With its natural beauty and ample recreational opportunities, it’s not surprising people want to move to Spokane, Washington. Spokane truly has something for everyone!
One of the most remarkable features of Spokane is its stunning natural landscape. From hiking and biking on numerous trails to skiing and snowboarding in winter, there is no shortage of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.
Beyond its natural wonders, Spokane also boasts a vibrant and thriving urban scene. The city's downtown area is brimming with eclectic shops, delectable eateries, and an array of cultural activities.
As more people recognize the city's potential, an increasing number are choosing to call Spokane home. This growth has resulted in the development of new neighborhoods, enhanced infrastructure, and burgeoning employment opportunities.
So, whether you are drawn to Spokane by its charm, its natural beauty, or its promising future, this comprehensive moving guide for Spokane, Washington will equip you with the knowledge and resources necessary to make your relocation a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Interested in buying a home in Spokane? Take a look at my listings here and reach out to me for more information.
Introduction to Spokane, Washington
Spokane is a city that effortlessly combines the charms of a small town with the opportunities of a thriving metropolitan area. Located in the heart of the Inland Northwest, Spokane offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban amenities, making it an increasingly popular place to call home.
One of the most attractive aspects of Spokane is its stunning natural surroundings. With the Spokane River winding through the city, a backdrop of majestic mountains, and a national average of 205 sunny days a year, outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise. From hiking and biking along scenic trails to skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains, Spokane provides abundant opportunities for recreation and exploration.
Do you have more questions about moving to and living in Spokane? Questions about the buying and selling process? Take a look at my frequently asked questions about the Spokane real estate market to learn more!
Beyond its natural beauty, Spokane boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene that rivals that of much larger cities. The city is home to theaters, art galleries, and museums, offering a rich cultural experience for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, Spokane hosts a plethora of annual events and festivals, celebrating everything from film and music to food and wine.
Several can’t-miss events around Spokane include:
- Hoopfest
- Bloomsday
- The Lilac Festival
- Plus plenty of art festivals, farmers markets, film festivals and more!
When considering a move to Spokane, it is crucial to plan ahead to ensure a smooth transition. From finding a suitable neighborhood and researching schools to organizing the logistics of your move, feeling prepared and supported can make all the difference. Fortunately, Spokane has a friendly and welcoming community that is always ready to assist newcomers in navigating the city and making it their home.
If you're interested in moving to Spokane, contact me! I'm a Spokane area local, and live, play and work in Spokane. I can help you identify the ideal areas of Spokane for you, and help you find the perfect home.
Researching Spokane Neighborhoods
When it comes to finding the perfect neighborhood in Spokane, a little research can go a long way. With its diverse range of communities, each offering unique charms and amenities, it's important to consider several factors before settling on your ideal neighborhood.
By understanding what makes a neighborhood truly special, you can make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
Spokane boasts an array of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and appeal. From the bustling Kendall Yards area to the close-knit communities like South Hill, Five Mile Prairie’s tranquil suburban life to the vibrant Perry District's artsy vibe, each neighborhood offers a unique experience. Other popular neighborhoods include Manito/Cannon Hill, Garland District, and Spokane Valley, renowned for their beautiful parks, friendly atmosphere, and excellent recreational opportunities.
When researching Spokane neighborhoods, consider factors such as proximity to amenities, commute times, safety, housing affordability, and access to schools or medical facilities. Additionally, take time to explore the neighborhoods firsthand, visiting local eateries, parks, and shops to get a feel for the community's ambiance.
Want to learn more about the South Hill area? Take a look at my write up of the South Hill area and market to learn more about this vibrant neighborhood, and stay tuned for more neighborhood guides from Behler Homes.
Navigating the complex landscape of Spokane's neighborhoods can be made easier by connecting with a reputable Spokane realtor. A real estate professional with local expertise can provide valuable insights into the characteristics of various neighborhoods, including market trends, school districts, and community developments. Take a look at my testimonials page to see what people are saying about working with me, and reach out to me here to learn more about moving to Spokane.
Preparing for Your Move to Spokane
Ready to make the move to Spokane, Washington? I’ve created a moving timeline to help you avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a successful relocation.
You may need a place to stay when planning a move to Spokane. While Spokane has many wonderful hotels throughout the city, I also recommend checking out Slumber Spokane. Slumber Spokane has short-term, fully-furnished home rentals that will make excellent accommodations for the whole family while touring homes here in Spokane.
Here's a good rule of thumb, by month, when it comes to preparing for a move:
3 months before:
- Start decluttering and organizing your belongings. Go through each room and decide what you want to keep, donate or throw away.
- Create a moving budget and start saving money if needed.
- Research moving companies and get quotes if using professional movers.
2 months before:
- Start packing non-essential items like decor, books, seasonal items, etc. Label boxes by room.
- Begin purging your pantry and cleaning out old medications, toiletries, chemicals, etc.
- Change your address with important accounts like banks, doctors, and subscriptions.
- Finalize moving company if using one and make reservations.
1 month before:
- Schedule disconnection/connection of utilities at old and new place.
- Pack essential daily use items that you won't need right away.
- Confirm parking arrangements for moving truck.
- Start packing specialty items like plants, artwork, electronics.
1-2 weeks before:
- Finish packing everything except daily essentials.
- Clean out appliances and prepare them for the move.
- Confirm details with real estate agents.
Moving day:
- Double check every room, closet and cabinet for any leftover items.
- Label boxes by room for easy unpacking.
- Double check address of new place for movers.
- Be on site as movers load and unload.
- Install new utilities, change locks if needed.
- Unpack and enjoy your new home!
If you're selling a home in Spokane, take a look at my guide to selling a home in Spokane to get even more information about the home selling process in Spokane.
Adapting to Spokane Living
One of the first steps in assimilating to a new city is getting acquainted with the local history and activities. Spokane boasts a rich history and a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and museums to explore. From the iconic Riverfront Park to the bustling downtown area, there's always something to see and do.
Integrating into the community is a vital part of feeling at home in Spokane. Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook, where I share connections, fun things happening around the city, and opportunities for families to connect. From neighborhood associations to volunteer organizations, there are numerous opportunities to connect and make meaningful connections within our welcoming community.
Resources for New Spokane Residents
First, I recommend visiting the City of Spokane's official website at www.spokanecity.org. Here, you will find a wealth of information on city services, utilities, permits, and other important details. It's an excellent starting point to familiarize yourself with everything Spokane has to offer.
For those seeking information on transportation options, the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) has a user-friendly website (www.spokanetransit.com) where you can plan your routes, check schedules, and learn about the various public transportation options available.
Additionally, if you have school-aged children, the Spokane Public Schools website (www.spokaneschools.org) provides valuable information on enrollment procedures, calendars, and school-specific resources.
Checklist for a Smooth Move
Moving to a new home can be an exciting yet daunting experience. I’m a big fan of checklists, so here’s a great starting list as you plan your move to Spokane:
- Create a move in checklist of your items and timeline to organize the process
- Sort and declutter belongings - decide what to keep, donate, or toss
- Obtain moving supplies - boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers, etc.
- Schedule disconnection/connection of utilities at old and new place
- Schedule moving truck rental or hire professional movers
- Pack room by room, labeling boxes clearly
- Use up food and household supplies that cannot be moved
- Transfer prescriptions and medical records if changing healthcare providers
- Update address for subscriptions, banks, employers, etc.
- Clean the house, dispose of trash and unwanted items
- Perform any needed maintenance at new home before moving in
- Install new locks if needed for security
- Protect floors and doors by covering with blankets during move
- Confirm utilities are connected and working
- Update driver's license, register vehicles, and complete other local transitions (library cards, etc.)
Making a Smooth Move to Spokane, Washington
Spokane is an attractive destination for those looking for a blend of natural beauty, urban amenities, and a thriving job market. With proper planning and preparation, the move can be smooth and stress-free.
Some key steps I recommend include:
- researching neighborhoods to find the right fit
- setting a moving timeline
- using local resources
- following a moving checklist
As your realtor, I can help with all of that and more! Reach out to me if you have questions about making a move to Spokane.
