UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.
Olympia, WA is the #15 Best City to Live in the USA
| Olympia, WA Quality of Life Liv Score 647 How We Calculate Our Data |
|---|
| Civics | 51 |
| Demographics | 42 |
| Economy | 78 |
| Education | 72 |
| Health | 61 |
| Housing | 63 |
| Infrastructure | 47 |
| Amenities | 63 |
Why Olympia is one of the best cities to live in
As the state’s capital, the words Olympia, WA, elicit a kind of familiarity when spoken, but it’s not name recognition driving people to live in this unique city of 52,000-plus. Instead, a collection of skilled craftsmen calls Olympia home, from brilliant chefs and coffee roasters to brewers and vintners. Residents reap the benefits (in other words, the food and drink scene here is next level).
Plus, great job opportunities (especially in state and local government) and educational institutions make Olympia one of the best places to live in the U.S. Speaking of government, downtown’s Capitol Building largely adds to the city’s arts and culture scene, as does its beautiful monuments, like the Korean War and World War II memorials, and more than 70 colorful murals dotted through the town. Oh… and since Olympia is located at the southern end of Puget Sound, residents can enjoy gorgeous views and participate in a large variety of water sports.
Major industries include government, health care, agriculture, tourism and retail.
The Evergreen State College & South Puget Sound Community College
Olympia boasts mild temperatures throughout the year. And while the city does experience rainfall during the winter, spring and parts of autumn, its summers are relatively dry.
Take a nice hike with friends (and the furry little guys) at the nearby Capitol State Forest, which features nearly 110,000 acres perfect for biking, fishing, walking and horseback riding.
Olympia, WA is Remote-Ready
Washington means business… seriously, the state was ranked as one of the best places for businesses in the country. So, naturally, Olympia is an excellent place for remote workers. Like its sister city, Seattle, Olympia has no shortage of great coffee shops where workers can get some work done while drinking a delicious cup of joe. Olympia Coffee Roasting, Dancing Goats® and Burial Grounds Coffee Collective are all great spots.
What Locals Love in Olympia, WA:
Peruse the shelves at Olympia’s tried-and-true Browsers Bookshop, which has been in business since 1935.
Meet up with a friend for coffee at one of the city’s amazing coffeehouses, like Dancing Goats®, a specialty roaster located downtown.
Check out fresh produce and handmade items sold by more than 100 vendors at the Olympia Farmers Market (open April through October).
Grab a cocktail and a delicious burger at Nicole’s Bar.
Want to test your luck? A trip to Nisqually Red Wind Casino is a must.
An excellent job market, remote-ready businesses, and an outstanding food and drink scene are just a few of the reasons Olympia is a best place to live in Washington.
Thinking of Moving to Olympia?
Olympia, WA real estate is the perfect market for those looking to live the small-town Washington lifestyle with access to big city amenities. Though Olympia is the state capital, the population is just a little over 50,000, making it a small enough place where you’re sure to run into familiar faces each time you go downtown. Homes for sale in Olympia are considerably more affordable than in markets like Seattle. If you’re looking for a neighborhood with a strong community, most local real estate agents will point you towards South Capitol.
Quick Facts About Olympia, WA
- Average Commute
- 17.02
- Median Home Value
- $409,954
- Med. Household Income
- $68,466
- Total Population
- 56,622
- Walk Score
- 38
- Median Property Tax
- $3,333
