8 Budget-Friendly Towns in Washington for Retirees
Washington offers a unique blend of nature and city life. The beauty of Mother Nature can be found in numerous national parks, such as Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park, where seniors can enjoy leisurely strolls and picnics outside.
City life offers the ability to stay busy volunteering with many organizations in Washington, such as Seattle Humane and Senior Corps RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program). With these programs, seniors can give their time to help animals and other like-minded seniors.
Let’s take a look into eight towns that are budget-friendly in the state of Washington for retirees to settle down in.
Sequim
Sequim is a small city with a population estimated to be 8,300 individuals. This picturesque town is known for its breathtaking Purple Haze Lavender Farm. Fields of purple in every shade as far as your eye can see. Seniors can head to the gift shop and go flower picking for a great afternoon.
There are also great wildlife organizations such as the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge that give retirees the option to hike, take pictures, and even bird-watch several different types of species.
There are lots of local activities that are kind to the wallet. The Sequim Senior Activity Center is a space for seniors to meet and focus on education, recreation, and friendship with others. There are a lot of physical and creative activities to keep seniors on the go.
Port Townsend
This charming seaport town offers seniors culture, natural beauty, a welcoming community, and roots in history. If you are a water enthusiast, this small town is the spot for you. Port Townsend’s waterfront is the perfect place to view Puget Sound. There, you can go sailing, kayaking, or just enjoy the sounds of the water lapping up on shore.
If hiking is more your avenue, then you can enjoy several hiking and natural trails such as Fort Worden State Park. With more than 400 acres, there are plenty of free outdoor activities to do. You can comb the beaches, go picnicking, and enjoy hiking through Mother Nature.
Of course, despite the many activities in any town, the one thing you are probably most concerned about is that it is a safe place to live. Port Townsend has a very low crime rate, one in 547, according to Neighborhood Scout. Make this town ideal for safety.
Walla Walla
If you’re seeking an engaging lifestyle that is fulfilling then we want you to consider the town of Walla Walla. This town is in the southeastern region of Washington. They enjoy a mild climate as they experience the four seasons every year. You’ll get the joy of singing the beauty of springtime all the way to a snowy white Christmas.
There are a range of affordable housing options for you to consider in Walla Walla. Whether you’re looking for a mobile home, a condo, or to purchase a house this state has everything to offer. There are even popular retirement communities to consider such as Quail Run Retirement Community and Wheatland Village a Generations Community.
Enjoy lots of physical activity in Walla Walla by getting out on the famous Veterans Memorial Golf Course to perfect your swing. If your spouse isn’t all that interested in golfing, then head to the Wine Valley Golf Club, where they can enjoy a glass of cold beer while you get your tee time in.
Anacortes
Anacortes gets its name from Anne Curtis Bowman, who was the wife of an Island Settler named Amos Bowman. This vibrant coastal town offers a strong community that is focused on preserving the beauty of their town. Seniors can head to The Cap Sante Marina and Skyline Marina for an afternoon of fishing, sailing, and even kayaking.
Every year in August, Anacortes hosts their famous community Anacortes Arts Festival. The community gathers together to showcase local cuisine, live music, and local artists. Anacortes also enjoys the Oyster Run motorcycle rally as well. This free event showcases hundreds of motorcycles that pass by parade style and vendors that set up food and music all day.
Chelan
Chelan is a remote town with a population of less than 5,000. Making this destination a quiet spot for you to choose to retire in.
Explore the famous Lake Chelan by either going out on the water with your own boating or renting a kayak to go out for the day. This budget-friendly option gives seniors the ability to enjoy the calm waters in nature without paying over-priced for a boat tour.
Chelan also offers essential healthcare services at its primary healthcare facility known as Lake Chelan Health. They offer quality healthcare for first-time emergency visits and for long-tern inpatient care as well. If your health is an issue, Chelan may just be the town for you that will take care of your wellness needs.
Wenatchee
The Wenatchee population has increased over the years and is currently around 35,000 members. Making this a busy town for you to participate in as a senior. The beautiful rivers of Columbia and Wenatchee Rivers run right through this town and offer exciting water activities to keep retirees busy throughout the day.
Wenatchee is known for its apple picking at local farms. Seniors can enjoy the annual Washington State Apple Blossom Festival, which hosts food vendors, concerts, and vibrant parades.
Outside of local activities, retirees can enjoy budget-friendly outings at The Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center. Here, you can learn about local heritage, see various exhibits, and attend events.
Friday Harbor
This exciting little town has only a few thousand members, making this one close-knit community. Friday Harbor is a small town in San Juan County.
With your budget in mind, Friday Harbor offers you the ability to explore Lime Kiln Point State Park free of charge. Enjoy images of the Lime Kiln Lighthouse in the distance. This breathtaking picturesque spot is like what you'd see from a postcard.
Members of Friday Harbor can also enjoy seeing the visual arts at discounted senior rates. The San Juan Community Theatre has just announced its 2024\2025 Season and is booking up its summer moments before the fall rolls out. Here, you'll be able to enjoy live music and shows at affordable rates.
Centralia
Centralia sits proudly sandwiched between Seattle and Portland, Oregon. This serene town is a viable, budget-friendly option for seniors to consider when wanting to retire. This city has a small-town charm to it that offers recreational outdoor activities for seniors to enjoy safely. The Seminary Hill Natural Area is a great place to casually hike and see views of the Skookumchuck River Valley.
Additionally, you can enjoy Fort Borst Park if you like to stay active. There are plenty of sports fields to keep you healthy and going every day. There are also picnic areas and walking trails if you just want to have a stroll.
Centralia offers a cute downtown spot that has a vintage store, local cuisine, and small cafes. Enjoy the flavor of Irish dishes at O'Blarney's Irish Pup, or a tasty pastry at Berry Fields Cafe. Tie your dining experience in with a show at the Fox Theatre. There you can enjoy concerts, films, and the various community events they host.
Finding a place to safely retire in that is budget-friendly is of the utmost importance. It is vital to choose a town that looks out for your safety and health and is cost effective. However, the balance is in also finding a town that is rich in history, cultural events, the support of a good community, and the beauty of nature to surround yourself with. We are confident that one of the eight charming towns in Washington is the perfect place for you to retire.
