The Island Gem of Puget Sound​

Vashon Island has many things to choose from to do on the Island. In the summer time you can find yourself going on a hike a mountain bike ride, or riding your horse throughout the many trails we have or even enjoy some time at the equestrian park for some practice time in the arena.
You can bike around the island if you’re up for a challenge. You can even bring your kayak or SUP, or rent one at Vashon Watersports. There are many beaches to enjoy (as long as you are familiar with public and private ones).

We are a foodie’s paradise with many restaurants to choose from. To follow up on your meal, you can enjoy a show at the Vashon Center for the Arts or a fun movie at our Vashon Theater. There are plenty of fun happenings at Open Space, and don’t forget to get some shopping in for Vashon memorabilia at our Pharmacy (and gift shop).

There are many local artists on the Island. You can shop at Starving Artists Works (SAW) or enjoy an art tour of the many studios. We even have our very own event on the first Friday of every month, in which our local establishments highlight local artists’ works with music, dancing, and art tours.

Whatever you would like to try while visiting Vashon, we are sure you’ll have a great time.

Vashon’s waterfront spans roughly 80 square miles, with most of that being waterfront properties. Vashon’s waterfront homes can cost upwards of 40% more than the median cost of ~$750k, though in November 2021, the median price was up 14% compared to the previous year (according to Redfin).

Rentals on the Island can run roughly $2,000 for a two-bedroom home, and yearly rentals are very scarce. Unfortunately, this is pricing a majority of our residents of the Island, though some action is being taken to alleviate the high rents for qualifying residents.

Vashon Island’s safety can be characterized as moderate compared to national averages, with specific areas and types of crime presenting different levels of risk. According to recent data, Vashon has an overall crime grade of C-, which places it in the 34th percentile for safety; this means it is safer than 34% of U.S. cities but less safe than 66% (The Safest and Most Dangerous Places in Vashon, WA: Crime Maps and Statistics | CrimeGrade.org).

The rate of violent crime in Vashon is noted to be slightly higher than average for U.S. cities, with a grade of D+. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is approximately 1 in 381, which translates to a rate of about 4.16 incidents per 1,000 residents annually (Vashon, WA Violent Crime Rates and Maps | CrimeGrade.org). Property crime rates on Vashon are also significant, with a D+ grade and a rate of about 19.65 incidents per 1,000 residents, making the likelihood of becoming a victim of property crime around 1 in 86 (The Safest and Most Dangerous Places in Vashon, WA: Crime Maps and Statistics | CrimeGrade.org).

Economically, the projected cost of crime in Vashon for 2025 is estimated to be around $6.83 million, which reflects both direct costs to victims and broader economic impacts (The Safest and Most Dangerous Places in Vashon, WA: Crime Maps and Statistics | CrimeGrade.org).

While these statistics indicate a level of crime that is somewhat typical for similar-sized communities, residents and visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, especially in higher-crime areas identified through local crime maps and data (Vashon, 98070 Crime Rates and Crime Statistics—NeighborhoodScout).

We like to think of our community as being nice; however, there will be the occasional run-in with a resident if you cut them off at the four-way stop or steal their parking at Thriftway.

Long-term Islanders will often ask you how long you have lived here to get a feel for how dedicated you are to living here. Two or more years, and we know that you are here for good. In that case, we are more likely to buy you a cup of coffee and make conversation than if you have only been here a short time.

As you can see, we are very nice people and very welcoming. However, we must feel safe that you’re just as invested in sticking around as we are.

Vashon requires some effort to live here full-time. The ferries are an adjustment and a true lesson in patience.

The cost of living can be a bit of an adjustment, and while we have many shops to choose from, you aren’t always going to be able to find the things you need readily. Your delivery drivers will become your closest friends and will even provide your nice dog with a biscuit now and again.

The schools are some of the best in the Seattle area, and the family community is close-knit. We have many restaurants to choose from for an evening out, as well as many activities to keep you busy.

In conclusion, Vashon can be a good place to live if you can adjust to the island’s way of life.

Vashon Island has three swimming pools. The public Pool is just outside of uptown, the pool for Vashon Athletic Club members to use, and the pool available to the Golf and Swim Club is closer to the South end of the Island.

Of course, there are plenty of public beaches where you can take a dip in the 40-50 degree Fahrenheit salt waters of Puget Sound if you dare.

One does not necessarily need a car to get around Vashon Island, though it does make your life a bit easier if you do.

Buses run along our Vashon Highway from the Tahlequah ferry terminal to the North End ferry terminal. Buses often coincide with commuter ferry times, especially the passenger ferry, which takes commuters to the downtown Seattle dock Monday through Friday.

The residents are always happy to provide you with a lift should you need one. Just post what you need and the time on the Vashonites Facebook group.

No, Uber services are not typically available on Vashon Island. Due to its rural nature and lower population density, rideshare options are limited. Residents and visitors often rely on personal vehicles, the local bus service, or bicycles to get around the island. The ferry system plays a crucial role for travel to and from the island.

Vashon Island most definitely has a “Downtown;” however, the locals refer to it as “uptown.” This term was coined many, many years ago and tends to be used as new folks enter our sphere.

Uptown is located in the heart of the Island. Just under 5 miles from the North end ferry dock and 9 miles from the Tahlequah (South end) ferry terminal.

The ferry routes from both the North End and South End docks are roughly 15-20 minutes each (depending on the weather and the tides).