Thurston County, WA


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Thurston County, WA

About Thurston County, WA

Thurston County is situated in southwestern Washington State along Puget Sound. Home to around 260,000 residents spread across 809 square miles of land and water, it's one of the most populous counties in Washington. Its largest cities include Olympia (the state capital), Lacey and Tumwater. The area has a rich history dating back thousands of years and offers abundant outdoor recreation options including camping at several state parks, hunting upland game in Chehalis Valley Wildlife Area and more recently developed trails that offer everything from hiking to mountain biking. Capital city - West-central Washington at the south end of Puget Sound.

Location Details

State: Washington
County: Thurston County
Metro Area: Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater
City: Olympia, Lacey, 12 total
Zip Codes: 98501, 98503, 98513, 98502, 98512, 98516, 98597, 98506, 98579, 98589, 14 total
Cost of Living: 12.1% higher
Time zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST)
Elevation: - ft above sea level
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Dig Deeper on thurston

The Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater metro area in Washington State is a place with a long history and beautiful natural surroundings. This region, which includes the state's capital, Olympia, has been shaped by its geography, being near the Puget Sound and surrounded by forests, hills, and the Olympic Mountains. This setting provides a stunning backdrop and numerous outdoor activities for its residents.

Historically, this area has been home to indigenous tribes before European settlement. Olympia's role as the state capital has significantly influenced the region's development and economy. The local economy benefits from a mix of government, healthcare, education, and technology sectors. Government jobs, in particular, due to Olympia's status, stabilize the region's economy. There's also a growing presence in the healthcare and tech industries, providing a range of employment opportunities.

When it comes to politics, the Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater area tends to support progressive and environmentally conscious policies. This reflects in the community's active engagement in sustainability and social justice issues. Residents value the natural environment highly and are involved in efforts to preserve it.

The area offers a wealth of activities, especially for those who love the outdoors. With its proximity to both the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, residents can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. The region also boasts a strong arts and culture scene, with museums, galleries, theaters, and events that cater to a wide range of interests.

Living in the Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater metro area means experiencing a blend of city conveniences and access to nature. The climate is mild, with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers, ideal for enjoying the outdoors year-round. New residents should be prepared for the rainy weather typical of the Pacific Northwest. Embracing the outdoor lifestyle and the community's commitment to environmental stewardship will help newcomers feel at home.

New residents should also be aware of the area's focus on sustainability. Recycling, composting, and supporting local businesses are common practices here. Participating in community events and initiatives is a great way to integrate into the local culture. Additionally, the cost of living can vary, with some areas being more affordable than others. The housing market can be competitive, so it's wise to research in advance.

Overall, the Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater metro area offers a peaceful and engaging living experience. It's a community that values its natural beauty, supports a healthy lifestyle, and is actively involved in shaping a sustainable future. For those moving to the area, embracing these aspects will enrich their living experience and help them become part of the community.

thurston Cost of Living
$$$$

Attractive setting, nearby national parks, and educated population make thurston a great place to live.

$495,000
+31.7% higher than avg
$81,501
+15.3% higher than avg
$1,152 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
+0.3% higher than avg
thurston Crime
43.5 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in thurston, Washington
$94,680
for a family
$50,000
for a single person
Pros & Cons of thurston
   Attractive setting
Cloudy, wet winters
   Nearby national parks
Cost of living
   Educated population
Narrow job base
Cost of Living