When looking for a place to live in Washington, it is easy to look toward the state’s western region, with major markets such as Seattle, Tacoma, and Everett. These are all great cities with much to offer, but buyers should also consider looking east. Far east, not far from Idaho, is where you’ll find Spokane, the second-biggest city in the state and a prime option for real estate buyers.
Spokane is a major city surrounded by natural scenery and known for its art and culture. This beautiful metropolis has a fascinating history and several exceptional characteristics that make it an appealing option for various buyers. Let’s look at some aspects of Spokane that make this Eastern Washington city a standout.
Outdoor Experiences and Natural Beauty
While Western Washington has stunning coastal scenery, Eastern Washington, including Spokane, has a more rugged, mountainous appeal. Spokane is surrounded by mountains and forests. It also hosts the Spokane River.
Spokane also has excellent parks and trails, including the scenic Riverfront Park, a massive area that housed the 1974 World’s Fair. Here, you’ll find the gorgeous Spokane Falls, a huge flowing waterfall in the city’s center. Little Spokane Natural Area is a short drive away, which is a gentle trail along the Spokane River, perfect for observing some of the river’s native wildlife.
In the winter, Spokane is highly sought-out by ski and snowboard enthusiasts. There are numerous resorts convenient to the city. Mount Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park, Silver Mountain Resort, and Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area are just three of several premier destinations with ideal terrain and limited lines. In the summer, these mountainous settings are a dream for hikers.
Culture, Food, and Entertainment
Spokane is the cultural center of the Eastern Washington region, a major hub for food, art, shopping, and history. Renowned museums and a vibrant downtown give the city a lively feel. The museums in Spokane highlight the city’s history, such as the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, which has exhibits from local artists across history, including a vast collection of Native American works. Tours of preserved historical buildings are available throughout the city as well.
Spokane’s downtown is based along the water and has a thriving nightlife. It is a fun and energetic city with over 35 breweries and 20 wineries. The food scene is expansive, with various offerings from casual eateries to fine dining hotspots and flavors spanning the globe.
Spokane has an urban feel and hosts many activities and events, from local concerts to food and drink festivals. There is no shortage of things to do; a highlight is the world-famous Hoopsfest, the largest three-on-three basketball tournament in the world.
Economy and Affordability
Spokane has plenty of homes to offer residents at a drastically lower price than Western Washington. According to Redfin, the median sale price of a home in Spokane was around $335,000 in January 2023, which is more affordable than the state and national averages.
Spokane, as the economic center of Eastern Washington, has plenty of employment opportunities. It has a diverse economy powered by the area’s significant agriculture and manufacturing industries. Spokane also has a burgeoning technology center and houses headquarters and operation centers for Fortune 1000 companies, including PotlatchDeltic, Amazon, and more. The Fairchild Air Force Base also drives a huge military industry.
