Best Towns Washington

 

Here’s a curated list of the ten best small towns in Washington for retirement based on public safety, quality of life, access to healthcare, and amenities:

1. Bainbridge Island

  • Overview: Bainbridge Island offers a serene environment with a small-town feel just a ferry ride away from Seattle. It's known for its scenic beauty, artsy vibe, and community-oriented atmosphere.
  • Amenities: Restaurants, shops, galleries, and theaters. Excellent public schools, making it a family-friendly place as well.
  • Hospitals: Virginia Mason Bainbridge Island Medical Center.
  • Parks: Bainbridge Island has numerous parks including Battle Point Park, and access to waterfront areas.
  • Features: Frequent ferry services to Seattle, thriving arts scene, local wineries, and farmers' markets.

2. Anacortes

  • Overview: Located on Fidalgo Island, Anacortes is a gateway to the San Juan Islands. This charming town is known for its marine life, quiet neighborhoods, and vibrant local community.
  • Amenities: Restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shopping. Anacortes is also known for its annual events, like the Anacortes Arts Festival.
  • Hospitals: Island Hospital.
  • Parks: Washington Park, Cap Sante Park, and Mt. Erie for hiking.
  • Features: Easy access to ferry services to the San Juan Islands, whale-watching opportunities, and boating.

3. Sequim

  • Overview: Known as the "Lavender Capital of North America," Sequim enjoys a mild climate and plenty of sunshine. It's a peaceful town with a strong sense of community, making it an excellent place for retirees.
  • Amenities: Lavender farms, local dining, shopping, and a growing arts scene.
  • Hospitals: Olympic Medical Center.
  • Parks: Carrie Blake Park, Railroad Bridge Park, and Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge.
  • Features: Close proximity to the Olympic National Park, easy access to outdoor activities, and a vibrant local festival scene.

4. Camano Island

  • Overview: Camano Island offers a peaceful retreat with abundant natural beauty. The island community is friendly, and there's a mix of older and newer developments catering to retirees.
  • Amenities: Art studios, local markets, and dining.
  • Hospitals: Nearby hospitals in Stanwood and Arlington, such as Skagit Valley Hospital.
  • Parks: Camano Island State Park, Cama Beach State Park.
  • Features: Abundant wildlife, scenic views, and close-knit island living with easy access to mainland amenities.

5. Langley

  • Overview: Situated on Whidbey Island, Langley is a picturesque town with an artistic flair. The town is known for its historic charm and strong sense of community.
  • Amenities: Art galleries, theater performances, and boutique shopping.
  • Hospitals: WhidbeyHealth Medical Center.
  • Parks: South Whidbey State Park, Langley Park.
  • Features: A lively arts community, access to beaches, and opportunities for boating and fishing.

6. Port Townsend

  • Overview: Port Townsend is a Victorian seaport with a rich maritime history and a vibrant arts scene. Its walkable downtown and waterfront make it an attractive place for retirees.
  • Amenities: Victorian architecture, art galleries, local cafes, and theaters.
  • Hospitals: Jefferson Healthcare.
  • Parks: Fort Worden State Park, Chetzemoka Park.
  • Features: Festivals, cultural events, sailing opportunities, and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.

7. Gig Harbor

  • Overview: Often referred to as the "Gateway to the Olympic Peninsula," Gig Harbor offers a small-town charm with easy access to urban amenities in nearby Tacoma and Seattle.
  • Amenities: Waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and galleries.
  • Hospitals: St. Anthony Hospital.
  • Parks: Gig Harbor City Park, Crescent Creek Park.
  • Features: Marinas, historical waterfront, and boating activities.

8. La Conner

  • Overview: La Conner is a historic waterfront town nestled along the Swinomish Channel. Known for its annual tulip festival, this town has an appealing combination of natural beauty and artistic heritage.
  • Amenities: Art galleries, local dining, and specialty shops.
  • Hospitals: Skagit Valley Hospital in nearby Mount Vernon.
  • Parks: Pioneer Park, La Conner Marina.
  • Features: Annual Tulip Festival, boating, and a quiet, welcoming community.

9. Poulsbo

  • Overview: Known as "Little Norway," Poulsbo is a charming town with a rich Scandinavian heritage. Its waterfront setting on Liberty Bay and vibrant downtown make it an appealing retirement destination.
  • Amenities: Scandinavian-themed shops, bakeries, and restaurants.
  • Hospitals: Harrison Medical Center.
  • Parks: Fish Park, Poulsbo’s Waterfront Park.
  • Features: Boating, scenic waterfront, and cultural events celebrating its Norwegian roots.

10. Friday Harbor

  • Overview: Located in the San Juan Islands, Friday Harbor is the commercial hub of the archipelago. It offers a relaxed island lifestyle with access to arts, culture, and nature.
  • Amenities: Art galleries, theaters, local dining, and ferry access.
  • Hospitals: PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center.
  • Parks: San Juan Island National Historical Park, Lime Kiln Point State Park.
  • Features: Whale-watching, kayaking, and a strong community spirit.

Each of these towns provides a high quality of life, beautiful scenery, and access to healthcare, making them ideal for retirement in Washington.