Olympia
Nestled at the southern tip of Puget Sound, Olympia combines waterfront scenery with the distinction of being Washington's capital city. From historic downtown apartments to residential communities in East Olympia and South Capitol, the housing options are extensive. The rental market remains stable, with current average rents ranging from $1,308 for studios to $2,378 for four-bedroom homes, showing modest year-over-year increases between 0.7% and 2.1%. The city features an extensive trail system, including Squaxin Park (formerly Priest Point Park) with its 150-year-old forest and waterfront access, while downtown hosts the historic Capitol Theater and Washington Center for Performing Arts. Downtown Olympia centers around Percival Landing, where the year-round Olympia Farmers Market draws visitors to the waterfront boardwalk. The Evergreen State College and South Puget Sound Community College contribute to the city's educational landscape. The South Capitol Historic District features preserved craftsman homes, while the West Side offers residential communities near parks and natural areas. Downtown's artesian wells, including the historic Fourth Avenue Fountain, remain an integral part of local heritage. The annual Procession of the Species parade, held each April, showcases the community's artistic spirit through elaborate costumes and performances.
Tacoma
Living in Tacoma offers sweeping views of Mount Rainier and easy access to Puget Sound's waterfront. This port city features an array of housing options, from historic Craftsman homes in the North End to apartments in downtown. Point Defiance Park spans 700 acres, featuring beaches, hiking trails, and the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. The Stadium and Proctor Districts each offer local shops and restaurants within walkable neighborhoods. Current rental data shows average rents of $1,481 for one-bedroom apartments with a 1.93% annual increase. The Museum of Glass, connected to downtown by the Bridge of Glass showcasing Dale Chihuly's works, anchors Tacoma's museum district. The University of Washington Tacoma campus occupies beautifully restored historic warehouses, while the Theatre District's Pantages Theater hosts performances throughout the year. The city's dining scene flourishes along 6th Avenue and in the Lincoln International District. Ruston Way's waterfront path offers waterside dining and recreation opportunities with panoramic views. Originally a railroad terminus, Tacoma retains its historic architecture while embracing modern development throughout its neighborhoods.
Lacey
Located between Olympia and the Nisqually River delta, Lacey combines suburban comfort with natural surroundings. Home to Saint Martin's University, the city features extensive parks and natural areas, including the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. As an EPA-designated Green Power Community, Lacey sources 8.4% of its energy from renewable sources. Current rental trends show moderate stability, with average rents ranging from $1,500 for studios to $2,995 for four-bedroom homes, with most units seeing minimal year-over-year changes between -1% and 0.6%. Originally named Woodland, Lacey has grown from a small settlement into an established suburban community while preserving its natural environment. Housing options span from newer apartment communities in Hawks Prairie to established neighborhoods near South Sound Center. The city center and the area surrounding Saint Martin's University showcase different aspects of local life. Recognized as a "Tree City USA" for 26 years by the National Arbor Day Foundation, Lacey emphasizes environmental stewardship. The location offers convenient access to Interstate 5 for commuting to Olympia, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and Tacoma, while Hawks Prairie provides extensive shopping and employment opportunities.
