Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Hay, WA
Considering a move to Hay, WA? This tiny rural community of just 95 residents offers quiet living, affordable housing with median home prices around $240,000, and low rental costs. Crime rates are notably low, and residents enjoy over 60% sunny days annually. While amenities are limited locally, nearby schools and healthcare facilities in Colfax and Pullman are accessible. With short commutes and a relaxed pace, Hay is ideal for those seeking peaceful, small-town charm.
Demographics - Hay, WA
Hay, WA is a close-knit rural community with a population of just 95, a median age of 54.3, and a predominantly White demographic. The low population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to a quiet, laid-back atmosphere, appealing to those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
95
Density:
18 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.3
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
91.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
7.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Hay, WA?
Living in Hay is affordable, with median home values around $240,000 and average rents at $825. The cost of living index is below the national average at 95.4, making it an economical choice for both homeowners and renters.
Median House Value:
$240,000
Gross Rent:
$825
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,340
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,250
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
95.4
Grocery:
99.1
Housing:
81.7
Utilities:
92.8
Transportation:
102.3
Health Care:
97.5
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Hay, WA a safe place to live?
Hay experiences very low crime, with only 80 violent crimes and 600 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Residents enjoy a heightened sense of safety, with the chance of violent crime being just 1 in 1,250.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
80
Property Crimes Per 100k:
600
Crime Index:
680
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,250
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 167
Weather
What is the weather like in Hay, WA year-round?
Hay offers four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 86°F and cold winters dipping to 21°F. The area receives moderate annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine about 61% of the year, making it suitable for those who appreciate varied weather.

Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
86°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
16.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Households in Hay typically earn a median income of $57,500, with a poverty rate below 10%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute time is under 30 minutes, reflecting the town’s small size and close-knit community.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$57,500
Family Income:
$64,000
Per Capita Income:
$29,400
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$32,000
Poverty Rate:
9.8%
Non English Speakers:
5.5%
Rent:
$825
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
27.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.0%
Bachelors or More:
21.3%
Education
How are the schools in Hay, WA?
Local students attend LaCrosse High School, which offers small class sizes and an 8:1 student-teacher ratio, while higher education is accessible at Washington State University, located just 36 miles away in Pullman.

Public Schools
Name:
LaCrosse High School
Street:
111 Hill Ave, LaCrosse, WA 99143
Phone:
509-549-3591
Students:
72
Student Teacher Ratio:
8.1

Colleges
Name:
Washington State University
City:
Pullman
State:
WA
Distance:
36 miles
Students:
19,900
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare nearby, with over 92% insured and a local hospital in Colfax offering comprehensive emergency and surgical services. Physician availability is good for a rural area, providing peace of mind for families and seniors alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Whitman Hospital and Medical Center
Address:
1200 W Fairview St, Colfax, WA 99111
Phone:
(509) 397-3435
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.4%
Health Care Index:
78.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Hay, WA?
Hay’s housing market features affordable median home prices at $240,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 79%. Homes appreciate steadily, and vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, making it a stable environment for buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$240,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$825
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Hay residents are served by the Washington State Department of Licensing, with services accessible online or at the main office in Olympia. Vehicle registration and licensing processes are streamlined for state residents.
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.