Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Elma, WA
Considering a move to Elma, WA? This small, friendly city of 3,440 residents offers affordable living with a median home price around $285,000 and average rents near $1,120. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with a typical commute of 25 minutes and easy access to local healthcare at Summit Pacific Medical Center. While property crime rates are higher than average, the cost of living remains below the national average, and the region's lush climate brings mild summers and rainy winters. Elma’s public schools and close-knit community make it a welcoming choice for families seeking a quieter pace.
Demographics - Elma, WA
Elma, WA is a small community of 3,440 residents, characterized by a median age of 37.2 and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White, with a small percentage of residents from other backgrounds, and about 7.6% speak a language other than English at home. The city's moderate population density offers a close-knit, friendly atmosphere ideal for families and individuals alike.
Population:
3,440
Density:
1,163 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
87.5%
Black:
0.6%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
10.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Elma, WA?
Elma offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $285,000 and average rent around $1,120 per month. The overall cost of living index is slightly below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking value without sacrificing amenities. Residents benefit from reasonable utility costs and moderate state taxes.
Median House Value:
$285,000
Gross Rent:
$1,120
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,430
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.0
Grocery:
101.4
Housing:
92.6
Utilities:
98.7
Transportation:
105.2
Health Care:
104.3
Miscellaneous:
99.5
Crime
Is Elma, WA a safe place to live?
Elma experiences a higher-than-average property crime rate, with about 2,020 incidents per 100,000 people, while violent crime remains relatively low at 205 per 100,000. Residents have a 1 in 49 chance of encountering property crime, but the community remains proactive about safety. It's wise for newcomers to stay informed and take standard precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
205
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,020
Crime Index:
2,225
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 488
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 49
Weather
What is the weather like in Elma, WA year-round?
Elma features a mild, Pacific Northwest climate with cool, rainy winters and pleasant summers peaking at 77°F. The city receives about 67 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on roughly 38% of days, creating lush green landscapes throughout the year. Residents can expect comfortable seasonal changes and a generally temperate environment.
Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
47°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
77°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
67 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
38%
Neighbors
Elma’s residents enjoy a median household income of $58,400, with a family-friendly atmosphere supported by a high rate of high school graduates. The local poverty rate stands at 16.2%, and most people commute about 25 minutes to work. The area is known for its welcoming community and relaxed pace of life.
Median Income:
$32,800
Household Income:
$58,400
Family Income:
$66,900
Per Capita Income:
$26,100
Income Male:
$37,500
Income Female:
$30,800
Poverty Rate:
16.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.6%
Rent:
$1,120
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
25.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.7%
Bachelors or More:
12.3%
Education
How are the schools in Elma, WA?
Education in Elma is supported by public schools like Elma High School and Elma Middle School, both offering reasonable student-teacher ratios and a sense of community. Higher education options are available nearby at Grays Harbor College, just 15 miles away. The area is committed to ensuring educational opportunities for both children and adults.
Public Schools
Name:
Elma High School
Street:
1011 W Main St
Phone:
360-482-3121
Students:
540
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Elma Middle School
Street:
805 W Main St
Phone:
360-482-2237
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Colleges
Name:
Grays Harbor College
City:
Aberdeen
State:
WA
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
1,700
Healthcare
Healthcare in Elma is anchored by Summit Pacific Medical Center, which offers general and emergency services. With 1.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and 92.1% health insurance coverage, residents have good access to care. The local healthcare index suggests reliable services for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Summit Pacific Medical Center
Address:
600 E Main St, Elma, WA 98541
Phone:
(360) 346-2222
Type:
General & Emergency
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
74.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Elma, WA?
Elma's housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $285,000 and a steady 3.8% appreciation rate over the past year. About 59% of homes are owner-occupied, and the rental vacancy rate is low, reflecting consistent demand. The area is well-suited for both buyers and renters seeking stability and value.
Median Home Price:
$285,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,120
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.8%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Elma residents can access vehicle and licensing services through the Washington State Department of Licensing located conveniently in town. The local office provides assistance for driver’s licenses, registrations, and other DMV needs. Helpful staff and an accessible location make managing transportation requirements straightforward.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
506 Denny Way, Elma, WA 98541
Phone:
(360) 482-3438
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.