Port Townsend : Washington
Living a Gated Community Lifestyle in Port Townsend, Washington
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Where to Retire in Port Townsend and Home Prices
There are active adult communities in and near Port Townsend (see link at left). Zillow.com reports the median home value has been on the rise the last few years, and was at $575,990 in mid-2022.
What Is Special about Port Townsend
Stock of Victorian homes and brick buildings. The town's National Historic Landmark status. Great views of mountains and water. Retirement community options. Recreation in the adjacent Olympic National Park. Port Townsend has been named to several "best places to retire" lists. Many activities revolve around the outdoors and parks: Fort Worden State Park, Olympic National Park, and old Fort Townsend State Park.
One of the special things about this community that no one is that it is an active artists' community. There are writers, singers/song writers and other musicians, dancers, theater folks, visual and crafts artists and more. The age of these artists is wide - from very young to those well into their 70s and 80s.
What Is Not Special about Port Townsend
Once you get here it is hard to get anywhere else - you need a ferry to get off the peninsula.
Climate and Physical Environment
Located on the northeast tip of the Olympic Peninsula, it is about 45 miles from Seattle across Puget Sound.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
There is a busy local artist and crafts population. The library is well financed. Nearby Fort Worden State Park has a thriving arts center called Centrum. Popular festivals include its Film Festival as well as the Victorian Spring Ball, a celebration of Port Townsend's early days as a seaport. Gallery Walks are held on the first Saturday of each month. Key City Public Theatre provided regular productions. Main Street is a popular place to visit a bookstore or grab a cup of coffee.
Crime
Port Townsend has a low crime rate as compared to the national average.
Medical Facilities
Jefferson General Hospital serves the community.
Transportation
The local Jefferson Airport has air taxi service to various points. Although Port Townsend is close to the mainland, you must either make a long drive or take a ferry. So it can take a long time to get off the peninsula (should you ever want to leave!)
Valuable Links
Wikipedia on Port Townsend
Port Townsend City-Data
More community reviews at Topretirements
Port Townsend Chamber of Commerce Web site
Mini-guide to retirement in Washington
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