Living in Sequim, Washington – A Pacific Northwest Gem

Living in Sequim, Washington: The “Banana Belt” of The Olympic Peninsula

If you have heard of Sequim, WA, (pronounced “SQUIM”) it may be that it was positioned in conversation as a retirement mecca, a sunny weekend escape from Seattle, or a fun place to go and visit many of Washington State’s beautiful Lavender Farms.

These ideas are all TRUE, but don’t paint the whole picture of what the Living in Sequim lifestyle has to offer.

I have recently been spending more time in Sequim, shopping with some retirement-age home-buyers who are looking to sell their $2 Million dollar house in Shoreline, and move somewhere where they don’t have a mortgage payment.

Sequim is on their short list. So we’ve been checking it out together!

Let me share a few things I have learned about Sequim, and you can see if you think this “bedroom community” is one that you would consider living in.

Getting to Sequim – On The Edmonds Ferry

First – it’s going to take you about 2 hours to get there from Seattle, because you have to catch a ferry boat and ride it across Puget Sound. We rode out of Edmonds, WA and it was only about a 30 minute boat trip, but it’s still a hassle to get in line, pay $40 for the ride, and wait to load and unload. On the Peninsula, you’ll drive through the woods, quaint Port Gamble – a historic Mill Town that looks like something out of Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman (It’s great for weddings, but don’t rush your drive – they’re notorious for issuing speeding tickets). You’ll also pass through an Indian Reservation, which is cool, as well. A little Casino moment is always available for you there. Enjoy the ride over the scenic Hood Canal floating bridge… and you’ll get there eventually!

Sequim is a charming community on the northern coast of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. It’s known for its sunny climate, scenic views, and inviting neighborhoods.

Going to Sequim from Edmonds on the Ferry — ***Ride the Edmonds Ferry to Sequim, WA***

Why Is Sequim So Sunny?

Sequim has especially good weather for Western Washington. Seattle is known as being rainy, and Forks, WA (of the Twilight series of vampire books fame) is one of the rainiest cities in the country. In fact, the Olympic Peninsula, where Sequim is located, has it’s own RAIN FOREST – not the Brazilian kind, but a temperate rain forest filled with ferns and moss. Nearby Sequim, Washington is positioned in what is called the “rain shadow.” A lot of clouds come in off the Pacific Ocean and get hung up on the Olympic Mountains, where they hang out until they gather enough moisture to rain. So essentially those mountains screen out the rain and help keep Sequim sunnier than most places nearby. Ahh! Sweet relief for many mole-eyed Washingtonians who are used to gray skies only! (You will note if you come to Seattle in Spring that many locals are saying “Oh, it’s so bright out, I can’t see!” on partially cloudy days!)

What Will You See in Sequim?

Sequim’s location provides easy access to both Seattle and the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal balance for those seeking tranquility while staying connected to larger cities. With a population of approximately 7,800 residents, Sequim is known for its small-town charm and active lifestyle. However, there aren’t many employment opportunities, which keeps the city smaller.

Sequim Neighborhood in Seattle WA — Beautiful Sequim, WA is a Pacific Northwest Treasure

Real Estate Market in Sequim, WA

The real estate market in Sequim, WA offers diverse options to suit varying lifestyles and budgets, from cozy bungalows to larger estates on spacious lots.

While there are city lots that are close-in and an easy walk to schools, restaurants and churches in town, the surrounding area is fairly rural, and homes are not as expensive as they would be on the Seattle-side of Puget Sound. It’s easy to find a nice home with an acre or more of land, with or without a home owner’s association, for around a million dollars.

How Do Sequim’s Home Prices Compare to Seattle’s?

Take a look at this chart of Sequim’s Median Home Price for a 3-bedroom home, versus that of Seattle, WA. While home prices are bouncy (due to low transaction volume) we can tell that overall, Sequim homes are about 60% the price as Seattle properties.

With median home prices typically ranging around $600,000 (as of 2024), Sequim’s market remains affordable compared to Seattle and nearby cities where houses average closer to $900K.

This town has seen consistent appreciation over the years due to its desirable climate, appealing small town and rural feel, and continued interest from retirees and families alike. Sequim’s limited rainfall, thanks to its location in the “rain shadow” of the Olympic Mountains, is another key factor in its growing popularity.

Market trends suggest that Sequim’s demand for both single-family homes and rental properties remains stable, with appreciation rates averaging around 4-5% annually over the past decade. This steady growth makes Sequim an attractive choice for investment as well as for those seeking a permanent home base in a scenic and tranquil environment.

Community Overview – Living in Sequim, WA

Sequim offers a close-knit community with plenty of amenities to ensure a high quality of life.

Downtown Sequim is filled with boutique shops, family-owned restaurants, and galleries showcasing local art. Many tourists pass through at different times of year, and the downtown is somewhat set-up to cater to this crowd.

I recently had lunch at the Highway 101 Diner – a charming 1950’s style diner with black and white tile floors – where I enjoyed a Rubin sandwich and sadly passed on a milkshake.

The most popular lunch place in town, though, seems to be the Oak Table Cafe where I also had a delicious soup and sandwich (on a different day!). This place is HUGE inside and despite a bustling crowd, we were seated at noon without having to wait. Both places served breakfast and some mighty-fine looking waffles.

The city hosts the annual Sequim Lavender Festival, drawing visitors from around the region to enjoy local lavender farms and products. Locals may come to dread this time of year as it fills the streets with slow drivers and lookie-loos. However, for shop owners and restraunteurs it’s a boon.

Residents enjoy a range of outdoor amenities, including parks and recreation areas such as Carrie Blake Community Park, where trails, a pond, and picnic areas create the perfect space for family gatherings and community events. The nearby Olympic Discovery Trail runs along the coastline, offering stunning water views and is perfect for walking, biking, and bird-watching. Sequim’s peaceful environment combined with well-maintained public spaces makes it highly appealing to those who appreciate the outdoors.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

Sequim’s scenic location on the Olympic Peninsula makes it a gateway to numerous outdoor activities and attractions. Residents and visitors alike can explore Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine peaks. Additionally, the nearby Dungeness Spit and Wildlife Refuge offers a unique coastal hiking experience with opportunities for wildlife observation.

For water enthusiasts, Sequim Bay and the Strait of Juan de Fuca provide endless opportunities for kayaking, sailing, and fishing. The town is also a short ferry ride away from Victoria, British Columbia, offering a convenient international travel experience. Sequim’s proximity to Port Angeles and its shopping, entertainment, and dining options further expands the local lifestyle offerings.

Schools and Education in Sequim

The town of Sequim, WA is served by the Sequim School District, which includes Sequim High School, Sequim Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its supportive learning environment and well-regarded staff. Schools in Sequim score solidly on GreatSchools.org, with the community taking pride in educational excellence and a supportive network of families and educators.

For those pursuing higher education, Peninsula College in nearby Port Angeles offers a range of degree programs, vocational training, and continuing education classes, adding educational options within a short drive of Sequim. And speaking of Port Angeles, my childhood Sunday School friend, Kate Dexter is the mayor over there, so if you need me to put in a good word for you, let me know! (I feel like I know a celebrity! Her parents have gone to my church in Seattle my whole life.)

Transportation and Accessibility

Sequim’s location along US Highway 101 provides convenient access to Port Angeles and Seattle, making it relatively easy for residents to reach larger cities without sacrificing the peaceful ambiance of a smaller town. Seattle is about two hours away by car+ferry. Many residents take advantage of the ferry system from Bainbridge Island or Kingston to reach the metropolitan area. Since I live in North Seattle, I go on the Kingston Ferry. When I went with my clients last month, it cost $50 for 3 of us to go there and back in our own vehicle. It’s cheaper if you walk-on or ride a motorcycle. (If you want to pick up a ride in Edmonds, the Sounder train is right there, with two trips into Seattle every day.)

Bus public transportation options are provided by Clallam Transit, which offers regional routes and connections to nearby towns and services.

For those who commute, the Sequim area provides a comfortable drive with less congestion than metropolitan areas, making it ideal for people who work remotely or are looking to avoid city traffic.

Why Work With HomePro Associates, Led by Emily Cressey

Your Realtor, Emily Cressey leader of the HomePro Associates team, is your trusted partner in the Sequim real estate market. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home, invest, or relocate to this picturesque community, our team provides personalized guidance and extensive market knowledge to help you navigate every step of the home-buying process. With years of experience and a client-first approach, HomePro Associates ensures you make well-informed decisions in the Sequim area.