Washington continues to be a hotspot for growth, with the state passing 8 million residents in 2024. According to data from Redfin, home prices are also up 4.9% year-over-year as of August 2024. And while they’re taking a bit longer to sell (21 days on the market), demand is still strong.
So, where is all this action happening? Let’s take a look at five of the state’s fastest-growing cities according to U.S. Census data: Ridgefield, Black Diamond, Winlock, Sultan City, and LaCenter City.
1. Ridgefield
2020 Population: 10,839
2023 Population: 15,027
Percentage Change: 38.64%
Ridgefield has grown rapidly over the last decade, with its population jumping 38.64% from 2020 to 2023. The city has seen a surge in new developments, including a highly anticipated Costco, an In-N-Out Burger, and a satellite campus of Clark College, all of which are drawing people to the area.
Located just 40 minutes north of Portland, Ridgefield offers a suburban escape while still maintaining access to a major metro area. The city boasts a solid job-to-housing ratio, with plenty of land available for further expansion. Its well-performing school district, charming historic downtown, and proximity to the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge make it an attractive place for both families and professionals.
Median Home Sale Price: $673,391
2. Black Diamond
2020 Population: 4,846
2023 Population: 6,602
Percentage Change: 36.24%
Black Diamond is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Puget Sound region. This low-crime city offers a high quality of life, with abundant open spaces, scenic Lake Sawyer, and proximity to Mt. Rainier attracting both residential and commercial development. The city is known for its small-town charm, rich history, and largely undeveloped land that holds plenty of opportunity for future expansion.
Median Home Sale Price: $759,450
3. Winlock
2020 Population: 1,482
2023 Population: 1,944
Percentage Change: 31.17%
Winlock, Washington, may be small, but it's seeing impressive growth. This charming rural town is becoming an appealing option for those looking to escape the higher costs and fast pace of larger cities. Situated in Lewis County, Winlock offers a slower pace of life while still providing easy access to nearby metropolitan areas like Olympia and Portland. The town is also benefiting from recent investments in local infrastructure, helping to support its expanding population.
Median Home Sale Price: $390,000
4. Sultan City
2020 Population: 5,168
2023 Population: 6,766
Percentage Change: 30.92%
As housing prices in Seattle continue to rise, many families and professionals are seeking more affordable living options, and Sultan has become an ideal choice. The city has seen a boom in new home construction, with hundreds of new homes being built to accommodate the influx of residents. Located within commuting distance of Everett, Seattle, and Bellevue, Sultan offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle while still providing easy access to major job markets.
Median Home Sale Price: $550,000
5. La Center
2020 Population: 3,473
2023 Population: 4,357
Percentage Change: 25.45%
The development at the Exit 16 interchange, the last unbuilt quadrant in the Portland metro area, is largely responsible for the growth of La Center. The city is actively encouraging new residential and commercial projects in this area, making it a prime spot for both developers and new residents.
The location is another draw, offering the perfect blend of proximity to the urban amenities of Portland and Vancouver, Washington, while allowing residents to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by nature.
Median Home Sale Price: $575,328
The Takeaway
Washington’s real estate market is booming, especially in suburban areas outside of major cities like Seattle and Portland. These smaller cities are attracting many new residents thanks to short commutes, new developments, and the promise of a high quality of life. This presents a significant opportunity for real estate agents to capitalize on the demand in these fast-growing areas.
For real estate professionals, now is the time to focus on these emerging markets. With new homes being built and growing interest from families and professionals seeking more affordable alternatives to urban living, these cities offer a chance to establish relationships with both developers and potential homebuyers.
Keeping up with local trends can give you a competitive edge. Explore our blog for more information about Washington real estate.
Updated 9/26/24