Vashon-Maury Apartment Guide
Welcome to your comprehensive guide to apartment living on Vashon Island. Here, you’ll find a curated list of available apartment complexes, each offering unique amenities and distinct living experiences tailored to meet a variety of needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly environment, accessibility features, or proximity to local shops and parks, our guide is designed to help you easily navigate the options.
Explore detailed descriptions of each property, including Vashon Terrace, a popular choice among residents. This location features spacious two-bedroom apartments nestled in a serene, tree-lined setting. Discover the benefits of each location, from walkability scores to nearby transportation links, ensuring you choose an apartment that not only meets your living standards but enhances your lifestyle on the island.
Vashon Terrace
Discover the serene living experience at Vashon Terrace, a sought-after apartment complex nestled on the picturesque Vashon Island. This intimate community consists of 16 spacious two-bedroom units designed to accommodate families, seniors over 55, and individuals with disabilities, fostering a diverse and inclusive atmosphere.
Situated off Vashon Boulevard and adjacent to the lush Ober Park, Vashon Terrace offers unparalleled access to essential local amenities. Residents benefit from proximity to shopping, the Vashon library, and popular grocery stores such as Vashon Thriftway and Vashon Market IGA. The area’s walk score of 73 reflects its convenience, making daily errands achievable on foot.
Transportation is seamless, with bus routes 118 and 119 close by. These routes provide direct links to the Washington State Ferry docks, connecting residents to Seattle, Southworth, and Point Defiance. Although Vashon Terrace is not currently accepting new applications, prospective residents are encouraged to contact Westwood Management and Development to inquire about future availability and learn more about the property’s accessibility features.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Vashon Housing
J.G. Commons
Vashon Housing presents J.G. Commons, an apartment complex established in 2003 dedicated to low-income seniors aged 62 and older. Named after Joy Goldstein and Grace Crecelius, founding members of Vashon Housing, this facility features 21 one-bedroom apartments designed for singles and couples.
Conveniently located just two blocks from Vashon’s town center, J.G. Commons is within easy walking distance to essential amenities, including public transportation, stores, parks, and the library.
Each apartment is approximately 550 square feet and offers an open, airy floor plan with views of preserved woodlands.
The complex includes communal spaces such as a community room, lounge, conference room, practical amenities like on-site laundry, and an elevator for wheelchair access. Eligible seniors benefit from HUD’s Section 202 rent subsidies, ensuring rent does not exceed 30% of their income. The apartments are also energy-efficient and adaptable for residents with disabilities.
Ernisse
Eernisse Apartments, established in 2007, offers 26 affordable housing units designed for large families on Vashon Island. It features one to three-bedroom apartments, including the island’s only affordable three-bedroom options. Dedicated to assisting families impacted by rising rental costs, Eernisse provides permanent rental assistance ensuring eligible residents pay no more than 30% of their income on rent. Named after Fred Eernisse, the original landowner, the property supports both low and very low-income households.
Charter House
Charter House offers nine spacious, one-bedroom apartments specifically for low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities. Located just two blocks from Vashon’s town center, these units are conveniently near public amenities and transportation. Each apartment is approximately 870 square feet and features separate kitchens and dining areas.
Thanks to the USDA Rural Housing Program, all residents receive rental assistance, ensuring rent does not exceed 30% of their monthly income. Originally built in 1970 and rehabilitated by VHH in 1996, Charter House remains a stable and affordable housing solution on Vashon Island.
Mukai Commons
In April 2009, VHH acquired and revitalized Mukai Commons, an apartment complex in central Vashon Town, transforming 20 units into affordable housing for low-income families. The complex underwent extensive renovations, comprising 12 one-bedroom apartments and 8 two-bedroom townhouses. With funding from King County and the State of Washington, VHH updated roofs, windows, doors, and interiors and installed a new laundry facility. Mukai Commons, named after local farmer Masahiro Mukai, now offers residents a safe and beautiful environment, including five units designated for formerly homeless individuals.
Islander Apartments
In 2023, Vashon Housing Holdings (VHH) acquired the Islander Apartments, a three-building, 12-unit complex in Vashon Town’s heart. This community is designed to support low-income families and individuals, featuring a mix of four one-bedroom and eight two-bedroom apartments. Many recently renovated units are well-maintained and offer modern comforts and amenities. Each apartment is single-story, includes either in-unit or access to common laundry facilities, and comes with a private outdoor patio, enhancing the living experience for all residents.
Islander Apartments primarily cater to those who cannot afford market-rate rentals, providing a crucial housing solution on the island. Residents include employees from local businesses such as Thriftway, Sea Mar, and Sawbones and seniors on fixed incomes. All units are priced to be affordable for households that meet federal low-income standards, specifically set aside for individuals and families earning at or below 80% of the median income, ensuring accessibility and support for the community’s most vulnerable members.