10 Washington Towns Ideal for Seniors

The Victorian seaport of Port Townsend came in second on the World Atlas list. Photo courtesy of World Atlas

Another town with opportunities for spectacular views is Port Townsend. The picturesque locale, which offers two National Historic Landmark Districts, is known for stunning Victorian architecture and Fort Worden, one of the state's most popular parks with campgrounds, beaches, forests, historic gun batteries, museums and festivals throughout the year. World Atlas cites Port Angeles as a nearby larger town with more amenities. With a median age of 57.1, seniors feel welcome here.

John Wayne Marina in Sequim, photo courtesy of World Atlas

Sequim has long rated on best places to retire lists. Seniors comprise about 43% of the population and the median age is 55.7. Sequim in known for sitting in the "rain shadow" and so receives much less rain than the Seattle area. It is called the lavender capital of the world, offers  scenic views of the water and Olympic mountains. The Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge is the nation's longest natural spit. Nearby Port Angeles offers high quality medical care.

Ocean Shores offers a quiet community feel with fresh air and ocean beaches, image courtesy of World Atlas

With its strong sense of community, this beachfront town gives retirees crisp, fresh air, a slower pace of life. Because it is a tourist destination, Ocean Shores offers abundant events and activities. Those aged 55 and older make up 43% of the population with a median age of 63. Ocean Shores is also a birders' haven with a state park and wildlife recreation area. The medical center has served the town for nearly 40 years.

Bainbridge Island, photo courtesy of World Atlas

World Atlas calls Bainbridge Island the jewel of Puget Sound. It offers water views, small town charm, the serenity of the Bloedel Reserve, which is an oasis of peaceful nature. The Museum of Art and other cultural amenities elevate the small town feel. 33% of the island's population is 55 or older. Bainbridge Island is a ferry ride to all that downtown Seattle has to offer.

Hells Canyon is a big draw for Clarkston and nearby Lewiston, photo courtesy VisitLCValley.com

Clarkston is a friendly town where people know each other by first name. The town boasts numerous restaurants and outdoor recreation along the Snake River, home to Hell's Canyon, North America's deepest gorge. Approximately 28% of the population is over 55. The town is named after after William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Clarkston is only 4 miles from Lewiston, Idaho, which has several medical facilities. Summer boating season is a highlight. 

Race day off Skyline Marina in Anacortes, photo by Gordon Hunter, courtesy CommonsWikimedia.org

Anacortes is known for being the gateway to the San Juan Islands and Deception Pass State Park, the state's most visited park. In addition to offering beautiful views, beaches and hiking trails, Anacortes has a wide array of amenities, including medical facilities and is 16 miles from Mount Vernon, the largest city in Skagit County. Seniors make up about 34% of the population.

Hoquiam waterfront, photo by Joe Mabel, courtesy CommonsWikimedia.org

Hoquiam is on Grays Harbor at the mouth of the Hoquiam River. It is a sister city to nearby Aberdeen, the economic center of Grays Harbor and about an hours drive to Olympia, the state capital. Seniors account for 36% of the population. A former logging town, Hoquiam is considered a close-knit community for a quiet retirement.