The city of Pullman is known as “the Pulse of the Palouse” and for good reason. Its topography was carved by prehistoric glacial floods, creating its incredible display of sloping hills. It’s set in a remote and rural location that hugs the eastern border of Washington, but along with residents, many students and faculty from Washington State University call this city home. In addition to its beauty, Pullman is the largest city in Whitman County and has a population of over 34,000 residents. The city’s industry includes a significant engineering presence, with Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories being its largest employer. In the coming years, Pullman hopes to improve its technology, education and overall quality of life but it faces certain challenges among its contemporaries. “We’re the largest city in the state that’s not in a major metropolitan area, so we’re like the biggest player at the kid’s table at Thanksgiving. We try to be with the big guys, even though we have different needs,” says RJ Lott, resident and Community Development Director.
Highway 195 connects Pullman to other cities like Spokane and Coeur D'Alene.
Pullman is a small town that is supported by the local university.
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Public schools and Washington State University
Pullman Public Schools serve the city, with a population of over 2,700 students. The district receives an A-rating from Niche and is also named the no. 1 school district in Whitman County. The city is also quite well-known for Washington State University (WSU), one of the oldest land-grant campuses in the West and whose Cougar football games are a beloved pastime. “We’re a friendly town and we’re open to different perspectives. The university plays a big role in that,” Lott says. “We’re also probably one of the only cities in the state that’s quiet and peaceful in the summer because where other parts of Washington get flooded with tourists, the students go home.”
Washington State University is one of the largest attractions in Pullman.
Pullman High School sits tucked away in a residential neighborhood in Pullman.
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Shopping and dining in both Pullman and Moscow, ID
Downtown Pullman has lots of restaurants, bars, breweries and specialty shops. The nightlife is quite active at places like Rico's Pub, a local restaurant that's been around since 1909 and hosts live performers and the city's longest running trivia series. Wheatland Shopping Center includes several spots to browse and Lott says that residents often make the short drive across the state border to access Moscow’s amenities as well.
Pullman has several nearby specialty shops like B&L Bicycles.
Porch Light Pizza is a local favorite place in Pullman for a slice of pizza.
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Pullman's exciting events
Because the larger Palouse region is rural, it suits the residents to celebrate its rich agricultural roots. Enter the National Lentil Festival, when Pullman celebrates every year with a 5k fun run, sports tournaments, live music and lentil chili. The Pullman Winter Farmers Market runs from January to April, and supplies the community with fresh produce, baked treats and gardening items. The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art features rotating exhibitions. There's also the Palouse Discovery Science Center, and the Chinook Village Community Center for more events throughout the year.
The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art offers a free place to view and enjoy art in Pullman.
Martin Stadium hosts WSU football games that attract lots of people to WSU.
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Pullman's parks
Each of Pullman’s parks provide a unique opportunity for recreation. Kamiak Butte County Park gives stunning views of the landscape. Bill Chipman Palouse Trail’s 7 miles connect Pullman to the nearby city of Moscow. Reaney Park has a lap pool, splash pad and playground. Kruegel Park encourages outdoor play and relaxation with its soccer and baseball fields as well as its picnic shelter. Palouse Ridge Golf Club’s offers stunning views along its 18-hole championship course.
Pullman has lots of outdoor recreation a short drive from the city.
Locals can ski in local parks when there is enough snow in the city.
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Simple homes and the city's housing goals
Homes are typically built with simple, unassuming styles, be it condos, ranch-styles or Craftsmans. The average price is $525,000 and average home values have been steadily increasing since 2020 and are currently plateauing at $450,000. It takes about 64 days for a home to sell, compared to the national average of 44 days. As for the city’s plans for housing, Lott says the number one goal at city hall is to build new units. “We’re open to any, whether that’s single-family homes, apartments, duplexes or townhomes. We’re dealing with what I like to call the three challenges outside of the scope of what we do at city hall. There’s the availability of raw land to build upon, the availability of building materials and availability of talent to assemble those materials into a home. Those aren’t items that city staff can easily rectify but we’re working on it,” Lott says.
New construction communities are becoming more prevalent in Pullman.
Craftsman Bungalows like this make up a majority of the homes in Pullman.
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Interstates and airports near Pullman
The steep hills in Pullman can make it hard to walk around the city, so cars are ultimately the best travel option for everyone. State Route 27 at N Grand and Route 270 at E Main Street overlap and wind throughout the city. The city sits about 70 miles from Interstate 90, the longest interstate highway in the United States. Pullman Transit buses provide public transportation. The city lies just near the Washington state border, right across from Moscow. Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport and Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport both provide airline connections.
Locals can use highway 195 to commute to and from Pullman.
The Pullman Moscow regional airport provides flights to and from Seattle from Pullman.
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Crime and climate trends for Pullman
According to FBI data reported by the Pullman Police Department, violent crime experienced a 22% decrease and property crime saw a10% increase. Conversely, violent crime offences are lower than the national rates while property crimes are about the same. Data from First Street suggests that Pullman is at a moderate risk for floods, wildfires and heat, as well as a severe risk for air quality.
Written By
Julia Concepcion
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Wong
Video By
Christine Tranchina
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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MLS# 289957 Beautifully built by R.E. Beasley Construction, this immaculate home is move-in ready. Offering 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, plus a dedicated office, the thoughtfully designed main level features everything you need on one floor. The spacious primary suite includes a well-appointed en-suite bath featuring radiant floor heat, spa tub and separate walk-in shower, while a separate guest or
Mid-century modern charm meets thoughtful updates in this cheerful, spacious home with exceptional flexibility. The main level offers three bedrooms and two beautifully updated bathrooms, while the walk-out/daylight lower level includes two additional bedrooms, a 3⁄4 bath, and versatile living space. Take in spectacular, unobstructed Palouse sunsets from the expansive deck. The spacious living
MLS# 287753 Welcome to 430 SW Shirley St! This 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers spacious living with a bright open floor plan. The large living room features vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, abundant natural light, and a cozy gas stove. The updated kitchen includes an eating bar and connects to the dining area, perfect for gatherings. Three bedrooms are located on the main level, including a
237 NW Timothy is a 12-plex built in 1971 featuring 11,232 sq ft with each unit having 2 beds & 1 bath, electric heat, access to on site laundry room, patios & decks, & covered parking with storage. Being offered as a package with each property is on a separate legal description. Interior photos are of a representative unit. Recent capital improvements include new flooring & appliances in many of
MLS# 290199 Some homes just feel right the moment you step inside—and this is one of them. Built in 2005, this well-cared-for two-story home offers approximately 2,250 square feet of comfortable, everyday living on a flat, fully fenced 6,600 square-foot flat lot near Kamiak Elementary and Pullman High School. It’s the kind of property where the big-ticket items have already been handled, so you
MLS# 289756 This newer 2018 singlewide home offers comfortable, single-level living in a manufactured home park, set on a larger lot that provides extra privacy and breathing room. The newer construction adds peace of mind, while the location offers a quieter feel than many typical park settings. The home features two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a thoughtfully designed layout that makes smart use
MLS# 289848 Experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in this well maintained, move-in-ready home. Featuring a popular split-bedroom floor plan, this 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence offers a layout designed for privacy and flow. The heart of the home opens up to a spacious living area, while the primary suite serves as a quiet retreat with its own generous en-suite bath. Situated on
MLS# 289736 Don't miss out on this opportunity to own your own slice of heaven mere minutes from Pullman. This 1948, 2 bedroom, 1 bath home is situated on 6 acres and features a separate garage/outbuilding. The home has an easement through the neighboring 14 acre parcel for access. Inquire with the county about the possibility to build a culvert for private, dedicated access. This home has a
MLS# 289780 This beautifully maintained mid-century home showcases true pride of ownership and is ideally located just a short walk from Jefferson School and the beloved Tot Lot Park. Inside, you'll find timeless features like gleaming hardwood floors, oversized windows, and two classic fireplaces that bring warmth and character throughout. The main level offers a welcoming foyer and an expansive
MLS# 287989 Check out this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house located on College Hill, right next to Greek row, and within walking distance to the WSU campus. This two-story home offers a fantastic opportunity for investors looking to capitalize on the steady demand for student housing in the area. With its prime location and proximity to campus, this property is perfect for parents with a student
MLS# 289414 This well-maintained manufactured home on leased land offers a functional layout with comfortable living spaces and strong long-term value. The main living area features large windows that bring in natural light and flows into a kitchen with ample cabinetry, updated countertops, a tile backsplash, and a breakfast bar for casual seating. Adjacent dining space provides room for everyday
MLS# 288039 This property offers a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to take on a project in one of Pullman’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Situated on two separate lots, this home was originally designed as a duplex, the home features a charming exterior with a two-car garage and wood floors, and sits directly across the street from McGee Park on College Hill. Inside, there are three
MLS# 287909 This charming 2-level hilltop condo is tucked away in a quiet cul-de-sac and offers comfort with convenience. The open main floor layout features a kitchen with breakfast bar, dining area, living space, and a deck where you can relax and take in amazing views and sunsets. A half bath and laundry are also on the main level. Downstairs, you’ll find two generously sized bedrooms and a
MLS# 287699 Charming 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home with plenty of character! Recently updated with plank flooring, a refreshed bathroom, split AC, new windows, and gutters. At just the right size—around 1,000 sq. ft.—this home is easy to maintain yet offers great living space. Enjoy the outdoors from the front gazebo, or take advantage of the dog run and the 20x20 shop for projects and storage. Full
Discover premium student housing in Pullman! Our spacious 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, 4-bedroom, and 5-bedroom apartments are designed for WSU Pullman students, offering convenience, comfort, and top-tier amenities. Perfect for your college lifestyle-reserve your spot today!
Tired of paying by the room? Our prices are for the ENTIRE UNIT. Our Boulder Creek complex is located less than 1 mile from the award winning WSU Student Rec center and a short walk to SEL. Apartments come with complete kitchens, including microwave, refrigerator, and dishwasher; patio or deck; spacious living and separate dining room. 3 bedroom units have master bedroom with personal master
Welcome to the premier student housing community in Pullman, tailored specifically for WSU students. Our 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, and 4-bedroom apartments offer the perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and modern amenities. Just minutes from campus and located on the WSU bus route, each apartment features private bedrooms, in-unit laundry, a dishwasher, and inclusive internet. Enjoy
The Hills, named by the students of WSU, is a brand new, ultimate student living community located only a short, private shuttle ride away from campus. The property includes one, two, three, four, five, and six bedroom houses and boasts over 10,000 square feet of customized amenity space developed specifically with the WSU student in mind.At The Hills on Grand we understand that a
Conveniently located within a 5 minute walk to campus and greek row, with quick access to Starbucks, Taco Bell and Rosauers. Property is well maintained and includes reserved off-street parking for each of your vehicles.Offered by Highland Property Management. Please visit our website for more information or to apply.
Cougar Crest is located on the beautiful hills of Pullman, Washington and we are proud to be serving you.We offer spacious 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom units with various amenities. Our complex rests on the crest of a hill which overlooks most of Pullman and hosts an array of beautiful sunsets. All our units are a spacious 1, 260sq feet with larger bedrooms than comparable apartments in town. All
Everything youre looking for in Pullman, Northwood Manor has to offer! The affordable home you've been searching for in a quiet area northwest of downtown Pullman, Washington, just minutes from Washington State University. With a wide range of pet-friendly two, three, and four bedroom apartments to choose from, you can spread out in total comfort. Bring your roomies, your pets, and all your gear
Brand-New Student Living, just opened in August 2023! Two additional apartment buildings completed in January 2024 at #WSU Pullman! Located in the heart of campus, just steps away from class. Now Leasing - Hurry, remaining accommodations are LIMITED!
Settle into everyday comfort and convenience with the thoughtful amenities provided by Outlook Apartments. In your spacious two or three-bedroom apartments, enjoy an in-home washer and dryer, plus a fully equipped kitchen including a dishwasher. Step outside and make use of the ample parking and on-site playground. Pet owners will love being right next to the Grand Avenue Greenway
CALLNOW AND GET A FULL MONTH FREE AND $200 OFF PER MONTH on select units!!The Residence at Whispering Hills is a beautiful apartment home rental community in Pullman, WA offering spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartment homes. All homes offer fully equipped kitchens, full size in unit washer/dryer, central heat & air conditioning and FREE garages. Pet friendly units with
The community at Latah Apartments is situated across Washington State University and centrally located near grocery stores, restaurants, and more. Approximately 736 sf. in size, the 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom units are being upgraded in between renters with stainless steel appliances, hard surface flooring, fresh paint, new cabinets, and hardware. Enjoy either of the two coin-operated laundry
This is a well maintained, vintage craftsman building very close to the Washington State University campus. The building has 2 three-bedroom units and 2 one-bedroom units. There is a one-bedroom cottage in the rear.
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