Thinking about moving to WA

[bb2315]

So I've definitely decided on western Washington, any suggestions on low cost of living towns?

[pikabike]

If that decision is based strictly on climate, you'd better start doing your homework on realistic expected income vs realistic expected rentals. Wenatchee is not the only town with very few rentals available.

The part of the state you are targeting has mainly small towns, which sometimes (SOMETIMES) means lower rents, but it tends to go hand in hand with poor prospects for livable wages. Other people have already pointed this out. And cheap rentals tend to go with vermin and other unpleasant things.

The move from the Adirondacks to the west coast is enormous, and expensive. Before you take that plunge, you're gonna need a lot more than a few questions answered on C-D. What happens if you can't find either employment or housing? Is there a fallback position that doesn't involve depending on someone else?

[bb2315]

Originally Posted by pikabike

If that decision is based strictly on climate, you'd better start doing your homework on realistic expected income vs realistic expected rentals. Wenatchee is not the only town with very few rentals available.

The part of the state you are targeting has mainly small towns, which sometimes (SOMETIMES) means lower rents, but it tends to go hand in hand with poor prospects for livable wages. Other people have already pointed this out. And cheap rentals tend to go with vermin and other unpleasant things.

The move from the Adirondacks to the west coast is enormous, and expensive. Before you take that plunge, you're gonna need a lot more than a few questions answered on C-D. What happens if you can't find either employment or housing? Is there a fallback position that doesn't involve depending on someone else?

I have plenty in savings to afford the move and then some. I won't move until I actually have a job lined up or a home in place. I've done some research on rent, etc. but it would also help knowing some cities there that may be good choices from the people here on C-D.

[MarciaMarshaMarcia]

Originally Posted by 509

That is a good thing. You make it sound awful!!

It is a desert, with lots of water. So you end up with a desert climate and lakes. Not a bad combination.

You can drop Wenatchee from your list....the rental vacancy rate is under one percent and even buying is very difficult. According to the Seattle Times it is the new, hip cool city in Washington state!!

Tri-Ciities is growing rapidly....has the best educated workforce in Washington state, low housing costs, and wonderful weather.

Spokane is nice, but settled so opportunities are somewhat limited. But people can succeed anywhere. It is pretty there and close to lots of the outdoors. If your into the outdoors Spokane is the place to be.

No, it isn't awful...but I grew up in the desert (not WA) & hated it, so my bias is showing. But the BEST produce comes from East WA, no doubt. Plus, she is a young, single mom in need of a job.

If the OP is coming from upstate NY, Eastern WA will be a shock, & probably not what they expected or want.

OP, look into the Kitsap Peninsula...towns of Silverdale, Poulsbo, Port Orchard,, eastern part of Bremerton. Pull out a map & look at all the other little towns around there. You will find green, water, towns that might have jobs (military presence), rent more reasonable than Seattle area, which is insane, and you won't be too isolated.

[kristenleex]

OP, did you ever make the move? I live in the Catskills and considering a move to WA as well.

[bb2315]

Originally Posted by kristenleex

OP, did you ever make the move? I live in the Catskills and considering a move to WA as well.

I did! I moved 6/23/17 to Bremerton (kitsap county). I’m loving it here! You get the seasons here without the harsh cold and snow. The scenery is even more beautiful than in NY (in my opinion). There’s quite a bit to do around here, and only an hour from Tacoma & an hour from Seattle (by ferry) so even more to do there. I love it here! I highly suggest driving when you move, it was an amazing experience and so gorgeous to see everything. Let me know if you have any questions! 😊