Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Guemes, WA
Considering a move to Guemes, WA? This tranquil island community of around 700 offers scenic beauty, a slower pace of life, and a high rate of home ownership. Median home prices hover around $665,000, with rents at $2,100, reflecting a higher cost of living balanced by low violent crime (85 per 100k) and excellent access to nature. Residents enjoy mild summers, quality healthcare nearby in Anacortes, and access to local schools, making Guemes ideal for those seeking peace and Pacific Northwest charm.
Demographics - Guemes, WA
Demographics - Guemes, WA
Guemes, WA is a small island community with a population of about 700, characterized by a predominantly White demographic and a median age of 57. The area has a nearly balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a close-knit, mature atmosphere. With a population density of 90 per square mile, residents enjoy both community connection and open space.
Population:
700
Density:
90 per sq mi
Median Age:
57.0
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
4.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Guemes, WA?
Living in Guemes comes with a higher cost, as reflected by a median home value of $665,000 and an overall cost of living index of 134. Monthly rents average $2,100, and utilities and groceries are moderately above national averages. State taxes range from 0% to 9%, making budgeting important for newcomers.
Median House Value:
$665,000
Gross Rent:
$2,100
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,420
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$740
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
134.0
Grocery:
111.2
Housing:
148.5
Utilities:
97.4
Transportation:
112.4
Health Care:
112.0
Miscellaneous:
108.0
Crime
Is Guemes, WA a safe place to live?
Guemes boasts a low violent crime rate of 85 incidents per 100,000 residents, making it a safe choice for families and retirees. Property crime is more common but still below national averages, with a 1 in 95 chance annually. The community’s peaceful environment contributes to its appeal as a secure place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
85
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,135
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,176
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Guemes, WA year-round?
Residents of Guemes enjoy mild, temperate weather with summer highs around 74°F and winter lows rarely dipping below 36°F. The area receives about 27.7 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine nearly half the year. This climate supports outdoor recreation and a relaxed island lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
36°F
Max:
46°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
74°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
The community is relatively affluent, with a median household income of $85,200 and a poverty rate of just 6.5%. Nearly 95% of adults have at least a high school education, and the unemployment rate is low at 4.7%. Most residents commute about 26 minutes and rely primarily on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$44,000
Household Income:
$85,200
Family Income:
$97,000
Per Capita Income:
$48,300
Income Male:
$51,800
Income Female:
$39,750
Poverty Rate:
6.5%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$2,100
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
1.0%
Commute Time:
26.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.6%
Bachelors or More:
45.0%
Education
How are the schools in Guemes, WA?
Families in Guemes benefit from access to public schools in Anacortes, with student-teacher ratios around 17–18:1, as well as private and parochial options. Higher education is accessible at Skagit Valley College, located 18 miles away in Mount Vernon. The area supports a high educational attainment rate, making it suitable for lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
Anacortes Middle School
Street:
2202 M Ave
Phone:
360-503-1230
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
17:1
Name:
Anacortes High School
Street:
1600 20th St
Phone:
360-503-1300
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
18:1
Private Schools
Name:
Island View Elementary (Private/Parochial)
Street:
2501 J Ave
Phone:
360-293-2166
Students:
160
Colleges
Name:
Skagit Valley College
City:
Mount Vernon
State:
WA
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
4,100
Healthcare
Guemes residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, with Island Hospital in nearby Anacortes offering general and emergency services. The area enjoys a high rate of health insurance coverage at 93.5% and a robust physician presence. Healthcare costs are manageable compared to many regions, supporting a healthy lifestyle.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Island Hospital
Address:
1211 24th St, Anacortes, WA 98221
Phone:
(360) 299-1300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.5%
Health Care Index:
77.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Guemes, WA?
The housing market in Guemes is strong, with a median home price of $665,000 and an 80% owner-occupancy rate. Home values have appreciated by 4.2% over the past year, while the rental vacancy rate remains moderate at 5.8%. New construction is limited, reflecting a stable and established residential community.
Median Home Price:
$665,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,100
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Guemes residents access vehicle and licensing services through the Washington State Department of Licensing in Mount Vernon. The DMV provides all standard services, including driver licensing and registration, both in person and online. Its convenient location and helpful resources make managing transportation needs straightforward.
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.