$728,308Average Value$464Average Price per Sq Ft9Homes For Sale
Port Townsend's dream deferred
Port Townsend used to be known as the City of Dreams because it once had plans to become a regional railroad connection to ports in major West Coast cities like Seattle, Tacoma and San Francisco. Although national economic crises would prevent this from coming to fruition, the Port Townsend paper mill and Fort Worden military base held the city afloat. Today, the paper mill is still one of the city’s biggest employers, along with the local government, maritime trade and countless small businesses. The stalled efforts to become a railroad hub also resulted in a building stasis, resulting in the many Victorian styles that make up much of the city's architecture.
Combined with the snow-capped Olympic Mountains and the salty waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Port Townsend is a beautiful city that's home to over 10,000 residents. “We're an artsy community. Port Townsend used to be a small place where everyone knew everyone, and even though it's gotten bigger, it's still friendly," says Kathy Johnson, a lifelong resident and library assistant at the Port Townsend Public Library. "It's also safe. Growing up, I used to take walks at three in the morning, and I feel like I could still do that here." She also speaks warmly of the natural beauty of the town. "Because we're on a peninsula, there are beaches everywhere. The mountains are also right behind us. I walk out the front door of our church right next door to the library, and you can see the Olympics on one side, the Cascades on the other and Rainier straight ahead. I’ve never found anywhere I like better, and I’ve been all over the country.”
Soaking up the great outdoors in Northwest Washington
With so much natural beauty around, Port Townsend is rich in recreation. Basketball and pickleball games are always welcome at Mountain View Commons. Kah Tai Lagoon Nature Park is great for bird watchers, thanks to the hundreds of bird species that appear around the lagoon. Chetzemoka Park includes a playground, picnic areas and a bandstand for outdoor performances. The beaches, forests and museums at Fort Worden Historical State Park make it a rec space that fulfills several different interests. Port Townsend’s Boat Haven, the only public boatyard in Washington, allows residents to drive through and take in stunning water views. For indoor exercise, the YMCA of Jefferson County offers programs for both children and adults.
Families like to visit Chetzemoka Park in Port Townsend for its picnic areas and playground.
Fort Worden Historical State Park, a main attraction in Port Townsend, sits on 433 acres.
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Port Townsend's nationally recognized dining scene
Port Townsend is known for its dining scene and has even attracted national attention. It has been named among the Top Ten Best Small-Town Food Scenes in 2022 by USA Today. It particularly noted The In Between, a speakeasy-themed bar with a small-plate menu, innovative cocktail selection and elegant wooden interior. Some restaurants are even set along the coastline, giving way to some beautiful views. The city also has many small businesses, which are responsible for its larger economic well-being. Whether it’s antiques, books, clothing, home and gardening needs or sweet treats, there is a knowledgeable local seller to find it in Port Townsend.
Loads of intriguing shops and restaurants line Water Street in downtown Port Townsend.
Stopping at coffee shops like Ground To Perfection is an everyday activity in Port Townsend.
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Attractive Pacific Northwestern homes with water views
Houses in Port Townsend skew towards a mix of condos, Craftsman and ranch-styles. Many of them are painted over in earthy and neutral tones. There are even a few properties that are done in the Victorian style, which is a nod to the buoyant style that still decorates parts of the city. Some properties even have unique additions like greenhouses and barns, while others have views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. From Kala Point , residents can easily walk or bike to Fort Townsend Historical State Park. The median price of a home is $732,500, and properties spend about 54 days on the market before they sell.
Homes with Victorian touches are found throughout Port Townsend as a nod to the city's past.
Some Port Townsend residents may choose to live in a condominium building on the water.
Homes with Victorian touches are found throughout Port Townsend as a nod to the city's past.
Some Port Townsend residents may choose to live in a condominium building on the water.
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Jefferson County Fairgrounds and the Port Townsend Library
City events demonstrate the creative pulse of Port Townsend. In September, the Port Townsend Film Festival showcases the talent of local filmmakers, even having earned the nickname "Sundance by the Sea" for it. Just outside Fort Worden Historical State Park is the Jefferson County Fairgrounds. There is also the Port Townsend Film Festival. This is the site of the annual Jefferson County Fair in August, as well as smaller events like garage sales. The City of Port Townsend Public Library offers programs that range from exploring new hobbies like fiber art crafting to helpful workshops like video game console repair.
The Port Townsend School District
The Port Townsend School District serves the city. Serving over 1,200 students, it earns a B-grade from Niche.
Students in the Port Townsend School District can attend Blue Heron Middle School.
Port Townsend High School is one of the oldest open high schools in Washington state.
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By car, bus and ferry in Port Townsend
One of the city's priorities is to make Port Townsend a more walkable and accessible city. Per its 20-year transportation plan, non-motorized transportation and pedestrian-friendly amenities are a big goal as the city continues to move forward. Public buses are available all over the city through Jefferson Transit, and the Washington State Ferry provides transport to Coupeville and back for a 36-minute ferry ride. Tacoma is 80 miles from the city, while Seattle is 111 miles away. The nearest hospital is Jefferson Medical, located right off West Sims Way.
Jefferson Transit has many bus routes for those looking to navigate Port Townsend sans car.
Port Townsend residents can take the ferry to nearby Coupeville and back throughout the day.
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Climate trends and crime data for Port Townsend
The city enjoys a mild climate, with warm, dry summers and wet, temperate winters. First Street reports that Port Townsend has a major air quality risk and moderate wildfire risk. With FBI data reported by the Port Townsend Police Department, in 2023 there was a 200% increase in violent crime and a 50% decrease in property crime.
Written By
Julia Concepcion
Photography Contributed By
Landon Gauthier
Video By
Francesco Basti
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Port Townsend, WA sell after 67 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Port Townsend, WA over the last 12 months is $710,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Calling all history buffs, DIY dreamers, remodelers & investors. If you’ve ever longed to live in a Victorian mansion, or dreamed of running a profitable Bed & Breakfast, this could be your opportunity. Imagine transforming this 4695 sq ft charmer into the home or the business of your dreams. Located on a double lot in the heart of highly coveted Uptown PT, this iconic landmark still has many of
Price Adjustment to the John Trumbull House in the desirable neighborhood of Castle Hill in Port Townsend! This beloved 1891 Victorian offers historical character yet meets all the modern comforts of a newer home. Features incl:over 2300 sq. ft,expansive ceilings, large living spaces (perfect for entertaining), floods of natural light in every room, spacious bedrooms w/en-suite primary, updated
Magical setting in North Beach, just blocks to the waterfront, Fort Worden. This peaceful mini-sanctuary is set amongst big trees, 2 ponds and gardens. The house has 3 bedrooms and 3 baths with bamboo floors throughout. Stone floors in entry and kitchen, along with other unique touches. Kitchen is open to the dining room and to a large sunny living room. Accessible walk-in tub in the downstairs
Discover the charm of Port Townsend living in this delightful cottage located at 835 J Street. Situated on a generous 9,583 sq ft lot, this cozy home offers a perfect blend of vintage character & modern potential. Built in 1923, this 1-bed, 1-bath residence features 834 sq ft of comfortable living space. Step inside to find beautiful hardwood floors, a bright & airy open layout, & a unique loft
Tucked just steps from the historic grounds of Fort Worden and the scenic waterfront of Port Townsend, this thoughtfully designed 574-sf home offers efficient, modern living with a minimalist footprint. Built with high-performance SIP (Structural Insulated Panels), the house ensures superior insulation, energy efficiency, and structural integrity-ideal for the Pacific Northwest climate. Inside,
Seize the opportunity to build your dream home on this lovely vacant lot with beautiful views of Discovery Bay, Protection Island, and the Straits. Located in the highly sought-after Cape George Colony area where you’ll enjoy access to community events at the clubhouse, owners only marina, beach, workout room, and heated inside pool year-round. This property has a waiver of the HOA’s height
4,050 sq ft comm aircraft hangar available for lease, great for aviation professionals, corporate tenants, or air charter services. 3/4 bath attached. Inside the attached 1,400 sq. ft. lobby/office/pilot's lounge you'll find an ADA accessible 1/2 BA, large rcpt, office, break room, closet w/plenty of storage. Large pilot's lounge upstairs w/balcony & commanding views of the Olympic Mtns &
West Harbor Apartments is a beautiful new living community only minutes outside of downtown Port Townsend. All units are spacious, two-bedroom apartments with two bathrooms, living room, dining room, chef’s kitchen, and full-sized laundry. With modern finishes, we are sure you will feel right at home when you walk in the door!
Prime Downtown Port Townsend – Water Street, perfectly positioned in the heart of the historic district with unbeatable visibility and constant pedestrian activity, surrounded by Victorian storefronts, galleries, cafes, and boutiques that draw both locals and tourists year-round; this compact, street-level space is ideal for boutique retail, art, or professional use, offering the charm and energy
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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