Elma, WA Home for Rent

Elma, WA, located 30 miles from Olympia, offers a rural, small-town atmosphere while providing access to the state capital. Known as the Gateway to Grays Harbor County, Elma has a population of approximately 3,500, supported by its enduring timber and agriculture industries. Downtown Elma features a walkable commercial district with dining options like Joey’s Crepes & More, Tacos El Huatusi, and Rusty Tractor Restaurant. Local shops include Game Freaks and OddDuck Books, while chain stores such as Grocery Outlet and Burger King have recently opened. Housing in Elma ranges from early 1900s bungalows to midcentury ranch-style homes and contemporary houses, with prices generally lower than those in nearby Thurston and Pierce counties. The town's schools, including Elma Elementary, Elma Middle, and Elma High, have high ratings. Outdoor recreation is abundant, with Vance Creek County Park offering ponds, walking paths, and a dog park, and Lloyd Murrey Park providing ballfields and a playground. Capitol State Forest, located about 10 miles southeast, is popular for hiking, mountain biking, and off-roading. Elma hosts events like the Grays Harbor County Fair and the Fall Festival. Residents benefit from the Grays Harbor Transit bus system and proximity to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, which is about 80 miles away. For those looking for things to do, Elma offers a mix of local shops, dining, and outdoor activities.