Moving to Washington: A Relocation Guide

Published Aug 14, 2026 · Relocation · Red Rock Daily staff

Thinking about moving to Washington? Here's a practical starting point for newcomers.

Key facts

• Capital: Olympia
• Largest city: Seattle
• Population: 7,705,281 (2020 census)
• Nickname: The Evergreen State
• Region: Northwest

What should you consider before moving to Washington?

• Where to live: Major cities include Seattle and the state capital Olympia. See our Washington state guide and city guides for details.
• Cost of living: Compare housing, utilities and taxes carefully — costs vary significantly across the state.
• Lifestyle: Washington's northwest location shapes daily life, from climate to recreation. Explore the top things to do to get a feel for the state.
• Jobs & schools: Research local employers and school districts in your target city before committing.

City guides: Olympia, Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Bellevue.

Frequently asked questions

What are the largest cities in Washington?

The largest city in Washington is Seattle, and the capital is Olympia. See the city guides for local detail.

What is the population of Washington?

The 2020 census population of Washington is 7,705,281 (2020 census).

What should I research before moving to Washington?

Compare housing, utilities, taxes, jobs and school districts in your target city. The moving guide above and the Washington state guide are a good starting point — verify current costs with local sources.

Next steps

This guide is a starting point — Red Rock Daily is building detailed, city-level relocation coverage across the country. For now, combine this overview with the Washington state guide and local city pages.