9 Cost-Effective Towns In Washington For Retirees

Washington state is perfect for retirees. The intriguing attractions of historic downtowns, seasonal activities, and outdoor recreation are drawn from around the world. The state creates healthy, senior-friendly surroundings with low-cost housing, low crime, socializing opportunities, and access to excellent healthcare. These towns offer retirees comfortable homes as well as lively and welcoming communities and exceptional quality of life. We look at nine great destinations in Washington state for senior citizens.

Anacortes

Anacortes, Washington, features scenic and historic sites. Nearby, the Anacortes Community Forest Lands offers trees, wetlands, and hiking trails. Residents can enjoy the Fidalgo Swimming Pool, which has senior-specific swimming classes, or visit the Anacortes Senior Activity Center. The cost of living is attractive, with a median home price of $711,588 compared to Seattle’s $878,888. For safety, the west side of the town is the safest. Healthcare is also a highlight, with Island Hospital recognized as a 5-star Medicare facility.

Bellingham

Bellingham, Washington, offers natural outdoor beauty and a colorful community. A unique attraction is the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention, which has exhibits on electricity and radio history. Whatcom Falls Park features scenic waterfalls and walking trails inside the city. Residents have access to excellent healthcare through PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, which earned a 2024 ‘A’ rating from Leapfrog Hospital Grades. The cost of housing is a median price of $655,758. For safety, areas like Sudden Valley, Noon / Van Wyck, and Lummi Shore Rd / Cagey Rd are the safest areas.

Lacey

Lacey, Washington, is a short drive from Olympia, the state capital. Here, seniors can enjoy a retirement community with many attractions, including Woodland Creek Community Park, where residents can fish year-round. Transit in Lacey is provided by Intercity Transit and is wheelchair-accessible, with services like Dial-A-Lift. This laid-back lifestyle includes affordable housing and quality healthcare. Housing in Lacey has a median price of $491,444, less than Olympia’s $529,802. For healthcare access, residents have several options, including facilities in nearby Olympia.

Long Beach

Long Beach, as the name indicates, is located near a beach. The area includes the Long Beach Boardwalk, which extends about half a mile. It hosts the International Kite Festival, and its downtown area showcases the area’s lively spirit with the World Kite Museum. The town's attractions and affordable housing options make it an attractive retirement destination for seniors. The median home price in Long Beach is $354,343, significantly lower than many other areas in the state. For safety, the best neighborhoods are Seaview, Oceanside, and City Center.

Oak Harbor

Oak Harbor provides great value and attractions. The median home price stands at $500,654. Crime rates are low, making the town fifty percent safer than the typical American city. This makes it appealing for those who enjoy scenic views, such as Deception Pass State Park. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities for those seeking peaceful, reflective moments. From beach walks to fishing and bird watching, seniors can relax in the calm wilderness. The island also hosts the Whidbey Health Medical Center, a community-supported health system that adds to its appeal.

Ocean Shores

Ocean Shores offers miles of beaches and hosts the annual Sand and Sawdust Festival, drawing visitors globally. Residents can relax with scenic beach views or participate in community activities at spots like the North Beach Senior Center, a social center for seniors to gather, play, and enjoy affordable meals. One major advantage for seniors is the area’s low housing costs, with a median home value of $361,699. Moreover, crime rates are over 38.11 percent lower than the national average.

Port Angeles

The median home value in Port Angeles is $446,010. While affordable housing may be a key consideration for seniors, the area also provides opportunities for recreation, such as Olympic National Park, which offers hiking and outdoor activities. Seniors can enjoy local art at the Fine Arts Center. The town features excellent healthcare, with Olympic Medical Center being recognized on US News and World Report’s high-performing list for stroke and hip replacement. Safe neighborhoods include Crane, Lower Elwha, and Agnew.

Vancouver

Don’t confuse this city with the one in British Columbia. Vancouver is located just north of Portland, Oregon. The historic town provides a strong housing market, good healthcare, and outdoor activities. Residents can enjoy outdoor recreation in spots like Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Portland's Forest Park. A key attraction is the affordable housing, with a median price of $496,932. Additionally, the city offers the benefit of proximity to Portland's shopping districts, where Oregon's no-sales-tax policy is in effect, alongside the lower housing costs.

Sequim

Sequim, unlike Vancouver, WA, is closer to British Columbia, just across the border. However, this proximity doesn’t define the town. Known for its affordable housing, Sequim has a median price of $572,585. Safe neighborhoods include Sequim East, Sequim North, and Old Town. Seniors can enjoy a comfortable retirement here and build relationships. The Shipley Center is a nonprofit facility focused on friendship, recreation, and education. It offers opportunities for seniors to meet, participate in organized shopping trips, engage in educational programs, and socialize at Leo’s Café.

Why These Towns Are Perfect for Senior Living

These towns in Washington state highlight the area's history, outdoor activities, and affordable housing options. Whether you're interested in walking through wooded areas, exploring local history, or shopping downtown, towns like Vancouver, Long Beach, and Lacey provide some of the most affordable lifestyles in the state. The healthcare services in these towns and throughout Washington are among the best in the country, making them excellent places for seniors to retire.