What Should I Know Before Moving to Yakima?

Check the cost of living, housing, traffic, and public transit in Yakima. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. Be prepared for Yakima climate and weather.

How Much Do Movers Charge in Yakima?

Moving within Yakima usually costs between $300 and $1,500. Moving long distances can cost anywhere from $2,000 to more than $5,000. The price may go up if you need extra services like packing or storage. Fill out Movers.com quote form to compare the quotes easily.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Move to Yakima?

While moves happen year-round, spring and fall are often more comfortable in Yakima. Booking outside of peak summer or winter seasons can save money and make scheduling easier.

Do Moving Companies in Yakima Offer Packing and Unpacking Services?

Yes! Majority of moving companies in Yakima offer full service moving, which means they will help you pack, unpack, and arrange your belongings.

When You Move from Yakima, How Far in Advance Should I Schedule My Move?

You should plan your move from Yakima at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during the busy season (summer). You can get better availability, prices, and flexibility with your moving date if you book early. If you book at the last minute, you may have fewer choices or pay more.

Moving to Yakima, WA | Find Trusted Movers & Services

Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Yakima, WA

Thinking of moving to Yakima, WA? Home to about 97,220 residents, Yakima offers affordable living with median home prices around $289,000 and average rents near $1,180. Commutes are short—about 20 minutes on average—and the city enjoys over 70% sunny days each year. While property crime rates are higher than average, Yakima features a vibrant, diverse community with lower housing costs, access to local colleges, and convenient healthcare facilities.

Demographics - Yakima, WA

Yakima is home to about 97,220 residents, featuring a youthful median age of 33.1 and a diverse population where over half identify with ethnic groups other than White. The city has a high percentage of non-English speakers at 32.5%, contributing to its multicultural atmosphere and community life.

Population:

97,220

Density:

3,300 per sq mi

Median Age:

33.1

Gender Ratio:

98 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

32.5%

Ethnic Composition

White:

41.5%

Black:

1.7%

Asian:

1.5%

Others:

55.3%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Yakima, WA?

Yakima offers a cost of living below the national average, with a median home value of $289,000 and average rents around $1,180. Utilities and transportation costs are moderate, and Washington state's lack of income tax further enhances affordability for residents.

Median House Value:

$289,000

Gross Rent:

$1,180

Monthly Electricity Charges:

$110

Auto Insurance:

$1,150

House Owner Cost With Mortgage:

$1,470

House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:

$420

State Taxes:

Low:

High:

Cost Of Living Index:

96.2

Grocery:

98.5

Housing:

85.0

Utilities:

96.0

Transportation:

99.5

Health Care:

104.3

Miscellaneous:

95.0

Crime

Is Yakima, WA a safe place to live?

Crime rates in Yakima are higher than national averages, with property crimes occurring more frequently than violent offenses. Residents have about a 1 in 30 chance of experiencing property crime, so it's important to consider neighborhood safety when relocating.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

430

Property Crimes Per 100k:

3,320

Crime Index:

3,750

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 233

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 30

Weather

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

Yakima experiences four distinct seasons, with warm, dry summers reaching up to 89°F and mild winters that rarely dip below 23°F. The city enjoys a sunny climate with 71% sunny days annually and receives just over 8 inches of rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Winter

Min:

23°F

Max:

39°F

Spring

Min:

38°F

Max:

66°F

Summer

Min:

57°F

Max:

89°F

Fall

Min:

39°F

Max:

67°F

Average Rainfall Inches:

8.3 inches

Sunny Days Percentage:

71%

Neighbors

Yakima's community is characterized by a median household income of $53,100 and a poverty rate near 20%. Most residents commute about 20 minutes to work and public transportation use is low, reflecting the city's car-friendly infrastructure.

Median Income:

$33,400

Household Income:

$53,100

Family Income:

$59,800

Per Capita Income:

$24,900

Income Male:

$35,400

Income Female:

$29,100

Poverty Rate:

19.8%

Non English Speakers:

32.5%

Rent:

$1,180

Unemployment Rate:

5.7%

Public Transport Usage:

0.5%

Commute Time:

20.2 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

77.6%

Bachelors or More:

15.2%

Education

How are the schools in Yakima, WA?

Yakima offers diverse educational options, including public schools like A.C. Davis High School and Franklin Middle School, as well as private and higher education institutions such as Yakima Valley College. The area supports robust student programs and community college access, making it suitable for families and learners of all ages.

Public Schools

Name:

A.C. Davis High School

Street:

212 S 6th Ave

Phone:

509-573-2500

Students:

2,400

Student Teacher Ratio:

21.5

Name:

Franklin Middle School

Street:

410 S 19th Ave

Phone:

509-573-2100

Students:

900

Student Teacher Ratio:

18.0

Private Schools

Name:

St. Paul Cathedral School

Street:

1214 W Chestnut Ave

Phone:

509-575-5604

Students:

350

Colleges

Name:

Yakima Valley College

City:

Yakima

State:

Distance:

0 miles

Students:

3,500

Name:

Heritage University

City:

Toppenish

State:

Distance:

21 miles

Students:

900

Healthcare

Residents have access to several major hospitals, including MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospital, and a strong presence of healthcare professionals at 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people. Nearly 90% of the population has health insurance, ensuring reliable healthcare coverage.

Major Hospitals

Name:

MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospital

Address:

2811 Tieton Dr, Yakima, WA 98902

Phone:

(509) 575-8000

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Name:

Virginia Mason Memorial Hospital

Address:

2811 Tieton Dr, Yakima, WA 98902

Phone:

(509) 575-8000

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Physicians Per 1000:

1.7

Health Insurance Coverage:

89.8%

Health Care Index:

68.2

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Yakima, WA?

The housing market in Yakima remains accessible, with a median home price of $289,000 and an owner-occupancy rate just over 52%. Rents for a two-bedroom average $1,180, and the local market has seen steady appreciation in recent years.

Median Home Price:

$289,000

Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:

$1,180

Owner Occupied Rate:

52.2%

Rental Vacancy Rate:

7.1%

Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):

5.5%

New Construction Rate:

1.2%

Foreclosure Rate:

0.6%

DMV Information

Vehicle and driver licensing services in Yakima are provided by the Washington State Department of Licensing, located on W Yakima Ave. Residents can access DMV resources and appointments easily both in-person and online.

State:

Washington

Department:

Washington State Department of Licensing

Address:

1003 W Yakima Ave, Yakima, WA 98902

Phone:

(360) 902-3900

Website:

https://www.dol.wa.gov

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.