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Trying the top The Largest Cities In Washington cities on US State Largest Cities – Choose State & Number? Here are the top 10 to get you started.
1. Seattle, WA (Population: 755,078)
Seattle, Washington’s largest city, is a dynamic hub known for its innovation, culture, and natural beauty. Nestled between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, with the Olympic and Cascade Mountains in view, Seattle offers stunning scenery alongside urban energy. The city is home to tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft, fueling a thriving economy and attracting diverse talent from around the globe. Landmarks such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the waterfront are iconic attractions, while neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard showcase unique arts, dining, and nightlife scenes. Seattle is also rich in music history, from the grunge movement to legendary acts like Jimi Hendrix. With ferries, hiking trails, and water sports nearby, outdoor recreation is part of everyday life.
Interesting Fact: Seattle is one of the most literate cities in the U.S., with more bookstores and libraries per capita than most major cities.
2. Spokane, WA (Population: 229,447)
Spokane, located in eastern Washington near the Idaho border, is the region’s cultural and economic center. Known as the “Lilac City,” Spokane is celebrated for its parks, natural beauty, and strong community spirit. The Spokane River runs through the city, highlighted by Spokane Falls in Riverfront Park, which was redeveloped for the 1974 World’s Fair. Spokane’s economy includes healthcare, education, and manufacturing, with Gonzaga University and Washington State University’s medical campus adding to its academic presence. The city also hosts annual events like the Lilac Festival and Bloomsday Run. With its blend of historic districts, modern development, and outdoor opportunities like hiking and skiing nearby, Spokane offers a balanced lifestyle.
Interesting Fact: Spokane hosted Expo ’74, the first environmentally themed World’s Fair, transforming its downtown into Riverfront Park.
3. Tacoma, WA (Population: 222,906)
Tacoma, located on Puget Sound south of Seattle, combines a rich industrial past with modern revitalization. Once a major lumber and shipping hub, Tacoma remains an important port city, but today it is equally recognized for its museums, culture, and waterfront redevelopment. The Museum of Glass, with its striking architecture and Dale Chihuly exhibits, highlights the city’s role in contemporary art. The city’s downtown boasts restored theaters, creative districts, and lively eateries. Tacoma is also home to the University of Washington Tacoma and a growing tech presence. Outdoor lovers enjoy waterfront parks, trails, and nearby Mount Rainier.
Interesting Fact: Tacoma is nicknamed the “City of Destiny” because it was chosen as the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad in the 19th century.
4. Vancouver, WA (Population: 196,442)
Vancouver, Washington, sits on the north bank of the Columbia River directly across from Portland, Oregon. Known for its historic roots and growing suburban appeal, Vancouver offers residents a blend of small-town charm and access to big-city amenities. Fort Vancouver, a 19th-century trading post, highlights the city’s history, while Esther Short Park serves as the community’s gathering place for festivals and markets. Vancouver’s economy is tied to healthcare, manufacturing, and technology, with its location in the Portland metro area providing abundant opportunities. Its scenic riverfront has been revitalized into a lively district with restaurants and trails, making it a desirable place for both families and professionals.
Interesting Fact: Vancouver is one of the oldest permanent settlements in the Pacific Northwest, founded as a fur trading post in the 1820s.
5. Bellevue, WA (Population: 151,574)
Bellevue, located across Lake Washington from Seattle, has grown into a major business and technology hub. Known for its gleaming downtown skyline, Bellevue houses headquarters and offices for numerous tech companies, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in the region. The city offers a balance of urban sophistication and natural beauty, with Bellevue Botanical Garden, Mercer Slough, and Lake Washington providing outdoor recreation. Shopping centers like Bellevue Square and a vibrant dining scene add to its urban appeal. Bellevue is also highly regarded for its schools, making it one of the most desirable places to live in the state.
Interesting Fact: Bellevue was ranked one of America’s best places to live by multiple publications thanks to its economy, schools, and quality of life.
6. Kent, WA (Population: 133,378)
Kent, located in the Seattle metropolitan area, is one of the state’s fastest-growing cities. Historically an agricultural hub, Kent was once known as the “Lettuce Capital of the World.” Today, it has transformed into a center for manufacturing, distribution, and aerospace, with companies like Boeing and Amazon maintaining facilities here. The city features a mix of residential neighborhoods, business districts, and open spaces, including parks and trails. Kent also emphasizes cultural diversity, reflected in its festivals and restaurants. With its central location between Seattle and Tacoma, Kent offers accessibility while maintaining its own community character.
Interesting Fact: Kent was the first city in North America to cultivate hops commercially, giving it a historic connection to the brewing industry.
7. Everett, WA (Population: 111,180)
Everett, located north of Seattle on Puget Sound, is best known as the home of Boeing’s largest assembly plant, where aircraft like the 747 and 787 are built. The city’s economy is driven by aerospace, maritime industries, and the U.S. Navy, with Naval Station Everett playing a major role. Beyond industry, Everett offers cultural attractions such as the Imagine Children’s Museum and Angel of the Winds Arena, which hosts concerts and sporting events. The revitalized waterfront, parks, and nearby Cascade Mountains make it an appealing city for both work and recreation.
Interesting Fact: Everett is home to the world’s largest building by volume—the Boeing Everett Factory, covering 98 acres.
8. Spokane Valley, WA (Population: 108,235)
Spokane Valley, located adjacent to Spokane, is a rapidly growing city known for its suburban lifestyle and access to outdoor recreation. The city features large retail centers, community parks, and family-friendly neighborhoods, making it a popular place to live within the Spokane metro area. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the Centennial Trail, which runs through Spokane Valley along the Spokane River, as well as nearby lakes and ski areas. The city has also fostered a strong business environment, with manufacturing, healthcare, and retail contributing to its economy. Its blend of affordability and quality of life continues to attract new residents.
Interesting Fact: Spokane Valley is home to one of the largest malls in the Inland Northwest, Spokane Valley Mall.
9. Renton, WA (Population: 104,491)
Renton, situated south of Seattle on the shores of Lake Washington, has a rich industrial history and is now a growing residential and business community. Renton is home to Boeing’s 737 assembly line, continuing its strong aerospace connection. The city also features scenic parks, a redeveloped downtown, and easy access to the lake for boating and recreation. Renton’s diverse population and expanding housing market have made it a desirable suburb within the Seattle metro area. Sports fans know Renton as the home of the Seattle Seahawks’ training facility, which adds to its regional prominence.
Interesting Fact: Renton is where every Boeing 737 aircraft has been assembled since the 1960s.
10. Federal Way, WA (Population: 97,701)
Federal Way, located between Seattle and Tacoma, offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to major metropolitan areas. Originally a logging and farming community, it grew rapidly in the late 20th century into a diverse and vibrant city. Federal Way is home to family attractions such as Wild Waves Theme & Water Park, as well as the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden, which draws visitors for its unique plant collections. Retail centers and business districts support the local economy, while outdoor recreation is available at Dash Point State Park along Puget Sound.
Interesting Fact: Federal Way was named after Federal Highway U.S. 99, which ran through the area before Interstate 5 was built.
