Thinking about moving to Washington State? You’re not alone! Over 84,000 people made the move in 2024. With a booming job market, no income tax, and a lifestyle that blends city energy with natural beauty—it’s definitely an option worth exploring!
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the information out there, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! This blog is your all-in-one move to Washington guide, packed with helpful tips, important reminders, and local favorites only insiders know. Let’s get started!
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AT A GLANCE:
- Over 84,000 people moved to Washington in 2024 alone, thanks to jobs, no income tax, and a stunning natural backdrop.
- Tech, aerospace, healthcare, clean energy, education, and retail are driving the state’s economy forward.
- The major employers in Washington include Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, Providence Health, Costco, Starbucks, and the University of Washington.
- You can keep more of your paycheck—Washington is one of the few states that doesn’t tax personal income.
- Added 52,000 jobs in the last year; aiming for 1.5 million more by 2032. Hot roles: AI engineers, nurses, solar techs, and data scientists.
- A mix of rainy coastal cities and sunny inland areas. Offers urban life, nature escapes, and outdoor adventures year-round.
4 Reasons to Move to Washington
Why settle for just sunny beaches when you can also enjoy the high life? Browse through over thousands of mansions, high-rise penthouses, and spacious luxury homes for sale in Washington, and enjoy the finest the state has to offer.
1. Economic Growth
Washington consistently ranks among the top 5 states for its economy. Industries like aerospace, tech, and green energy lead the growth with giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing. This economic edge translates into more opportunities and greater financial freedom.
Unlike the high-tax states, the absence of a state income tax in Washington means residents get to keep more of what they earn. Whether you’re a professional or a business owner, the ecosystem here supports your growth and mobility.
2. Tax Benefits
Washington is one of the few US states with no state income tax. For instance, if you earn $70,000 in WA, your after-tax income remains $70,000. In comparison, if you earned the same in California, where the income tax rate is 9.3%, you would lose $6,510.
Additionally, property taxes in Washington are 1.03% of a home’s value, which is comparatively lower than in states like New Jersey, where they are 2.47%. The current sales tax in Washington is 6.5%.
3. Job Opportunities
Washington’s robust job market is thriving, especially in tech, aerospace, healthcare, and clean energy. The state added around 52,000 new jobs in the last year alone and aims to add 1.5 million more by the end of 2032.
Washington’s top jobs in 2025 include AI engineers, data scientists, nurses, and solar techs, with growth rates of over 40% in tech and healthcare. Demand is highest in Seattle, Bellevue, Spokane, and Vancouver, led by employers like Amazon, Microsoft, and major hospitals.
4. Climate in Washington
Washington’s climate varies widely by region. The western side has a mild climate with cool, wet winters and dry summers. However, the eastern side has a semi-arid to continental climate, with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters.
Overall, Washington offers a diverse climate, ranging from cool, damp coastal regions to dry, sunny inland areas and snow-prone mountain zones. Whether you prefer frequent rainfall or a drier climate with more sunshine, Washington offers the perfect backdrop for every lifestyle.
Pros and Cons of Living in Washington State
Here are the key benefits and drawbacks of relocating to Washington State:
| ✔️ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. The job market is booming with tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft, plus there are a lot of opportunities in healthcare and green energy. | 1. Living here can get pricey, especially when it comes to buying or renting a home in Seattle or Bellevue. |
| 2. No state income tax means you save more, and more money stays in your pocket every paycheck. | 2. Business taxes can be tricky if you’re an entrepreneur or small business owner. |
| 3. You’ll have endless access to stunning nature—mountains, forests, beaches, you name it. | 3. The misty, often rainy weather in the west side of the state isn’t for everyone. |
| 4. Many areas offer great schools and top-notch healthcare facilities. | 4. Traffic congestion is common, with some pretty long commutes in and around the bigger cities. |
Things to Know Before Moving to Washington State✅
Before entering the Washington housing market, know the key laws affecting property ownership and transactions.
- Gun Laws in Washington: Effective July 1, 2025, a five-year gun permit from the Washington State Patrol is required before purchasing a firearm. The applicants must attend a certified firearms safety training program within the past five years.
- Vehicle Registration & Driver’s License: After moving to Washington, you are required to register your vehicle and acquire a Washington driver’s license within 30 days. Keep in mind that vehicles from 2009 or newer must meet California emissions standards.
- Recreational Marijuana: It is legal for individuals 21 and over to use and possess marijuana for recreational purposes. You can carry up to 1 ounce of cannabis, 16 ounces of solid edibles, 72 ounces of liquid edibles, and 7 grams of concentrates.
- Rent Control & Tenant Laws: Annual rent increases are capped at the lesser of 10% or 7% plus inflation. Plus, landlords cannot increase rent during the first year of tenancy and must serve a 90-day written notice for rent increases.
Cost of Living in Washington
The cost of living in Washington is 29% higher than the national average. This simply means you spend more on daily expenses like food and groceries, transportation, and healthcare. However, the cost of utilities is still slightly lower than the national average.
Despite its higher cost of living, it is still an attractive option when compared to other major states. This includes California and New York, where living costs are 38% and 26% above the national average.
How to Move to Washington?
Here is the step-by-step guide to make your relocation to Washington seamless:
1. How to Plan Your Logistics?
- If you’re going all-in with professional movers, you can expect to pay around $182 per hour[3]. However, this rate can vary depending on the size of your belongings and the distance.
- On the other hand, if you want to do it yourself, renting a truck can be a better option. The average rent of a mid-size moving truck with a load capacity of 4,000-6,000 pounds ranges between $40 and $80 per day[4].
2. How to Set Up Electricity, Water, and Internet?
Begin setting up your utilities in advance, as the process can take 3-4 weeks:
- Electricity and Gas: Most of the state is served by several regional service providers. If you’re in the Seattle area, Seattle City Light and Puget Sound Energy (PSE) are common choices. In eastern WA, Avista Utilities is a primary provider.
- Water & Sewer: These services are usually handled by the local providers or the municipality’s utility department. For example, Seattle Public Utilities manages water and sewer in Seattle, while smaller towns have their own municipal utility offices.
- Internet and Cable: The availability of internet and cable services varies by region, so it’s best to check coverage using your new zip code. Major providers in Washington include Xfinity, CenturyLink, Astound Broadband, and Ziply Fiber.
3. How to Enroll Your Kids in School?
Most schools offer online registration. Just visit your local school district’s website to get started. Here is how the process generally works:
- For Kindergarten or First Grade: Your child must be at least 5 years old for kindergarten or 6 for the first grade by August 31 for school admission. You are usually required to file proof of residence, immunization records, and a birth certificate.
- For Older Students: For the older kids, you will need transcripts or report cards, and a withdrawal form from their previous school. They may also need standardized test scores in addition to the documents mentioned above.
- Transfer & Special Cases: Washington allows intra- and inter-district transfers under certain conditions (e.g., childcare, work commute). These transfers are usually managed by the local school districts. Contact the new district’s enrollment office for assistance.
4. How to Transfer Your Job or Find a New One?
- For a Work From Home Job: If you are already working remotely, just make sure to inform your employer about the move. This is to make sure state-specific tax and employment rules are complied with. Washington has no state income tax, which is a financial bonus.
- Find a New Job: Use local platforms like WorkSource Washington, Seattle Jobs Initiative, or job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Tech roles are booming in Seattle and Redmond, while healthcare and logistics thrive in Spokane, Yakima, and Tri-Cities.
5. How to Find a Perfect House?
- In popular cities like Seattle, Spokane, and Bellevue, the average rent ranges between $150 – $25,000[2], depending on your neighborhood and the nearby amenities.
- If you plan to buy a house in a popular city, on average, homes for sale in Spokane cost around $404K[2]. On the other hand, inland cities like Kennewick and Grandview offer affordable options with median housing costs of $311K[2] and $322K[2], respectively.
Should I Move to Washington?
Yes, you should definitely move to Washington. The state combines new opportunities, a good quality of life, and friendly communities. However, relocating to Washington isn’t easy. It takes time, careful planning, and effort to find the perfect place to call your home.
With Houzeo, Washington’s best home-buying website, buying a house in Washington is simple. You can browse through the latest listings, save your favorites, schedule showings, and submit offers, all at your fingertips.
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Data Sources
To help you make a smart move to WA, we analyzed key data points that impact relocation costs, lifestyle, and employment prospects. We’ve sourced reliable, up-to-date data across the following categories:
- Statistical Atlas: Major employers
- Zillow: Average rent in Washington
- MoveBuddha: Estimated moving costs
- Thisoldhouse: DIY truck rental rates
By backing our insights with real numbers, we give you a clear picture of what it really takes to relocate to Washington, long before the moving boxes are packed.
