Best Places to Retire
Near Seattle
Discover where your golden years can truly shine. From sunny Sequim to artsy Bainbridge Island, explore Washington's most welcoming retirement communities with world-class healthcare, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant social scenes.
Why Retire in the Seattle Region?
Washington State offers retirees a unique combination of benefits that few other regions can match. With no state income tax, your retirement savings stretch further. World-class medical facilities like Virginia Mason, Swedish, and Providence ensure top-tier healthcare access. The stunning Pacific Northwest landscape provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking Olympic National Park to kayaking Puget Sound.
Pacific Northwest Retirement Living
Discover the active lifestyle that awaits you in Washington's most desirable retirement communities.
Coastal Living
Beach walks and waterfront dining
Mountain Adventures
Hiking trails for every ability
Arts & Learning
Lifelong learning opportunities
Downtown Charm
Walkable historic districts
Wellness Focus
Active and healthy living
Top Retirement Destinations
Each community offers unique advantages for retirees. Explore what makes these destinations special for your golden years.
Sequim
Sunny HavenKnown as the "Sunshine Capital of Washington," Sequim sits in a unique rain shadow that creates a sunny, dry microclimate averaging just 16 inches of rain annually. This charming town on the Olympic Peninsula offers lavender farms, stunning mountain views, and a welcoming retirement community that enjoys 300+ days of sunshine yearly.
Bainbridge Island
Arts & CultureA 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle, Bainbridge Island offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and urban accessibility. The island is known for its thriving arts scene, excellent restaurants, stunning waterfront properties, and an engaged community of active retirees. Regular ferry service means world-class Seattle amenities are always within reach.
Edmonds
Walkable DowntownEdmonds consistently ranks among Washington's most walkable retirement destinations. Its charming downtown features locally-owned boutiques, art galleries, excellent restaurants, and a stunning waterfront with ferry service to Kingston. Swedish Edmonds Hospital provides excellent local healthcare, while Seattle's major medical centers are just 15 miles south.
Gig Harbor
Waterfront CharmThis picturesque harbor town offers quintessential Pacific Northwest waterfront living. Gig Harbor features a walkable downtown with excellent dining, boutique shopping, and a marina full of sailboats. St. Anthony Hospital provides quality healthcare, and the Tacoma Narrows Bridge connects residents to Tacoma's extensive medical facilities and cultural amenities.
Port Townsend
Victorian CharmThis Victorian seaport town is a National Historic Landmark District, featuring stunning 19th-century architecture, independent bookstores, art galleries, and a thriving wooden boat building tradition. Port Townsend attracts creative retirees drawn to its artistic community, regular film and jazz festivals, and slower pace of life on the Olympic Peninsula.
Bellingham
College Town VibeHome to Western Washington University, Bellingham offers the energy and amenities of a college town with the natural beauty of Bellingham Bay and Mount Baker. PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center provides excellent healthcare. The city is known for its outdoor recreation, craft breweries, farm-to-table dining, and a progressive, welcoming community.
Olympia
Capital CityWashington's capital city offers retirees excellent amenities at more affordable prices than Seattle. Olympia features beautiful waterfront access, the Evergreen State College with lifelong learning programs, Providence St. Peter Hospital, and a vibrant farmers market scene. Its location provides easy access to both Seattle and Portland.
Cost of Living Comparison
Compare median home prices, monthly expenses, and healthcare costs across our top retirement destinations.
Median Home Prices
Estimated Monthly Expenses
| City | Median Home | Monthly Rent | Healthcare Access | Walk Score | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sequim | $425,000 | $1,650 | Olympic Medical Center | 42 | Sunshine lovers |
| Bainbridge Island | $1,200,000 | $2,800 | Seattle hospitals via ferry | 68 | Arts & culture |
| Edmonds | $850,000 | $2,200 | Swedish Edmonds | 76 | Walkability |
| Gig Harbor | $725,000 | $1,900 | St. Anthony Hospital | 54 | Waterfront living |
| Port Townsend | $550,000 | $1,700 | Jefferson Healthcare | 65 | Historic charm |
| Bellingham | $625,000 | $1,850 | PeaceHealth St. Joseph | 52 | Active lifestyles |
| Olympia | $475,000 | $1,600 | Providence St. Peter | 48 | Value & amenities |
Healthcare Access & Medical Facilities
Access to quality healthcare is a top priority for retirees. The Seattle region boasts some of the nation's finest medical facilities.
Major Medical Centers
Seattle area retirees have access to nationally ranked hospitals including Virginia Mason, UW Medicine, Swedish, and Providence.
- UW Medical Center
- Virginia Mason
- Swedish Medical Center
Specialized Care
Find specialists in cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and geriatric medicine throughout the region.
- Seattle Cancer Care Alliance
- Orthopedic specialists
- Memory care facilities
Wellness Programs
Many communities offer wellness centers, fitness programs, and preventive care specifically designed for active seniors.
- SilverSneakers locations
- Community wellness centers
- Preventive care programs
Active Adult Communities
The Seattle area offers numerous active adult and 55+ communities with resort-style amenities, social activities, and maintenance-free living.
Golf Communities
Championship courses with stunning mountain and water views
Resort Living
Pools, fitness centers, and spa facilities on-site
Social Clubs
Book clubs, hiking groups, art classes, and more
Concierge Services
Maintenance-free living with full-service amenities
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Start Your Next Chapter?
Next Phase Moving specializes in senior relocations across Washington State. Let our experienced team make your retirement move stress-free and seamless.
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