Olympia

Olympia stands at the southern tip of the Puget Sound, where the Deschutes River meets the waters of Budd Inlet. Framed by the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier, the city serves as the state capital and a center for civic, creative, and intellectual life. Its character is shaped by a deep connection to the land, honoring the traditions of the Squaxin Island Tribe and other Coast Salish peoples. This identity is further defined by the presence of The Evergreen State College, which fosters a grounded, independent spirit that separates the city from its larger neighbors to the north.

Residents and visitors enjoy a landscape that balances a walkable downtown with over 900 acres of parks, including the sprawling trails of Squaxin Park and the scenic boardwalk at Percival Landing. The Washington State Capitol Campus serves as the city’s architectural anchor, while the Olympia Farmers Market and annual gatherings like the Procession of the Species and Arts Walk bring the community together to celebrate local talent and the natural environment. With a reputation for strong public schools and a blend of government-sector stability and artistic culture, Olympia offers a steady, accessible pace of life for families and professionals seeking a clear connection to the Pacific Northwest.