Ellensburg, Washington has a pleasant setting in the central part of the state. The city has a scenic setting in the Kittitas Valley surrounded by the Cascade Mountains and its foothills. Its dry climate and scenic surroundings attracts residents and retirees from the Seattle area, which is about a one hour forty-five minute drive to the west. Ellensburg's open vistas and flat dry terrain are a stark contrast to the green, predominantly urban environment Western Washington. The city of Yakima located thirty-five miles south is within commuting distance of Ellensburg.
Ellensburg's population has grown more than ten percent in the past decade to about 17,000 residents. Central Washington University's enrollment has increased and businesses are attracted to the city's lower costs and educated workforce. Ellensburg is centrally located in the state and has good access to the west and east via Interstate-90 and to the south to Yakima and the Tri-Cities via Interstate-82. Ellensburg also has great access to recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, rafting and skiing.
Ellensburg's home prices increased dramatically from 2002 to 2007 as new home construction boomed, particularly on the west side of the city. Acreage properties were also built and the area is popular for horse ranching. Since 2007, home prices in Ellensburg have decreased and the median price of a home in Ellensburg is currently about $200,000.
Home prices can vary greatly. The most desirable places to live have mountain views or are near the Yakima River. Homes on the hills south of the city have commanding views of the Kittitas Valley and the Stuart Range, with mountains reaching over 9,000 feet. Outside of the city, many homes have acreage and residents raise horses and other livestock. The smaller city of Kittitas is eight miles east of Ellensburg. It is generally more affordable and there are homes with acreage in the area.
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