Port Orchard : Washington

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.

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.

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

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

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.

Public administration, construction, and health care

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.

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