Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Orcas, WA
Considering Orcas, WA for your next move? This scenic island community has a population of around 2,500, offering tranquility and a close-knit feel. Home values hover near $695,000, and average rents are about $1,650, reflecting the area’s desirability. With low crime rates, short 18-minute commutes, and top-rated local schools, Orcas is ideal for those seeking natural beauty and a peaceful lifestyle. Enjoy mild summers, lush landscapes, and strong educational attainment in this Pacific Northwest gem.
Demographics - Orcas, WA
Orcas, WA is a small, close-knit community of about 2,500 residents, with a median age of 53.1, reflecting a mature population. The island is predominantly White, with a modest blend of other ethnicities and a small percentage of non-English speakers, creating a welcoming yet tranquil environment.
Population:
2,500
Density:
35 per sq mi
Median Age:
53.1
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
10.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Orcas, WA?
The cost of living in Orcas is above the national average, largely due to higher housing costs, with median home values around $695,000 and average rent at $1,650. Residents benefit from Washington's 0% income tax, but should budget for groceries, healthcare, and utilities that also trend higher than average.
Median House Value:
$695,000
Gross Rent:
$1,650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$650
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
127.0
Grocery:
117.0
Housing:
153.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
120.0
Health Care:
113.0
Miscellaneous:
106.0
Crime
Is Orcas, WA a safe place to live?
Orcas offers a notably safe living environment, with very low violent crime rates—just 59 incidents per 100,000 people—and a low chance of property crime. This sense of security adds to the island's peaceful, welcoming atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
59
Property Crimes Per 100k:
650
Crime Index:
709
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,695
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 154
Weather
What is the weather like in Orcas, WA year-round?
Orcas boasts mild, pleasant weather year-round, with summer highs reaching 72°F and winter lows rarely dipping below 34°F. The area receives about 28 inches of rain annually and enjoys sunny days nearly half the year, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
44°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
58°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
72°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
28 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
41%
Neighbors
Residents of Orcas enjoy a median household income of $67,000 and a strong sense of community, with most neighbors highly educated—over 40% hold bachelor’s degrees or higher. Commutes are short at just 18.5 minutes on average, and the poverty rate remains relatively low at 8.1%.
Median Income:
$46,500
Household Income:
$67,000
Family Income:
$88,500
Per Capita Income:
$40,000
Income Male:
$44,000
Income Female:
$38,000
Poverty Rate:
8.1%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$1,650
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
18.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.5%
Bachelors or More:
41.0%
Education
How are the schools in Orcas, WA?
Orcas offers quality education with small class sizes, as seen in its public schools, and is supported by private institutions and nearby college options. The community places a strong emphasis on educational attainment, contributing to an engaged and knowledgeable population.
Public Schools
Name:
Orcas Island Elementary School
Street:
557 School Rd
Phone:
360-376-2286
Students:
170
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Orcas Island Middle/High School
Street:
557 School Rd
Phone:
360-376-2286
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.2
Private Schools
Name:
Orcas Christian School
Street:
107 Enchanted Forest Rd
Phone:
360-376-6683
Students:
60
Colleges
Name:
Skagit Valley College – San Juan Center
City:
Friday Harbor
State:
WA
Distance:
9 miles (by ferry)
Students:
500
Healthcare
Healthcare on Orcas is well-supported with local clinics and nearby hospital facilities, and residents benefit from a high insurance coverage rate of 91.8%. The island offers a good ratio of physicians per capita, providing accessible and quality care for most needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Orcas Island Medical Center
Address:
7 Deye Ln, Eastsound, WA 98245
Phone:
(360) 293-3101
Type:
Primary & Urgent Care
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center
Address:
1117 Spring St, Friday Harbor, WA 98250
Phone:
(360) 378-2141
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Orcas, WA?
Orcas' housing market is characterized by high demand, with a median home price of $695,000 and owner-occupancy rates nearing 78%. Homes appreciate steadily and rental options, while limited, are available with moderate vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$695,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,650
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Washington State Department of Licensing, accessible online or in neighboring areas. The process is streamlined for both new arrivals and long-time locals, ensuring convenient access to essential services.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
123 4th Ave, Olympia, WA 98501
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.