7 Best Places to Live in The Pacific Northwest in 2026
Living in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) means experiencing all four seasons to their fullest. In its burgeoning cities, residents enjoy a household income above the national average, which can be saved or spent on recreational activities. The great outdoors are readily accessible for public enjoyment, offering relaxation or adventure, such as the ultimate natural gym at Mount Rainier, just a short trip from Seattle. Contrary to the original statement, Salem, while being the capital of Oregon, is not known for its beaches; instead, coastal towns in Oregon offer beach access. Portland, Oregon's largest city, maintains its unique character all year round. Bellingham, a city in Washington, boasts a historic shopping district, though it's not necessarily the first city in the state. Bend, another city worth mentioning, offers picturesque views along the Deschutes River Trail, making every dollar spent on housing seem worthwhile for those who fall in love with the outdoors.
Bellingham, Washington
Bellingham, with a population of 101,422, is the county seat of Whatcom County and is growing at an annual rate of 3.85%, amounting to a 10.4% increase since 2020. Situated at the base of Mount Baker and just over an hour from Vancouver, BC, it has a median age of 33.7 years. Although the average household income is $89,546, its higher poverty rate of 18.71% highlights the cost of living challenges. The median home listing price is $680K, with the median sold price at $647.5K. Bellingham attracts winter sports enthusiasts, campers, and craft beer fans. It is safer than 27% of U.S. cities and has a 5.1% unemployment rate, making it appealing for families looking for job stability and diversity.
The Pacific Northwest lifestyle offers mild summer temperatures and a wealth of amenities, including easy access to Canada for weekend trips. Activities range from summer camping to winter snowmobiling at Larrabee State Park. The Whatcom Museum showcases the region's art, history, and ethnography. For shopping, the Fairhaven Historic District and local businesses such as CreativiTea, Paper Dreams, and Seasons Fashions are popular. Culinary delights can be found at Chuckanut Bay Distillery, Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro, and Saltine Bellingham, among others. For breakfast, the Monte Cristo Crepes at Mount Bakery Cafe are unbeatable, while Mallard Ice Cream offers delightful flavors to cool off in summer.
Bend, Oregon
Bend, with a population of 105,000, nestles at the base of Mount Bachelor, the sixth largest ski area in the U.S. It's safer than 48% of U.S. cities, with a median home listing price of $824.9K and a median sold price of $719,000. The median rent is $1,874. Despite a high unemployment rate of 9.52%, the median household income is $119,319. Known for being one of Oregon's sunniest cities, Bend encourages an outdoor lifestyle with hiking, water sports, and winter activities. The city offers unmatched access to nature, including the Tumalo Mountain Trail and Deschutes River Trail.
Attractions like the High Desert Museum and Sun Mountain Fun Center appeal to both families and tourists. Bend's shopping options, such as the Old Mill District, feature a diverse selection of stores. Known for having the highest number of microbreweries per capita in the country, venues like Deschutes Brewery are essential stops. For dining, Sparrow Bakery and 900 Wall are well-loved, providing a variety of meals and beverages.
Eugene, Oregon
Eugene, with a stable population of 177,863 in Lane County and a metropolitan area population of 380,532, boasts a median home price of $459,421. While most residents choose to rent, paying a median rent of $1,761, the city offers an average household income of $89,619. Despite a higher poverty rate of 19.29%, Eugene is considered one of the best places to live in Oregon, thanks to its desirability ranking of 22nd out of 150 metro areas. Its prime location—60 miles west of the ocean and 100 miles east of the Cascade Mountains—coupled with its appeal to young professionals, contributes to its desirability, although it's more accurate to say the city leans more liberal than conservative.
Eugene offers an urban-suburban mix with ample parks, restaurants, coffee shops, and highly rated public schools, making it ideal for those who prefer green living with modern conveniences. The city is known for its extensive biking and hiking trails. Despite a tight housing market, starter homes are available in the $300,000 to $500,000 range, with 27.61% of annual salaries going toward household costs. Eugene's economy thrives on innovative technologies and commercial real estate, with lumber being a significant industry, alongside a growing presence in non-lumber manufacturing sectors, such as electronics and biotech.
Idaho Falls, Idaho
Idaho Falls, home to 68,875 people—a 4.54% increase since 2020—is the county seat of Bonneville County. It offers an average household income of $87,582 and a relatively low poverty rate of 11.44%. With a median housing cost of $385K, reflecting an almost 9% year-over-year decrease, it's an opportune time for homebuyers. As a smaller city in the PNW, Idaho Falls provides excellent access to the Rockies and notable national parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton. The presence of reputable medical centers, such as Mountain View Hospital and Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center, contributes to its attractiveness for retirees and families alike.
With a cost of living 7% lower than the state average and 13% lower than the national average, Idaho Falls is an affordable place to live. The Idaho Falls Zoo, with its diverse animal exhibits, and cultural venues like the Museum of Idaho and the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho, enrich the community. For dining, Dixie’s Diner and The Bee’s Knees Pub & Catering Co. offer unique culinary experiences, while the Tap-n-Fill Tap Room provides entertainment with views of the Snake River.
Portland, Oregon
Portland, with its playful innocence and vibrant edge, attracts newcomers seeking success and fun. The city has a population of 618,451, while the metro area approaches 2.5 million residents. Locals participate in unique events such as naked bike rides and adult soapbox derbies, symbolizing the city's "Keep Portland Weird" motto. Voodoo Doughnut is a popular spot for those looking for unusual treats. Surrounded by two mountain ranges and less than two hours from the Pacific Ocean, Portlanders often take weekend trips to explore the vineyards of the Willamette Valley.
With a robust job market, an unemployment rate below the national average, and a poverty rate of 12.18%, Portland's average household income of $117,687 supports a high quality of life, including dining at world-class restaurants and maintaining fitness routines. The median age of 38.3 years reflects a community that is friendly, laid-back, and open to newcomers. Portland fosters self-expression, serving as a hub for startups and independent businesses. Cultural engagement is high, with access to museums, art galleries, and the West Coast's oldest public library. The city's highly educated population also supports local sports teams, including the NBA's Portland Trail Blazers, MLS soccer team, and the major junior ice hockey team, the Portland Winterhawks.
Salem, Oregon
Salem, the capital of Oregon, has a population of 176,251 and a median age of 35.9 years. Residents enjoy living along the Willamette River, with an average household income of $91,240 and a poverty rate of 14.61%. Salem offers a quintessential Pacific Northwest lifestyle that's perfect for those seeking affordable living in family-friendly neighborhoods with outdoor adventures nearby. The median house cost is $428K and rising, making it an appealing time to invest in living in one of the state's most vibrant cities. Willamette University draws families, students, and young professionals as the oldest university in the West.
Bush’s Pasture Park is a local favorite for trail walks and picnics. Residents have easy access to Portland for urban experiences and to the Pacific Coast for beach outings. Salem, home to the Oregon State Capitol and the Gilbert House Children’s Museum, offers diverse attractions, including romantic cruises on the Willamette Queen riverboat. For dining, IKE Box offers a morning caffeine fix, and Happy Bibimbap House serves Korean favorites such as Dol Sot Bibim Bap. Xicha Brewing Company is a popular spot for Latin-inspired beers, including Guava Golden Ale.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle, known for being the birthplace of Starbucks, offers a vibrant lifestyle that feels perpetually energized. Contrary to the mention of being the state capital, which is actually Olympia, Seattle is a major city in Washington with a population of 784,754 and a metro population nearing 4 million. From a modest beginning in 1870, Seattle has grown significantly. Although living here is not cheap, with a median home price of $768,396, the city's median household income of $161,694 and a poverty rate of 10.09% reflect its affluent community. The tech industry provides high-paying jobs, allowing residents to manage the 24.36% of their median household income devoted to housing.
Seattle is perfect for outdoor lovers, offering quick access to Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park. Despite popular assumptions, Seattle gets less rain than cities such as Boston, Philadelphia, New York City, and Miami. The city also features many indoor attractions like breweries for cultural activities and relaxation. Its mountainous and water-rich surroundings put wineries, ski resorts, hiking trails, and parks within reach. The city's lush parks and tree-lined streets owe their vibrancy to the abundant greenery and rainfall in the area.
The Pacific Northwest, with its varying climates from sunny Bend, Oregon, to rainy Seattle, Washington, includes cities like Idaho Falls, which offers affordable housing in a smaller community setting. From the wet Cascade Mountains to the drier eastern regions, these cities provide access to the region's major attractions, nature, and history. With a vibrant cultural scene, proximity to national parks, and exciting job opportunities, living in the Pacific Northwest often includes enjoying a craft beer amidst stunning natural beauty.
