Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Metaline Falls, WA
Considering a move to Metaline Falls, WA? This peaceful town of about 240 people offers affordable living, with median home prices around $164,000 and average rents of $730. Residents enjoy short 22-minute commutes, low violent crime rates, and scenic outdoor surroundings. The area features a cooler climate with 46% sunny days, and while educational attainment is modest, local schools have low student-teacher ratios. If you're seeking small-town charm, scenic beauty, and budget-friendly housing, Metaline Falls is worth a look.
Demographics - Metaline Falls, WA
Demographics - Metaline Falls, WA
Metaline Falls is a small, close-knit community of approximately 240 residents, with a median age of 54 and a population density of 700 per square mile. The town is predominantly White, and the gender ratio slightly favors males. With only 2.5% non-English speakers, the area offers a quiet, familiar environment ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
240
Density:
700 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.0
Gender Ratio:
108 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.0%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
8.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Metaline Falls, WA?
Metaline Falls offers a cost of living well below the national average, with a cost of living index of 87 and median home values around $164,000. Housing is particularly affordable, and average rents are just $730 per month, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals. Utility and transportation costs are also relatively low, contributing to overall affordability.
Median House Value:
$164,000
Gross Rent:
$730
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,075
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
0.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
87
Grocery:
96
Housing:
70
Utilities:
92
Transportation:
94
Health Care:
98
Miscellaneous:
89
Crime
Is Metaline Falls, WA a safe place to live?
The town experiences low crime, with a violent crime rate of 120 per 100,000 and property crime remaining modest at 1,320 per 100,000 residents. Residents have a 1 in 833 chance of experiencing violent crime, making Metaline Falls a safe option for families and retirees. The peaceful atmosphere is appealing for those prioritizing security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,320
Crime Index:
1,440
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 833
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 76
Weather
What is the weather like in Metaline Falls, WA year-round?
Metaline Falls has a cool, temperate climate, with winter lows dipping to 19°F and summer highs reaching 83°F. The area receives about 23.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 46% of the year. Seasonal changes are pronounced, offering a true four-season experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
48°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
23.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
46%
Neighbors
The median household income in Metaline Falls is about $38,000, with a poverty rate of 16.1% and an unemployment rate of 8.2%. Most residents commute around 21.5 minutes for work, and public transportation options are limited. The community is largely English-speaking and values a quiet, rural lifestyle.
Median Income:
$32,500
Household Income:
$38,000
Family Income:
$48,000
Per Capita Income:
$22,800
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
16.1%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$730
Unemployment Rate:
8.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
21.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.0%
Bachelors or More:
14.5%
Education
How are the schools in Metaline Falls, WA?
Metaline Falls is served by Selkirk High School and Selkirk Elementary School, both offering low student-teacher ratios around 12:1 to 13:1. While college opportunities are located farther away, such as Spokane Community College 85 miles from town, local schools provide personalized attention. Educational attainment in the community is moderate, with most adults holding at least a high school diploma.

Public Schools
Name:
Selkirk High School
Street:
10372 Hwy 31
Phone:
509-446-3505
Students:
100
Student Teacher Ratio:
12:1
Name:
Selkirk Elementary School
Street:
10372 Hwy 31
Phone:
509-446-3333
Students:
160
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1

Colleges
Name:
Spokane Community College
City:
Spokane
State:
WA
Distance:
85 miles
Students:
8,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to Newport Hospital & Health Services, a general and surgical facility located nearby that offers emergency care. With approximately 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and 88.2% health insurance coverage, basic healthcare needs are well-served locally. The healthcare index reflects moderate accessibility and services for a small town.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Newport Hospital & Health Services
Address:
714 W Pine St, Newport, WA 99156
Phone:
(509) 447-2441
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.2%
Health Care Index:
72.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Metaline Falls, WA?
The housing market in Metaline Falls is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $164,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 70%. Rental options are available but limited, and vacancy rates are relatively low, making homeownership appealing. Home values have seen modest appreciation over the past year, reflecting steady demand.
Median Home Price:
$164,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$730
Owner Occupied Rate:
70.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing are managed by the Washington State Department of Licensing, with the nearest main office in Olympia. Residents can access services online or by phone, ensuring convenient handling of driving needs. The DMV provides all standard services required by Washington drivers.
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.