Set between mountain and ocean, you can’t go wrong with Washington senior communities. Washington State offers wide-open spaces, the beauty of the Cascade Mountains, and sparkling seaside views—making it a popular destination for those looking for an active retirement.
Washington State has a Marine West Coast climate, featuring mild weather year-round and lots of rain. There are three national parks in Washington, as well as some of the only temperate rain forests in North America, located on the Olympic Peninsula. There are three national parks in Washington, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, biking, fishing, and more in spectacular mountain and seaside settings.
It’s not cheap to live in Washington. Statewide, median home prices are considerably above the national average. Prices tend to be higher in Seattle and Tacoma, and lower in the eastern end of the state. However, Washington is relatively tax-friendly for older adults. There is no tax on pensions or any other income. The state’s overall tax burden is ranked at 35th in the nation.
If you’re interested in senior housing in Washington, you have a lot of choices. Check out these communities to get a sense of your options for assisted living in Washington State.
The San Juan Islands
If you’re looking for a quiet retirement in a small, relaxed community, the San Juans may be ideal for you. The San Juans offer unique artistic communities, picturesque harbor towns, and plenty of outdoor activities including hiking, boating, kayaking, and bird watching. The bays around the San Juan Islands are a major migratory point for Orca whales, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot these stunning animals on land, by kayak, and on whale-watching expeditions. Many of the islands’ inhabitants are retirees, who tend to enjoy the quiet winters as much as the active, tourist-filled summers.
Port Townsend
If you love history, you’ll adore Port Townsend. Located on the very tip of the Olympic Peninsula, Port Townsend is full of gorgeous Victorian homes and is considered one of the most beautiful towns in the United States—almost the entire town is preserved as a National Historic District. Set directly on Puget Sound, almost every home offers a gorgeous view of the water or of the stunning Cascade Mountains. You’ll find plenty of beautiful shops, art galleries, bed and breakfasts, and fine dining establishments in Port Townsend—all set in lovely historic buildings. You’re also near Olympic National Park and Fort Townsend State Park—with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in a stunning natural setting.
Seattle
Washington State’s largest city, Seattle is undergoing a dramatic economic boom—but it’s still a highly walkable city, with everything you need within a close and convenient distance. Housing prices here are some of the most expensive in the state, but some retirees consider the price to be worth it. Seattle offers a bustling downtown, a thriving and unique artistic community, and a very healthy culture of exercise and outdoor activity. If you’re an active senior, you shouldn’t have a hard time finding like-minded people with whom to cycle, hike, boat, and generally enjoy the outdoors. You’ll also find plenty of trendy restaurants, boutique shopping areas, and cultural events and activities throughout the year.
Washington senior communities have a lot to offer—including the stunning scenery of the Cascade Mountains, gorgeous waterfront property, and jaw-dropping temperate rainforests. Senior housing in Washington can be surprisingly affordable, depending on where you settle—and the tax situation in Washington is relatively friendly to retirees. With all of these factors, it’s no wonder so many seniors are choosing Washington as their place to settle and enjoy the Golden Years. Check out our free listing of Washington assisted living facilities today, and find your ideal Washington senior community.
