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
Terri Del Maestro,
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 65 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Wenatchee, WA over the last 12 months is $494,900, down 17% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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
Come and take a look at this quaint home located close to schools and the hospital and minutes from downtown! A low maintenance front yard and cozy seating area greet you as you arrive. The living room features large glass windows with lovely views of Saddlerock and the hills. All 3 bedrooms still have original hardwood floors that add a classic touch. Step out the sliding door onto a deck in the
Looking for space, charm, and location? This 1920s 3 bed, 2 bath home has it all. With two separate living areas and a dedicated office, there's room for everyone to spread out—or come together. Tucked right in the heart of downtown, you’re close to everything: coffee shops, local eats, and weekend markets. Love the outdoors? You're just minutes from scenic trailheads and the Columbia
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
Come and take a look at this quaint home located close to schools and the hospital and minutes from downtown! A low maintenance front yard and cozy seating area greet you as you arrive. The living room features large glass windows with lovely views of Saddlerock and the hills. All 3 bedrooms still have original hardwood floors that add a classic touch. Step out the sliding door onto a deck in the
Looking for space, charm, and location? This 1920s 3 bed, 2 bath home has it all. With two separate living areas and a dedicated office, there's room for everyone to spread out—or come together. Tucked right in the heart of downtown, you’re close to everything: coffee shops, local eats, and weekend markets. Love the outdoors? You're just minutes from scenic trailheads and the Columbia
BRAND NEW RIVER-FACING UNITS AVAILABLE**OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 6/14 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,
Professional Office Space in the Heart of Wenatchee! Elevate your business presence at 325 N Chelan Suite A, a meticulously designed office suite strategically located between Mission & Chelan Avenues with over 14,000 daily traffic counts. Enjoy exceptional highway visibility and ample parking, ensuring easy access for clients and employees. Suite features 3,982 sqft, 8 bright exterior offices, 6
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.
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