Tech and healthcare meet agriculture and recreation in central Washington
With a population of about 35,000, Wenatchee is the largest city in central Washington’s Chelan County. It’s in a remote location 150 miles from the nearest metro area, Seattle, but homebuyers are drawn to the area for its recreation, job opportunities and low cost of living. Utility bills are cheaper in Wenatchee than almost anywhere else in the U.S., thanks to the hydroelectric dams on the Columbia River; low power costs attracted tech companies like Microsoft and Amazon to the area. Wenatchee is known as the Apple Capital of the World, but local orchards also grow peaches, cherries and apricots. “We have the only two hospitals in northcentral Washington, so a lot of doctors are interested in the area, too,” says Kim Miller, managing broker at Nick McLean Real Estate Group, based in Wenatchee. This access to medical care contributed to Wenatchee’s inclusion on Forbes magazine’s list of the 25 best places to retire in 2019.
But most of all, what brings folks to Wenatchee is “for sure the recreation,” Miller says. “We have year-round four-season recreation, including boating on the river, hunting, fishing and skiing.” Despite the vacation home potential, friendly atmosphere, local events and slow-paced lifestyle, “It’s not touristy,” Miller says.
Wenatchee offers great medical care and was listed in Forbes Magazine as a top 25 best places to retire.
Wenatchee offers some of the cheapest utilities in the U.S.A. due to the hydroelectric dams along the Columbia River.
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Pros and cons of living between the Columbia River and Wenatchee Mountains
Wenatchee’s four seasons include dry, sunny summers and cold winters. The city is located where the Wenatchee and Columbia rivers meet, so tubing and rafting are popular summer pastimes. Areas along the Columbia Riverbank, like the parks and train station, are at risk for flooding, and cyclists, joggers and snowshoers can utilize the Apple Capital Recreation Loop Trail along the Columbia River. The 10-mile path passes through Wenatchee Confluence State Park on its way north to Lincoln Rock State Park. Twelve miles southwest of the city, Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort is nestled in the Wenatchee Mountains. There is an increased fire risk in the mountains, and wildfire smoke occasionally impacts air quality.
Wenatchee locals run, walk and bike the Apple Capital Recreation Loop along the Columbia River.
Wenatchee is where Columbia and Wenatchee rivers meet and offers lots of water recreation in summer.
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The Washington State Apple Blossom Festival
Wenatchee is home to the state’s oldest major festival. Every May, the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival attracts crowds for its springtime parade and food fair. For more insight into local history, the Wenatchee Valley Museum & Cultural Center has exhibits ranging from the modern-day apple industry to the area’s Ice Age inhabitants. About 23 miles away, the Bavarian-styled mountain village of Leavenworth has a reindeer farm, authentic German cuisine and various monthly festivities, making it a popular day trip destination.
Homes around $500,000
The median single-family home price is $515,000, higher than the national median. Luxury homes at the top of the market are clustered in the western part of the city, while cottages that sell under $400,000 might need repairs. Also on the market are manufactured homes and condos; homeowners with properties in Wenatchee’s rural outskirts may encounter rattlesnakes.
Wenatchee offers luxury homes along quiet residential streets in the heart of the city.
Find your next cottage near Downtown Wenatchee, close to the Columbia River.
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Shopping by the river at Pybus Public Market
Shoppers can find big box retailers and the Valley North Shopping Center off State Route 285. Restaurants serving a variety of international cuisines line Wenatchee Avenue. Pybus Public Market is an open-air market by the Columbia River selling locally made goods, gifts and food.
Wenatchee Avenue offers lots of great shops and restaurants to find great cuisine.
Come to Pybus Market in Wenatchee and find local produce and great spots to eat.
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Traveling by car, bus, train and plane
State Route 285 stretches through the city, crossing the Columbia River into East Wenatchee and the Wenatchee River to the north. Link Transit has a fleet of electric buses transporting passengers throughout the county and shuttling skiers and snowboarders to Mission Ridge. Amtrak trains and intercity buses stop at Wenatchee Station. Pangborn Memorial Airport is 5 miles away; limited routes include flights to Seattle.
Wenatchee School District features a nationally recognized mariachi program
Students may attend Wenatchee School District, rated B on Niche. The district has one high school, Wenatchee High, which offers some classes online. The high school’s mariachi program has performed at the U.S. Capitol and was featured in a public access documentary.
Wenatchee High School welcomes students each year and has a recognized Mariachi program.
Wenatchee schools are rated B on Niche and prepares students for the future.
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Wenatchee versus Washington crime levels
According to the state of Washington, property crime rates across the state and county for those between ages 18 and 39 rose from 2019 to 2022 and dropped from 2022 to 2023. Meanwhile, personal crime peaked in 2018 and fluctuated from 2018 to 2023. According to WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com, Wenatchee crime scores are higher along the Columbia riverbank, gradually lowering to 1 on the city’s western outskirts.
Written By
Laura Copan
Photography Contributed By
Howard Snyder
Video By
Taylor Gilbert
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Adam Drain,
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.
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On average, homes in Wenatchee, WA sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Wenatchee, WA over the last 12 months is $505,000, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Come discover your dream home with stunning Wenatchee Valley and Cascade Mountain views in this quiet neighborhood! This incredible property features 4 spacious bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, perfect for comfortable living. Set on a large lot, there’s plenty of outdoor space to enjoy. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this beautiful home yours! Property sold "As-Is".
Own a legend. This one of a kind mid-century home with a limestone & brick exterior is an architectural masterpiece. Private patios are abundant as is the sunlight in this home. Set in a park like setting, with birds eye maple floors & several floor to ceiling windows. Gourmet kitchen with high end appliances, quartz counter tops & a charming walk in pantry. A Walter Graham sculpted hand carved
Step into a grand entrance and experience 4756 sq ft of exceptional living space on the main floor and 2800+ sq ft on the lower level. With 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 offices plus a HUGE rec room/flex space that are thoughtfully situated in separate wings for maximum privacy and comfort. The expansive, partially finished lower level is a true gem—featuring a sauna room and extra living space for
Experience breathtaking city, river, and mountain views from this stunning 6-bed, 3-bath home in sought-after Broadview. Thoughtfully designed 3,809 sq ft layout offers a spacious kitchen, two living areas, and easy access to a backyard Swim Spa. Main level features 3 bedrooms; downstairs offers 2 more, a full bath, rec room, and flex spaces. Perfect for entertaining or relaxing! Enjoy a large
Charming cottage with modern upgrades blend vintage character with modern comfort in desirable Wenatchee. Featuring 3bed 2bath in 1,712 sq ft. The stylish kitchen has white subway tile, butcher block countertops, and premium Cafe appliances including an induction range & double oven. Fiberglass windows are complemented by insulating honeycomb blinds. Enjoy year-round comfort with a mini-split
Enjoy farm living in this beautifully appointed country home on just under 4 irrigated acres near Mission Ridge Ski Resort. This property boasts a 50 year roof, newer HVAC, a 2 stall barn with attached paddocks, fully fenced with cross-fenced pastures, loafing shed, 1728 sqft insulated shop with vehicle and equipment space, several heated and cooled rooms currently housing a hobby dog
BRAND NEW RIVER-FACING UNITS AVAILABLE**OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 5/17 FROM 12-3**Welcome to Riverfront Village! Now Move in Ready!This stunning new community is conveniently located, neighboring the scenic Riverfront Park. Walking trails along the Columbia River are just steps from your door! Less than half a mile away, you will find local farm goods, artisanal foods,
FOR LEASE: Great space to make your own in this prominent downtown building at the corner of Orondo and S Mission. With lots of windows, architectural details, and secure parking - this is a unique and rare opportunity. Approx 4000 SF available on the main level, with additional space upstairs available as well. Main floor space offers flexibility for open concept office and ability to add
Welcome home to The Landing at Saddlerock! Our brand-new apartments for rent in Wenatchee allow you to live in comfort and sophistication while exploring the unique and dynamic culture of Wenatchee Valley. Exceptional amenities, desirable services, and a well-connected address allow you to indulge in all the urban conveniences you want without giving up on the peace and quiet you deserve.
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.
