Living in Wenatchee Washington - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
What is Living in Wenatchee Washington Like?
Wenatchee, Washington, located in Chelan County, is home to approximately 35,000 people. The city offers its residents a mix of urban and rural living, making it an attractive location for those who enjoy the outdoors and city life. Located 150 miles east of Seattle, Wenatchee offers good access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing in the nearby Cascade Mountains. The city is near Highway 2, which runs through the state, providing easy access to other towns and attractions. Wenatchee embodies the Pacific Northwest lifestyle with its beautiful scenery, including the Columbia River and surrounding hills. Wenatchee residents and visitors enjoy recreational activities such as kayaking, hiking, and exploring the nearby Pybus Public Market. The Best of Wenatchee includes a historic downtown, modern shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods with stunning views of the surrounding hills.
One of the main attractions in Wenatchee is the Pybus Public Market, a bustling hub of local vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious cuisine. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to gather and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The Ohme Gardens is another attraction in the area, a stunning botanical garden that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Wenatchee has several other parks, including Walla Walla Point Park and Riverfront Park. These parks offer amenities such as playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and walking paths, providing plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors.
There are several major employers in and around Wenatchee, Washington. One of the largest is the Wenatchee Valley Medical Center, which provides healthcare services to the surrounding community. Another significant employer is the Chelan County Public Utility District, which operates several hydroelectric dams in the area. Additionally, many agricultural businesses in the region, including fruit orchards and vineyards, contribute to the local economy.
The cost of living in Wenatchee, Washington, is close to the national average but much lower than the state average. Lower housing costs in Wenatchee keep the cost of living in Wenatchee, lower than many cities in the regions. The average home value in Wenatchee is around $450,000, making homeownership attainable for many individuals and families living in Wenatchee, Washington. Various housing options are available to accommodate the varying budgets and needs of those living in Wenatchee, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses.
If you're searching for a small town that offers easy access to larger cities, a delightful downtown area, good schools, and plenty of outdoor activities, Wenatchee, Washington, might be the ideal place for you! Continue reading to discover more about living in Wenatchee, including information about its neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and some pros and cons of living in this charming city. The information in this blog should help you determine if living in Wenatchee, Washington, is right for you.
The Moving to Wenatchee Washington Team
Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in Wenatchee, Washington. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Wenatchee, 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 Wenatchee Washington?
If you're exploring a move to Wenatchee 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 Wenatchee, Washington, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Wenatchee, Washington, and rent, you would need to make $47,000 a year. To live in Wenatchee, Washington, and buy a home, you would need to make $65,000 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 Wenatchee Washington Tips/Info/Blog Posts
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Top Neighborhoods in Wenatchee Washington
Here are six of the best neighborhoods in Wenatchee, along with information about their attractions, housing types, and other nearby points of interest:
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Downtown Wenatchee: Downtown Wenatchee is the city's vibrant core, offering a mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces. The neighborhood is known for its local shops, restaurants, art galleries, and theaters. The area features a charming blend of historic buildings, modern developments, and a lively arts scene. You'll find various housing options, including apartments, condominiums, and single-family homes.
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Sunnyslope: Located on the southwest side of Wenatchee, Sunnyslope is known for its picturesque orchards and vineyards. The neighborhood offers a mix of housing options, including spacious single-family homes and larger estates with sweeping views of the valley. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous wineries in the area, offering tastings and tours. The Sunnyslope Wine Trail is a popular route that takes you through some of the region's finest wineries. The neighborhood also provides easy access to the Apple Capital Loop Trail, a scenic pathway for walking and biking along the Columbia River.
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Broadview: Situated on the northwest side of Wenatchee, Broadview offers a blend of suburban and rural living. The neighborhood is known for its expansive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Housing in Broadview includes a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and some larger properties. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the proximity to Jacobson Park, which features walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views. Broadview is also conveniently located near Wenatchee Valley Mall and various retail and dining options.
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Wenatchee Heights: Perched on the hills overlooking the city, Wenatchee Heights offers stunning panoramic views and a peaceful suburban atmosphere. The neighborhood mainly consists of single-family homes, many custom-built and designed to maximize the scenic vistas. Outdoor recreation is abundant in the area, with nearby attractions like Saddlerock Trail and Squilchuck State Park offering hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Wenatchee Heights provides a tranquil retreat while still being close to downtown amenities.
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Olds Station: Located north of downtown Wenatchee, Olds Station is a mix of residential and commercial areas. The neighborhood features a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. One of the highlights of Olds Station is the Wenatchee Confluence State Park, where the Wenatchee and Columbia Rivers meet. The park offers picnic areas, boating access, and a trail network for walking or biking. The neighborhood also has various retail centers, restaurants, and the Wenatchee Valley College.
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South Wenatchee: Situated on the southern side of the city, South Wenatchee is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The housing options in South Wenatchee include single-family homes, townhouses, and some apartment complexes. The area is known for its community parks, such as Lincoln Park and Kiwanis Methow Park, which offer playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. South Wenatchee is also close to the Wenatchee National Forest, providing outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities.
If moving to Wenatchee, 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 Wenatchee, Washington.
20 Pros and Cons of Living in Wenatchee Washington
Living in Wenatchee Washington Pros
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Beautiful Natural Surroundings: Wenatchee is nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, including the nearby Columbia River, stunning orchards, and picturesque landscapes.
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Outdoor Recreation: The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, skiing, fishing, boating, and camping. With the Wenatchee National Forest and numerous parks nearby, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore.
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Four Seasons: Wenatchee experiences all four seasons, allowing residents to enjoy diverse weather conditions throughout the year. From warm summers for outdoor activities to snowy winters perfect for winter sports, the city offers a variety of seasonal experiences.
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Thriving Agriculture: The Wenatchee Valley is renowned for its agriculture, particularly its apple orchards and vineyards. Residents can enjoy fresh, locally grown produce and have access to a thriving wine industry.
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Affordable Housing: Compared to other parts of Washington State, Wenatchee offers relatively affordable housing options. The cost of living is generally lower than in larger cities like Seattle, making it an attractive choice for homeownership or renting.
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Strong Community Spirit: Wenatchee has a close-knit community with a strong sense of pride and camaraderie. The residents are known for their friendliness, hospitality, and active involvement in community events and organizations.
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Cultural and Artistic Scene: The city boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with galleries, theaters, and performance venues offering a variety of events throughout the year. The local art community is active and supportive, providing opportunities for artists and enthusiasts.
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Excellent Education System: Wenatchee has a well-regarded education system, with quality public and private schools. The area is also home to Wenatchee Valley College, offering a range of educational programs for higher learning.
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Healthcare Facilities: Wenatchee has reputable healthcare facilities, including Central Washington Hospital and clinics, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care.
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Convenient Location: Situated in the center of Washington State, Wenatchee enjoys a strategic location. It is within driving distance of major cities like Seattle and Spokane and various recreational destinations, making it easy to explore different parts of the state.
Living in Wenatchee Washington Cons
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Extreme Weather: Wenatchee experiences hot summers and cold winters, which may not appeal to individuals who prefer more moderate temperatures throughout the year.
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Limited Job Market: The job market in Wenatchee is limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Opportunities are focused on specific industries such as agriculture, healthcare, and tourism.
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Seasonal Tourism: The influx of tourists during peak seasons can lead to increased traffic congestion, crowded attractions, and potential competition for services and resources.
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Limited Cultural Diversity: Wenatchee has a relatively homogenous population, which may result in limited cultural diversity and fewer opportunities for exposure to different cultures and perspectives.
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Distance from Major Cities: Wenatchee is located several hours away from major metropolitan areas like Seattle and Spokane, which can limit access to certain amenities, cultural events, and employment opportunities.
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Limited Shopping Options: Although Wenatchee has retail centers and malls, the shopping options are limited compared to larger cities, and residents may need to travel to larger cities for a broader selection of stores and brands.
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Traffic Congestion: During peak tourist seasons or times of heavy commuting, traffic congestion can be a challenge in and around Wenatchee, particularly on major highways and access points.
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Limited Dining Options: While Wenatchee has a variety of dining establishments, the selection may not be as extensive as in larger cities, and individuals seeking a diverse culinary scene may have more limited options.
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Limited Healthcare Specialists: While Wenatchee has healthcare facilities, individuals requiring specialized medical treatments may need to travel to larger cities for certain healthcare specialists and advanced medical procedures.
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Wildfire Risk: Like many areas in the western United States, Wenatchee is susceptible to wildfires during dry seasons, threatening the community and impacting air quality.
FAQs About Living in Wenatchee Washington
What is Wenatchee Washington known for?
Wenatchee, Washington, is most known for its annual Apple Blossom Festival, which takes place every spring and celebrates the blooming of millions of apple blossoms in the Wenatchee Valley. The festival attracts visitors from all over the world and features various events and activities such as parades, carnival rides, live music, and a food fair. The beautiful orchards of apple blossoms are a sight to behold and have become an iconic symbol of Wenatchee and the surrounding region.
What cities and attractions is Wenatchee close to?
Wenatchee, Washington, is located in Chelan County, part of the Cascade Range region in the central part of the state. The city is approximately 150 miles east of Seattle and 120 miles west of Spokane. Wenatchee is close to several other cities in the area, including Leavenworth, about 20 miles to the northwest, and Ellensburg, about 50 miles to the south. The city is also within easy driving distance of other popular destinations in the region, such as Lake Chelan, the Columbia River Gorge, and the North Cascades National Park. Wenatchee's central location in Chelan County makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and nearby cities.
What is the weather like in Wenatchee Washington?
Living in Wenatchee, Washington, you can expect mild weather throughout the year. In the winter months, the average high temperatures range from 40°F to 45°F, and the average low temperatures range from 25°F to 30°F. The city occasionally experiences light snowfall during the winter, with an average of 12 inches of snowfall annually. Summers in Wenatchee are hot, with average high temperatures ranging from 85°F to 90°F and occasional heat waves in the 100s. The city receives around 9 inches of rain yearly, with most precipitation occurring in the spring and winter months.
Does Wenatchee have good public schools?
Students in Wenatchee, Washington, attend public school in the Wenatchee School District, which serves the city of Wenatchee and some surrounding areas. For school year 2022-23 Niche.com ranks the Wenatchee School District #109 out of the 252 school districts in Washington it ranked, giving it an overall B- grade. The district is committed to providing a well-rounded education, including arts and athletics, and offers a variety of programs for students with different interests and needs. The district has a diverse student body and strong partnerships with local organizations and businesses. Families living in Wenatchee, Washington, can feel confident that their children will get a quality education attending schools in the Wenatchee School District.
Is Wenatchee Washington safe?
Living in Wenatchee, Washington, you'll find it a pretty safe place. Property crime rates in Wenatchee are lower than the national average, and violent crime rates are significantly lower than the national average. NeighborhoodScout.com states Wenatchee has a crime rate lower than 63% of all US cities. If living in Wenatchee, Washington, you should feel pretty safe.
What is there to do living in Wenatchee Washington?
Living in Wenatchee, Washington, you will always have things to do. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Columbia River and the Cascade Mountains, offering ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing. Wenatchee boasts several parks, including Walla Walla Point Park and Ohme Gardens, which feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails. The city hosts several annual events, including the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival, which attracts visitors from around the world, and the Chelan County Fair, offering carnival rides, live music, and agricultural exhibits. If you're looking for a day trip, Wenatchee is located near attractions like Lake Chelan and Leavenworth. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there is always something to do in Wenatchee, Washington.
Who are the large employers in Wenatchee?
If living in Wenatchee, Washington, some of the top employers include the Central Washington Hospital, which employs over 1,200 workers, the Wenatchee School District, which employs over 1,000 people, and Wenatchee Valley College, which employs over 400 people. Other notable employers in Wenatchee include Stemilt Growers, Crunch Pak, and various agricultural companies. With a diverse range of employers, residents of Wenatchee can find opportunities in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and more.
I want to relocate to Wenatchee. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Wenatchee, 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 Wenatchee 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 Wenatchee, Washington, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.