List of Cities in Washington Alphabetically
Washington has around 281 incorporated cities and towns. The state capital is Olympia, while the largest city is Seattle, a major global center for technology, aerospace, and commerce. Other large cities include Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Bellevue, Kent, Everett, Renton, Yakima, and Federal Way. Washington’s economy is diverse, with major industries including technology (led by companies like Microsoft and Amazon), aerospace, agriculture, and trade. Seattle and its surrounding cities form the cultural and economic heart of the state, while smaller towns in eastern Washington are heavily focused on agriculture.
1. Seattle
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 762,687 (2023 estimates)
- Area Codes: 206, 253, 425
- Zip Codes: 98101–98199
- County: King County
Geography and History
Seattle is located in the Pacific Northwest on an isthmus between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, with views of the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. It has a temperate marine climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Originally home to the Duwamish and Coast Salish peoples, Seattle was founded in 1851 and named after Chief Si’ahl of the local tribes. Its early economy was driven by the timber industry, but the city expanded rapidly during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897, becoming a key supply center. Throughout the 20th century, Boeing, Microsoft, and later Amazon contributed to the city’s transformation into a global technology hub. Today, Seattle is known for its vibrant tech sector, arts scene, and environmental sustainability initiatives.
Colleges and Universities
- University of Washington: A top-ranked public research university, known for programs in medicine, engineering, and computer science.
- Seattle University: A private Jesuit university offering programs in law, business, and health sciences.
- Seattle Pacific University: A Christian liberal arts university with strong programs in education and psychology.
- Cornish College of the Arts: A private arts college known for visual and performing arts programs.
- North Seattle College, South Seattle College, and Seattle Central College: Public community colleges offering associate degrees and transfer pathways.
Major Landmarks
Seattle’s most famous landmark is the Space Needle, built for the 1962 World’s Fair, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Pike Place Market, a bustling public market, is home to the iconic fishmongers and the original Starbucks. The Seattle Art Museum and its Olympic Sculpture Park highlight the city’s cultural offerings. Seattle’s waterfront includes the Seattle Aquarium and the Great Wheel, a large Ferris wheel offering views over Elliott Bay. The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), with its striking architecture, celebrates music, film, and video games. Additionally, the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit showcases the work of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly.
2. Spokane
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 229,071 (2023 estimates)
- Area Codes: 509
- Zip Codes: 99201–99260
- County: Spokane County
Geography and History
Spokane is located in eastern Washington, near the Spokane River and surrounded by the rolling hills of the Palouse and the rugged Selkirk Mountains. The city has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Originally inhabited by the Spokane Tribe, the area grew significantly after the arrival of settlers in the late 19th century. The discovery of gold and silver in nearby mines fueled Spokane’s early growth, leading to its nickname, the “Lilac City.” Spokane hosted the 1974 World’s Fair, the first environmental-themed exposition, which brought international attention to the city and helped revitalize its downtown. Today, Spokane is a regional center for education, healthcare, and outdoor recreation.
Colleges and Universities
- Gonzaga University: A private Jesuit university known for its law school, engineering programs, and competitive basketball team.
- Eastern Washington University: Located in nearby Cheney, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly strong in education and social work.
- Whitworth University: A private Christian liberal arts university, recognized for its programs in business, education, and the sciences.
- Washington State University Spokane: A branch campus focused on health sciences, including pharmacy, medicine, and nursing.
- Spokane Community College and Spokane Falls Community College: Public community colleges offering associate degrees and technical training.
Major Landmarks
Spokane’s Riverfront Park, created for the 1974 World’s Fair, remains a major attraction, featuring the Spokane Falls and a 1909 Looff Carrousel. The Spokane River Gorge offers scenic views and outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. Manito Park, a 90-acre botanical garden, includes a rose garden, Japanese garden, and conservatory. The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture showcases regional history, including Native American artifacts and exhibits on the Lewis and Clark expedition. Gonzaga University’s McCarthey Athletic Center, home to the school’s renowned basketball team, is a key cultural landmark. The Bing Crosby House Museum, celebrating the famed singer and actor who was born in Spokane, is another notable site.
3. Tacoma
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 223,568 (2023 estimates)
- Area Codes: 253
- Zip Codes: 98401–98499
- County: Pierce County
Geography and History
Tacoma is located on the Puget Sound, south of Seattle, with views of Mount Rainier to the southeast. The city has a marine west coast climate, with mild, rainy winters and cool summers. Tacoma was established in 1868, growing quickly when it became the terminus for the Northern Pacific Railroad in the 1880s. Known as the “City of Destiny,” Tacoma became a major port and industrial center. Over time, its economy has diversified, with a growing emphasis on technology, arts, and environmental sustainability. The revitalization of Tacoma’s downtown area has brought new cultural and commercial growth, making it a hub for residents in the South Sound region.
Colleges and Universities
- University of Washington Tacoma: A branch of the University of Washington offering undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, and urban studies.
- Pacific Lutheran University: A private university affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church, known for its programs in nursing, business, and the arts.
- University of Puget Sound: A private liberal arts college offering a wide range of programs in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
- Bates Technical College: Offers vocational and technical programs in fields like healthcare, engineering, and information technology.
- Tacoma Community College: Provides associate degrees and certificates, as well as transfer programs to four-year universities.
Major Landmarks
Tacoma’s Museum District is home to several cultural institutions, including the Museum of Glass, which features glass art exhibits and live glassblowing demonstrations. The Washington State History Museum offers exhibits on the state’s history and culture, while LeMay – America’s Car Museum showcases vintage cars and automotive history. Point Defiance Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, includes the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, a rose garden, and hiking trails with views of the Puget Sound. The historic Pantages Theater hosts performances ranging from concerts to Broadway shows, while the Tacoma Dome is a major venue for sports and entertainment events.
4. Vancouver
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 197,823 (2023 estimates)
- Area Codes: 360, 564
- Zip Codes: 98660–98687
- County: Clark County
Geography and History
Vancouver is located on the north bank of the Columbia River, just across from Portland, Oregon. The city enjoys a marine west coast climate, with mild winters and dry summers. Vancouver is one of the oldest settlements in the Pacific Northwest, founded in 1825 as a fur trading post for the Hudson’s Bay Company. Fort Vancouver became an important center for trade and military operations. As the population grew in the 19th and 20th centuries, Vancouver became a hub for the timber industry and agriculture. In the modern era, its economy has diversified into technology, healthcare, and education, while maintaining close ties to Portland.
Colleges and Universities
- Washington State University Vancouver: A branch campus of WSU offering undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like business, education, and science.
- Clark College: A public community college offering two-year degrees and transfer programs, as well as vocational certifications.
- Charter College Vancouver: Offers career-focused programs in health care, business, and technology.
- Multnomah University Vancouver: A Christian university offering undergraduate programs in theology, education, and psychology.
Major Landmarks
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is a key landmark, featuring reconstructed buildings from the 19th-century fur trading post and military fort. The Pearson Air Museum, located at the site, celebrates the history of aviation in the Pacific Northwest. Esther Short Park, the oldest public square in Washington, is a gathering place for festivals, farmers markets, and concerts. The Vancouver Waterfront, recently revitalized, includes restaurants, walking trails, and scenic views of the Columbia River. The nearby Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge offers opportunities for birdwatching and hiking, while Vancouver Lake Park is a popular spot for outdoor recreation and water sports.
5. Bellevue
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 153,007 (2023 estimates)
- Area Codes: 425, 564
- Zip Codes: 98004–98009
- County: King County
Geography and History
Bellevue is situated across Lake Washington from Seattle, with views of both the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges. The city has a temperate marine climate, with wet winters and dry summers. Originally a farming community, Bellevue began to grow rapidly after the construction of the Lake Washington Floating Bridge in 1940, which connected it directly to Seattle. Post-World War II development turned Bellevue into a major residential and commercial center, and it is now one of the wealthiest and fastest-growing cities in the region. Bellevue is known for its thriving tech sector, with companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and T-Mobile having a significant presence in the area.
Colleges and Universities
- Bellevue College: The largest community college in Washington, offering associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and professional certificates in various fields.
- City University of Seattle (Bellevue Campus): Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, and technology.
- Northwest University: A private Christian university located in nearby Kirkland, offering undergraduate and graduate programs.
- University of Washington (Bothell Campus): Located nearby, offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in business, education, and health.
Major Landmarks
Bellevue’s downtown area is known for its skyline and high-end shopping at Bellevue Square. The Bellevue Arts Museum features contemporary art, crafts, and design exhibitions. Bellevue Botanical Garden offers 53 acres of gardens, wetlands, and woodlands, providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Meydenbauer Bay Park, located on Lake Washington, offers waterfront access for kayaking and picnics. The Mercer Slough Nature Park is a large wetland park with walking trails and an environmental education center. Each year, the city hosts the Bellevue Arts Fair, one of the largest art fairs in the Pacific Northwest.
List of All Cities and Towns in Washington in Alphabetical Order
- Aberdeen, Washington
- Acme, Washington
- Airway Heights, Washington
- Albion, Washington
- Allyn, Washington
- Almira, Washington
- Amboy, Washington
- Anacortes, Washington
- Arlington, Washington
- Ashford, Washington
- Asotin, Washington
- Auburn, Washington
- Bainbridge Island, Washington
- Baring, Washington
- Battle Ground, Washington
- Bay Center, Washington
- Bellevue, Washington
- Bellingham, Washington
- Benton City, Washington
- Bingen, Washington
- Black Diamond, Washington
- Blaine, Washington
- Bothell, Washington
- Bremerton, Washington
- Brewster, Washington
- Bridgeport, Washington
- Brinnon, Washington
- Brush Prairie, Washington
- Buckley, Washington
- Bucoda, Washington
- Burbank, Washington
- Burlington, Washington
- Camano Island, Washington
- Camas, Washington
- Carbonado, Washington
- Carlsborg, Washington
- Carnation, Washington
- Carson, Washington
- Cashmere, Washington
- Castle Rock, Washington
- Cathlamet, Washington
- Centralia, Washington
- Chehalis, Washington
- Chelan, Washington
- Cheney, Washington
- Chewelah, Washington
- Chinook, Washington
- Clarkston, Washington
- Cle Elum, Washington
- Clearlake, Washington
- Clinton, Washington
- Colfax, Washington
- College Place, Washington
- Colton, Washington
- Colville, Washington
- Concrete, Washington
- Connell, Washington
- Copalis Beach, Washington
- Cosmopolis, Washington
- Coulee City, Washington
- Coulee Dam, Washington
- Coupeville, Washington
- Creston, Washington
- Cusick, Washington
- Custer, Washington
- Dallesport, Washington
- Darrington, Washington
- Davenport, Washington
- Dayton, Washington
- Deer Park, Washington
- Deming, Washington
- Dixie, Washington
- Dupont, Washington
- Duvall, Washington
- East Wenatchee, Washington
- Easton, Washington
- Eatonville, Washington
- Edmonds, Washington
- Electric City, Washington
- Elk, Washington
- Ellensburg, Washington
- Elma, Washington
- Elmer City, Washington
- Endicott, Washington
- Entiat, Washington
- Enumclaw, Washington
- Ephrata, Washington
- Everett, Washington
- Everson, Washington
- Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington
- Fairfield, Washington
- Fall City, Washington
- Federal Way, Washington
- Ferndale, Washington
- Forks, Washington
- Fox Island, Washington
- Freeland, Washington
- Friday Harbor, Washington
- Garfield, Washington
- George, Washington
- Gig Harbor, Washington
- Gold Bar, Washington
- Goldendale, Washington
- Graham, Washington
- Grand Coulee, Washington
- Grandview, Washington
- Granger, Washington
- Granite Falls, Washington
- Grayland, Washington
- Greenacres, Washington
- Hamilton, Washington
- Harrah, Washington
- Harrington, Washington
- Hobart, Washington
- Hoquiam, Washington
- Humptulips, Washington
- Ilwaco, Washington
- Inchelium, Washington
- Indianola, Washington
- Ione, Washington
- Issaquah, Washington
- Kahlotus, Washington
- Kalama, Washington
- Kelso, Washington
- Kenmore, Washington
- Kennewick, Washington
- Kent, Washington
- Kettle Falls, Washington
- Kingston, Washington
- Kirkland, Washington
- Kittitas, Washington
- Klickitat, Washington
- La Center, Washington
- La Conner, Washington
- Lacey, Washington
- Lacrosse, Washington
- Lake Stevens, Washington
- Lakewood, Washington
- Langley, Washington
- Leavenworth, Washington
- Liberty Lake, Washington
- Lind, Washington
- Long Beach, Washington
- Longview, Washington
- Lyle, Washington
- Lyman, Washington
- Lynden, Washington
- Lynnwood, Washington
- Mabton, Washington
- Malden, Washington
- Malone, Washington
- Manchester, Washington
- Mansfield, Washington
- Maple Falls, Washington
- Maple Valley, Washington
- Marblemount, Washington
- Marysville, Washington
- Mattawa, Washington
- Mcchord Afb, Washington
- Mccleary, Washington
- Medical Lake, Washington
- Medina, Washington
- Mercer Island, Washington
- Mesa, Washington
- Metaline Falls, Washington
- Milton, Washington
- Moclips, Washington
- Monroe, Washington
- Montesano, Washington
- Morton, Washington
- Moses Lake, Washington
- Mossyrock, Washington
- Mount Vernon, Washington
- Mountlake Terrace, Washington
- Moxee, Washington
- Mukilteo, Washington
- Naches, Washington
- Napavine, Washington
- Naselle, Washington
- Neah Bay, Washington
- Neilton, Washington
- Nespelem, Washington
- Newport, Washington
- Nooksack, Washington
- North Bend, Washington
- North Bonneville, Washington
- Northport, Washington
- Oak Harbor, Washington
- Ocean Park, Washington
- Ocean Shores, Washington
- Odessa, Washington
- Okanogan, Washington
- Olympia, Washington
- Omak, Washington
- Oroville, Washington
- Orting, Washington
- Othello, Washington
- Otis Orchards, Washington
- Pacific, Washington
- Palouse, Washington
- Pasco, Washington
- Pateros, Washington
- Pe Ell, Washington
- Pomeroy, Washington
- Port Angeles, Washington
- Port Hadlock, Washington
- Port Ludlow, Washington
- Port Orchard, Washington
- Port Townsend, Washington
- Poulsbo, Washington
- Prescott, Washington
- Prosser, Washington
- Pullman, Washington
- Puyallup, Washington
- Quilcene, Washington
- Quincy, Washington
- Rainier, Washington
- Ravensdale, Washington
- Raymond, Washington
- Reardan, Washington
- Redmond, Washington
- Renton, Washington
- Republic, Washington
- Richland, Washington
- Ridgefield, Washington
- Ritzville, Washington
- Riverside, Washington
- Rochester, Washington
- Rock Island, Washington
- Rockford, Washington
- Ronald, Washington
- Rosalia, Washington
- Roslyn, Washington
- Roy, Washington
- Royal City, Washington
- Saint John, Washington
- Sammamish, Washington
- Satsop, Washington
- Seattle, Washington
- Sedro Woolley, Washington
- Selah, Washington
- Sequim, Washington
- Shelton, Washington
- Silverdale, Washington
- Skykomish, Washington
- Snohomish, Washington
- Snoqualmie Pass, Washington
- Snoqualmie, Washington
- Soap Lake, Washington
- South Bend, Washington
- South Cle Elum, Washington
- South Prairie, Washington
- Spanaway, Washington
- Spangle, Washington
- Spokane, Washington
- Sprague, Washington
- Springdale, Washington
- Stanwood, Washington
- Startup, Washington
- Steilacoom, Washington
- Stevenson, Washington
- Sultan, Washington
- Sumas, Washington
- Sumner, Washington
- Sunnyside, Washington
- Suquamish, Washington
- Tacoma, Washington
- Taholah, Washington
- Tekoa, Washington
- Tenino, Washington
- Thorp, Washington
- Tieton, Washington
- Toledo, Washington
- Tonasket, Washington
- Toppenish, Washington
- Touchet, Washington
- Tracyton, Washington
- Trout Lake, Washington
- Tumwater, Washington
- Twisp, Washington
- Union, Washington
- Uniontown, Washington
- University Place, Washington
- Vader, Washington
- Vancouver, Washington
- Vashon, Washington
- Veradale, Washington
- Waitsburg, Washington
- Walla Walla, Washington
- Wapato, Washington
- Warden, Washington
- Washougal, Washington
- Washtucna, Washington
- Waterville, Washington
- Wenatchee, Washington
- West Richland, Washington
- Westport, Washington
- White Salmon, Washington
- White Swan, Washington
- Wilbur, Washington
- Wilkeson, Washington
- Wilson Creek, Washington
- Winlock, Washington
- Winthrop, Washington
- Wishram, Washington
- Woodinville, Washington
- Woodland, Washington
- Yacolt, Washington
- Yakima, Washington
- Yelm, Washington
- Zillah, Washington