Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Harstine, WA
Considering a move to Harstine, WA? This small, scenic island community of about 1,200 residents boasts a relaxed rural lifestyle with median home prices around $410,000 and average rents near $1,350. Residents enjoy low crime rates, mild summers, and easy access to nature, but should plan for longer commutes averaging 37 minutes. With strong public school options and proximity to Shelton’s healthcare, Harstine offers a tranquil, close-knit environment ideal for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
Demographics - Harstine, WA
Demographics - Harstine, WA
Harstine is a small community of about 1,200 people, with a median age of 53.2 years and a fairly balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White, and the area features a relaxed, low-density rural setting. A modest percentage of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting some cultural diversity.
Population:
1,200
Density:
120 per sq mi
Median Age:
53.2
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
2.0%
Others:
8.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Harstine, WA?
The cost of living in Harstine is slightly above the national average, with a cost of living index of 108. Median home values are around $410,000 and typical rents for a two-bedroom are about $1,350, making it moderately affordable compared to other parts of Washington. Utilities and everyday expenses remain in line with state averages, while state taxes range from 0% to 9%.
Median House Value:
$410,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
108.0
Grocery:
105.2
Housing:
112.7
Utilities:
98.5
Transportation:
106.6
Health Care:
102.1
Miscellaneous:
101.0
Crime
Is Harstine, WA a safe place to live?
Harstine enjoys a low crime environment, with only 115 violent crimes and 1,050 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. Residents have a 1 in 870 chance of experiencing violent crime, reflecting a safe and peaceful community atmosphere. Property crime rates are also below many urban areas, contributing to the area's appeal.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
115
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,165
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 870
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Harstine, WA year-round?
Harstine features mild weather year-round, with summer highs averaging 76°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 34°F. The area receives about 52 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny days 42% of the year. This climate supports lush landscapes and outdoor activities in all seasons.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
46°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
76°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
52 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
42%
Neighbors
Residents of Harstine enjoy a median household income of $70,200 and a relatively low poverty rate of 9.8%. The community is well-educated, with over 92% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher, and the average commute time is 37 minutes, reflecting the area’s rural character. Public transportation use is minimal, so most residents rely on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$36,500
Household Income:
$70,200
Family Income:
$78,600
Per Capita Income:
$33,200
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
9.8%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
37.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.0%
Bachelors or More:
25.5%
Education
How are the schools in Harstine, WA?
Education in Harstine is centered around strong local public schools such as Pioneer Primary School, with a student-teacher ratio of 16.3. While there are no private schools in town, higher education opportunities are close by, including Olympic College in Shelton and The Evergreen State College in Olympia. This access supports both families and adult learners seeking continuing education.
Public Schools
Name:
Pioneer Primary School
Street:
112 E Spencer Lake Rd
Phone:
360-426-8291
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.3
Colleges
Name:
Olympic College Shelton
City:
Shelton
State:
WA
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
1,800
Name:
The Evergreen State College
City:
Olympia
State:
WA
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
2,300
Healthcare
Harstine residents have easy access to healthcare at nearby Mason General Hospital, which provides general and emergency services. The area is served by 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people, and over 91% of residents have health insurance coverage. Healthcare quality is well-rated, making it convenient for families and retirees.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mason General Hospital
Address:
901 Mountain View Dr, Shelton, WA 98584
Phone:
(360) 426-1611
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Harstine, WA?
The housing market in Harstine is stable, with a median home price of $410,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of 76%. Home values have appreciated by 6.3% over the past year, and rental options are available with an average vacancy rate of 6%. The community offers a mix of established homes and limited new construction.
Median Home Price:
$410,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Harstine residents can access driver and vehicle services through the Washington State Department of Licensing in Olympia, located at 1125 Washington St SE. The office provides convenient access to licensing, registration, and other DMV services for local drivers. More information can be found on the state’s official website.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
1125 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA 98501
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.