The seat of its namesake county in the heart of its namesake valley, agriculture is at the center of life in Yakima, with produce stands, farm-to-table restaurants and local breweries scattered all over town. The surrounding areas are packed with rolling fields, colorful orchards and various wineries. “Since it’s an agriculture-based community, you can watch all the agriculture move through each season,” says Leah Holbrook, a Yakima resident and managing broker with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Central Washington. “There’s always a beautiful bounty in the summer and autumn.” Major exports include apples, hops and wine. Though Yakima began as a farming hub, the population has grown thanks to low housing prices and cost of living, attracting remote workers from larger cities like Seattle. Once here, locals spend time fishing and swimming on the Yakima River or exploring the walkable historic downtown district.
The rural city of Yakima is surrounded by fertile farmlands in the heart of the Yakima Valley.
Agriculture is at the center of life in Yakima.
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Historic district on 16th Avenue
Yakima’s historic district is just west of downtown, centered on 16th Avenue and home to early 20th-century Craftsman homes. The rest of town is mainly occupied by ranch-style and new traditional homes from the mid- to late-20th century. Homes on the town's east side, towards the Washington Park neighborhood, tend to be on the lower end of the price range. Housing inventory is growing, with 21st-century suburban developments on the town’s west end, including neighborhoods like West Valley. High-density condo and townhouse complexes are concentrated in the northwest corner. and manufactured home communities are around the outskirts. Homes in Yakima sell for a median price of $360,000, lower than the national median of about $406,000 and the statewide median of about $626,000.
Yakima’s median home price of $360,000 is lower than both state and national medians.
Yakima's homes are stunning and very affordable in todays market.
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Swimming and fishing in the Yakima River
The Yakima and Naches Rivers provide many access points for fishing and swimming. Rimrock Lake is also open for fishing year-round, making it a major gathering place in the summer. Mountain biking is popular, and Cowiche Canyon is home to over 30 miles of mountain biking trails. Franklin Park is one of several public green spaces scattered around Yakima, home to well-used pickleball courts and playgrounds. The Franklin Park Summer Sunset Concert Series occurs every Friday in July and August. Upscale ski resorts like Suncadia are within 70 miles, making for a popular winter day trip.
Rimrock Lake offer ample opportunities for swimming and fishing.
Cowiche Canyon is one of many places to mountain bike or take your pet for a walk.
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Walkable downtown with farm-to-table restaurants
Yakima’s Historic downtown district is the center of the local dining scene, characterized by farm-to-table ingredients and locally brewed beer. Wide, walkable sidewalks lead to eateries, cafes, hotels and breweries. Crafted is one of the most well-known local restaurants, opened in 2017 by James Beard-nominated chef Dan Koommoo and his wife Mollie. Farm stands can be found throughout the city, selling local produce, and the Yakima Farmers Market operates downtown every Sunday from May through October. The historic Capitol Theatre stages live performances, including musicals, concerts and ballets. The Yakima Valley Museum tells the history of the city, as well as local indigenous tribes. Outside the city, a wide array of acclaimed wineries serves as one of the main draws for visitors. Many annual events celebrate Yakima’s Agricultural specialties, including the Spring Barrel Tasting wine event in April and the Fresh Hop Ale Festival in October.
Residents can catch live performances at the historic Capitol Theatre.
Downtown Yakima has a plethora of of boutiques and great eateries.
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Getting around on Interstate 82
Interstate 82 is the main thoroughfare of the city, connecting with I-90 to the north for a 144-mile trip to Seattle, the nearest major city. Yakima Transit has nine bus routes, and though train tracks run through the town for industrial purposes, no passenger routes stop here. In mid-2024, the Federal Railroad Administration proposed passenger rail routes that would stop in Yakima and other rural Washington towns, though there haven’t been any updates since then. The Yakima Air Terminal-McAllister Field is the only airport used for industrial operations and small commercial flights to Seattle. The MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospital is the only major hospital in the area, with 238 beds.
Yakima is a great bus system to help residents get around.
The Yakima Air Terminal-McAllister Field is the only airport used for industrial operations and small commercial flights to Seattle.
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Athletics and free school lunches at Yakima School District
Yakima School District earns a C-plus from Niche, serving over 15,000 students across 29 schools. The district is known for its extracurriculars and athletic programs, producing notable alumni Cooper Kupp, current NFL wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams and 2022 Super Bowl MVP. The district participates in the Community Eligibility Provision under the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Program, which means all students are eligible for free breakfast and lunch regardless of household income. Yakima Valley Community College offers over 55 associate degrees and five bachelor's of applied science degrees. The nearby Pacific Northwest University-Health Sciences contributes to the area’s growing medical industry.
Crime rates, according to the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs
Violent crime rates in Yakima are significantly higher than state and national crime rates, while property crime rates fall below state figures but above national rates. Property crime has been falling recently, with robbery dropping about 45% from 2022 to 2023, according to the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, and overall reported crime dropped 17%.
Less rain than coastal cities and risk of floods and wildfires
Yakima experiences four seasons with less rain than in coastal cities like Seattle. “In the summer, it can get over a hundred degrees for a brief time and in the winter, it goes below freezing,” Holbrook says. “But year-round, it’s basically 300 days of sunshine, even in the winter.” There is risk of flooding along the Yakima and Naches Rivers, with the last major flood in 1996. Several creeks run through the city's south edge, contributing to moderate flood risk in that area as well. The city has just under 22 miles of levees designed to prevent flooding. Homeowners within Special Hazard Flood Zones, as designated by FEMA, are required to purchase flood insurance, though it’s also recommended for residents outside of flood zones.
Wildfires are also a risk in the Yakima area, especially around the community's edges. The City of Yakima Fire Department serves the community in cases of emergency, and locals can sign up for emergency notifications through the city’s website. The Yakima Valley Fire Adapted Communities Coalition provides training to help prevent wildfires.
Written By
Andi Sink
Photography Contributed By
Perry Cucinotta
Video By
Jacob McAllister
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Yakima, WA sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Yakima, WA over the last 12 months is $375,990, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Easy, Low-Maintenance Living in Summitview Country! Enjoy a relaxed and carefree lifestyle in the desirable Summitview Country 55+ community on Yakima's west side. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with over 2,700 sq ft offers plenty of room to spread out while enjoying the simplicity of low-maintenance living. The light-filled interior features skylights and large windows that create a warm
Alanna BerndBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Central Washington Real Estate
This 1992 Manufactured home in one of the nicest 55+ Communities in West Valley is ready for a new owner. The home has a wonderful covered porch which expands upon the 672 square footage. The living area with laminated plank flooring is open-concept with the bedrooms at the front of the home. The home had a new roof installed in 2015 and a new Heat pump installed in 2019. All of the appliances
Welcome to this beautiful single-level 3-bedroom, 2-bath West Valley home offering comfort, style, and thoughtful design throughout. Inside, you'll find high ceilings that create an open, airy feel, a spacious primary suite featuring an ensuite bath and walk-in closet, and a warm, inviting living area centered around a cozy fireplace. The kitchen includes a extended counter and storage with
*No Condo/HOA Fees* Welcome to 1209 South 43rd Avenue, a charming condominium located in a highly desirable area. This home offers 1260 square feet of well designed living space with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, providing both comfort and functionality. The interior features vaulted ceilings that create an open and spacious feel throughout. The primary suite includes its own back patio and
Build your team home on this spacious 2.49 acre lot on flat land and in a residential area. Property has a community well with power nearby. Connect with your realtor or give me a call to tour
Welcome to Your New Home in Whispering Pines! Discover this brand-new manufactured home nestled in the serene Whispering Pines 55+ community.This charming residence offers modern conveniences with a thoughtful, open-concept design that maximizes space and light. The home features a spacious kitchen with sleek stainless steel appliance package,ample hardwood cabinetry, ideal for both meal prep
Don't sleep on this one! Golf cart included w/ purchase!! Beautiful, Light-Filled home in 55+ Gated Community: Quail Run, Yakima, WA. A beautiful and nearly new manufactured home set on foundation, awaits those seeking low-maintenance living in a quiet, friendly neighborhood. Whether you love to stay active or simply enjoy peaceful surroundings, (including the community only dog park!) this
Someone is going to be so happy! Are you looking for an adorable one level home, the perfect starter that is super cute, clean, and full of updates--including a brand-new roof--this home will delight anyone looking in this price range. This property offers three bedrooms, two living spaces, a great back deck, and a raised-bed garden area. You'll find ample storage both inside and out, and since
919 S 28th Ave is bringing the vibes.3bedrooms 2 bathrooms 1,900+ sq ft of warm, updated living.Wood floors. Gas fireplace. Renovated bathrooms. An updated kitchen ready for real life.And the kicker? Multiple entertaining patios with direct city natural gas grill hookup! no propane tanks, ever. Just turn it on and host.Garden space. Cozy evenings. Summer BBQs done right.This one feels like home
Charming 1935 one-story home with a basement offering timeless character with 2-bedroom, 1-bath. Classic details include coved ceilings and arched doorways with a full basement. Features include hardwood floors, kitchen eating space and cozy room offkitchen that would make a great office space, den or larger dining area.Lower level is partially finished with lots of storage and room for your
Meg Balles
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Central Washington Real Estate
This charming 3 bed, 1 bath home is centrally located near schools, making daily life a breeze! Enjoy a spacious backyard perfect for gatherings and play, plus front yard sprinklers for easy upkeep.This home with 1,584 square feet has the updates you've been waiting for! Featuring remodeled flooring, brand-new carpet downstairs, and a beautifully refreshed bathroom, the heavy lifting has already
Welcome to this custom West Valley home in the desirable Crown Crest neighborhood, featuring a 3-car garage and thoughtful design throughout. Built in 2015, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,804 sq ft of open-concept living with vaulted ceilings, modern paint tones, and durable LVP flooring.Situated on a spacious 1/4-acre lot, the fully fenced backyard includes underground sprinklers on
Mediterranean Elegance | Panoramic Views | Year-Round Luxury - Perched in one of Yakima's most prestigious neighborhoods, 305 Mountain Shadows Place is a rare gem -- a custom Mediterranean-style retreat that combines timeless design with modern luxury. Now offered at $100,000 less than its previous price and below assessed value, this extraordinary home presents a remarkable opportunity for
Welcome to the new 9 North Apartments in the picturesque city of Yakima, Washington! Our apartments offer a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal place to call home. 9 North has something for everyone. Other fantastic benefits include free parking for every resident. Inside your apartment, you'll find modern finishes and hardwood-style flooring, creating a chic and
Cowiche Creek Townhouses is a prime location between our valley's Cowiche hillsides and orchards. Secluded from noise yet minutes from freeway access, shopping, dining, parks & more.Designer touches: energy efficient heating & cooling, LVP flooring, quartz counters & tile backsplash. All major appliances plus microwave & dishwasher. Washer/dryer included in every townhouse, on the main
Spacious 3 Bedroom 2 Bath Duplex with carport. Brand new paint, flooring & carpet. This unit includes appliances such as stove, refrigerator and dishwasher and has its own laundry room with additional storage and washer/dryer hook ups. Also includes extra storage with a pantry in the kitchen and a coat closet and linen closet in the hall. There is also a private back patio and pets are
Upcoming units (List may change, please contact office)Schedule a Tour for Our Model Unit #106 (currently rented), but we have similar units available starting September 10th:Unit 203 – $875.00/monthUnit 107 – $875.00/monthUnit 109 – $875.00/month**ABOUT THE AREA**-Nearby parks & Recreation 2.2 mi-Nearby public transportation-Nearby
Rental Terms:12 monthsApplication Requirement:--Rental History: Proof of good rental history for last 12 months.--Income: Proof of income. All verifiable sources will count.--ID: Valid government issued Id for all adults-Credit: Credit score --minimum credit score 600
Amenities include air conditioning, on-site coin-op laundry facilities, with a library, courtyard & BBQ area & off-street parking. Conveniently located 1 Block North of Summitview Avenue on the corner of 11th Avenue. Grocery store (Safeway), convenience store, pharmacy/drug store, restaurants, all within 6 blocks from the apartments. Refrigerator & stove are provided. Water, sewer & garbage are
Welcome home to Tahoma Park Apartments on Mead Ave in Yakima, WA. The 27-unit complex features various floor plans ranging from 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom flats to 2 and 3 bedroom townhomes with 1 to 1.5 bathrooms. Inside the spacious units, some have been freshly renovated and others sport a classic look. An expansive shared backyard with walking paths serves as an oasis during the warmer months.
Fully Remodeled 1BR — In-Unit Laundry, Stainless Steel, Parking Included.Move-in ready 1-bedroom apartment in the heart of Yakima. Fully remodeled with a gourmet kitchen featuring granite countertops, brand-new stainless-steel appliances, dishwasher, and garbage disposal. In-unit washer & dryer for everyday convenience. Water/sewer, garbage, and parking are included. Quiet street just
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