Cost of Living
The cost of living in Spokane is 3% higher than the national average, making it one of the most affordable cities in Washington. In fact, nearby Seattle is 53% more expensive than Spokane! For those moving to the state of Washington, Spokane’s affordability makes it a fantastic option for those looking to purchase a home. With a median home price of $527,000, homes may not be cheap, but they are within reach compared to the staggering home prices in Seattle.
Job Market
Spokane has a diverse economy and a strong job market that includes jobs in a variety of industries. The main driving force of the economy lies in manufacturing, though other popular industries include retail, education, research, and aerospace. The diverse job market attracts young professionals who will have access to plenty of job opportunities. Some of the biggest employers in Spokane are Fairchild Air Force Base, Gonzaga University, Clearwater Paper, CPM Inland, Ecova, and Frontier Behavioral Health.
Excellent Education
Spokane is an excellent location for those moving with school-aged children, thanks to its high-performing public schools. As part of the Spokane School District, most schools in Spokane County are among the top 30% of schools in the state. There are also plenty of opportunities for higher education for those wanting to further their education. Some of the top colleges and universities in the area include Gonzaga University, Whitworth University, Spokane Community College, and Spokane Falls Community College.
Outdoor Activities
Spokane is a desirable location for outdoor lovers thanks to the numerous recreational activities available year-round. The warm summers are filled with visits to the lake as well as hiking in Riverside State Park, while the winters are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The Pacific Northwest is a beautiful area and offers easy access to nature.
Family Friendly Community
Spokane is a fantastic place for families to live, thanks to the abundance of family-friendly activities. The city is full of parks, museums, cultural activities, and a downtown that is suitable for all ages. Some of the top attractions for families include CatTales Wildlife Center, Historic Flight Foundation Museum, Mobius Discovery Center, Mica Moon Zip Tours and Aerial Park, and Riverfront Park. With so much to do, it’s no wonder that Spokane is ranked as one of the best places to raise a family in Washington.
Best Neighborhoods in Spokane
When you move to a new city, choosing the right neighborhood to live in is one of the most challenging decisions. There are many great neighborhoods to choose from in Spokane, and each offers its own unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Spokane:
Manito-Cannon Hill: This is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Spokane, boasting beautiful estate homes. Though the homes are more expensive than any others, it is an excellent option if you can afford it. The neighborhood features two main parks, Manito Park and Gaiser Conservatory, which provide walking paths, gardens, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Homes in this neighborhood are a mix of styles, including craftsman bungalows, Victorian, and 50s ramblers.
Cliff-Cannon: Many would say that Cliff-Cannon is the most impressive neighborhood in Spokane because it offers something for everyone. Featuring beautiful old homes, three schools, four hospitals, and plenty of shopping and dining, it has loads of amenities. It is also home to the Spokane Farmers Market, which is held every Saturday from May through October.
Browne’s Addition: This historic neighborhood is the oldest in Spokane and boasts gorgeous historic homes, apartments, museums, shops, and restaurants. It has been named among the top 10 neighborhoods in the U.S. by the American Planning Association.
Ready to Move to Spokane? Allied Van Lines Can Help
Spokane has everything you want in a city, from a vibrant downtown to an abundance of outdoor activities while also maintaining the comforts and conveniences of a small town. The strong economy and booming housing market also make Spokane an attractive place to live. If you are ready to make the move to Spokane, let the professionals at Allied Van Lines help with your relocation. As a leader in the moving industry for more than 95 years, Allied has the knowledge and experience to make your move as efficient and hassle-free as possible. Allied offers a comprehensive list of moving services to fit any budget, so call today or start by getting a free quote using our convenient Instaquote tool.