Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wenatchee, WA
Considering a move to Wenatchee, WA? With a population of about 35,000, Wenatchee offers affordable living, with median home prices around $405,000 and average rents at $1,350. Commutes are short—just 16.5 minutes on average—and the area boasts a sunny, dry climate with 56% sunny days and mild winters. While the violent crime rate is moderate at 222 per 100k, the city features strong healthcare access and a family-friendly environment with diverse schools and outdoor recreation nearby. Wenatchee’s blend of affordability, convenience, and natural beauty makes it a smart choice for new residents.
Demographics - Wenatchee, WA
Demographics - Wenatchee, WA
Wenatchee is home to about 35,400 residents, with a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 36.8 years. The city is notably diverse, with nearly one-third of its population identifying as Hispanic or Latino and a quarter speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density and multicultural community contribute to a welcoming and vibrant local atmosphere.
Population:
35,405
Density:
3,050 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.8
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
25.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
61.8%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
1.7%
Others:
3.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wenatchee, WA?
Living in Wenatchee is moderately priced, with a cost of living index slightly above the national average and a median home value of $405,000. Renters can expect average monthly rents around $1,350, while utilities and transportation costs remain reasonable for the region. Residents benefit from Washington’s no state income tax, helping stretch budgets further.
Median House Value:
$405,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,270
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$600
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
106.5
Grocery:
104.0
Housing:
110.2
Utilities:
96.0
Transportation:
102.0
Health Care:
108.0
Miscellaneous:
101.0
Crime
Is Wenatchee, WA a safe place to live?
Wenatchee experiences a moderate crime rate, with violent crimes occurring at a rate of 222 per 100,000 residents and property crimes at 2,070 per 100,000. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 451, making it relatively safe compared to larger urban centers. Residents generally find the community secure, with property crime more common than violent incidents.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
222
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,070
Crime Index:
2,292
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 451
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Wenatchee, WA year-round?
Wenatchee boasts a sunny, semi-arid climate, enjoying 56% sunny days annually and just over 9 inches of rainfall each year. Summers are warm, with highs reaching 90°F, while winters remain mild with lows around 23°F. This pleasant weather supports year-round outdoor activities and a comfortable lifestyle.

Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
36°F

Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
64°F

Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
90°F

Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
9.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Wenatchee’s neighborhoods feature a median household income of $62,000 and a family income of $76,400, with a moderate poverty rate at 13.2%. Most residents enjoy short commutes averaging 16.5 minutes, and about one-quarter are non-English speakers, reflecting the area’s cultural diversity. Educational attainment is solid, with over 85% holding a high school diploma and more than one in five having a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Median Income:
$38,900
Household Income:
$62,000
Family Income:
$76,400
Per Capita Income:
$30,700
Income Male:
$37,900
Income Female:
$30,200
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
25.0%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.5%
Commute Time:
16.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
85.7%
Bachelors or More:
22.3%
Education
How are the schools in Wenatchee, WA?
Wenatchee offers a range of educational opportunities, with public schools like Wenatchee High School and Pioneer Middle School serving local families, and private schools such as St. Joseph Catholic School providing alternative options. The city is also home to Wenatchee Valley College, supporting higher education for over 3,000 students. Families appreciate the strong school community and access to quality education across all levels.

Public Schools
Name:
Wenatchee High School
Street:
1101 Millerdale Ave
Phone:
509-663-8117
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.5
Name:
Pioneer Middle School
Street:
1620 Russell St
Phone:
509-663-7131
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2

Private Schools
Name:
St. Joseph Catholic School
Street:
600 St Joseph Pl
Phone:
509-662-4569
Students:
210

Colleges
Name:
Wenatchee Valley College
City:
Wenatchee
State:
WA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,200
Healthcare
Wenatchee offers strong healthcare access with major facilities like Confluence Health Central Washington Hospital and Wenatchee Valley Hospital & Clinics providing comprehensive services. The city has 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high insurance coverage rate at 91%, ensuring most residents can access medical care when needed. Healthcare resources are well-rated, contributing to a healthy community environment.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Confluence Health Central Washington Hospital
Address:
1201 S Miller St, Wenatchee, WA 98801
Phone:
(509) 662-1511
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Wenatchee Valley Hospital & Clinics
Address:
820 N Chelan Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801
Phone:
(509) 663-8711
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
79.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wenatchee, WA?
Wenatchee’s housing market is stable, with a median home price of $405,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 55%. Rental options are available, with average 2-bedroom rents at $1,350 and a low vacancy rate of 4.8%. The area has seen recent home value appreciation, making it appealing for both buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$405,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
55.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Wenatchee residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Washington State Department of Licensing, with the nearest main office located in Kennewick. The department provides comprehensive DMV services both in-person and online to support driver and vehicle needs. For convenience, most services and information are accessible via the official state website.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
4310 W 24th Ave, Kennewick, WA 99338
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.