Looking at Elma, WA (Seattle, Olympia: 2015, rentals, employment)

[pamos]

Hi, I am looking at relocating to the WA area and am wondering about the Elma area. I searched the forums and cannot locate much that is fairly recent in the last year or two.

I have visited Seattle, Gig Harbor, and Portland areas, so I am somewhat familiar with the weather. I would be moving from the Phoenix area. Huge difference I know, but am looking for a big change in my life.

What is the area like as far as available housing? Much shopping in the area? What about health concerns? Would I need to drive to Olympia for a hospital, etc... What is the general economic outlook in that area?

Thanks

[NWbyNW]

Elma is a small town in rural Grays Harbor County, which is most notable for their poor economic situation, lower living standards, and lower wages. This is mostly due to the logging industry having to move out of the region. According to a study, the average lifespan in Grays Harbor County is on the lower end of the spectrum for Washington State . . . it is actually the second lowest.

The closest box store shopping is going to be in very limited options Aberdeen, or east in Olympia.

Community is Elma is big, and there are numerous events throughout the year. Jobs are limited, but the community still has a active Maine Street with various shops and stores, local grocers, etc. Unless you already have a job, it will be hard to find a good earning job in this area. Shopping is extremely limited. Economic outlook is stagnant to grim unless something big happens in this region. You are near the dormant Satsop nuclear facility.

Housing is affordable. Lower then most of the state.

Health concerns would be more concerning if you lived in Aberdeen/Hoquiam. Their area can be affected by the mills, though there is some industry in Elma, it is a pretty clean area. The nearest big hospital is in Olympia, which is about 35 minutes away, or the smaller hospital in Aberdeen which is about 30 minutes away. Elma does have Summit Pacific Medical Center which is a local hospital and can perform various smaller tasks. They are upgrading and it is a newer building.

The small town charm might be great for some people, and the slower pace of life might be nice too. But it certainly is not for everyone. There isn't a whole lot to do in Elma, which might be great! You are within forty minutes of the coast, which is truly beautiful. Just expect rainy, cloudy, foggy weather quite often. In the summer, it can get quite warm in Elma too.

If you have more specific questions, feel free to ask.

[CrazyDonkey]

Why are you looking at Elma? What kind of "big change" are you looking for?

Semi-rural area with higher than average unemployment and lower than average income. Best employment prospects are in Olympia, about 25 miles away. Rentals are not numerous, but rents are lower ($600-900 for 2-bd). Ocean beaches (Westport, Ocean Shores) are 40-45 miles away.

Other towns in the area: Montesano, McCleary, Shelton.