Best Places to Live in Washington

Walla Walla is a college town known for its welcoming atmosphere and Whitman College. The economy is built on education, healthcare, and a world-class wine industry. You’ll find people walking the historic downtown streets, visiting tasting rooms, or attending the Balloon Stampede. It’s also well-regarded for its farm-to-table dining.

Liberty Lake is a planned community east of Spokane, favored for its schools and safe neighborhoods. It is a popular spot for those working in the tech and healthcare sectors. Residents enjoy Liberty Lake Regional Park, the trail systems, Meadowwood shopping, and ideal access to I-90 for commuting and weekend travel.

Richland is one of the science-focused Tri-Cities, home to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Hanford contractors. It is a well-planned community that supports professionals and families alike. Outdoor highlights include the Badger Mountain trails and several Columbia River waterfront parks.

Located along the I-90 corridor, Spokane Valley offers a suburban lifestyle with a solid job market in retail, manufacturing, and healthcare. It provides easy access to the Centennial Trail and Dishman Hills Natural Area. Its location is convenient for those commuting to downtown Spokane or the airport.

Benton City is a small agricultural town located in Red Mountain wine country. Surrounded by vineyards and farmland, it offers a peaceful, rural atmosphere. While it feels a bit secluded, it provides easy access to Tri-Cities employment centers, making it a great option for those who prefer a slower pace of life.

Pasco is currently the fastest-growing city in the Tri-Cities. It is successfully blending its agricultural roots with newer industries like logistics, food processing, and healthcare. Daily life often includes shopping at Road 68, events at Peanuts Park, and river recreation. Its location makes for short commutes throughout the region.

Kennewick is a core city of Washington’s Tri-Cities. Its economy is largely driven by healthcare, agriculture, and energy jobs related to the Hanford site. Locals spend time at Columbia Park, Clover Island, and the area's wine trails, with the annual Water Follies festival being a major community event. The neighborhoods are family-friendly and offer an easy commute to neighboring Pasco and Richland.

Spokane serves as the primary urban center for Eastern Washington, anchored by major employers like Providence Health, Gonzaga University, and Fairchild Air Force Base. It has a mix of historic neighborhoods, like South Hill, and a revitalized downtown. Residents have year-round access to the arts and dining, with Riverfront Park and the annual Bloomsday Run being staples of the local identity.

Pullman is a university city defined by Washington State University. Employment is largely tied to education, research, healthcare, and agriculture. The town has a youthful energy, centered around College Hill and a walkable downtown, all set against the distinct rolling hills of the Palouse.

Yakima is a major agricultural hub famous for its hops and vineyards. Healthcare is another significant employer, with Virginia Mason Memorial serving the region. The lifestyle here is centered on the valley’s traditions, including events at State Fair Park, local wineries, and plenty of sunshine for outdoor activities.