Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Moses Lake, WA
Considering a move to Moses Lake, WA? With a population of about 25,500, this sunny, family-friendly city offers affordable living—median home prices are around $309,000 and average 2-bedroom rents are $1,180. Crime rates are moderate, with property crime higher than the national average but violent crime remaining relatively low. Commutes are quick at just under 18 minutes, and the area boasts excellent access to outdoor recreation, highly-rated public schools, and a sunny climate with over 67% sunny days per year. Moses Lake is a great choice for those seeking a relaxed Eastern Washington lifestyle.
Demographics - Moses Lake, WA
Demographics - Moses Lake, WA
Moses Lake is home to about 25,583 residents, with a youthful median age of 32.1 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is diverse, including over 32% Hispanic or Latino residents and nearly a quarter speaking a language other than English at home. The city offers a vibrant blend of cultures and a moderately dense, family-oriented atmosphere.
Population:
25,583
Density:
1,250 per sq mi
Median Age:
32.1
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
24.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
63.3%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
1.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Moses Lake, WA?
Moses Lake features an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $309,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,180. Utility and transportation costs are close to national averages, and residents benefit from no state income tax in Washington. The overall cost index of 98.2 makes it a budget-friendly choice for families and professionals.
Median House Value:
$309,000
Gross Rent:
$1,180
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,170
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,520
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
0% (WA has no state income tax)
|
High:
0% (WA has no state income tax)
Cost Of Living Index:
98.2
Grocery:
99.4
Housing:
92.6
Utilities:
96.1
Transportation:
101.0
Health Care:
100.3
Miscellaneous:
97.8
Crime
Is Moses Lake, WA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Moses Lake are moderate, with violent crime relatively low compared to national averages and a higher incidence of property crime. Residents face about a 1 in 385 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 41 chance for property crime. The city remains generally safe, especially for those taking standard precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
260
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,440
Crime Index:
2,700
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 385
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 41
Weather
What is the weather like in Moses Lake, WA year-round?
Moses Lake enjoys a sunny, semi-arid climate with 67% of days being sunny and just 7.6 inches of annual rainfall. Summers are warm, reaching highs of 87°F, while winters are cold but manageable, with lows around 22°F. The pleasant weather supports an active, outdoor lifestyle year-round.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
7.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
67%
Neighbors
The median household income in Moses Lake is $61,225, and the community has a poverty rate of 17.8%. Most residents experience short commutes of under 18 minutes and a strong sense of local connection, though higher education attainment is below the national average. The area is welcoming and diverse, reflecting a mix of backgrounds and lifestyles.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$61,225
Family Income:
$71,100
Per Capita Income:
$25,900
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
17.8%
Non English Speakers:
24.5%
Rent:
$1,180
Unemployment Rate:
6.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
17.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.9%
Bachelors or More:
16.7%
Education
How are the schools in Moses Lake, WA?
Moses Lake offers a range of educational opportunities, including well-attended public schools like Moses Lake High School and Chief Moses Middle School, as well as private options such as Crestview Christian School. Higher education is easily accessible at Big Bend Community College, located just two miles from the city center. The local schools serve a diverse student body with favorable student-to-teacher ratios.
Public Schools
Name:
Moses Lake High School
Street:
803 E Sharon Ave
Phone:
509-766-2661
Students:
2,300
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.1
Name:
Chief Moses Middle School
Street:
1111 E Nelson Rd
Phone:
509-766-2691
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Private Schools
Name:
Crestview Christian School
Street:
1601 W Valley Rd
Phone:
509-765-4632
Students:
195
Colleges
Name:
Big Bend Community College
City:
Moses Lake
State:
WA
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
2,200
Healthcare
Healthcare in Moses Lake is anchored by Samaritan Hospital, offering comprehensive general and emergency services. With 1.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 90% health insurance coverage, access to care is solid for a city of its size. The local healthcare index suggests reliable, affordable services for families and retirees.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Samaritan Hospital
Address:
801 E Wheeler Rd, Moses Lake, WA 98837
Phone:
(509) 765-5606
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.3%
Health Care Index:
78.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Moses Lake, WA?
The Moses Lake housing market is stable and accessible, with a median home price of $309,000 and a homeownership rate of 57.6%. Renters benefit from average two-bedroom rents of $1,180, and vacancy rates are modest. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, indicating steady demand without rapid price inflation.
Median Home Price:
$309,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,180
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle licensing and registration in Moses Lake are managed by the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located on Stratford Road. Residents can access a full range of DMV services locally or online through the state website. The office provides efficient support for new arrivals and longtime residents alike.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
484 Stratford Rd NE, Moses Lake, WA 98837
Phone:
1-360-902-3900
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.