Where the ferry horn becomes your morning alarm
A charming maritime town on Fidalgo Island where art galleries line the streets, ferries depart for island adventures, and "catching the ferry" is a legitimate excuse for being late.
Anacortes is one of those towns that sounds almost too good to be true when you first hear about it. A walkable downtown filled with art galleries and good restaurants. Ferries departing daily to the San Juan Islands. Views of Mt. Baker on clear mornings. A thriving arts community. And you're thinking: what's the catch?
Well, the catch is that everyone else has figured this out too. This isn't a hidden gem anymore - it's a well-polished one. Housing prices have climbed significantly over the past decade, and finding a rental can feel like trying to get a ferry reservation on a summer weekend.
But if you're moving here with realistic expectations, Anacortes delivers on its promises. The town has genuine character - not the manufactured kind, but the kind that comes from generations of fishing families, artists who stuck around, and transplants who fell in love with the particular quality of light on Fidalgo Island.
Captain's Log
I moved here from Seattle thinking I'd miss the city. Five years later, I've learned that the 85-minute drive to Seattle is long enough to feel like a real trip, but short enough for a day's adventure. The trade-off is waking up to osprey calls instead of garbage trucks.
From the walkable downtown core to waterfront enclaves with million-dollar views
Historic Commercial Avenue with its art galleries, restaurants, and unique shops. Walk everywhere - to dinner, to the farmer's market, to live music. The quintessential Anacortes experience, with small-town charm intact.
The premium address in Anacortes. Steep hillside homes with sweeping views of the Salish Sea, San Juan Islands, and Mt. Baker. Dramatic sunsets and whale-watching from your living room - if you can afford it.
Near the marina and Cap Sante Park with its panoramic viewpoint. A mix of longtime residents and newer arrivals. Close to downtown but with a slightly more residential feel. Good balance of access and quiet.
The wilder side of Fidalgo Island. Closer to Deception Pass State Park and Washington Park. More forested, more secluded, farther from downtown. Perfect for those who prioritize outdoor access over walkability.
If Anacortes prices or availability don't work, consider these nearby communities with good access:
15 min south - More affordable, near I-5
Rent: $1,200 - $1,800/mo
20 min south - County seat, more services
Rent: $1,300 - $1,900/mo
15 min east - Artsy, Tulip Festival fame
Rent: $1,400 - $2,000/mo
Anacortes isn't cheap, but here's how it compares to where you might be coming from
| Expense | Anacortes | Seattle | Bellingham | US Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Apartment | $1,500 | $2,200 | $1,650 | $1,400 |
| Median Home Price | $580K | $875K | $620K | $420K |
| Groceries | +12% | +18% | +10% | Base |
| Restaurant Meal | $18-25 | $22-30 | $17-24 | $15-20 |
| Gas (per gallon) | $4.25 | $4.50 | $4.20 | $3.40 |
| Ferry (Car + Driver) | $15-55* | N/A | N/A | N/A |
*Ferry prices vary by route and season. San Juan Islands trips range from $15-55 depending on destination.
Money-Saving Tip
If you're commuting to Seattle, factor in ferry time (not cost - it's via Mukilteo, not Anacortes) or the 85-minute drive. Many Anacortes residents work remotely or have found local employment. The "Seattle job, Anacortes home" lifestyle is possible but requires dedication.
Real talk about what makes Anacortes special - and what might drive you crazy
The ferries are why many people move here. Here's what to expect.
Summer reservations essential. Book 2+ weeks ahead for vehicle space.
Local insights to make your move smoother
Avoid moving during peak tourist season (July-August). Ferry traffic backs up, vacation rentals are scarce, and everything costs more. Spring or fall moves are much smoother.
Rental inventory is extremely limited. Start looking 2-3 months ahead. Join local Facebook groups, check Craigslist daily, and don't hesitate when you find something.
While downtown is walkable, you'll need a vehicle for groceries (Safeway, Haggen), getting to trails, and any errands beyond Commercial Avenue. Public transit is minimal.
Anacortes gets less rain than Seattle due to the "rain shadow" effect, but winters are still gray and damp. Invest in good rain gear and a sun lamp if you're not from the PNW.
Community events, volunteer opportunities, and local organizations help you build connections fast. Check out Anacortes Arts Festival, First Friday, and farmers markets.
Many Anacortes homes are on steep hills. Visit in person before committing - some driveways are challenging for moving trucks and winter driving. Ask about grade and parking.
Links to get you settled in Anacortes
We've helped dozens of families navigate moves to Fidalgo Island. Let us handle the logistics while you focus on exploring your new maritime hometown.
Licensed & Insured | San Juan Island Ferry Experts | Fidalgo Island Specialists