A recent article by World Atlas recommended 10 small towns in Washington state for retirees to consider.
The article points out that Washington not only offers some of the most stunning scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities in the country, but ranks “an impressive fourth in life expectancy.
“What the article doesn’t list are the parameters used in selecting these towns, such as affordability, services and local organizations that support seniors, walkability ratings, the vibrancy of recreational and cultural resources, local economy, weather… You can check with longtime retirement living ranking organizations like US News that do utilize such criteria, although no Washington places made their top 100 best places to retire for 2024. Oregon scored three cities in the US News’ top 100 retirement places.
However, World Atlas takes a close look at the percentage of seniors in a community as a good measure of how inviting the place is for retirees. Check out the list below to see if you agree with their assessment of ideal Washington destinations for retirees.
Gig Harbor
With its inlets, bays and harbors, this upscale Washington state town offers waterfront and view properties galore. According to World Atlas, Gig Harbor boasts the highest number of medical centers per 1000 residents and is only an 18-minute drive from Tacoma. Seniors make up about 33% of the population.
Port Townsend
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.
Sequim
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
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.
Snohomish
Residents enjoy this town’s proximity to both urban centers and national forests. Snohomish has been called the Antique Capital of the Pacific Northwest. One of many trails is the popular walking and biking path, the 30-mile long Centennial Trail. Seniors make up about 29% of the population.
Bainbridge Island
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.
Clarkston
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.
Anacortes
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
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.
Lynnwood
World Atlas describes Lynnwood as being close to beaches and forests. This small town is conveniently located near Seattle and Everett but offers a much quieter way of life. Light rail will reach Lynnwood soon and Alderwood Mall has a wide selection of shops and restaurants. Seniors make up about 30% of the population.
Read the full World Atlas article here: 10 Towns in Washington that are Ideal for Seniors
