Mid Size Western WA City (Everett, Bellingham: appointed, apartment, homes)

[anchorageguy]

Here is the question, I want to be in Western WA for about 6 months a yr (the better 6!!). I would like a nice apartment in an area that has all amenities near by within walking distance. I have thought about Olympia, Bremerton, Everett, Bellingham. Any thoughts or comments? Should I look at other cities. Don't think I want to consider small towns, too isolated, need to always use the car etc. I would like to be near the water.

[allforcats]

Are you saying you want to use public transportation? For what? -- to commute to work? To go grocery shopping? To go to entertainment?

Where will your job, if relevant, be?

Which "water" do you want? -- Pacific Ocean? Puget Sound? Elliott Bay? Strait of Juan De Fuca? One of the many large or small lakes, rivers or streams?

By "apartment" do you mean in a NYC-style high-rise? Or do you mean a low-rise? Something else?

By "nice" apartment, do you mean ultra modern? Expensively appointed? Older with character and charm? Something else?

I think if we had a better idea of what you're looking for, we could come up with some useful suggestions.

[anchorageguy]

No,retired,The cities I named suggest Puget Sound,"Nice" no NYC high rises exist in mid size western WA towns, a well maintained older brick bldg in a "core" area walking distance to amenities,"Usefull" suggestions?

[StealthRabbit]

Poulsbo (pretty small, but I'd give it a look) or Edmunds (near ferry terminals / EZ access / variety of activities on each end)

Bremerton if you can find a nice enough area to live centrally

Bellingham for a larger city with lots of options (Including being close to BC)

I like the idea of being near a ferry terminal, and it is very nice for retired folks who are less schedule bound. A small town might have a more welcoming feel, but it depends on what you desire. I would try staying in some private guest homes to get to know the locals, and the good / bad of area. I also like to be near a college if possible, or someplace that has lots of good classes and recreational activities. Good libraries are not so important anymore, as most small towns are members of a larger district, and you can have books mailed to you in a couple days (for free, with a 'return' mailer)

[AlexaNW]

I think Bellingham would be perfect...I think it was even considered top on the "best places to retire" by some place or other some time. You get all the culture and fun, but the city still has a small town, laid back feel. I live near Everett, but much prefer Bellingham over it.

[saycheez]

Bellingham and the surrounding smaller,but close towns would be my pick