Olympia's waterfront location on Puget Sound creates an outdoor paradise with the 3.5-mile Percival Landing boardwalk providing stunning views of the Olympic Mountains. The Washington State Capitol Campus stands as the city's crown jewel, welcoming visitors to tour its Legislative Building and State Reception Room. Nature lovers enjoy hiking and beach access at Priest Point Park, while the Capitol Forest provides extensive trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The Washington Center for the Performing Arts hosts regular shows downtown, complementing cultural attractions like the Squaxin Island Museum and the outdoor Monarch Sculpture Park with its collection of over 100 contemporary pieces.
The median price for single family homes in Olympia is $590,000, with prices varying significantly by neighborhood. South Capitol commands the highest median prices at $620,000, while West Bay Drive homes have a median price of $382,500. Condominiums present a more affordable option, with one-bedroom units at a median price of $222,000 and two-bedroom units at $340,000. Townhomes fall in between with a median price of $415,200.
Living costs in Olympia run 12.4% above the national average. A family with school-age children needs approximately $119,000 annually to live comfortably, while renters should aim for $67,000. Monthly grocery costs average $1,600 for families and $700 for renters. Housing expenses typically reach $2,900 monthly for families and $2,600 for renters. The combined sales tax rate is 9.43%, while property taxes sit at 0.9%. Gasoline costs $4.221 per gallon, 30% above the national average. The public school system includes highly rated institutions like Pioneer Elementary School and Olympia High School, plus private options such as NOVA Middle School, which received an A+ rating from Niche.
