Why Is Everyone Moving to Washington State in 2025?
Washington state is seeing an exciting influx of new residents from the U.S., with newcomers drawn to its thriving job market and improved quality of life compared to other locations. The state even sits at the sixth-fastest-growing state as of 2023, according to Axios, and that may increase even further in the coming months.
So, why is everyone moving to Washington state this year? What caused this growth, and what exciting opportunities does it bring?
Below, we break down some key reasons you might want to move here to make a fresh, new start. Learn about:
The expanding job market
Why home prices remain competitive
What nature lovers do to make the most of Washington’s scenic expanses
Why residents rave about the region’s communities
So, keep reading to discover why moving here is a smart choice and how we can help you make it happen.
Growing Local Economies and Job Markets
According to the state itself, the local population exceeds 8,000,000 as of 2024. This growth is, in part, due to the constantly expanding job market and booming local economy, as new opportunities continue to attract new residents seeking opportunities such as:
Career boosts
Financial stability
More time with family due to shorter commutes
Increased career accessibility for many residents
Even for those starting on the first rung in a new career, initiatives exist to help with job training, mentorship, preventing discrimination, and many other methods to increase the likelihood of being hired.
Within the state, major players, including aerospace, tech, healthcare, and manufacturing, are also hiring at greater levels than before. For example, Microsoft who are located here, has grown by thousands in recent years, and its development of state-of-the-art AI systems will likely increase that further.
Naval Expansion Boosting Coastal Counties
On the coast, the U.S. Navy’s presence in Washington State continues to expand, bringing thousands of people to the region as:
Military families
Defense contractors
Support staff
These groups contribute further to the local economy, especially near the coast in locations such as Naval Base Kitsap, causing local commerce to flourish. However, many others want a quieter life. As such, places such as Gig Harbor are becoming more popular as waterfront towns that do not have the bustle of a prominent military location appeal to others.
Infrastructure Upgrades Enhancing Accessibility and Home Values
Expansions to transportation throughout Washington state have boosted the accessibility of many locations for those looking to start careers in the region. In Tacoma, for example, recent plans to expand the light rail system allow greater connections to Seattle and the rest of the United States. The upgrade also reduces traffic congestion, making commutes easier and boosting the quality of life for local residents.
Similarly, the recent boost to Tacoma’s waterfront has massively enhanced its appeal to both locals and those looking to enjoy time on the waterfront from further afield. These upgrades have also boosted the home value of many residential areas.
In addition, the boost in housing demand from the addition of further jobs has helped grow investments throughout the region.
Smart Financial Benefits for New Residents
Many people throughout the state take advantage of the region's unique financial benefits. The whole area is very financially attractive to both high- and low-income earners, allowing people to enjoy the fruits of their labor no matter their personal status.
For example, the state does not collect income tax. As such, it is much more appealing to entrepreneurs who want to take a chance in the area. If you want to start a small business, the state is one of the best options in the country and can help you get off the ground much more effortlessly.
Helping the state’s growth further is the fact that the expanding industries in the region offer competitive wages that match the region’s costs. The income from local careers matches and offsets growing housing costs, making owning a home attainable, even for many newcomers to the area.
A Hub for Tech and Remote Work
Washington state is a leading player in technology jobs across the country. It is not only the aforementioned Microsoft that exists in the region, but you can also find many other tech leaders who have set up offices here, including:
Amazon
Google
T-Mobile
Expedia Group
Expedia
Nintendo of America
Zillow
Redfin
Valve
Each of these is further boosted by the state’s comprehensive broadband infrastructure and the local rise in co-working spaces and similar working hubs. Thus, the location is very attractive to freelancers and many others.
Drawn away from the high cost of living of places such as California, these tech employees either join existing companies or create one of the hundreds of thousands of small businesses that make the state their home.
Outdoor Appeal of the Evergreen State
Living in Washington state offers joys far beyond its working opportunities. There is a reason people call it “The Evergreen State.” Namely, its unbeatable outdoor opportunities.
Many people drawn here are nature lovers, adventurers, or generally active families who want to see more of the outdoors.
Enabling this further, many of the state’s major hubs offer easy access to one of the three big national parks found locally. Whether you want to visit Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, or one of the many other parks around the state, several locations include some of the United States’ most-visited and beautiful outdoor sights.
Because Washington state is so far north, its mild climate allows for year-round outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy boating, biking, or hiking, you can often find something local that meets your preferences. The possibilities are almost endless, and so many local events and outdoor community activities only enhance people's experiences when they move to the region.
Washington’s Community Spirit
Washington state is a center for many strong entertainment brands, including the second-largest video game industry in the United States. As such, it has much to offer in terms of art, culture, and creative endeavors. Residents value creative expression, and the community reflects that, with popular art galleries, theaters, and music venues spread across the state.
At the same time, festivals occur throughout the year, celebrating everything the state offers. Locations like Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, and Bremerton even organize regular community activities, including:
Farmers’ markets
Live markets
Marathons
Antique shows
Even the smallest town offers diversity in terms of food, museums, local traditions, and local artwork. You will always find something to do, no matter where you live.
Making Moving to Washington State a Breeze
Moving to Washington state has many powerful advantages, making it a top choice for new residents. Whether you are a family looking for a new home, a retiree wanting a more active lifestyle, or a career-building professional, Washington is perfect for you.
So, prepare your moving checklist and begin your home search with Paige Schulte and her team of real estate experts. Contact our friendly staff today to leverage decades of experience and knowledge of the area. We want to help you find your perfect home and start a new life you can be truly proud of.
