Moving to Spokane Valley

Imagine a destination wrapped up in natural beauty, filled with vibrant cultural scenes, and expanding economic opportunities. Welcome to your introduction of relocating to the charming gem of the Pacific Northwest - Spokane Valley, Washington. Our comprehensive Spokane Valley relocation guide is designed to help simplify your move whilst keeping you updated on what to see, do, and experience. As you embark on this exciting journey, allow us to make the process not only less daunting, but also thoroughly enjoyable.

Moving to Spokane Valley, WA landscape image

What to Know Before Moving to Spokane Valley

1. Welcome to the Evergreen State!

Before we dive into Spokane Valley specifics, it's essential to remember that you're moving to Washington State. Known as the Evergreen State, Washington pulls out all the stops when it comes to dazzling vistas. Spokane Valley is no exception! Nestled beautifully between the Couer D'Alene mountains and the plains of Eastern Washington, this city offers spellbinding views right from your doorstep!

2. Get Ready to Embrace the Outdoors

One of the biggest perks of living in Spokane Valley is the access to stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. You'll find yourself minutes away from hiking, skiing, rafting, and fishing. Nature lovers will be ecstatic to discover fantastic parks like Mirabeau Point Park and the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum nearby. So gear up and get ready to reach peak fitness levels and fall in love with Mother Nature.

3. Quality Education & Family-Friendly Vibes

If you're moving with your family, you're in for a treat! Known for its excellent public and private schools, Spokane Valley is a haven for families prioritizing quality education. Plus, the Valley offers a tight-knit community feel that's perfect for raising kids. It's safe, friendly, and bursting with recreational centers, pools, and sports clubs for the junior crowd.

4. Get to Know the Spokane Valley Pace

Life in Spokane Valley is a bit slower than fast-paced metropolitans. But don't let that trick you into thinking it's boring! Spokane Valley is more about making the most of every moment, rather than hustling between them. It's a place where building genuine relationships, enjoying casual chats with your neighbor, and taking time to appreciate nature are the norm. If this laid-back lifestyle suits you, well, welcome home!

5. The Secret Community Event: ValleyFest

Here's the first of our unknown nuggets! One of Spokane Valley's best kept secrets is its annual ValleyFest. This engaging, community-oriented festival brings everyone together for a weekend of fun and merriment. There's a parade, a variety of performances, 5K & 10k runs, fishing at the falls, car shows, and so much more! Make sure to mark your calendars for this heartwarming testament of community spirit.

6. Fresh Cherries & Apples Will Be Your New Favorite

Last on our list, but not least, is Spokane Valley's connection with fresh fruit, specifically cherries, and apples. Did you know that Washington State is the nation's largest producer of apples and near top for cherries? And trust us, the taste is so much better! Warning: You may develop an insatiable craving for fresh, local fruit!

In conclusion, Spokane Valley offers a unique blend of breathtaking locales, community spirit, access to outdoor leisure, quality education, and a calmer pace of life. So, if you're about to move, get ready to step into a lifestyle that's not just about living, but thriving with a higher quality of life!

What to know before moving to Spokane Valley, WA image
See the 10 Best Movers Nearest You
(Unbiased) Ranking of the top movers in every city.

Pros and Cons of Living in Spokane Valley

Pros of Living in Spokane Valley

Access to Outdoor Recreation

Spokane Valley is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and lakes. This offers residents a plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the year, such as hiking, kayaking, boating, fishing, skiing, and more. Residents love the abundant opportunity for an active, outdoor lifestyle.

Favorable Cost of Living

The cost of living in Spokane Valley is lower than the national average. This makes it a desirable location for people looking for affordable housing options without sacrificing quality of life. Expenses related to utilities, groceries, and healthcare are comparatively less in this region.

Strong Sense of Community

Despite its growth, Spokane Valley manages to maintain a strong sense of community. There's an emphasis on neighborliness, local events, and community development. This strong community bond enhances the living experience for its residents, promoting a sense of belonging and mutual support.

Relatively Low Traffic

Compared to larger cities like Seattle or Tacoma, Spokane Valley experiences relatively less congestion and traffic. This results in less commuting stress and more spare time for residents to spend on recreational activities or with family.

Four Distinct Seasons

Spokane Valley offers a full four-season climate, allowing residents to experience a varied weather pattern. From the blossoms of spring and warm summer days, to the colorful fall foliage and snowy winters - the changing seasons contribute to the charm of living in this region.

Cons of Living in Spokane Valley

Limited Job Market

While Spokane Valley has a stable economy, it does not boast a highly diverse job market. Depending on one's profession, job opportunities can be limited which can make it challenging for some individuals to find suitable employment.

Winter Weather Conditions

Winter in Spokane Valley can get quite cold and snowy. This may pose challenges such as icy roads and sidewalks, needing to shovel snow, and potentially higher heating costs. Consequently, winter weather conditions might not be favourable for everyone.

Higher Crime Rates

Findings suggest that Spokane Valley has slightly higher crime rates compared to some other areas in Washington. While this is not uncommon for urban areas, it may be a consideration for families or individuals looking to move there.

Less Diversity

Compared to other cities, Spokane Valley is less diverse in terms of culture and ethnicity. As a result, some might find the city's cultural offerings a bit limited.

Lack of High-End Amenities and Attractions

While Spokane Valley offers necessary amenities, it lacks some of the high-end conveniences and attractions that you may find in larger metropolitan cities. This includes things like elite shopping centers, culinary diversity, or significant cultural institutions like museums and galleries.

Modern day picture of Spokane Valley, WA highlighting pros and cons of living in Spokane Valley, WA

Is Spokane Valley a Good Place to Live?


Spokane Valley, WA is a great place to live because of its breathtaking natural beauty, sense of community, and lower cost of living compared to other cities in the state. The city also offers an abundance of recreational activities, excellent schools, and a slower pace of life which makes it even more inviting. Above all, beautiful parks, hiking trails, and close proximity to lakes make it an outdoor enthusiast's dream!


What Is Spokane Valley Famous For?

CenterPlace Regional Event Center

This is a modern high-tech event center where residents and visitors alike can enjoy different events year-round. The impressive structure also has exceptionally beautiful grounds suitable for staging outdoor events or just enjoying a tranquil afternoon in the outdoors.

Discovery Playground

This is not the average amusement park you come across every day. It offers both children and adults a chance to explore and learn about the environment in a fun and interactive way. Discovery Playground features scenic trails, interactive play equipment, picnic spaces, as well as beautiful green spaces for relaxation.

Mirabeau Point Park

This 55.1-acre park is an oasis of outdoor activities. It boasts a natural area for exploring, several miles of paths for walking or cycling, sports facilities, a splash pad, and a special area for dogs. There's something for everyone at Mirabeau Point Park.

Spokane Valley Museum

Dedicated to preserving the rich history of Spokane Valley, this museum is a must-visit for any history enthusiast. It exhibits thousands of artifacts that tell the story of the city's past, including pioneer life, early industry, and the development of Spokane Valley into the thriving city it is today.

Capital building of Spokane Valley, WA in artistic rendering

Overview of Tax Rates

Property Tax

As of 2023, the property tax rate for Spokane Valley, WA is about 1.07% of a property's assessed fair market value. This rate is slightly lower than the US average and significantly lower than that of many other states, such as New Jersey and Illinois, which have rates exceeding 2%.

Sales Tax

In Spokane Valley, the combined sales tax rate is 8.8% as of 2023. This is wealthier than the national median of 7.12%, making sales taxes higher in Spokane Valley compared to many other regions in the US.

Income Tax

Washington State, including Spokane Valley, does not impose a state income tax, so residents are only subject to federal income tax. This makes overall income tax lower for residents of Spokane Valley compared to numerous other parts of the country that have both state and federal income taxes.

Housing Market

Spokane Valley, WA's housing market differs significantly from others across the US. The median home value is roughly $305K, noticeably lower than the national median but showing consistent recent growth. Buying is the preferred choice over renting due to affordable options with 65% of residents holding homeownership. Renters find a varied market, with an average rent of $1,075, less than the national average. The area showcases a competitive market with diversified options for those looking for single-family houses, apartments, or condominiums. Essential statistics suggest a high-demand, cost-effective, and burgeoning real estate market in Spokane Valley.

Cost of Living

The current cost of living in Spokane Valley, WA is relatively affordable when compared to other cities. As of 2021, the cost of housing, groceries, and healthcare remain significantly below the national average. While transportation expenses are slightly above average, the overall cost of living still provides considerable savings for residents in comparison to larger cities like Seattle or San Francisco. Therefore, Spokane Valley offers an attractive option for those seeking a balance of affordability and quality of life.

Weather & Natural Disasters

Spokane Valley, Washington, exhibits a climate classified as warm-summer Mediterranean, boasting long, hot summers and moderately cold winters. Average high temperatures in the summer hover around 83degF, while winter brings lows around 22degF. The area gets about 17 inches of rain annually, considerably lower than the US average, making it comparatively dry. Snowfall, averaging 45 inches per season, is quite significant, primarily in the winter months. Spokane Valley is not immune to natural disasters. While it is relatively shielded from extreme weather conditions like tornadoes, hurricanes, and tsunamis, it does experience earthquakes, wildfires, and occasionally, severe winter storms. These natural events, although infrequent, play a part in shaping Spokane Valley's landscape and its community's resilience measures.

Typical weather in Spokane Valley, WA

Economy & Job Market

- Healthcare and Social Assistance

- Retail Trade

- Manufacturing

- Education Services

- Accommodation and Food Services

Regarded as Washington's sprawling suburban gem, Spokane Valley boasts a dynamic and fast-growing economy that's steeped in history but progressively evolving. Carved into the rustic beauty of the Pacific North West, this area blossomed from a region known for its fertile orchards, logging, and mining to a commercial powerhouse recognized for its diverse industries. Today, the city's major economic drivers include healthcare and social assistance, retail trade, manufacturing, education services, and accommodation and food services. Furthermore, in keeping with the tech revolution era, Spokane Valley has also witnessed a burgeoning IT industry.

Thinking of packing your bags for Spokane Valley? There's a job for you in this vibrant economy. The area has a robust and diverse job market that's seen consistent growth over the years. Spokane Valley enjoys an impressively low unemployment rate, averaging around 5.3%, which is lower than the national average. Moreover, the city's relatively low cost of living makes it even more attractive, enabling more bang for your employment buck. Job seekers would do exceptionally well in the healthcare, retail, and education sectors which have seen more remarkable growth. Spokane Valley may be home to your dream job - don't just daydream about it - relocate and embrace the wealth of opportunities!

Traffic and Transportation

Spokane Valley, WA is one dynamic traffic hub that's got her hustle and bustle in a teacup! On average, commuting here is a breezy 20 minutes, a tiny notch down from the national average! Yes, you heard it right, less singing in the traffic! But hey, not a fan of the driving game? STA (Spokane Transit Authority) has got your back with an extensive public transport network, serving up juicy routes across the Valley and beyond. And if that wasn't fun enough, Spokane Valley also dishes out amazing air travel options at Spokane International Airport. Spontaneous vacation or a planned business trip, wheels up in no time! So, whether it's thriving on the road, hopping on a bus or soaring in the sky, Spokane Valley offers a smorgasbord of travel options to cruise through your day!

What is the traffic like in Spokane Valley, WA?

Best Neighborhoods in Spokane Valley

1. Greenacres

First on our list is the charming district of Greenacres. Known for its calm, suburban vibe, Greenacres offers a balanced mix of urban convenience and rural charm. This neighborhood is rich in outdoor recreation opportunities with the Spokane River, Centennial Trail, and a variety of local parks just a stone's throw away. Greenacres is a leisure-loving community that enjoys a slower pace of life. This could be a perfect pitstop for those who value peace, quiet, and being close to nature.

2. Spokane Valley

Don't be fooled by the name; Spokane Valley is actually a prime neighborhood in Spokane Valley, not the city itself. This pleasant area is characterized by its family-friendly ambiance, with great schools, beautiful parks, and ample shopping facilities. Residents love the delicious dining options sprinkled throughout the area, from tasty taco joints to premium steak restaurants. It's a comfortable place to settle down and raise a family, with a strong sense of community and safety.

3. Veradale

Next up is Veradale, a neighborhood that has a little bit of everything. Known for its diversity, Veradale combines residential zones with commercial sectors, meaning amenities and services are always close at hand. With a variety of fitness centers, grocery stores, movie theatres, and eateries around, every day is an exploration. Veradale homes are widely spaced, offering residents the beauty of both world: neighborhood charm and personal space.

4. Liberty Lake

If you're an outdoor enthusiast, cat lover, or just someone who loves breathing in the fresh air, Liberty Lake might be your ideal spot. Nestled between the banks of the lake that shares its name, and several green spaces, Liberty Lake is an outdoorsy paradise within Spokane Valley. Whether it's hiking, biking, boating, or playing golf, Liberty Lake delivers a myriad of recreational activities often accompanied by stunning views. And yes, there are plenty of lovely cats in this area!

5. Trentwood

Trentwood is the industrial heart of Spokane Valley. While it houses several manufacturing companies, Trentwood is more than just a commercial hub; it's also a well-rounded, residential area. With a friendly community, parks to unwind, and various shops and restaurants, you'll find everything you need within easy reach. Plus, the welcoming atmosphere makes it an inviting place to create a new home.

In conclusion, each neighborhood in Spokane Valley, WA has its own unique appeal for newcomers. Whether it's the calm ambiance of Greenacres, the family-friendly allure of Spokane Valley, the convenience of Veradale, the outdoor wonderland of Liberty Lake, or the welcoming community in Trentwood, you will find a place that suits your style and needs. So pack your bags and pick a locality that makes you feel at home the most in this fascinating city!

Best neighborhoods in Spokane Valley, WA image

Things to Do

Welcome to Spokane Valley, WA! Nestled between the Selkirk Mountains and the Rocky Mountains, Spokane Valley is a hidden gem that just waits to be explored! Offering a range of natural and cultural treasures, this town entices with everything from stunning trails to fascinating museums. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a lover of the arts, here are seven top things you must do in Spokane Valley, WA.

1. Experience Centennial Trail

As a new Spokane Valley resident, getting familiar with the Centennial Trail is a must. This scenic, 37-mile recreational trail extends from the Idaho state line to Spokane. It's perfect for biking, hiking, or even a leisurely stroll. With multiple highlights like the Spokane River, the trail offers breathtaking views.

2. Visit Appleway Florist and Greenhouse

Appleway Florist and Greenhouse is not just a nursery; it's an experience! With over 60 years of history, this local treasure is sure to introduce you to some local flora and may inspire you to sprout your own green thumb.

3. Discover the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum

To truly immerse yourself in your new city, head to the Spokane Valley Heritage Museum. You'll gain an understanding of the city's history, its people, and the transformative events that have occurred over the years. It's a meaningful experience that connects you with the city and its story.

4. Savor Local Delights at Aracelia's Mexican Restaurant

One of Spokane Valley's best-kept secrets, Aracelia's Mexican Restaurant is a must-visit. Serving authentic Mexican cuisine that rivals that of out-of-town competitors, it's the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal and experience local culinary delights.

5. Go Paddling in the Spokane River

The Spokane River is no ordinary river, and a paddling trip isn't your standard boating experience. The local company ROW Adventure Center offers everything from gentle floats to athletic whitewater paddling. No matter your level of experience or thrill-seeking tendencies, you're sure to find a journey that suits you.

6. Seek Out Spokane Valley's Street Art

This one's for the art lovers! Off the beaten path, the Miss Spokane Valley mural on the side of Rustic Realty, LLC is one of the most stunning pieces of street art you'll come across in the city. The mural represents Miss Spokane Valley's dedication to promoting the community.

7. Enjoy Bowling at Lilac Lanes

One for the nostalgics out there, Lilac Lanes Bowling alley is truly a hidden gem. With their retro vibes and focus on fun, not competition, you're sure to have a great time - whether you're rolling strikes or gutter balls!

In conclusion, Spokane Valley, WA is full of activities and discovery. As a newcomer, you'll quickly learn the city's charm lies not only in its striking landscapes but also in its vibrant history, culture, and sense of community. So don't wait, dive straight into exploring and making fantastic memories in your new city. Enjoy Spokane Valley!

Things to do in Spokane Valley, WA?

Find Movers for Your Spokane Valley Relocation

As you plan your move to the vibrant community of Spokane Valley, we hope you'll consider the ease and efficiency provided by Great Guys Moving. With our network of licensed and insured moving companies, tailoring your moving requirements has never been simpler. Implementing our unique mix of quality service and affordable pricing, we ensure your transition to Spokane Valley is seamless. By providing just the basic details of your move, you'll quickly be connected to reputable movers who are eager to help. Don't delay--take the first step in your Spokane Valley journey. Request a free moving quote from Great Guys Moving today.

See The Best Movers For Moving To Washington From...

Find out how much your move costs!