Considering moving up to Bremerton area (Seattle, Tacoma: house, job market, to buy)

[zeppelin171]

I’ve spent weeks at a time up there visiting family, so I already have a general feel for the area (I love it). I’m wondering about the more long-term differences from CA east bay and what things I need to adjust to. How are general attitudes, nightlife, politics and vibes in Bremerton? I would be living in a rural area with my family at first, but Bremerton would be the nearest “city”, and I don’t have tons of experience with it. Also, how is the ferry commute to Seattle during rush hour?

[homesinseattle]

I was there a couple of weeks ago with a client, the place certainly has redeeming qualities and has come a long way. You can still get a home in the little historic district there for $375-$425k, view places in the Manette area of Bremerton are (relatively) affordable as well. There is a straight shot ferry from Bremerton to Seattle, the boats that carry cars take about an hour and are frequent and large capacity. Fast passenger only commuter ferry is handy too, about 30 minutes. Here’s the link: https://www.kitsaptransit.com/servic...ton-fast-ferry

Port Orchard is a popular option near there as well.

[MechAndy]

I spent a long day there just a few weeks ago.
It’s a nice place and I like it.

I don’t do the nightlife thing or worry about politics so I can not add anything to those areas.

I did see a whole lot of nice middle class living and thought that was refreshing.

All the people I bumped into doing my shopping stuff were very warm and nice.

I bet there are some really nice places just off the beaten path.

[jabogitlu]

The ferry commute is fine, as long as you are aware of general ferry-commute principles (i.e., when to show up for the ferry).

Bremerton is probably a bit more akin to Tacoma than Seattle, due to the large Navy presence. Very working class, and in terms of "new development," somewhat behind and slower than much of the Puget Sound region.

Kitsap County is probably generally much more progressive than the US as a whole, but more centrist than Seattle/King County. In terms of the political binary, Bremerton is marginally Democratic, Bainbridge Island is very Democratic, and Silverdale and much of unincorporated Kitsap County are much more conservative/Republican.

Pretty quiet town. I don't ever get the feeling that life revolves around Seattle and the urban hustle, unlike the east side suburbs (Bellevue etc.)

[Blondebaerde]

My buddy bought property on Whidbey, and also has a home in Bellevue that he rents. We both ride. Not surprisingly, that's the smart money when dealing with any of our ferries as commuting is for the birds via car. Out in the San Juans this past weekend, I dodged hours of lines coming back on a Sunday evening by being one of very few bikers. It's cold, dark, and dangerous to bike commute for months so...work from home I guess.

Point being, think on the cost of the ferries and how often you'll cross over. If driving, research it well. Walking is the preferred option and I've done a few day trips to Bainbridge and similar by walking from downtown Seattle...multiple bus rides if you're into that. If time isn't a thing, go for it. While I'm working (peak earning years) that math doesn't add up, so I live eastside and will until I retire. When that day comes, I may well take a close look at Kitsap (Poulsbo and Silverdale appeal to me). Trips to King County would be weekly at best, and yes the Kitsap vibe is vastly different.

[Sockeye66]

In the early aughts when I was looking to buy a home I got excited about the Bremerton area, much more house for the price. I worked then in Ballard and a quick commuting cost eval (and limitations that come with) quickly ended that option.

[Returning2USA]

What's the job market like in Bremerton / Kitsap at the moment?

[Ruth4Truth]

Originally Posted by Returning2USA

What's the job market like in Bremerton / Kitsap at the moment?

That would depend on what field you're in.

[Returning2USA]

Originally Posted by Ruth4Truth

That would depend on what field you're in.

That's the issue with me.

My job will be outsourced within 2 years.

I'm 51 (look 40).

The field does not exist in B-town and I don't want to live in the seattle metro area again.

[Ruth4Truth]

Check jobs on Indeed.com for Bremerton.