Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Chehalis, WA
Considering a move to Chehalis, WA? This welcoming city of about 7,700 offers affordable home prices (median $303,000) and rents ($1,085), with a cost of living below the national average. Commutes are a breeze with a typical 21-minute drive, and families will find public schools and a nearby community college. While property crime is above average, Chehalis features a mild Pacific Northwest climate and access to outdoor recreation, making it a practical choice for those seeking small-town living in Washington.
Demographics - Chehalis, WA
Demographics - Chehalis, WA
Chehalis is home to around 7,700 residents with a median age of 36.3, reflecting a balanced and family-friendly community. The city is predominantly White at over 80%, but also includes a growing mix of other backgrounds and about 10% non-English speakers. The population density and nearly equal gender ratio add to its small-town feel.
Population:
7,693
Density:
1,410 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.3
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
82.3%
Black:
1.1%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
15.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Chehalis, WA?
Chehalis offers a cost of living slightly below the national average, with median home values at $303,000 and average rents around $1,085. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries are in line with or just below U.S. norms, making it an affordable choice for families and individuals. State taxes are moderate, and overall living costs are manageable for most budgets.
Median House Value:
$303,000
Gross Rent:
$1,085
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,550
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$495
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
96.0
Grocery:
99.5
Housing:
80.2
Utilities:
95.7
Transportation:
102.4
Health Care:
101.2
Miscellaneous:
97.0
Crime
Is Chehalis, WA a safe place to live?
While Chehalis maintains a relatively low violent crime rate, property crimes are more common than the national average, with a 1 in 32 chance annually. Residents benefit from a generally safe atmosphere for day-to-day life, but it's wise to stay proactive about home and vehicle security. The city’s crime index reflects these local patterns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
265
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,116
Crime Index:
3,381
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 378
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 32
Weather
What is the weather like in Chehalis, WA year-round?
Chehalis enjoys a mild Pacific Northwest climate, with comfortable summers peaking near 78°F and winters rarely dipping below freezing. The city receives about 49 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine 44% of the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate moderate temperatures and lush surroundings.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
46°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
44%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Chehalis offer a welcoming environment with a median household income of about $53,100 and a poverty rate of 15.2%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and commute times average just over 21 minutes. The community is close-knit, with a low unemployment rate and a small percentage relying on public transportation.
Median Income:
$28,900
Household Income:
$53,100
Family Income:
$62,400
Per Capita Income:
$23,600
Income Male:
$32,200
Income Female:
$26,900
Poverty Rate:
15.2%
Non English Speakers:
10.4%
Rent:
$1,085
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
21.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.7%
Bachelors or More:
18.1%
Education
How are the schools in Chehalis, WA?
Families in Chehalis benefit from a range of educational options, including public schools with manageable class sizes and a local private school. Centralia College, just four miles away, provides higher education opportunities for recent graduates and adult learners. The community supports strong educational attainment and lifelong learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Chehalis Middle School
Street:
1060 SW 20th St
Phone:
360-807-7230
Students:
620
Student Teacher Ratio:
19:1
Name:
James W. Lintott Elementary
Street:
310 SW 16th St
Phone:
360-807-7215
Students:
690
Student Teacher Ratio:
18:1
Private Schools
Name:
St. Joseph School
Street:
123 SW 6th St
Phone:
360-748-0961
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Centralia College
City:
Centralia
State:
WA
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Chehalis residents have access to quality healthcare, including the nearby Providence Centralia Hospital offering emergency services. With approximately 1.4 physicians per 1,000 people and over 90% health insurance coverage, the area ensures basic medical needs are well met. Healthcare services are reliable for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Providence Centralia Hospital
Address:
914 S Scheuber Rd, Centralia, WA 98531
Phone:
(360) 736-2803
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.7%
Health Care Index:
65.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Chehalis, WA?
The local housing market features median home prices at $303,000 and average two-bedroom rents of $1,085, making homeownership and renting both attainable. Nearly half of residents own their homes, and vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, indicating a stable market. Modest home appreciation offers solid long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$303,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,085
Owner Occupied Rate:
48.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Chehalis are managed by the Washington State Department of Licensing, located in nearby Olympia. Residents can access licensing, registration, and driver services both in person and online for convenience. The DMV’s accessible location and comprehensive website help streamline vehicle-related tasks.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
405 Black Hills Ln SW, Olympia, WA 98502
Phone:
360-902-3900
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.