What draws retirees to the charming city of Edmonds, WA, and is it living up to the hype as a top retirement destination? With its picturesque setting on the Puget Sound, vibrant downtown, and strong sense of community, Edmonds has become a magnet for seniors seeking an engaging and fulfilling retirement lifestyle. Let’s explore the key factors that make this city so appealing and evaluate its suitability for your golden years.
On a scale of 1-100, we give Edmonds a retirement suitability score of 85. This high rating is based on the city’s excellent healthcare access, abundance of senior-friendly amenities, reasonable cost of living, and thriving social scene for older adults. While the rainy Pacific Northwest climate may not be for everyone, Edmonds offers a welcoming and supportive environment for retirees.
Healthcare Access for Seniors
One of the top priorities for retirees is access to quality healthcare. Edmonds delivers on this front with a strong network of hospitals, clinics, and specialist providers. The Swedish Edmonds Campus, part of the renowned Swedish Health System, offers a full range of medical services including a 24/7 emergency department, primary care, and specialty clinics.
For seniors on Medicare, Edmonds has a high acceptance rate among healthcare providers. The city also boasts numerous physical therapy clinics, skilled nursing facilities, and home health agencies to support older adults with varying needs. Urgent care centers like AFC Urgent Care Edmonds provide convenient walk-in medical attention for non-emergency situations.
While Edmonds itself has ample healthcare resources, seniors can also access world-class medical centers in nearby Seattle, such as the University of Washington Medical Center and Virginia Mason Hospital. With a typical drive time of 30-40 minutes, these facilities offer cutting-edge treatments and research for complex health conditions.
Senior-Friendly Amenities and Services
Edmonds offers a wealth of amenities and services tailored to the needs and interests of older adults. The Edmonds Senior Center is a hub of activity, providing fitness classes, educational workshops, social events, and nutritious lunches. Seniors can also explore their artistic side at the Frances Anderson Center, which offers pottery, painting, and dance classes.
For those who no longer drive, Edmonds has convenient transportation options. Community Transit provides bus service throughout the city, with reduced fares for seniors. The Hyde Shuttle offers door-to-door transportation for older adults, ensuring they can get to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other essential destinations.
Edmonds is also a walkable city, with a compact downtown core featuring shops, restaurants, and green spaces. The Edmonds Library offers a rich collection of books, audiobooks, and digital resources, as well as computer classes and book clubs for seniors. For lifelong learning opportunities, seniors can audit classes at nearby Edmonds College or participate in programs through the Creative Retirement Institute.
Cost of Living for Retirees
While the Seattle metro area has a reputation for high costs, Edmonds offers a more affordable alternative for retirees. According to Zillow, the median home value in Edmonds is $695,000 as of early 2023. This is lower than nearby cities like Kirkland ($985,000) and Bellevue ($1.2M). For seniors looking to downsize, Edmonds has several 55+ communities with condos and townhomes in the $400-600k range.
Property taxes in Edmonds are around 0.9% of assessed value, which is slightly lower than the King County average. Seniors may qualify for property tax exemptions or deferrals based on income and age. Utilities are relatively affordable, with Snohomish County PUD offering discounted rates for income-qualified seniors.
Washington State does not have an income tax, which can be advantageous for retirees living off investments or pensions. However, the state does have a high sales tax rate of 10.4% in Edmonds. Seniors should also budget for Medicare supplemental insurance, which can range from $100-300/month.
| Category | Modest Lifestyle | Comfortable Lifestyle |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,500 | $2,500 |
| Healthcare | $500 | $800 |
| Food | $400 | $800 |
| Transportation | $200 | $400 |
| Utilities | $200 | $350 |
| Entertainment | $200 | $500 |
| Miscellaneous | $300 | $500 |
| Total | $3,300 | $5,850 |
Estimates based on average senior spending patterns and local costs. Learn more in our guide to the Cost of Living in Edmonds, WA: What You’ll Really Spend in 2025.
Community and Social Opportunities
One of Edmonds’s greatest strengths as a retirement destination is its vibrant community life. The city has a thriving network of senior groups, volunteer organizations, and faith communities that welcome older adults. The Edmonds Waterfront Center hosts regular social events, educational programs, and wellness classes for seniors.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, Edmonds has several beautiful parks and beaches, as well as a popular senior walking group that explores local trails. The Edmonds Arts Festival, held each June, showcases local artists and offers hands-on workshops for all ages. The Edmonds Center for the Arts brings world-class performances to the city, with discounted tickets for seniors.
Edmonds is also a great place for retirees who want to stay connected with family. The city’s proximity to Seattle and Everett makes it easy for out-of-town relatives to visit, with ample lodging options and accessible transportation. Many seniors appreciate the multigenerational feel of Edmonds, with opportunities to volunteer in schools, mentor young people, or participate in community events alongside families.
Aging in Place Considerations
For retirees planning to age in place, Edmonds offers resources to make homes safer and more accessible. The Snohomish County Human Services Department provides grants for home modifications like ramps, grab bars, and wheelchair lifts. Local contractors specialize in age-friendly renovations, helping seniors adapt their living spaces as needs change.
Edmonds also has a range of in-home care services, from housekeeping and meal delivery to skilled nursing and therapy. The Snohomish County Long Term Care & Aging program offers case management, caregiver support, and respite care for seniors and their families. For those who may need more support, Edmonds has several highly rated assisted living and memory care communities.
While Edmonds is generally a walkable city, seniors should be prepared for the rainy Pacific Northwest climate. Investing in good rain gear, non-slip footwear, and bright outdoor clothing can make it easier to stay active year-round. The city is also working to improve sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian safety throughout the community.
FAQs About Retirement in Edmonds
- What’s the average cost of retirement in Edmonds? Retirees can expect to spend $3,000-6,000/month on housing, healthcare, food, transportation, and leisure, depending on lifestyle. See our detailed cost breakdown.
- How good is healthcare access for seniors? Excellent. Edmonds has a robust network of hospitals, clinics, and senior care providers, with world-class medical centers in nearby Seattle.
- Are there active senior living communities? Yes, Edmonds has several vibrant 55+ neighborhoods with amenities like clubhouses, fitness centers, and social activities.
- What are the tax implications of retiring in WA? Washington has no state income tax, which benefits many retirees. However, sales tax rates are high and property taxes are above average.
Making the Move: Is Edmonds Right for Your Retirement?
Retiring in Edmonds offers a winning combination of natural beauty, senior-friendly amenities, and community connection. With top-notch healthcare, abundant cultural offerings, and a reasonable cost of living, it’s no wonder this coastal city has become a magnet for retirees. While the rainy climate may be an adjustment for some, Edmonds’s charms make it a compelling choice.
Of course, every retiree’s needs and priorities are unique. It’s important to spend time in Edmonds, explore the different neighborhoods, and connect with locals to get a true feel for the city. Talk with a financial planner to ensure the cost of living aligns with your retirement budget and goals.
If you’re considering Edmonds for your retirement, we recommend reading our Resident Perspectives on Life in Edmonds, WA to hear directly from seniors who have made the move. With its strong sense of community, commitment to healthy aging, and stunning Pacific Northwest scenery, Edmonds may just be the retirement destination you’ve been dreaming of.