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?
Reach out to
Jonathan Ehlers,
an experienced agent in this area.
Agents Specializing in this Area
Meg Balles
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Central Washington Real Estate
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Yakima, WA sell after 44 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Yakima, WA over the last 12 months is $389,000, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home! This lovely 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rambler floor plan features 1348 sq ft spread out between 2 living rooms, dining area, and the recently remodeled kitchen with granite counters and an eat up bar. With other updates including newer vinyl windows, laminate flooring, paint, and a new HVAC system this home is move in ready. Enjoy the fenced back yard and concrete patio in this private
Jonathan Ehlers
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Central Washington Real Estate
Now Offering $3,000 towards buyers closing costs or temporary rate buy down. situated on a spacious corner lot on a quiet dead-end street just off 48th! This well-maintained home offers incredible outdoor space and comfortable living inside and out. Enjoy summer in your fully fenced yard featuring mature landscaping, underground sprinklers, a circular driveway, and a covered back patio—perfect
Elegance and comfort come together in this beautifully updated West Valley home offering 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,502 square feet of refined living space. Thoughtfully designed with an open-concept layout, the home seamlessly blends the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating an inviting atmosphere ideal for both entertaining and everyday living.At the heart of the home is a stunning
Charming Terrace Heights / East Valley home on a spacious .24-acre lot with timeless character and thoughtful updates throughout. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath brick home offers beautiful hardwood floors in the living and dining areas, warm wood built-ins, abundant natural light, and a cozy wood-burning fireplace that highlights the main living space.Fresh interior paint, updated lighting, new laminate
Charming and move-in ready, this 1 bedroom, 1 bath home offers efficient living with thoughtful updates throughout. Situated at the back of the lot, the home provides a nice sense of privacy, along with a fenced front yard and convenient carport. Recent improvements include a newer roof on the home, new carport roof, updated kitchen countertop, sink and faucet, new refrigerator, updated bath
Meg Balles
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Central Washington Real Estate
Welcome to the Fontanelle Condos Community, enjoy easy, low-maintenance living in this single-level condo. This 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home features updated LVP flooring throughout, kitchen complete with an eating counter, stainless steel appliances and a gas cooktop and is open to the dining room. The spacious living room offers a cozy gas freestanding fireplace, while two mini-split units provide
Meg Balles
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Central Washington Real Estate
Sprawling and stately 1-owner custom home, 32x72 high-end SHOP w/ 180 degree VIEWS! This stellar residence is a MUST SEE to appreciate: An escape for two, multi-gen living or poised for business opportunities! Renovation including gleaming quartz, Acacia flooring, kitchen and baths upgrades, paint inside and out! Gated 4200 sf home w/ 3 car attached gar, shop is valued at 250K alone, on over 5
Welcome to 3206 Summitview Ave -- a beautifully remodeled Cape Cod-style home nestled in Yakima's desirable Barge-Chestnut neighborhood. Blending timeless 1930s charm with today's modern updates, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers warmth, character, and functionality throughout the 2463 sfInside, you'll find classic architectural details including hardwood and tile floors, coved ceilings,
Tucked away on a quiet dead-end road just off Yakima's highly sought-after Linden Way, 208 N 21st Ave is a truly rare offering -- a private Pacific Northwest sanctuary blending timeless craftsmanship, natural beauty, and flexible living spaces unlike anything else in Yakima. Surrounded by towering evergreens, lush gardens, and a picturesque flowing water feature with footbridge, a flagstone paved
Enjoy easy, low-maintenance living in this inviting 2-story condo located in Yakima's Glen Heather community. Offering 1,374 sq. ft., this well-designed home features 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with bright, comfortable spaces throughout. The home welcomes you with fresh interior paint, new flooring in the kitchen and dining area, and brand-new carpet in the bedrooms. A spacious living room is
RARE 110 acre property with dirt road access and seasonal creek located 20 minutes west of Yakima and situated along the Southern Base of Cowiche Mountain. The property provides sweeping views of the Ahtanum Range to the south and is located within the Wide Hollow-Ahtanum No. 2-G Water Domain giving you the capacity to drill a well. The usages for the property are wide ranging: (1) Build a Legacy
Nestled at the end of a quiet country road, this West Valley home on 2 acres offers space, privacy, and beautiful surrounding views. With 1,802 sq ft of living space and an oversized attached 2-car garage, this property combines comfort, functionality, and room to enjoy both indoors and out. Natural light fills the home, highlighting the open great room design with views from the kitchen and
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
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
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
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
**ABOUT THE AREA**-Nearby parks & Recreation 2.2 mi-Nearby public transportation-Nearby YMCA-Fred Meyers 1.6 mi-Costco 2.6 mi-Nearby restaurants & Dining 1.2 mi**ABOUT THE APARTMENT- New kitchen cabinets- Granite countertops- Stainless steel appliances- New paintPhotos are an example of one unit. Not all units will have the same
Wonderful commercial lease opportunity ready for your business venture available for lease. Situated inside the Yakima Athletic Club and next to Peak Performance, this offers an excellent location for health and fitness related businesses or other uses as well. Property has 8 rooms and a reception area; this space is ideal for your business. Cross business promotions are available with the
Beautiful downtown Yakima office space available for lease. Nestled on the 11th floor with 12 offices, breakout areas, bathrooms, kitchen and conference room, this unique downtown location offers it all. Full service lease for your convenience in a professionally managed building. Ample parking, security, elevators and spectacular views of Yakima on all sides of the building. Walking distance to
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