What do you think of Olympia? (Seattle, Vancouver: crime, job market, college)

[rjmclau]

I'm looking into towns and cities in Washington and Oregon and Olympia has been catching my attention. I love to paint and draw, so a place where art is greatly encouraged is pleasing to me. I also want a place with lots of recreational activity and one that is bicycle friendly (I tend to rind my bike everywhere.). So how safe is Olympia, what the cost of living like and whats the job market like? Is it bike friendly, any bike trails? Any information (good and bad) would be greatly appreciated.

[StellaRicco]

Hello. I moved here in September from the Phoenix area so I can share my opinion of this city.
1. Olympia can be a great place depending on your age. I'm 23 and bored out of my mind. Luckily Seattle is only a little over an hour away. It seems like a nice place for families, older people, and those that like a slower pace of life.
2. It is a bicycle friendly. A lot of people bike or ride the buses. Drivers seem to be cautious around cyclists. Not too sure about how many bike trails are out here.
3. It is pretty safe. I haven't heard of a lot of serious crime (well, I guess compared to the Phoenix area). Like most downtown areas, there's a homeless population but they aren't aggressive or mean.
4. Cost of living is pretty decent, you can find some nice cheap places to live. The minimum wage is higher here compared to AZ, but things tend to cost more. Gas is about $3.
5. Job market is not that great. Unless you already have a job lined up, don't move here in with the hope of finding a job quickly. Most people I know (all 20 somethings) only work part-time or are unemployed and actively seeking employment.
6. There doesn't seem to be a sense of "urgency" out here. People are laid back, which is awesome, but some are so laid back that they don't care to accomplish much.
7. There defiantly more people that have liberal views.

Overall, Olympia has a look of natural beauty to it. Everything is green and covered in moss, and now flowers are popping up everywhere. I don't know where you're located now, but do take the weather into consideration. It does rain a lot from November-April, and it's often cloudy during that time. And obviously, it's cold (it's finally getting warmer now!). Since I do hail from a sunnier place, I have noticed that people seem down a lot, but more friendly when the sun is out. If your looking for a decent nightlife, it's not here. Also, I attend The Evergreen State College and a lot of the students can be pretty intense (and annoying) with some other their protests and one-sided views. It can be hard to meet people, but just be persistent and you'll make friends. The college kids, even though I am one of them, are the biggest con, in my opinion. There is an art scene, but it's not that big. Portland and Seattle have bigger scenes for obvious reasons.

[Foreverking]

Also from Pheonix...looking to move back to washington. We failed miserably last year when we checked out living in Federal way YUCK. I hail originally from Vancouver, now live back in Gilbert AZ. How about the Library system, do they have one...one was being built in Federal Way, but I left before it was done. Bike trails...keep hearing they are great, but are there any flat trails, as I have very weak knees? How long does it take to get to the coast? I thank any of you who have answers to my questions...even just your opinions are appreciated. Don't care about the weather thing...I miss green more than I miss the blue (sky)

[Sandy Nelson]

Foreverking,
From Olympia to the coast is a one hour drive. Yes there is an excellent library system, although the Olympia library could use some renovation and a larger space.
As for flat bike trails, we have the Chehalis Western Trail that was built over an old rail road line. It's flat and paved and is great for rollerblading, walking, bicycling, wheelcairs, or strollers.
You should come for a visit and check out Olympia.