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
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Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Yakima, WA sell after 46 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Yakima, WA over the last 12 months is $395,000, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Move right in and enjoy! In addition to all kitchen appliances, the seller is including the washer and dryer, kitchen bar stools, living room TV, hallway mirror, and cordless vacuum in the garage--making this home even more turnkey and ready for its next owner.Elegance and comfort come together in this beautifully updated West Valley home offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,502 square
Assumable 2.75% loan. A rare Yakima Valley retreat where timeless craftsmanship meets sweeping views and wide-open space. Set on 4.12 acres, this striking 2003 Honka Luxury Home residence offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a huge finished basement and an unforgettable design surrounded by the beauty of the valley.Step inside to soaring vaulted ceilings, exposed wood, dramatic
A fresh price and one of the best values in Sun Country Estates. Welcome to one of Yakima's most established gated 55+ communities, where comfortable living and low-maintenance ownership come together.This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,161 square feet of single-level living with a classic split-bedroom layout that provides privacy and functionality. The fully fenced backyard is perfect
Charming, well-maintained rambler with recent updates throughout! This home features fresh interior and exterior paint, a renovated kitchen with newer appliances and soft-close cabinetry, plus a new water heater and HVAC system for worry-free living. A flexible bonus space offers the perfect setup for a formal dining room or second living area. Outside, you'll find a heated storage shed with
Almost 10 acres of gently sloped affordable acreage is available for your new home. Amazing views of Mt Rainier over Selah. The land is accessed through mostly paved roads via 57th St, only the last mile is on gravel. YC Planning Dept has said that a well can be permitted but buyer to verify,
Wow, wow, wow! Welcome to this very special property combining the upmost privacy, a mountain retreat, a desert oasis and a country hobby farm....this beautifully refreshed/remodeled 2860 sf, 3 bed/3 ba home, with a FULL wrap-around porch, sits on 54 acres! Hard to miss the giant 40x84 (3360 sf) two story height, multipurpose outbuilding and a heated 24x36 garage shop with 9x9 doors (overhead
Million-Dollar Views without the million-dollar price!! Just minutes from town, this 2-acre property delivers space along with privacy, and because of an intelligent plat design, this parcel offers unobstructed lasting scenery. Plus, Community Well access is ready to go--- Which means one less hurdle to Building your Dreams!!
Welcome to the prestigious gated community of Falcon Ridge! Situated on a desirable 9.7-acre corner lot at Red Tail Road and Pheasant Crest Drive -- located between 550 and 810 Red Tail Rd -- this Exceptional property already includes a Private Well and offers endless possibilities to build your dream estate. Designed with aviation enthusiasts in mind, Falcon Ridge is one of West Valley's most
Located in the Yakima Ranches community, this 2.35-acre parcel offers stunning panoramic views of the Yakima Valley and majestic Mt. Adams. With power available at the property and a bench area providing an excellent canvas for a future build site, this property is full of potential. Enjoy peaceful surroundings, wide-open skies, and endless possibilities as you bring your imagination and vision
MLS# 26-1265 - Recreational Get-a-way & Building Lot off of the S. Fork in Tampico, Wa. The property has power, well, and also includes a Tiny Shed / Cabin. With 360 degree views and used as RV Recreational Property just 2 miles to Ahtanum State Forest public land ideal for enjoying the outdoors, ORVing, Hiking, Hunting, Horseback Riding, etc. RV not included, Land Loan Available & Possible Owner
Eligible for both a $5,000 credit and 0% Down toward Conventional Financing-Welcome to 'The Sunflower House' where warmth, color, and thoughtful updates come together in a vibrant move-in-ready setting! Recently remodeled, the home features new flooring, a fresh coat of interior paint, and newly applied exterior paint all in all creating a clean, modern canvas filled with natural light. The
PRICE DROP way under market value! Due to the need to get closer to family ASAP, we welcome you to Quail Run, a 55+ community for active adults looking for a lifestyle as well as a home. This nearly new home, offers effortless living in a peaceful, beautifully maintained neighborhood -complete with its own residents-only dog park for your four-legged companions. From the moment you step inside
Endless Possibilities Await on this Scenic Acreage with Panoramic Views and Exceptional Privacy! Investors have the opportunity to acquire all of the lots, potentially create a community well and re-sell the lots or develop yourself. Prefer a more personal vision? Create a private recreational retreat, embrace an off-grid lifestyle, or connect to the power grid while building the custom dream
Situated just 15 minutes outside of town, this 10+ acre off-grid property offers a practical blend of privacy, recreational opportunity and affordability! Whether you're seeking a weekend retreat, camping property, or future homestead site, the land provides flexibility for a variety of uses. The surrounding terrain with views of the Union Gap and Valley Floor create a quiet rural setting with
Perched overlooking the Yakima River Canyon, all of the picturesque foothills, Selah and Union Gaps, clear to the biggest views of Mt Adams and Mt Rainier of any property in this area, find this hilltop oasis, bordering BLM land to the East and big open skies for star gazing . ''Panoramic views'' just might be an understatement! With nearly 2200 sf on one level, 3 bed, 2 bath (plus shop bath and
Welcome to Quail Ridge Apartments, a well-established apartment community on West Mead Avenue in Yakima, Washington. With spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans, Quail Ridge offers comfortable everyday living in a convenient location close to schools, shopping, Yakima Valley College, and major travel routes.Homes average approximately 905 square feet and are designed with
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
Welcome to your new home located in the vibrant city of West Yakima, WA. Glenmoor Green is nestled among serene landscape and peaceful park like setting with community features such as two swimming pools, laundry rooms, and covered parking. Our apartments offer spacious layouts with plenty of natural light, perfect for those seeking a comfortable living space. Situated near amenities such as
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
The Terraces at Summitview offers adults 62 and older an affordable rental option in Yakima.Conveniently located near all Yakima has to offer, The Terraces at Summitview is an established, welcoming nonprofit Life Plan Community set on 10 beautifully landscaped acres. Here, you’ll find a friendly, small-town neighborhood feeling with the flexibility of independent living apartments
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
Columbia Apartments Yakima offers modern studio and one-bedroom apartments in Yakima, WA. Units feature quartz counters, shaker cabinets, and hardwood floors for a clean, updated interior. The community provides convenient on-site laundry, a tenant online portal with online applications and self tours, and is pet friendly with a dedicated dog park. Management accessibility includes a grounds
Charming 3-bedroom home in Yakima offering a peaceful retreat on acreage with beautiful views. This home features a cozy living room with a fireplace, ample storage, one bedroom on the main floor, and two additional bedrooms upstairs. Tenants are responsible for utilities and yard maintenance. Pets are welcome with an additional pet fee. A non-refundable cleaning fee and refundable security
Welcome to your new home! This charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom manufactured home offers comfortable living in an all-ages park. 2 pets per household allowed (under 40 lbs) with no pet deposit! The open layout, updated kitchen, and cozy living in spaces make this the perfect place to call home. Enjoy the convenience of the community location and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Also listed
Excellent commercial property downtown Yakima available for sale or lease. Over 4900 square feet in a prime, high visibility location. Possible uses include, but are not limited to coffee shops, retail, office and others. This is a build to suit opportunity ready for your designs and vision. Property is walking distance to City Hall, the Courthouse, several retail locations as well as popular
Discover this charming new 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom double-wide in an all-ages park! Enjoy a spacious, open concept living area perfect for gatherings. The modern kitchen features new appliances and ample cabinet space. Each of the 3 bedrooms, including a primary suite with a private bath, is filled with natural light. This home is close to schools, shopping, and parks for your convenience. Up to 2
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