Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cathlamet, WA
Considering a move to Cathlamet, WA? This small riverside town of about 565 residents offers affordable housing, with a median home price around $325,000 and average rents near $950. Enjoy short average commutes (19.5 minutes), low violent crime rates, and a friendly, close-knit community. With access to local schools, basic healthcare, and a mild, rainy Pacific Northwest climate, Cathlamet is ideal for those seeking quiet living and natural beauty at a reasonable cost.
Demographics - Cathlamet, WA
Demographics - Cathlamet, WA
Cathlamet is a small, close-knit community of around 565 residents with a median age of 54, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White (over 93%), and nearly 8% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its population density is moderate, offering a peaceful living environment.
Population:
565
Density:
1,140 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.0
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
93.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
4.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cathlamet, WA?
Cathlamet offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $325,000 and average rents at $950. The cost of living index sits just below the national average, and utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, making it attractive for budget-conscious movers. State taxes range from 0% to 9%, providing some predictability for residents.
Median House Value:
$325,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,480
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
97.0
Grocery:
98.5
Housing:
85.0
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
102.0
Health Care:
104.0
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Cathlamet, WA a safe place to live?
Cathlamet experiences low violent crime rates, with only 122 incidents per 100,000 people, making it a safe choice for families and retirees. Property crime is more common, but overall, the town maintains a peaceful atmosphere. Residents enjoy a low chance of violent crime at just 1 in 820.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
122
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,540
Crime Index:
1,662
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 820
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 65
Weather
What is the weather like in Cathlamet, WA year-round?
Cathlamet features a classic Pacific Northwest climate, with mild summers averaging highs of 77°F and cool, wet winters. The area receives about 57 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine approximately 43% of the year. This weather supports lush landscapes and fosters a tranquil outdoor lifestyle.

Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
47°F

Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
77°F

Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
57 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
43%
Neighbors
Residents in Cathlamet enjoy a median household income of $48,500 and a family income of $62,000, with about 13% living below the poverty line. The community is well-educated, as over 90% have at least a high school diploma, and average commute times are short at just under 20 minutes. The area is characterized by its quiet neighborhoods and strong sense of community.
Median Income:
$34,900
Household Income:
$48,500
Family Income:
$62,000
Per Capita Income:
$28,800
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
8.0%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
19.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.8%
Bachelors or More:
23.1%
Education
How are the schools in Cathlamet, WA?
Cathlamet offers strong educational options with well-rated public schools, including Wahkiakum High School and Julius A. Wendt Elementary, both featuring low student-teacher ratios. While there are no private schools in town, Lower Columbia College is just 23 miles away, providing higher education opportunities. The community places a strong emphasis on educational attainment and support for students.

Public Schools
Name:
Wahkiakum High School
Street:
500 S 3rd St
Phone:
360-795-3271
Students:
175
Student Teacher Ratio:
14:1
Name:
Julius A. Wendt Elementary
Street:
205 S 3rd St
Phone:
360-795-3261
Students:
170
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1

Colleges
Name:
Lower Columbia College
City:
Longview
State:
WA
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Cathlamet has access to primary care through the Wahkiakum Family Health Center, while more comprehensive and emergency medical services are available nearby in Longview. With 90.5% of residents covered by health insurance and a low physician density, basic healthcare needs are met locally, but specialized care may require travel. The healthcare environment suits those seeking routine services and a slower pace of life.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Wahkiakum Family Health Center
Address:
335 Una Ave, Cathlamet, WA 98612
Phone:
(360) 795-3201
Type:
Primary Care & Clinic
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center
Address:
1615 Delaware St, Longview, WA 98632
Phone:
(360) 414-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.5%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cathlamet, WA?
The housing market in Cathlamet is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $325,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $950. Homeownership is high at 76%, and vacancy rates are low, reflecting a steady demand for housing. Home values have appreciated modestly in recent years, making it attractive for buyers seeking value and stability.
Median Home Price:
$325,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Cathlamet residents are served by the Washington State Department of Licensing located in nearby Kelso, offering convenient access to all vehicle and licensing services. The office provides standard DMV services, and more information can be found on the state website. This location ensures that residents have all essential licensing resources within a reasonable drive.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
1301 S 13th Ave, Kelso, WA 98626
Phone:
360-577-2242
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.