Introduction:
Everett, Washington, is the largest city in Snohomish County, located just north of Seattle. Whether you’re considering a move or just curious about life in Everett, this guide will walk you through the pros and cons of living here. From its convenient location and outdoor beauty to its traffic challenges and rainy weather, Everett has plenty to consider.
Hi, my name is Gus Montgomery, and in this blog I’ll break down everything you need to know about living in Everett. Based on my experience and local insights, I’ll cover key factors like affordability, transportation, entertainment, and more. Whether you're drawn to Everett for its scenic parks, lower housing costs, or proximity to Seattle, I’ll help you weigh the benefits and drawbacks so you can make an informed decision. As a real estate broker in the area, I want to share my expertise about the greater Seattle area. I help many home buyers who are looking to relocate to the Seattle area. Let’s dive in
With that said, here are the Pros & Cons of Living in Everett WA!
Pros of Living in Everett, WA
Pro #1: Proximity to Seattle
Everett is the largest city in Snohomish County and offers a prime location just north of Seattle. Without traffic, it’s only a 30-minute drive to the city, making it a great option for those who work in Seattle but prefer to live outside the hustle and bustle.
Many Everett residents commute to Seattle for work, while others take advantage of the short drive for entertainment, dining, and events. Whether you’re heading to a concert, a sports game, or a night out, Seattle is easily accessible. However, traffic can be a challenge—especially during rush hour, when commute times can stretch from 40 minutes to over an hour. Despite this, Everett remains a popular choice for those looking to stay close to Seattle while enjoying a more suburban lifestyle.
Pro #2: Outdoor Opportunities
One of Everett’s biggest perks is its access to beautiful outdoor spaces. With numerous parks and waterfront areas, residents can enjoy scenic views, fresh air, and recreational activities year-round.
Howarth Park is a standout, offering a 28-acre beach, a playground, and pet-friendly areas—perfect for a relaxing day by the water. Other great spots include Harborview Park, American Legion Park, and Grand Avenue Park, each providing stunning views and peaceful green spaces.
Whether you enjoy walking, picnicking, or simply taking in the natural beauty, Everett has plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts. The city's proximity to Puget Sound also means you’re never far from waterfront relaxation and breathtaking sunsets. If you value access to parks and nature, Everett’s outdoor opportunities make it a great place to call home.
Pro #3: Affordable Housing Options
Everett offers more affordable housing options compared to Seattle and the rest of Snohomish County, making it an attractive choice for homebuyers. The median home price for a single-family residence in Everett is around $622,000, significantly lower than Seattle’s $830,000. Condos are also more budget-friendly, with a median price of $390,000 in Everett compared to $535,000 in Seattle.
This price difference allows residents to enjoy a suburban lifestyle while staying relatively close to Seattle. Whether you're looking to buy a home or a condo, Everett provides more attainable housing options without the sky-high costs of living in Seattle. If affordability is a key factor in your decision, Everett presents a strong alternative with reasonable home prices and access to urban amenities.
Pro #4: Payne Field Airport
Payne Field Airport is a hidden gem for travelers in Everett. As a smaller, more convenient alternative to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, it offers a stress-free travel experience with minimal crowds and shorter security lines.
This modern airport provides flights to key destinations, including Alaska, Arizona, California, and Nevada, making it a great option for regional travel. Unlike the hustle and congestion of larger airports, Payne Field has a sleek, hotel-lobby feel with a single security gate, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey.
With a 4.6-star rating on Google, it’s one of the highest-rated airports in the country. If you prefer a more relaxed and hassle-free flying experience, Payne Field is a major perk of living in Everett.
Cons of Living in Everett, WA
Con #1: Traffic
While Everett’s proximity to Seattle is a plus, traffic congestion can be a major drawback. Without traffic, the drive to Seattle takes about 30 minutes, but during rush hour, commute times can range from 40 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Morning commuters heading south often face long delays, especially between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, while the return trip in the evening can be just as unpredictable. If you leave Seattle around 5:00 PM, your drive back to Everett could take anywhere from 50 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Traffic patterns vary daily, making it difficult to rely on a consistent commute time. While some residents adjust by working remotely or using public transit options, heavy congestion remains a reality for those who need to drive. If a long and unpredictable commute is a deal-breaker, this is an important factor to consider before moving to Everett.
Con #2: Rain and Seasonal Depression
Everett, like much of the Pacific Northwest, experiences over 150 days of rain per year. While the total annual rainfall isn’t extreme, it’s the consistent gray skies and drizzle that can take a toll.
The frequent dark and gloomy weather can be an adjustment, especially for those moving from sunnier states. The lack of sunlight has been linked to seasonal depression, making it important to find ways to stay active and maintain a positive mindset during the long, overcast months.
If you enjoy cooler, rainy weather, Everett’s climate may not be a drawback. However, if you thrive in sunshine, this could be a challenge. Many locals cope by using light therapy lamps, taking vitamin D supplements, or planning winter getaways to sunnier destinations. If you’re considering a move to Everett, the rainy climate is something to keep in mind, especially during the fall and winter seasons.
Con #3: Limited Entertainment Options
While Everett offers some entertainment and dining options, it doesn’t compare to the variety found in Seattle or Bellevue. If you’re looking for major concerts, theater performances, or diverse fine dining, you’ll likely find yourself making the trip south.
Everett’s Angel of the Winds Arena is a highlight, hosting minor league hockey games, concerts, and other events. There are also some great local restaurants, like Anthony’s and Emory’s, which offer waterfront dining experiences. However, when it comes to high-profile events or a wide selection of fine dining, Seattle has much more to offer with venues like Climate Pledge Arena, the Paramount, and the Moore Theatre.
For those who enjoy nightlife, major sports events, or a broader range of cuisines, Everett may feel somewhat limited. While the city has its charms, many residents find themselves heading to Seattle or Bellevue when they want a more vibrant entertainment scene.
Con #4: Limited Public Transportation
Everett’s public transportation system is far less extensive than Seattle’s, making it less convenient for those who rely on transit. While the city has bus services, it lacks key transit options like streetcars, a monorail, or a light rail system.
Seattle, in contrast, has a well-developed light rail system that connects major areas, including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Fortunately, Everett is expected to get its own light rail connection between 2037 and 2041, which will significantly improve accessibility and reduce the need for long, traffic-heavy commutes.
Until then, residents who don’t drive must depend on buses or carpooling, which can be time-consuming and less reliable. If you’re used to a city with an extensive public transit system, this could be a downside to living in Everett. However, with future improvements on the horizon, better transportation options are coming.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Everett offers a mix of pros and cons. The city’s proximity to Seattle, outdoor opportunities, affordable housing, and Payne Field Airport make it a great choice for many. However, traffic, rainy weather, limited entertainment, and public transportation can be challenges to consider. Ultimately, it’s important to weigh these factors based on your personal lifestyle and preferences.
As a real estate broker in the area, I help many home buyers looking to move into the area. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions about the Seattle area.
Phone: 206-643-7213
Email: gus@dmdrealestate.com