Snow-capped volcanic peaks, lush greenery, and tight-knit communities. These are just a few things you can look forward to if you’re considering moving to Southwest Washington. Aptly called the Evergreen State, Washington sits in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Over the last few years, as remote work empowered many to leave urban epicenters for a slower pace of life, regions of Southwest Washington have seen tremendous growth. 

To enjoy Southwest Washington’s many benefits, Pahlisch Homes welcomes you to learn more about the region. You can also peek at the luxury homes awaiting your next chapter at Austin Heritage and Sanderling Park. This lifestyle guide looks at what makes Southwest Washington such an incredible place to call home! 

First, Where Is Southwest Washington?

Southwest Washington stretches from the picturesque forests of Olympia to the summit of the mighty Cascades, down south to the Oregon-Washington state line. It’s home to several urban centers, including Olympia (the state capital) and Vancouver.

This unique stretch of Washington offers a bit of everything for everyone—from coastline to temperate rainforest and mountain summits. Southwest Washington’s beautiful views, cool, wet winters, and mild, dry summers make it ideal for anybody who craves 4-season weather. 

What It’s Like Living in Southwest Washington

An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Paradise

There’s a reason Washington is called the Evergreen State! Old-growth forests, a temperate coastal zone, and snow-capped volcanic mountains make it the perfect setting for year-round exploration. 

One of the most populous cities in Southwest Washington, Vancouver is perfectly situated between Mount St. Helens, the Columbia River Gorge, and the Pacific Coast. Whether you prefer beach-front camping, water sports on the river, or incredible summit views, there’s something for everyone in this diverse region. 

Looking to collect more stamps for your National Parks Passport? Washington State is home to three national parks: Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, and North Cascades National Park. From your home base in Southwest Washington, you’re only half a day’s drive from some of the nation’s most stunning wilderness.  

Careers and Education

Washington is quickly becoming a hub for information technology, engineering, and healthcare professionals. A booming job market and no state income tax are big draws for many looking to move to Washington State. 

Excellent public schools further elevate the communities in Vancouver and Ridgefield. Vancouver’s public school options include twenty-one elementary schools, six middle schools, five high schools, and magnet schools for arts, culture, and STEM. This variety makes Vancouver and Ridgefield appealing to many families and individuals.

Rural and Urban Living 

Locals know that Southwest Washington is one of the PNW’s best-kept secrets. Many regions, especially Vancouver, offer residents the perfect balance of rural and urban living. Plus, with the nearby Portland Metro just across the river, it’s easy to live in Vancouver and work in the city. 

Thinking that life might get a little too quiet in Southwest Washington? Don’t worry! Vancouver is home to a diverse and vibrant downtown and a world-class waterfront experience. Downtown, a mix of modern and historic buildings line highly-walkable streets. You can explore local restaurants and breweries, stop by the First Friday Art Walk, or check out vintage boutiques and hip coffee shops. 

Pahlisch Communities in Southwest Washington

Pahlisch currently has two communities in Southwest Washington. Those two communities are Austin Heritage in Vancouver, just across the river from Portland. And Sanderling Park in Ridgefield, just 15 minutes north of Vancouver. 

Austin Heritage, Vancouver

Austin Heritage, located just five minutes from downtown Vancouver, is Pahlisch’s rural retreat community. While it’s surrounded by the vibrant greens and golds of Washington farmland, Austin Heritage is just 20 miles from downtown Portland. This balance between small-town charm and big-city amenities makes the community an idyllic retreat at the end of busy work days. 

At Austin Heritage, homebuyers will find townhomes, cottages, and single-family homes to fit any chapter in life. Spacious floor plans include spare nooks, flex rooms, and covered porches and patios, so you can tailor the space to suit your lifestyle. Inside, designer finishes and smart home integrations make life all the more luxurious and stress-free. 

Community amenities include a centrally-located clubhouse with an outdoor pool, a community park and play area, and plenty of paved trails through green spaces so residents can connect with the area’s natural beauty.

Contact our New Home Specialists to learn more about current availability and the future growth of Austin Heritage. 

Sanderling Park, Ridgefield

Sanderling Park is a much-anticipated Pahlisch Homes community—our first in Ridgefield, Washington—that will allow residents to bask in the beauty of Southwest Washington while enjoying the luxury of a Pahlisch home. 

The community’s Phase 1 includes a clubhouse with a state-of-the-art fitness center, an outdoor pool, and cozy fire pits—the perfect place for more connected living with friends and neighbors. At Sanderling Park, homebuyers can choose from a selection of single- and two-story townhomes and traditional single-family homes. 

In this fast-growing and exciting part of Southwest Washington, endless possibilities are on the horizon. Get in touch with our New Home Specialists to learn more about the future of Sanderling Park. 

Ready to Discover Southwest Washington Living?

If you’re looking for a change of scenery, a move to Washington State might be just what you need! And Pahlisch’s communities in Vancouver and Ridgefield give you room to put down roots, no matter what the next chapter of your life has in store. If you’re ready to discover the best of living in Southwest Washington, get in touch to learn more about these two incredible communities!