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Port Orchard, Washington

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What It Is Like to Retire in Port orchard

Port Orchard is located on the Sinclair Inlet of the Puget Sound.  This waterfront community of approximately 13,000 people is proud of its amenities.  The downtown offers shopping, museums, entertainment, galleries and dining.  With ferry access from Bremerton and Seattle, an excursion to Port Orchard is an easy day trip or a weekend getaway.   Residents enjoy life on the Kitsap Peninsula with it's over 350 miles of shoreline.  South Kitsap/Port Orchard is known for it's great golf courses, fine marina, antique and collectible stores, classic car shows, historic homes and local community and high school theatre.  South Kitsap is home to Manchester State Park, which is situated on the shores of Puget Sound. Port Orchard is home to the Port Orchard Marina, said to be one of the finest public marinas in Puget Sound. Recreational water activites include fresh water lake fishing, saltwater fishing, diving and shell fishing.

Where to Retire in Port orchard and Home Prices

There is at least 1 active adult community in the Port Orchard area (see link at left). Zillow reports the median home value to be $481,000 in mid 2021; property values have increased dramatically in recent years.

What Is Special about Port orchard

It is a waterfront town on the Olympic Peninsula, yet close to Seattle.  It is a beautiful, livable area.

What Is Not Special about Port orchard

Although not far from Seattle as the crow flies, it is a long drive or a ferry ride. The crime rate is high.

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Who Will Like Retirement in Port orchard

People who like living near the water and other outdoor recreation, plus being in a small, walkable town, will like it here in Port Orchard.

Local Economy Is Driven by

Public administration, construction, and health care

Climate and Physical Environment

The average Jan. temp is about 40, while the average July temp is in the mid 60s. Winters are very wet and summers dry. It is located on the southwestern side of Puget Sound and the eastern border of the Olympic National Forest. A tornado struck Port Orchard in December of 2018, with winds over 100 miles an hour and caused damage to homes and businesses.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

The downtown has restaurants and shopping, including some antique stores.  There are occasional festivals in the town.

Crime

The crime rate is much higher than the national average.

Medical facilities

Harrison Medical Center in Bremerton (6 miles) provides the closest hospital.

Transportation

The Washington State Ferries provide transportation to Seattle and other points on Puget Sound.

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