Young family in WA? (Seattle, Tacoma: work, housing, price)

[kayakera]

My husband and I are considering a move in about 2 years. We currently live in a tiny town in NC, and are really looking for a change. He has family in Port Orchard, and while I like it there I don't think that's where we want to live, although he may work for his dad in Port Orchard. My degree is in Marketing, and I'd like to work in Seattle. Some things to consider:

1. We love the outdoors. Hiking, snowboarding, kayaking (whitewater), etc.
2. Our 2 year old. We need good schools, safe area, etc.
3. Young couples to hang out with
4. Outdoor markets, theaters, shopping
5. Safe, reasonably priced housing
6. Parks/walking/biking areas

Anywhere you can think of that fits this description? Oh, and I'm 25 and he's 33.

[mthomson]

Initially, I'd say Gig Harbor, as it fits all but one of your criteria. Sadly, it doesn't fit #5 really well, as it can be pricey (though there are still options).
We have summer outdoor theaters, a weekly farmer's market, the new uptown center for shopping, and we're located just 15 min from both Tacoma and Port Orchard (depending on where in Gig Harbor you are).
Gig Harbor used to be an older town, but 20/30 somethings are really moving in in droves (I'm 33, my wife 28). We have a group of abut 13 other couples our age that we hang out with frequently through our church (not necessary to be part of our church to hang out!). Whitewater kayaking is pretty rare around here, but lots of ocean kayaking. It's a reasonable commute to Seattle, but not something I'd want to do daily personally.