several parks, including Koppel Farm Community Park, near the Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport.

If moving to Pullman, Washington, and you'd like to buy a home in one of these fabulous neighborhoods, CLICK HERE to sign up for LISTING ALERT to be the first to know when a home matching your criteria gets listed for sale in Pullman, Washington.

20 Pros and Cons of Living in Pullman Washington

Living in Pullman Washington Pros

  1. Education: Pullman is home to Washington State University, which provides excellent educational opportunities and contributes to the city's diverse and intellectual culture.

  2. Community: Pullman has a strong sense of community, with many local events and festivals throughout the year, including the popular Lentil Festival.

  3. Recreation: Pullman offers many outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing, thanks to its proximity to the rolling hills of the Palouse and the nearby Kamiak Butte State Park.

  4. Affordability: Pullman has a relatively low cost of living compared to other cities in the Pacific Northwest, with moderate housing costs and a slightly below-average overall cost of living.

  5. Employment: Pullman has a thriving economy, with several major employers, including Washington State University, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, and Pullman Regional Hospital.

  6. Safety: Pullman is a safe city with a low crime rate and a responsive emergency management system.

  7. Healthcare: Pullman has a high-quality healthcare system anchored by Pullman Regional Hospital, which provides comprehensive medical services to the community.

  8. Diversity: Pullman is a diverse community with residents from various backgrounds, cultures, and ethnicities.

  9. Scenic beauty: Pullman's location in the Palouse region provides stunning natural beauty, with rolling hills, vast farmlands, and picturesque sunsets.

  10. Rural Setting: If you hate traffic and crowds and crave a more rural setting, living in Pullman, Washington, is for you!

Living in Pullman Washington Cons

  1. Isolation: Pullman is a remote city located in the southeastern part of Washington State, which can make it feel isolated from other major cities and population centers.

  2. Weather: Pullman experiences harsh winter weather, with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, making travel and outdoor activities challenging.

  3. Limited job opportunities: Although Pullman has several major employers, finding employment opportunities in specific industries or professions may be difficult.

  4. Limited public transportation: The city's public transportation system is limited, making it challenging for some residents to get around.

  5. Limited shopping options: While Pullman has some shopping options, including grocery stores and small retail shops, it may not have the variety and selection that some residents are accustomed to in larger cities.

  6. Limited nightlife: Pullman's options may be limited, particularly for young professionals or those seeking a more vibrant nightlife scene.

  7. High student population: The city's population is heavily influenced by Washington State University, making it feel like a college town. It may not be ideal for some residents looking for a more diverse community.

  8. Limited healthcare options: While Pullman has a high-quality healthcare system, it doesn't have the range of specialists or medical facilities you would find in a larger city.

  9. Limited housing options: While the cost of living in Pullman is relatively affordable, housing options may be limited, particularly for families or those looking for larger homes.

  10. Seasonal allergies: The region's agricultural landscape, combined with a dry climate, can contribute to seasonal allergies for some residents.

Rolling Hills in Pullman Washington

FAQs About Living in Pullman Washington

What is Pullman known for?

Pullman, Washington, is best known for being the home of Washington State University, a major public research university that attracts students from around the world. Pullman has a rich educational history, with the university being founded in 1890 as the state's land-grant institution. Today, the university is a major employer in the city and contributes significantly to its cultural and intellectual life. Pullman is also known for its stunning natural beauty, thanks to its location in the rolling hills of the Palouse region. The city's outdoor recreational opportunities and diverse community make it a popular destination for visitors and residents alike.

What cities are nearby Pullman?

Pullman, Washington, is located in the southeastern part of the state and is relatively isolated from other major cities. Several small towns and communities surround Pullman, including Colfax, Palouse, and Albion. Just a short drive from Pullman is Moscow, Idaho, located across the state border and home to the University of Idaho. Spokane, Washington, a larger city with over 220,000, is located about 80 miles north of Pullman. 

What is the weather like in Pullman?

Living in Pullman, Washington, you can expect a four-season climate with distinct changes in weather throughout the year. The city experiences cold, snowy winters with average high temperatures ranging from 33°F to 43°F and average low temperatures ranging from 19°F to 28°F. The area receives an average of 50 inches of snowfall per year, which can sometimes make travel challenging. Summers in Pullman are warm and dry, with average high temperatures ranging from 75°F to 86°F and occasional heat waves reaching into the 90s. The city receives an average of 21 inches of rainfall per year, with most of it falling during the winter and spring months.

 

Does Pullman Washington have good public schools?

Students in Pullman, Washington, attend public school in the Pullman School District, which serves the city of Pullman and its surrounding areas. For school year 2022-23 Niche.com ranks the Pullman School District #8 out of the 252 school districts in Washington it ranked, giving it an overall A rating. The district is committed to providing students with a high-quality education, focusing on STEM education, music, and art programs. The district has a strong record of academic achievement, with high graduation rates and a supportive learning environment. Families living in Pullman, Washington, can be extremely confident that their children receive an excellent education attending public schools in Pullman, Washington.

Is Pullman Washington safe?

Living in Pullman, Washington, you'll find it a relatively safe place. Property crime rates in Pullman are lower than the national average, and violent crime rates are significantly lower than the national average. According to NeighborhoodScout.com, Pullman has a crime rate lower than 61% of all US cities. Pullman, Washington, residents can enjoy a sense of safety in their daily lives.

What is there to do living in Pullman, Washington?

Living in Pullman, Washington, plenty of recreational activities exist. The city is located near the beautiful Palouse Hills, which offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and scenic drives. Pullman is also home to several parks, including Sunnyside Park and Kruegel Park, which offer playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The city hosts several annual events, including the Lentil Festival and the National Lentil Festival golf tournament. If you're interested in exploring the region, Pullman is within easy driving distance of destinations like Moscow, Idaho, and the beautiful Lewis-Clark Valley. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or cultural experiences, there's always something to do in Pullman, Washington.

Who are large employers in Pullman, Washington?

If living in Pullman, Washington, some of the top employers in the area include Washington State University, which employs over 6,000 faculty and staff, and Pullman Regional Hospital, which employs over 500 people. The Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, a leading supplier of electric power management systems, also has a large presence in the area and employs over 4,500 people. Pullman Public Schools and the City of Pullman are significant regional employers, providing jobs for many local residents.

I want to relocate to Pullman.  How do I make it happen?

You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Pullman, 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 Pullman 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 Pullman, Washington, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.

Video's About Moving and Living in Pullman Washington

Elizabeth Davidson - Realtor - About Me Video

Elizabeth Davidson - Realtor - About Me

Elizabeth Davidson - Selling Your House

Elizabeth Davidson - Realtor -  Listing your home

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