30 Nov Upper Olympic Peninsula Cities Guide
The Upper Olympic Peninsula is a place of abundant natural beauty. First there’s the water. The peninsula is bordered by the Pacific Ocean, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and the Puget Sound. And then there’s the Olympic Mountains which run down the center of the peninsula. There is also no shortage of forests to explore, including the Hoh Rainforest. The outdoors can be enjoyed year-round here due to a surprisingly temperate climate. The Upper Olympic Peninsula is much drier and sunnier than the rest of the state due to the mountains’ rain shadow effect.
Because of this scenery and climate, the Upper Olympic Peninsula appeals to visitors, permanent residents, and vacation home owners. Seattle is about 2 hours away and is accessible by driving or a combination of car and ferry. The largest cities in this area are Port Angeles, Port Townsend, and Sequim (pronounced Sqwim). The current median home prices are $450,00 in Jefferson County (Port Townsend) and $347,000 in Clallam County (Port Angeles and Sequim). Here’s an overview of the cities in this area:
Port Angeles
Port Angeles is the largest city on the Olympic Peninsula. This city is a dream for outdoor lovers since it is the gateway to Olympic National Park. There are plenty of options for hiking and biking in town too. The Olympic Discovery Trail runs between Port Angeles and Sequim. There is also an abundance of fishing, paddling, and boating in the area.
There is more to Port Angeles, however, than just the incredible outdoors. Art is found throughout the city, from murals to sculptures to galleries. The local theatre group and symphony put on performances. The areas’ rich Native American history can be experienced at places like Elwha Klallam Heritage Center.
The main campus of Peninsula College is in Port Angeles and is also the city’s largest employer. Younger students attend schools within the Port Angeles School District. Clallam Transit bus service connects Port Angeles to other Olympic Peninsula cities. Living here also means you are just a short ferry away from Victoria, B.C.
Sequim
Sequim sits between the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. This small city and the surrounding Dungeness Valley usually have sunny and dry weather. This makes it ideal for growing lavender. There are many lavender fields, as well as farms and wineries, throughout the area. This climate also makes it possible to be outdoors year round. Residents here enjoy camping and hiking at nearby state parks. The Dungeness Spit is also a beautiful place for exploring and wildlife viewing.
The majority of residents of Sequim are homeowners. According to the Employment Security Department, Sequim is seeing a rise in “in migration”. Retirees are moving here for the sunny climate. Public schools are part of the Sequim School District.
Port Townsend
Port Townsend is a Victorian seaport on the Puget Sound. Its rich history can be seen in the architecture and by visiting Fort Wordon Historical Park. This state park is also a great place to camp, hike, and view the Point Wilson Lighthouse. The Chetzemoka Trail runs throughout Port Townsend. This trail is made up of 18 site that educate the public on the history of the S’Klallam people.
People of all ages are choosing to move to Port Townsend for many reasons. A major draw is the mild, sunny climate. Residents can hike, bike, or golf year round. This appeals to retirees and younger families alike. Students attend schools in the Port Townsend School District. There is also a branch of Peninsula College here.
Just like the other cities in the area, Port Townsend can be reached by driving or car and ferry. Port Townsend itself is very walkable and can be explored on foot.
These Upper Olympic Peninsula cities are drawing new residents in all stages of life. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, a place to retire, or maybe even buying your first home, this area has a lot to offer. Let’s chat about what you are looking for on the Olympic Peninsula!
Photo by Lesly Derksen on Unsplash