Living in Grays Harbor
Grays Harbor is an exceptional place to live, work and play. The climate is temperate with an abundance of nature to explore. In winter, the average low temperatures are in the high 30’s and in the summer, the average high temperatures are in the 70’s. Visiting the beach, mountains, forest or lake; all of these are at your doorstep. For those looking to make Grays Harbor their long-term home, there are a variety of industries to work in and the cost of living is very affordable.
With roughly 71,000 residents living within the County, the nearly 2,000 square miles of land makes for incredible opportunities to own acres of property while still living near the city. There are ten cities and vast rural areas that make up Grays Harbor, with half of the County’s population living in the contiguous cities of Aberdeen, Hoquiam, and Cosmopolis. Grays Harbor offers something for everyone. Whatever lifestyle suits you, city, rural or beach, you can find it here on the coast of Washington. This unspoiled region of the U.S. offers a simpler way of life and an easygoing routine void of heavy traffic and long work commutes.
Grays Harbor is loaded with unique qualities that are important factors when looking for a quality lifestyle that you don’t find everywhere. There’s an exceptional education system including numerous elementary, middle and high schools as well as Grays Harbor College that is continually expanding to offer a large variety of Associate and Bachelor degrees on a scenic 120-acre campus. Easy access to public transportation and plenty of medical providers and emergency services add a sense of relaxation to community members in the area. There are over 100 places of worship in Grays Harbor representing a variety of faiths and beliefs. With seven state parks, numerous city parks and four public golf courses, enjoying the outdoors is stress-free. The beautiful neighborhoods boast homes that date back to the early years of Grays Harbor. Housing prices are relatively low giving buyers plenty of options for affordable housing for the entire family.
A strong sense of community can be found within the County, making life on the Harbor a desirable one. If gardening interests you, the mild climate, with nourishing rain and long summer days is perfect for growing produce and unique plants. Grays Harbor offers great sports facilities, and for kids, there are dozens of programs in every community including Pop Warner Football, Little League baseball, soccer and swimming programs and even martial arts. For adults, local municipalities and the YMCA of Grays Harbor host adult sport leagues. The local YMCA is also one of many state-of-the-art gyms on the Harbor encouraging healthy living habits.
Cultural opportunities are often a motivating factor when relocating and Grays Harbor is not short of them. From its thriving arts community with talented performers, musicians, and artists, to its many art galleries and community programs, this County has something for everyone. The Bishop Center for the Performing Arts at Grays Harbor College provides regular performances and the opportunity for community members to participate in well-known musicals in its modern 440 seat theater. In addition to performances by the Grays Harbor Symphony Orchestra and the Grays Harbor Civic Choir, programs include ballet, opera, jazz, theater, classical and popular music, lectures and family attractions. Other venues include the historic Driftwood Theatre, the D&R Theatre and the impressive 7th Street Theatre that hosts its annual 7th Street Kids production which introduces local youth to the world of theater.
With virtually no crowds to contend with, plenty of options of things to do and a moderate cost-of-living, Grays Harbor residents are free to enjoy an outstanding quality of life.