Best Places to Retire in Washington: Top Cities, Lifestyle, Healthcare & Affordability (2025 Guide)

Retiring in Washington offers a lifestyle that’s hard to match—fresh air, evergreen forests, walkable waterfronts, vibrant small towns, and healthcare access that supports aging well. Whether you're looking for a peaceful laid-back community, an active outdoor lifestyle, or a town with strong medical services close by, Washington gives you options that fit a wide range of needs.

After helping hundreds of families downsize, relocate, or transition into retirement-friendly homes, I’ve learned that retiring in Washington isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people want walkability and culture, others want quiet land, and many want to be closer to family or good medical care.

This guide breaks down the best places to retire in Washington, along with what life actually feels like in each community.

1. What Makes a Washington City “Retirement-Friendly”?

When I help seniors and families choose the right place to retire, we look beyond simple rankings.
We look at lifestyle:

Location Factors That Matter Most

• Walkability

• Access to healthcare and specialists

• Affordability

• Proximity to family

• Outdoor recreation

• Safety and community feel

• Low-maintenance housing options

• Weather and terrain

• Access to daily conveniences

Many of these factors overlap with the living guides you’ve already published, which will be linked throughout this article.

2. Gig Harbor — One of Washington’s Most Popular Retirement Cities

Gig Harbor is consistently ranked as one of the best places to retire, and for good reason.

Why retirees love it:

• Peaceful waterfront lifestyle

• Strong medical presence (St. Anthony Hospital)

• A walkable downtown

• Scenic views and marinas

• Community events and local shops

• Safe, well-maintained neighborhoods

Explore Gig Harbor in depth:
Living in Gig Harbor, WA: Neighborhoods, Schools, Waterfront Lifestyle & Real Estate (2025 Guide)

Gig Harbor tends to be pricier, but for retirees who value scenery, peace, and access to healthcare, it remains one of the top choices.

3. Olympia — Culture, Walkability & Strong Healthcare Access

Olympia offers a lifestyle that balances arts, nature, and convenience.

Why Olympia works well for retirees:

• Access to hospitals and specialists

• Walkable pockets (downtown, South Capitol, Westside)

• Beautiful waterfront walking paths

• Farmers markets and community events

• Excellent outdoor recreation

Full community breakdown:
Living in Olympia, WA (2025 Guide)
 

Olympia is great for retirees who want a slower pace with plenty to do.

4. Lacey — Affordable, Quiet & Close to Parks and Lakes

Lacey draws many retirees because it offers a peaceful, suburban environment with excellent access to nature.

Why retirees choose Lacey:

• Affordable compared to Pierce County

• Single-level and low-maintenance homes

• Trails, lakes, and golf

• North Thurston’s stability and clean communities

• Close to medical services in Olympia

Learn more here:
Living in Lacey, WA: Neighborhoods, Schools, Commutes & Lifestyle (2025 Guide)
 

Lacey is especially popular with retirees who want a quiet, predictable place to live.

5. Steilacoom — Waterfront Views & Historic Small-Town Charm

Steilacoom is one of the most peaceful, scenic places to retire in Pierce County.

Why retirees love Steilacoom:

• Walkable waterfront and beach access

• Beautiful views of the Olympics and Sound

• Quiet streets and friendly neighbors

• Small-town community feel

• Close to Lakewood and DuPont for services

For a closer look:
Living in Steilacoom, WA: Waterfront Views, Historic Charm & Lifestyle (2025 Guide)

Steilacoom offers peace and beauty in a way few other South Sound cities can.

6. Tumwater — Peaceful Living With Easy Access to Healthcare

Tumwater is ideal for retirees wanting a safe, slower-paced lifestyle without sacrificing convenience.

Why retirees like Tumwater:

• Close to Providence and Capital Medical Center

• Quiet neighborhoods

• Beautiful parks and walking loops

• Affordable compared to Olympia

• Easy access to shopping and essentials

See the full breakdown:
Living in Tumwater, WA (2025 Guide)
 

7. Yelm — For Retirees Wanting Space & Small-Town Peace

Yelm offers affordability, community, and space—a strong fit for retirees who want a quiet pace.

Why retirees choose Yelm:

• Affordable homes and newer construction

• Quiet, small-town feel

• Access to Mt. Rainier views and outdoor recreation

• Peaceful rural pockets with privacy

• Easy drive to Lacey and JBLM

Guide:
Living in Yelm, WA (2025 Guide)
 

8. Dupont — Flat Walkability & Easy Access to Amenities

DuPont is one of the easiest places in the South Sound to walk, bike, or enjoy daily outdoor living.

Why retirees like DuPont:

• Master-planned walkability

• Flat terrain for easy walking

• Community parks and trails

• Quick access to groceries and basics

• Safe, clean neighborhoods

Full guide:
Living in Dupont, WA (2025 Guide)

9. Fox Island — Quiet, Scenic & Ideal for Peaceful Living

Fox Island offers a calm, retreat-like lifestyle.

Why retirees love Fox Island:

• Quiet island feel

• Stunning water views

• Space and privacy

• Access to Gig Harbor’s amenities

• Strong community

Learn more:
Living in Fox Island, WA (2025 Guide)
 

10. Best for Affordability: South Hill, Spanaway & Graham

Not everyone wants a waterfront or downtown-adjacent retirement. Some retirees want a simple, affordable home where they can enjoy their hobbies and stay close to nature.

Why retirees choose these areas:

• Lower home prices

• Access to shopping and healthcare in Puyallup

• Newer construction options

• Trails and open space nearby

Helpful guides:
Living in South Hill, WA (2025 Guide)
Living in Spanaway & Graham, WA (2025 Guide)
 

11. How to Choose the Right Retirement City in Washington

When I help retirees choose a city, we narrow their priorities:

1. Do you want walkability or peace and privacy?

Steilacoom vs Yelm are two very different lifestyles.

2. Do you need access to major healthcare centers?

Olympia, Tacoma, Gig Harbor, and Lakewood are top choices.

3. Do you want low-maintenance living or space for hobbies?

DuPont vs rural Yelm offer different lifestyles.

4. Do you want water, forest, or suburban convenience?

Fox Island vs Lacey vs Tumwater each offer something unique.

If you're downsizing during this transition, this guide may help:
How to Avoid Stress When Downsizing in Washington
 

12. My Honest Take: Is Washington a Good Place to Retire?

Absolutely — if you choose a city that matches your lifestyle. Washington offers:

• Four-season beauty

• Strong healthcare access

• Walkable pockets

• Quiet waterfront towns

• Affordable small-town living

• Endless outdoor recreation

Whether you're drawn to the water, the trees, or simply want to be close to family, Washington has communities that support aging gracefully and comfortably.

If you're considering retiring in Washington, I’d love to help you compare cities, weigh lifestyle factors, and find a home that supports your next chapter. Reach out anytime—I'm here to make the transition simple and confident.

 Written by: Lani Fisher — Washington Realtor Helping Everyday Buyers & Sellers With Confidence