Welcome to Everett, WA
Nestled on the shores of Puget Sound just 25 miles north of Seattle, Everett offers the perfect blend of waterfront living, aerospace innovation, and Pacific Northwest charm. This thriving port city has transformed from its industrial roots into a vibrant community where Boeing’s massive factory shares the skyline with snow-capped mountains, and where residents enjoy both urban amenities and easy access to outdoor adventures.
📍 Everett, WA at a Glance
- Population: 113,475
- Location: 25 miles north of Seattle on Puget Sound, Snohomish County seat
- Incorporated: 1893
- Known For: Boeing’s largest assembly plant, deep-water port, Historic Everett Theatre
🔗 Dive Deeper into Everett
💸 Cost & Budget
🏘️ Housing & Lifestyle
🚍 Utilities & Transportation
🏙️ City Comparisons
🔍 In-Depth Relocation Overview
🗳️ Politics & Civic Life
Everett leans moderately progressive, reflecting its diverse workforce and union heritage. The city council operates under a mayor-council government system, with active neighborhood associations and strong civic engagement. Local politics often focus on housing affordability, transportation infrastructure, and balancing economic growth with livability.
🚓 Crime & Safety
Everett’s crime rates are slightly above the national average but have been trending downward in recent years. The Everett Police Department maintains a strong community presence with neighborhood resource officers. North Everett and the waterfront areas are generally considered the safest neighborhoods, while downtown has seen significant safety improvements through revitalization efforts.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
The culinary scene ranges from fresh seafood at Anthony’s HomePort to authentic Mexican at Mazatlan. Scuttlebutt Brewing Company anchors the waterfront dining district, while downtown features gems like Bluewater Distilling and AFK Tavern. The Historic Everett Theatre hosts concerts and shows, complemented by the Schack Art Center and Imagine Children’s Museum for family entertainment.
🏛️ Local Government
Everett operates under a strong mayor system with a seven-member city council. City services are well-regarded, with responsive departments and regular community forums. The city maintains its own utilities, including power and water services, often resulting in competitive rates for residents.
🚍 Transportation
Everett Station serves as a major transit hub with Sounder commuter rail to Seattle, Amtrak service, and extensive bus connections through Everett Transit and Community Transit. Interstate 5 runs through the city, though rush hour congestion is common. The city is investing in improved bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure, particularly in the downtown core.
🏘️ Housing & Real Estate
The median home price hovers around $650,000, making Everett more affordable than Seattle while still offering urban amenities. Popular neighborhoods include Silver Lake for families, historic Rucker Hill for character homes, and the developing waterfront district for modern condos. The rental market is competitive but offers more options than many neighboring cities.
🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life
With over 40 parks, Everett provides ample green space. Forest Park spans 197 acres with trails and an animal farm, while Grand Avenue Park offers waterfront access. The Interurban Trail connects to regional trail systems. Jetty Island, accessible by free ferry in summer, provides a unique beach experience. The nearby Cascade Mountains offer world-class hiking and skiing within an hour’s drive.
💼 Job Market
Boeing remains the largest employer with over 30,000 workers at its Everett facility. Providence Regional Medical Center, the U.S. Navy, and Everett School District are other major employers. The median household income is approximately $67,000. The port supports maritime industries, while downtown sees growth in tech startups and professional services. Unemployment typically runs slightly below state averages.
🧑🏫 Education
Everett Public Schools serves over 20,000 students with several highly-rated elementary schools and two comprehensive high schools. Private options include Archbishop Murphy High School and Everett Christian School. Everett Community College provides accessible higher education and workforce training, while proximity to University of Washington Bothell expands options for four-year degrees.
🌞 Climate & Weather
Everett enjoys a mild marine climate with average summer highs around 75°F and winter lows rarely dropping below freezing. The city receives about 35 inches of rain annually, mostly between October and May. The Olympic Mountains create a rain shadow effect, resulting in less precipitation than Seattle. Summers are particularly pleasant with long daylight hours and minimal rainfall.
💬 Community Sentiment
Residents appreciate Everett’s “big small town” feel, where you can know your neighbors while enjoying city amenities. The community takes pride in its working-class roots while embracing growth and diversity. Common complaints include traffic congestion and rising housing costs, but most residents feel the quality of life, job opportunities, and natural beauty make these trade-offs worthwhile.
✨ Why People Are Moving to Everett
People are drawn to Everett for its unbeatable combination of economic opportunity, natural beauty, and relative affordability compared to Seattle. The city offers stable employment anchored by aerospace and healthcare, waterfront living with mountain views, and a genuine community spirit that welcomes newcomers. Whether you’re starting a career at Boeing, raising a family in a safe neighborhood, or seeking an active retirement near both city and nature, Everett provides the authentic Pacific Northwest lifestyle without the Seattle price tag.