Washington / County

Moving to Port Townsend, WA

Thinking of making a move to Port Townsend, WA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Port Townsend, WA

Considering a move to Port Townsend, WA? This welcoming community of 10,148 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $547,000 and average rents near $1,400. Commute times average 17 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (46% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Port Townsend's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Port Townsend, WA

Port Townsend has a population of 10,148 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 57 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 91% White, 1% Black, and 2% Asian residents, and over 6% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
10,148
Density
1,300 per sq mi
Median Age
56.7
Gender Ratio
87 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
6.3%

Ethnic Composition

White
91.2%
Black
0.5%
Asian
1.6%
Others
6.7%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Port Townsend, WA?

The cost of living in Port Townsend is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 126.5. Median home values are around $547,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,400. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$547,000
Gross Rent
$1,400
Monthly Electricity Charges
$100
Auto Insurance
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$2,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$730
State Taxes
Low: 0%| High: 9.0%
Cost Of Living Index
126.5
Grocery
114.0
Housing
154.2
Utilities
95.0
Transportation
108.0
Health Care
113.0
Miscellaneous
110.0

Crime

Is Port Townsend, WA a safe place to live?

Port Townsend is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 93 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 65. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Washington.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
93
Property Crimes Per 100k
1,530
Crime Index
1,623
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 1,075
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 65

Weather

What is the weather like in Port Townsend, WA year-round?

Port Townsend experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 70°F and cold winters dipping to 35°F. The area receives about 19 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 46% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
35°F
Max
46°F

Summer

Min
52°F
Max
70°F

Spring

Min
42°F
Max
58°F

Fall

Min
43°F
Max
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches
19.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
46%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $62,900 and a low poverty rate of 12.1%. Over 97% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 47% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 17 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$38,500
Household Income
$62,900
Family Income
$76,200
Per Capita Income
$37,400
Income Male
$41,000
Income Female
$33,500
Poverty Rate
12.1%
Non English Speakers
6.3%
Rent
$1,400
Unemployment Rate
4.7%
Public Transport Usage
1.2%
Commute Time
16.5 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
96.7%
Bachelors or More
46.8%

Education

How are the schools in Port Townsend, WA?

Port Townsend offers quality education options, with public schools like Port Townsend High School and Blue Heron Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Peninsula College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Port Townsend High School
Street
1500 Van Ness St
Phone
360-379-4520
Students
366
Student Teacher Ratio
14.9
Name
Blue Heron Middle School
Street
3939 San Juan Ave
Phone
360-379-4540
Students
320
Student Teacher Ratio
15.2

Private Schools

Name
Sunfield Waldorf School
Street
111 Sunfield Ln
Phone
360-385-3658
Students
92

Colleges

Name
Peninsula College
City
Port Angeles
State
WA
Distance
49 miles
Students
2,500

Healthcare

Port Townsend residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Jefferson Healthcare Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.3 per 1,000 people and 93.5% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Jefferson Healthcare Hospital
Address
834 Sheridan St, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Phone
(360) 385-2200
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage
93.5%
Health Care Index
77.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Port Townsend, WA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $547,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 61%. The market has seen a 3.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 4.9%. Port Townsend offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$547,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,400
Owner Occupied Rate
61.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate
4.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
3.2%
New Construction Rate
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate
0.3%

DMV Information

Residents of Port Townsend handle vehicle services through the Washington State Department of Licensing, conveniently located in Lynnwood. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Washington
Department
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address
20816 44th Ave W, Lynnwood, WA 98036
Phone
1-360-902-3900

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.

FAQs About Moving to Port Townsend, WA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Port Townsend, review the core fields on this page: population 10,148, median home value $547,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,400, commute time 16.5 minutes, and sunny days percentage 46%.

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