Living in Southwest WA: Why Relocators Are Choosing Lewis County Over Olympia

By Jessica Kirker | Olympic Sotheby’s International Realty

If you’ve been scrolling through Zillow lately, looking at home prices in Olympia and feeling a little discouraged, you are definitely not alone. I talk to people every single day who are trying to figure out where they fit in this shifting market.

It’s a huge transition, and honestly, moving to a new area can feel overwhelming. But let’s take it one step at a time. Lately, I’ve seen a massive shift of buyers looking just a little further south down I-5, trading the hustle of Thurston County for the breathing room of Lewis County.

Why is everyone moving to Lewis County right now?

The primary driver is the "Acreage-to-Price Ratio." In Olympia (Thurston County), finding a home on 1+ acres is becoming increasingly rare and expensive. In Lewis County (Chehalis/Centralia), buyers are frequently securing 5+ acre properties for significantly less than the cost of a standard subdivision home in Olympia. Relocators are choosing a 25-minute longer commute in exchange for land, privacy, and a lower mortgage payment.

Is it Cheaper to Live in Chehalis or Olympia?

Yeah, absolutely. The difference in purchasing power right now is stark. When my clients come to me from Seattle or even Olympia, they are often shocked at what their budget can actually get them here.

In Olympia, the market has become incredibly competitive, and you’re often paying a premium for location while sacrificing lot size. In Chehalis and Centralia, we still have that "small-town" affordability, but with growing amenities.

Here is a quick breakdown of what I’m seeing in the current market:

Can You Really Find 5+ Acres in Lewis County?

This is the number one reason I see people making the move. If your dream is to have a shop, a garden, maybe some chickens, or just enough trees that you can’t see your neighbor’s back porch—Lewis County is where you need to be.

In Olympia, you are really hard-pressed to find anything over one acre unless you have a very high budget. Down here? It’s not just possible; it’s one of our standard inventory types. I regularly show properties with five, ten, or even twenty acres that are still within reach for a standard family budget. It’s about buying a lifestyle, not just a house.

What is the Commute from Chehalis to Olympia?

This is the big question, right? "Jessica, I work in Olympia—can I actually live in Chehalis?"

The answer is yes. The drive along the I-5 Corridor is a straight shot, usually taking about 25 to 30 minutes depending on where you land. For many of my clients, that extra drive time is worth it when they pull into their driveway and have total peace and quiet. Plus, you’re escaping the heavier traffic congestion found further north near JBLM and Tacoma.

Life in "The Twin Cities": More Than Just Land

I don’t want you to think moving here means giving up culture or fun. I am over the moon about how our local community is growing. We aren’t just a rural outpost; we have amazing local spots that rival the bigger cities.

• Family Fun: We have the incredible Penny Playground at Recreation Park in Chehalis—it’s a massive draw for families and totally redone.

• Food Scene: You have to check out Jeremy’s Farm to Table. It’s this beautiful market and restaurant that really highlights our agricultural roots.

The "Space to Breathe" Factor

Let me give you a generalized example of what I’m seeing. Imagine a family living in a cramped subdivision in Lacey. They can hear their neighbors through the walls, the yard is barely big enough for the dog, and they are paying top dollar.

They sell that home, move 30 minutes south, and suddenly they are on 5 acres. The kids are running outside, they’re building that pole barn they always wanted, and their monthly payment might even be lower. That is the trade-off, and for more and more people, it is an easy "yes."

Ready to Explore Southwest Washington?

I know this is a lot to think about, but I’m here to help you navigate it with confidence. Whether you are looking for that luxury estate or your first home with a little bit of dirt, we can find it.

[Book a Discovery Call with Jessica Kirker Here] — Let’s chat about your timeline and see if Lewis County is the right fit for you.

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