Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Guemes Island, WA
Considering a move to Guemes Island, WA? This scenic, close-knit island community of around 720 residents offers a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty. The median home price is about $635,000, with rents near $1,650, reflecting the area's desirability. Crime rates are exceptionally low, and the island enjoys a mild, maritime climate with cool summers and gentle winters. Commute times average 28 minutes (including ferry), and while schools are accessed off-island, the area boasts high educational attainment and easy access to quality healthcare nearby. Discover tranquil living with a strong sense of community on Guemes Island.
Demographics - Guemes Island, WA
Demographics - Guemes Island, WA
Guemes Island is home to a small, close-knit population of about 720 residents, with a median age nearing 60, reflecting its appeal to retirees and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. The community is predominantly White, and English is the primary language, with a low percentage of non-English speakers. Population density is low, offering a quiet island atmosphere.
Population:
720
Density:
69 per sq mi
Median Age:
59.2
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
93.1%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
1.4%
Others:
5.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Guemes Island, WA?
The cost of living on Guemes Island is higher than the national average, with a median home value of $635,000 and average rent around $1,650 per month. While housing is the largest expense, residents benefit from no state income tax in Washington. Utilities and groceries are moderately priced, making the island attractive for those seeking a scenic, tranquil lifestyle with premium amenities.
Median House Value:
$635,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,420
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$730
State Taxes:
Low:
0% (no state income tax)
|
High:
0% (no state income tax)
Cost Of Living Index:
128.1
Grocery:
113.0
Housing:
147.5
Utilities:
98.2
Transportation:
121.4
Health Care:
107.0
Miscellaneous:
104.0
Crime
Is Guemes Island, WA a safe place to live?
Guemes Island boasts exceptionally low crime rates, with violent crime being extremely rare—about 41 incidents per 100,000 people—and a property crime risk far below typical urban areas. Residents enjoy peace of mind and a strong sense of safety throughout the community. The chance of encountering violent crime is just 1 in 2,400, making it an ideal location for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
41
Property Crimes Per 100k:
712
Crime Index:
753
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 2,400
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 140
Weather
What is the weather like in Guemes Island, WA year-round?
Guemes Island enjoys a mild maritime climate, with cool summers averaging highs in the low 70s and gentle winters rarely dipping below freezing. The area receives about 29 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine nearly half the year. This temperate weather supports outdoor activities year-round and enhances the island’s natural beauty.

Winter
Min:
35°F
Max:
45°F

Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
53°F
Max:
74°F

Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
28.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
46%
Neighbors
The island’s residents have a median household income of $67,400, with most households owner-occupied and a low poverty rate of 9.1%. Educational attainment is high, and most neighbors commute just under 28 minutes, often by ferry. The community is friendly and engaged, offering a supportive environment for newcomers.
Median Income:
$40,500
Household Income:
$67,400
Family Income:
$79,100
Per Capita Income:
$39,100
Income Male:
$46,000
Income Female:
$35,000
Poverty Rate:
9.1%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
27.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
96.9%
Bachelors or More:
41.2%
Education
How are the schools in Guemes Island, WA?
While Guemes Island itself does not have schools, students attend highly-rated public and private schools in nearby Anacortes, including Anacortes High School and Island View Elementary. Higher education is accessible at Skagit Valley College, just 13 miles away. The community values education, as shown by a high rate of college-educated residents.

Public Schools
Name:
Anacortes Middle School
Street:
2202 M Ave
Phone:
360-293-1230
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Name:
Anacortes High School
Street:
1600 20th St
Phone:
360-293-2166
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.1

Private Schools
Name:
Island View Elementary School
Street:
2501 J Ave
Phone:
360-293-1212
Students:
420

Colleges
Name:
Skagit Valley College
City:
Mount Vernon
State:
WA
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
4,300
Healthcare
Islanders have convenient access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Island Hospital and Skagit Valley Hospital located nearby on the mainland. With nearly 94% health insurance coverage and above-average physician availability, residents enjoy reliable medical services and emergency care. Healthcare in the region is accessible, supporting a healthy, active lifestyle.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Island Hospital
Address:
1211 24th St, Anacortes, WA 98221
Phone:
(360) 299-1300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Skagit Valley Hospital
Address:
1415 E Kincaid St, Mount Vernon, WA 98274
Phone:
(360) 424-4111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Guemes Island, WA?
Guemes Island’s housing market is robust, with a median home price of $635,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of nearly 87%. Home values have appreciated modestly in recent years, reflecting steady demand. Rental options are limited but available, and the housing market offers stability for both buyers and long-term residents.
Median Home Price:
$635,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
86.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle registrations and licensing are managed by the Washington State Department of Licensing, with the nearest office in Mount Vernon. Residents benefit from efficient DMV services and easy online access for renewals and information. The process is straightforward, ensuring residents can manage their transportation needs conveniently.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
2021 E College Way, Mount Vernon, WA 98273
Phone:
(360) 416-7563
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.