Located just east of the Cascade Range, Ellensburg is a small college town home to Central Washington University. “Everything kind of revolves around CWU here — they are the town’s biggest employer,” says Heidi Bright of Coldwell Banker, who has over 25 years of experience in the area. “It kind of feels empty at times during the summer when the students aren’t all here.” CWU has called Ellensburg home since 1891; the college currently has over 12,000 students and over 1,000 employees. Ellensburg is also known as the world’s largest producer of Timothy hay, a staple in the diet of cattle, horses and rabbits. The city is the county seat of Kittitas County and has nearly 19,000 residents.
Ellensburg is located just east of the Cascade Range.
Ellensburg is a college town as Central Washington University is located there.
1/2
Fishing in the Yakima River
Ellensburg maintains 16 public parks, but many locals utilize the natural landscape for outdoor recreation. “The Yakima River has world-class fly fishing,” Bright says. Mattoon Lake is a popular spot for bass and trout fishing as well as kayaking, and locals paddleboard and swim in the smaller Carey Lake. Howard’s Way Trail is a one-mile loop trail for hiking and mountain biking. Just east of town is the 217-acre Olmstead Place State Park, a favorite spot for picnicking, hiking and birdwatching. The Ellensburg Golf and Country Club has been a staple just west of the city since 1934. “People just love being outside here no matter what they're doing,” says Bright. “You always have kids riding their bikes or people outside their homes gardening for fun.”
The Yakima River has world-class fly fishing for sporting residents of Ellensburg.
Mattoon Lake is a popular spot for bass and trout fishing as well as kayaking, and locals paddleboard and swim in the smaller Carey Lake.
1/2
Dining in Downtown Ellensburg
Most shopping and dining in Ellensburg is in the downtown area just southwest of CWU’s campus. Sporting goods stores, boutique clothing shops and art galleries are scattered across Main Street, along with diners, Indian restaurants and pizza joints. A downtown favorite is Dick and Jane’s Spot, a private residence turned art gallery. Richard Elliott and Jane Orleman have lived at the home since graduating from CWU in the 1970s. The yard is filled with hundreds of unique pieces of art from Elliott, Orleman and over 40 other artists from the Pacific Northwest. Breweries, wine bars and coffee shops are within a few blocks of Main Street.
D&M Coffee in towntoen Ellensburg has many delicous roasts to try.
Evolve Clothing & Jewelry in downtown Ellensburg sells some beautiful artistic items to spice up your wardrobe.
1/2
Rodeo over Labor Day weekend
The largest community event is the Ellensburg Rodeo, which coincides with the Kittitas County Fair. The event takes place every Labor Day weekend and has barrel racing, a carnival and a large western parade. “It’s our favorite event, and it’s the biggest rodeo in the Pacific Northwest,” says Bright. “It’s also the final qualifying event for the bull riders who go to Vegas for the world championships.”
New builds in Ellensburg
Single-family homes in Ellensburg have a median price of $427,000. “The value is really good here,” says Bright. “It’s very affordable for what you can get, especially compared to other cities in the state.” The northern area of town has new developments with subdivisions of homes from the 2020s, while midcentury homes are more popular around campus and the downtown district. Most homes sit on quiet streets with large lots and private driveways and garages.
Most homes sit on quiet streets with large lots and private driveways and garages.
Single-family homes in Ellensburg have a median price of $427,000 which is comparitvely good to other regions.
1/2
Learning in the Ellensburg School District
Area kids attend the Ellensburg School District, which holds a B ranking on Niche. The district serves just under 4,000 students and has a 17-to-1 student-teacher ratio. Ellensburg High School is the only public high school in town and has a B rating. Juniors and seniors at Ellensburg High can also enroll at Central Washington University.
Kids in the area attend the Ellensburg School District, which holds a B ranking on Niche.
The district serves just under 4,000 students and has a 17-to-1 student-teacher ratio.
1/2
Less rain than the Washington average
Ellensburg sees an average of just under nine inches of precipitation per year, much lower than the Washington state average. “You actually get to see the sunshine here, which you don’t get everywhere in Washington,” says Bright. The town experiences mild summers with temperatures in the low 80s and chilly winters with lows in the 20s.
Ellensburg experiences mild summers with temperatures in the low 80s and chilly winters with lows in the 20s.
Ellensburg sees an average of just under nine inches of precipitation per year, much lower than the Washington state average.
1/2
Riding Ellensburg Central Transit buses
Locals can hop on Ellensburg Central Transit buses for transportation around town; the buses offer fare-free routes seven days a week. The Yakima Air Terminal is 40 miles south of town via Interstate 82 and provides daily flights to Seattle. Commuters can also drive just over 100 miles west on Interstate 90 to Seattle. According to the FBI, both violent and property crime rates in Ellensburg have stayed consistent in the past three years. Violent and property crime rates are under the state average and hover near the national average.
Written By
John Moyer
Photography Contributed By
Perry Cucinotta
Video By
Houston Knight
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Natasha Hackett,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
A brand new circular driveway welcomes you and your guests to this dreamy hobby farm set on 3.52 acres in the very quiet “Green Valley” corner of Ellensburg. Enjoy gorgeous, expansive views that have been opened up across the valley to the scenic mountain foothills looking toward West Ellensburg and the Manastash Ridge. This little slice of heaven offers a rare sense of privacy with mature trees
Spacious, beautifully maintained home in one of Ellensburg's favorite neighborhoods. Bright and welcoming living space with a fireplace -- instant cozy vibes with the flip of a switch. A formal dining room which offers access to the wrap-around deck where dinner conversations can outside for a change of scenery. On the lower level you will find a generous, second primary suite coupled with a
Move-in-ready, well cared-for 4-bed, 2.25 bath home located in the desirable Vista View neighborhood! Thoughtfully updated throughout, you will enjoy a clean and modern feel; perfect for everyday living. This 2-story, 2696 sqft home featuresa tall ceilings, open-concept living/dining/kitchen area, laminate flooring, fresh interior paint (spring/summer 2026), new carpet (summer 2026), and a 50-amp
Views, space, and flexibility come together on this scenic 25-acre parcel with multiple potential building sites to match your vision. Enjoy year-round road access provided by a road maintenance agreement, making it easy to visit in every season. Water rights for both lots have already been purchased only the well is needed; an added benefit as you plan your future home, cabin, or recreational
Discover your ultimate private retreat. Nestled away from the wind in a serene country setting in Badger Pocket. This property offers the perfect canvas for your dream home. Enjoy peaceful rural living with protection of CCR'S in place to preserve the character and value of the area. Power and utilities are readily accessable, and irrigation is available to support your vision. Three additional 3
Investors, take note of this versatile property at 304 W 6th Ave, Ellensburg. This multi-unit building is located close to the vibrant Historic Downtown and local government offices. This investment boasts a total of four units—two spacious 2-bedroom units & two efficient studio units. Many recent updates, including contemporary kitchens that add significant value and appeal for tenants. Easy
Must-see 5-acre parcel in Ellensburg Ranches with stunning southern views and unforgettable sunsets. Conveniently located with easy access to both Highway 10 and Highway 97, this property offers the perfect balance of privacy and accessibility.Bring your building plans and create your dream home nestled against the hillside, taking advantage of the beautiful surrounding landscape. Electricity is
Beautifully maintained one-story home offering 1,402 square feet, 3 bedrooms, and 2 full bathrooms in one of Ellensburg's most convenient locations. The open-concept floor plan is filled with natural light and features vaulted ceilings, a spacious living room, and an inviting kitchen with abundant cabinetry and all appliances included—including the washer and dryer. The generous primary suite
Discover your ultimate private retreat. Nestled away from the wind in a serene country setting in Badger Pocket. This property offers the perfect canvas for your dream home. Enjoy peaceful rural living with protection of CCR'S in place to preserve the character and value of the area. Power and utilities are readily accessable, and irrigation is available to support your vision. Three additional 3
SELLER/PREFERRED LENDER CREDITS UP TO 10,000 AND A 1 YEAR HOME WARRANTY. This stunning, fully refreshed 2166 sq ft home in Ellensburg's sought-after Courier Creek neighborhood is truly move-in ready. Step inside to gleaming new LVP flooring and fresh paint that floods the space with light. The open main floor shines with sleek black leathered granite countertops and a powerful mini-split system
Incredible Suncadia / Tumble Creek Alternative! Extreme Privacy. No visible neighbors. No HOA. No crowds. Visit this serene, peaceful retreat primed to get-away & unplug (although there’s Starlink if you need it). Double Zen w/ Waterfront on TWO sides! Relax in this Oasis, where the only sounds are the soothing fountain’s water-droplets falling on the spring-fed Pond, punctuated by the gurgling
A brand new circular driveway welcomes you and your guests to this dreamy hobby farm set on 3.52 acres in the very quiet “Green Valley” corner of Ellensburg. Enjoy gorgeous, expansive views that have been opened up across the valley to the scenic mountain foothills looking toward West Ellensburg and the Manastash Ridge. This little slice of heaven offers a rare sense of privacy with mature trees
There is no place like your future dream home. Discover peaceful country living on this beautiful 3-acre irrigated parcel surrounded by gorgeous farmland. Enjoy true 360-degree views and stunning mountain vistas in this quiet, private location. The perfect blank canvas for your custom dream home. Irrigated and ready for your vision: build a spacious home, large shop, grow lush gardens and enjoy
Discover your ultimate private retreat. Nestled away from the wind in a serene country setting in Badger Pocket. This property offers the perfect canvas for your dream home. Enjoy peaceful rural living with protection of CCR'S in place to preserve the character and value of the area. Power and utilities are readily accessable, and irrigation is available to support your vision. Three additional 3
Discover your ultimate private retreat. Nestled away from the wind in a serene country setting in Badger Pocket. This property offers the perfect canvas for your dream home. Enjoy peaceful rural living with protection of CCR'S in place to preserve the character and value of the area. Power and utilities are readily accessable, and irrigation is available to support your vision. Three additional 3
Now pre-leasing for 2026-2027! Move In & Save Big! Limited-Time Special Happening Now! Call or email today before it's gone!Choose from a wide range of one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartment homes for rent in Ellensburg, WA, ideal for living solo, roommates, or friends. An open-concept floor plan encompasses a fully equipped kitchen presents spacious countertops and modern
Welcome to The Verge, Ellensburg's premier student living community just minutes from Central Washington University. Our fully furnished 2 and 3 bedroom apartments include a full-size washer and dryer, dishwasher, and central heating for year-round comfort. Enjoy access to a 24-hour fitness center, resort-style pool, basketball court, private study rooms, and a computer lab. With regular resident
Welcome to Baker Apartments, Ellensburg's top choice for premier housing with a strong sense of community. Living off-campus has never been so convenient! Our modern, affordable apartments are a short walk to the Central Washington University campus and offer spacious homes that are cable and internet ready.
Apply now! Sign a lease and get $1000 OFF move in costs!Welcome to University Park and Place, we offer spacious homes that are cable and internet ready! Not only is Central Washington University being just around the corner for your convivence, but the complex also offers various amenities to use such as a gym, playground, volleyball and basketball court!
Welcome to Rainier Apartments, we offer affordable apartments that are a short walk to Central Washington University campus, various shopping choices and restaurants. Come enjoy the spacious clubhouse on property for your next gathering!
Live Close to Everything at Cascade Village Apartments206 E 15th Ave, Ellensburg, WALooking for a place that keeps life simple, convenient, and just a little too easy? Cascade Village puts you right where you want to be—close to CWU, downtown Ellensburg, restaurants, coffee shops, and all your everyday essentials.Whether you’re heading to class, grabbing a coffee, meeting
Spacious, newly renovated townhomes near Central Washington University. Located directly across the street from campus, our townhome rentals are ideal for students and roommates.
Charming 1/2/3-Bedroom Apartments in a Prime Location.Welcome to your new home! This beautifully maintained apartment offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Featuring a cozy living area, new carpet, and a cozy bedroom which is ideal for singles or couples.Enjoy natural light pouring in through your windows, and a quiet atmosphere that feels like home. Located one
Positioned directly across from the new, state-of-the-art 1,000,000 SF WinCo Distribution Center, this property offers exceptional visibility and long-term growth potential. Area infrastructure improvements are underway, including the extension of sidewalks and gutters along the street as part of the surrounding development.The North Building (Barn 4) is a pre-engineered steel frame structure
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
