Moving to Washington statistics (2024 data)

How many people move to Washington?

In 2023, 212,616 people moved to Washington state, while 215,277 moved out. This represents a net loss of 2,661 residents. In fact, Washington has consistently been losing residents since 2020. Between July 2020 and 2023, the state’s population decreased by 23,497.

This massive decline is largely due to the economic strain that comes with the high cost of living. In 2020 alone, Washington went from being the fifth most desired place to live all the way down to the 36th. Now, according to a recent ConsumerAffairs study based on a sample of 143,506 ConsumerAffairs.com users who expressed an interest in moving between January 2023 and March 2024, Washington ranked as the 47th most desired state for relocation.

Top 5 cities that people moved to in Washington

Ranked as the 46th best U.S. state to move to in 2024 based on weighted factors like safety and quality of life, Washington has become far less desirable in recent years. However, this hasn’t stopped an influx of movers to certain locations.

People moving to the Evergreen State are primarily choosing to live in Seattle, the suburbs surrounding it or other urban areas. Between 2020 and 2023, Seattle saw the highest number of movers, at 18,060 (a 2.5% increase in population). The suburbs surrounding this major city, including Redmond and Lynnwood, also grew at an impressive rate of 9.6% and 13.7%, respectively.

Other large metro areas with positive growth include Vancouver (just north of Portland, Oregon) and Spokane Valley. Between 2020 and 2023, these areas attracted 5,554 and 5,252 new residents, respectively.

The top five cities people moved to in Washington between 2020 and 2023 were as follows:

Why do people move to Washington?

While Washington isn’t among the most popular 2024 move-in destinations, there are still reasons why the state attracts newcomers. First and foremost, the Evergreen State’s beautiful scenery and outdoor activities make it an idyllic region for nature enthusiasts.

Opportunity is another major reason people move to Washington. The state offers a robust job market, including countless opportunities in the high-demand tech industry. Washington residents can expect to make nearly 21% more than the U.S. median household income, with the largest industries including trade, transportation and utilities, government, and education and health services. These three industries combined account for about 48.6% of the state’s nonfarm workers.

Washington housing statistics

With a median rent price of $1,768.61 and a median home sale price of $670,400, renters and homeowners in Washington can expect to pay 59.5% more than the national median for housing.

Washington has the 23rd lowest property tax rate in the country at 0.87%, similar to that of Virginia. The tax rate is just under half that of Connecticut, which boasts the fifth highest rate in the U.S.

In 2021, the average property owner in King County — where Seattle is — paid $5,877 in annual property taxes. In general, the average property tax paid varies greatly by county in Washington, with residents in King County paying the most, while those in Garfield County pay much less at an average of $1,270.

Cost-of-living statistics in Washington

Washington’s cost-of-living index is 115.1, giving it the eighth highest cost of living in the nation. The state also has higher-than-average gas prices, with an average cost per gallon of $4.37, or 34% higher than the U.S. average ($3.26). Exceptionally high gas prices are, in part, due to Washington trying to make itself a more green state. With recycling and renewable energy, it ranks as the second-greenest state in 2024.

Somewhat assisting with the high cost of living, the Evergreen State also has one of the highest median household incomes in the U.S. at $91,063. That means the typical Washington household earns nearly 21% more than the U.S. average of $75,358. Despite this, the unemployment rate of 4.9% is 16.7% higher than the national average of 4.2%.

Washington’s high cost of living can be attributed to taxes, an influx of high salary tech workers and more. Housing is 62.6% higher than the national median, and the high price for goods and services has driven many residents and prospective movers away.

Who lives in Washington?

Washington is the 13th largest state in the U.S. by population, with 7,812,880 residents as of 2023. This represents a population increase of 28,403 people when compared to 2022.

Washington’s population skews slightly more male (50.35%) than female (49.65%). In 2023, around 3.93 million Washington residents were male, and 3.88 million were female.

On average, the Evergreen State’s population is also slightly younger (38.5 years old) than the U.S. average of 38.9 years. The most prominent age demographic in the state is those between 25 to 44 years, accounting for more than 2.24 million residents, or 28.6% of the total population.

White Americans make up the largest share of Washington residents (76.3%) — over 5.96 million people. Washington also has a large share of Hispanic and Asian residents at 14.6% and 10.8% of the population, respectively.

Tips for moving to Washington

Not sure how to start your move to Washington? Consider these step-by-step moving tips:

1. Prepare for the cost of living

Washington has the eighth highest cost of living in the U.S., but costs also vary by location. Urban, high-demand areas like Seattle and Bellevue are among the most expensive in the nation. Smaller towns may offer more budget-friendly options, but it’s vital to research housing prices, taxes and overall expenses in your desired area before moving. Websites like Washington's OFM can help you compare costs across different regions and plan your budget effectively.

2. Learn about the job market

With a diverse economy rife with everything from high-paying tech jobs to outdoor recreation, there are opportunities for almost anyone in Washington, depending on the region. Major employers include companies like Amazon, Microsoft and Boeing, particularly in urban areas. Before your move, utilize research like WorkSource Washington to see what job opportunities are available to you, track industry trends and look into training programs.

3. Prepare for the rain and snow

Areas on Washington’s coast receive some of the highest rain totals in the U.S., and snow is possible for inland regions. If you’re relocating from a dry state, be sure to invest in high-quality winter and rain gear, including jackets, waterproof boots and gloves. It’s also important to ensure that your new home is built to keep you safe and comfortable all year. You can stay up to date on local Washington weather here.

4. Research transportation options

Washington’s urban centers, including Seattle and Tacoma, feature a variety of public transportation options. From buses and light rail to ferries, these cities have it all. In more rural areas, personal vehicles may be necessary for reliable transportation. The WSDOT website provides valuable information about transit options, traffic updates and travel advisories.

5. Be aware of natural hazards

Stunning forests and breathtaking coastlines come with drawbacks, as Washington is also prone to earthquakes, landslides, flooding and wildfires. Coastal regions are more likely to face the former, while wildfires can be particularly deadly in dry, inland regions. To prepare yourself for potential hazards, utilize local emergency services and guidelines like the Washington Emergency Management Division.

6. Embrace the cultural diversity

From rich Asian influence to Pacific Northwest Native American heritage, Washington offers an array of exciting cultural experiences. When you move, take the time to explore the festivals, cuisine and art, whether in Seattle or the rural East.

7. Understand mover quotes and tipping

When moving to Washington, carefully review and compare moving company quotes. Be sure to account for potential additional fees depending on where you’re relocating to. Tipping movers is customary; a tip of 10% to 20% of the total cost is standard based on the quality of service.