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Washington State presents an enticing prospect for retirement, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty, extensive outdoor recreation, and vibrant cultural attractions. Financially, retirees benefit from the absence of a state income tax on Social Security benefits.
While the average individual Social Security payment in 2025 was approximately $1,979, with couples receiving around $3,089, the state is generally known for its higher cost of living. However, savvy planners can find several communities where a couple can comfortably manage their retirement solely on Social Security income.
This report highlights ten cities across Washington that defy the state’s expensive reputation, providing attractive options for retirees.
1. Aberdeen
Median Home Price: $278,236
Average Rent: $757
Located in Western Washington on the Chehalis River, Aberdeen is home to approximately 17,000 residents and is often celebrated as the “Birthplace of Grunge.” The city boasts an abundance of historic homes and natural beauty, with the Olympic Peninsula serving as a picturesque backdrop. Residents can access reasonably good healthcare, and despite its rainy climate, the cost of living remains only slightly above the national average, making it an accessible choice for those seeking an established community.
2. Clarkston
Median Home Price: $341,185
Average Rent: $1,107
Situated west of Lewiston, Idaho, and just north of the breathtaking Hells Gate State Park, Clarkston is named after the famed explorers Lewis and Clark and maintains a strong presence of the Nez Perce tribe. This community of over 7,000, nestled on the banks of the Snake River, features a notably robust population of residents aged 65 and over. Its charming downtown areas offer a variety of local shops, eateries, and wineries, ensuring both daily needs and entertainment are within easy reach for retirees.
3. Connell
Median Home Price: $319,571
Average Rent: $598
Connell, a city of just over 5,000 residents, exudes a distinct small-town energy where housing and utility costs are remarkably affordable. It’s an ideal setting for those who value a close-knit community where everyone knows their neighbors.
While the city is safe and surrounded by natural beauty, residents may need to travel to the Tri-Cities area for a broader spectrum of essential services, including comprehensive healthcare. For travel beyond the region, Spokane International Airport is conveniently located approximately 100 miles away.
4. Hoquiam
Median Home Price: $248,963
Average Rent: $745
West of Aberdeen lies Hoquiam, a quaint city of over 8,000 residents, where more than 20% of the population is aged 65 or older, fostering a strong sense of community. Its coastal beauty and general affordability make it a top retirement destination, particularly for those who appreciate the Pacific Northwest’s characteristic rainfall. While major services and amenities may require a 1.5-hour drive to Olympia, many find the accessible beaches, lush forests, and local culinary offerings to be a worthwhile trade-off.
5. Kelso
Median Home Price: $387,135
Average Rent: $1,312
In Southwest Washington, at the confluence of the Columbia and Cowlitz Rivers, Kelso is located approximately an hour’s drive north of Portland. With a unique Scottish influence and a distinctive small-town vibe, Kelso offers an established community rich in history.
The majestic Mt. St.
Helens is also a short distance away. This reasonably affordable city is home to over 12,000 people, with nearly 15% of its population being over the age of 65, contributing to its welcoming atmosphere for retirees.
6. Longview
Median Home Price: $390,477
Average Rent: $896
Just east of Kelso, Longview is a significantly larger community with nearly 40,000 residents, almost a quarter of whom are aged 65 or older. This affordable haven, nestled amidst forests and mountains, exudes an old-school charm and provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, similar to its neighbor. For those craving time by the sea, Longview is conveniently located only 66 miles from the Pacific Ocean, offering easy access to coastal excursions.
7. Moses Lake
Median Home Price: $369,105
Average Rent: $1,253
The prominent Moses Lake itself is a major draw to this area, offering a wealth of outdoor recreational activities. Beyond its natural appeal, the city of 27,000 beckons with a reasonable cost of living, particularly for utilities and housing.
As the area continues to grow, so too do its infrastructure and amenities within this unique desert-like landscape. Samaritan Healthcare serves as a primary provider in Moses Lake, offering essential care and emergency services to the community.
8. Spokane
Median Home Price: $395,526
Average Rent: $1,135
As the largest city on this list, with a population of approximately 230,000—over 16% of whom are aged 65 or older—Spokane, known as the “Lilac City,” sits proudly on the Washington-Idaho border. Retirees will find healthcare and cultural activities exceptionally accessible, complemented by an impressive walkability score of 76. While the cost of living is slightly above the national average, the extensive big-city amenities often prove to be a worthwhile trade-off for residents.
9. Sunnyside
Median Home Price: $318,635
Average Rent: $730
With deep roots in agriculture and a thriving wine industry, Sunnyside is a proud and diverse city of 16,000 residents. This sunny community offers particularly affordable rental options and utility payments, making it an attractive choice for retirees.
Essential services, including healthcare, are readily available, and a significant portion of the population—10% aged 65 or older—ensures a welcoming community atmosphere. Additionally, numerous parks provide pleasant settings for leisurely strolls.
10. Yakima
Median Home Price: $356,028
Average Rent: $951
One of the larger cities featured, Yakima is home to nearly 100,000 residents, with over 16% aged 65 or older, and is aptly known as the heart of Central Washington. Retirees here can indulge in a wide array of outdoor activities, from hiking and boating to exploring local wineries and breweries, alongside a vibrant calendar of cultural events.
Excellent healthcare facilities, numerous golf courses, and abundant sunshine further enhance Yakima’s appeal for older adults. For a taste of big-city life, Seattle is also a convenient 2.5-hour drive away.
The Bottom Line
For those evaluating their retirement savings and exploring options within Washington State, these ten cities offer excellent starting points for research. Despite Washington’s general reputation for being an expensive place to live, these communities defy the trend, primarily due to their more accessible housing and rental markets.
Prospective retirees might also consider investigating more rural areas within the state for additional cost-effective possibilities. The key to finding the ideal retirement spot lies in thorough exploration, balancing affordability with desired amenities to create the perfect setting for your golden years.