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Living in Washington: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Washington | Expat Exchange
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Living in Washington

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 04, 2023

Summary: People often describe life in Washington as vibrant and diverse. With its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and diverse population, Washington is a great place to live. People love the outdoor activities, the vibrant music and art scene, and the diverse range of restaurants and bars. The average cost of living in Washington is slightly higher than the national average. The median home price in Washington is around $400,000, and the median rent is around $1,500. Washington has a population of approximately 7.5 million people. The largest cities in Washington are Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Bellevue, and Everett. The cons of living in Washington include the high cost of living, the rainy weather, and the traffic. Additionally, the cost of housing is very high, and the cost of living is higher than the national average.

Is the cost of living in Washington high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Washington, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Washington is generally higher than the national average. Rent prices for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Washington can range from around $1,500 to $2,500 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $2,000 to $3,500 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Washington can cost around $20 per person," said one expat.

What type of recreational facilities are in Washington?

When we asked people living in Washington about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Washington residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, including parks, trails, and beaches. Parks offer a variety of activities, such as picnicking, hiking, biking, and camping. Trails provide opportunities for walking, running, and biking. Beaches provide a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Washington also has a number of golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pools. In addition, there are many museums, art galleries, and theaters for residents to explore. Washington also has a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants," said one expat.

What is the weather like in Washington?

"The weather in Washington is usually mild and wet. It experiences all four seasons, with warm summers and cool winters. Rainfall is common throughout the year, and snowfall is possible in the winter months," said an expat in Washington.

Are there good restaurants in Washington?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Washington is Canlis, located in Seattle. Canlis is a fine dining establishment that has been serving up classic American cuisine since 1950. The restaurant is known for its stunning views of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline, as well as its creative and delicious dishes. The menu features a variety of seafood, steak, and vegetarian options, as well as an extensive wine list. Another popular restaurant in Washington is The Walrus and the Carpenter, located in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood. This seafood-focused restaurant is known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and creative dishes. The menu features a variety of oysters, as well as other seafood dishes such as mussels, clams, and crab. The restaurant also offers a selection of craft beers and wines. Finally, in Spokane, Washington, the Wild Sage Bistro is a favorite among locals. This cozy bistro serves up classic American dishes with a modern twist. The menu features a variety of salads, sandwiches, and entrees, as well as a selection of craft beers and wines. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options," said one expat.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Washington?

"People living in Washington typically buy groceries from supermarkets such as Safeway, QFC, and Fred Meyer. Other shopping can be done at department stores like Macy's, Nordstrom, and Target, as well as at local boutiques and specialty stores. Shopping malls such as Northgate Mall, Tacoma Mall, and Bellevue Square are also popular destinations for shopping," remarked one expat living in Washington.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Washington?

"In order to obtain a visa to enter Washington, applicants must first submit an application to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a visa that will allow them to enter the United States. In order to apply for residency in Washington, applicants must first submit an application to the USCIS. This application must include proof of identity, proof of financial support, and a valid passport. Additionally, applicants must provide evidence of their intent to live in Washington, such as a job offer or proof of enrollment in a school. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a green card that will allow them to live and work in the United States," mentioned one expat inWashington.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Washington?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Washington can be expensive. The cost of health insurance depends on the type of plan and the coverage offered. Premiums for health insurance plans in Washington can be higher than in other states, and out-of-pocket costs can also be high. Additionally, the cost of healthcare services can vary significantly depending on the provider and the type of service," mentioned one expat inWashington.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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