From Urban to Rural: The Best Places to Live in Washington State for Every Lifestyle

Feb 17, 2024

Last Updated on: Aug 26, 2025

USA

Washington is notable for its exceptional natural beauty, which includes three national parks, more than 8,000 lakes, and 155 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline. However, the Evergreen State is also among the wealthiest in the nation; in 2022, the median household income in the state was $84,247, nearly $6,000 higher than the national average.

Major corporations like Microsoft and Amazon call Washington home, and there are plenty of excellent job opportunities there. Even though the Seattle area is still a popular place to relocate, there are many other towns throughout the state’s interior and along its coastline that entice newcomers with their picturesque surroundings, outdoor-oriented lifestyles, close-knit communities, and family-friendly amenities.

Here are 7 of the best places to live in Washington state, as rated by locals.

Best Places To Live In Washington State

Top Places To Live In Washington State

It can be tough to zero in on one city to call home when you choose the Washington state to pick from. But we are listing the best places to live in Washington state to make your life easier. Take a peek.

Cheney

Cheney

It’s worth considering other universities in eastern Washington besides Gonzaga. Eastern Washington University, a public university with 11,000 students and 800 faculty members, is located in Cheney. Although EWU is not the biggest university in the state, a sizable portion of Cheney’s population attends it. The population of the city is about 10,600 during the summer months. In academic terms, this increases to 17,600 inhabitants.

For students who prefer to be fully immersed in campus life but are concerned about getting lost in a bigger city, EWU is an excellent choice. Families looking to live or work close to a university may find it to be a good alternative to other towns on this list. Cheney is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in Washington state for young adults.

Spokane

Spokane

Although many of the greatest areas to live in Washington are located in the east, people tend to concentrate on the western side of the state. In stark contrast to the rainy weather in Seattle, the eastern portion of the state is level and experiences a desert climate. Spokane, which is located near the Idaho border, is the 99th most populous city in the country. With 500,000 residents, Spokane serves as a hub in opposition to Seattle.

For those who prefer to be outside, Spokane is a sanctuary. Within a few hours of the city, one can find hiking and rafting in addition to ski resorts. The men’s basketball team at Gonzaga University, which is based in Spokane, draws fans from all over the nation. In the NCAA March Madness tournament, the Bulldogs are always a formidable opponent.  

Portland

Portland

In the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is not the only significant city. The Columbia River divides Washington and Oregon, with Portland, Oregon, situated along its border. Nike and Columbia Sportswear have their corporate offices in Portland, a sizable city.

Vancouver, Washington is the state across which Portland is located. Many people who live in this city make the daily commute into Oregon. One city to another can be reached by car in fifteen minutes, although traffic may make it take longer. The fact that Washington does not impose a state income tax is one advantage of relocating to Vancouver. This can save you money.

Ocean Shores

Ocean Shores

The coast of Washington has many of the best places to live, with huge rocky outcroppings and thick fog making for enigmatic and fascinating beach walks. Selecting the best city to stay in along the Pacific Ocean is difficult. One well-liked location is the town of Ocean Shores, which is home to about 6,000 people.

If you enjoy going fishing and cooking your catch, Ocean Shores is a great place to call home. It is known for the Razor Clam and Seafood Festival held every year in the spring. Sand and wood artists from all over the nation come to the Sand and Sawdust festival in the summer. For those who enjoy the sea and the arts, this town is fantastic.

Olympia

Olympia

Seattle is not the capital city of Washington, despite its size. It is Olympia’s turn to receive this honor. Both cities are situated near water, and they are about an hour’s drive apart with minimal traffic. Olympia has 46,000 people living in it, far fewer than Seattle.

Olympia is a center for theater and the arts. Fine art organizations such as the Olympia Symphony Orchestra as well as the Olympia Family Theater are popular among the locals. Families can enjoy hiking or lounging on the waterfront with unobstructed views of Mount Rainier on the weekends. Whether you work in government, this is a great city to live in.

Tacoma

Tacoma

Those who wish to live in a more tranquil area but still commute into the city frequently choose Tacoma, which is only thirty minutes from Seattle’s downtown. Known for Port Defiance, a park and family recreation area combined, it is situated along the water.

Look into Tacoma if you want to live in the Seattle region but are having trouble locating the perfect spot. This town offers waterfront living in addition to being a center for the art and culture. You might find that there’s more to do than you thought. Tacoma will prove to be more than what you expect. It is easily one of the best places to live in Washington state.

Seattle

Seattle

Seattle is not only Washington’s most populous city, but it also has a large metropolitan area spanning the Puget Sound. Many locals drive and ride their bicycles for work, averaging 138 hours a year (28.4 minutes each way) in the downtown area.

Nonetheless, a lot of people believe that living in Seattle is worth the expense and commute. Along with dozens of other businesses, the city is home to the corporate offices of Amazon, Microsoft, Costco, Expedia, Alaska Airlines, and Starbucks. Seattle is home to the NFL’s Seahawks, MLB’s Mariners, NHL’s Kraken, and NBA’s Supersonics. Seattle is for you if you like a work-hard, play-hard lifestyle.

What Is The Pacific Northwest?

What Is The Pacific Northwest

The states in the northwest of the nation that are bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Cascade Mountain Range to the east are collectively referred to as the Pacific Northwest (PNW). The two states that are mentioned in the PNW the most are Washington and Oregon. But the area also includes portions of California, Idaho, and Alaska.

Does Washington Have A State Income Tax?

Does Washington Have A State Income Tax

Nine states do not impose an income tax, including Washington. The following states don’t have a state income tax: Florida, Alaska, Nevada, Tennessee, and Texas. States without income taxes either decrease the services provided to citizens or find other ways to raise money. To avoid paying taxes, some Washingtonians commute to Oregon.

What Is Seattle Famous For?

What Is Seattle Famous For

In addition to being the birthplace of Starbucks, Seattle was once home to a sizable grunge music scene. The city has gained notoriety over the last ten years as the home of Amazon and is a sought-after location for tech companies to establish their operations. Living in the city has become more costly as a result.

Wrapping Up

States like Washington are our favorites because they have so many wonderful cities to choose from. There were so many, in fact, that we had to start by providing you with a list of three towns that you should definitely visit.

We understand that you may be experiencing analysis paralysis right now. Where does one call home with so many wonderful options? If you’re searching for a large city, Seattle is the only option. There is no doubt about that. However, if you’re willing to settle for a somewhat smaller city, Spokane or Tacoma are a better option than Seattle.

No matter where you choose to call home, never forget that we will assist you in getting there. Let us know if you choose to relocate to Washington. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about the best places to live in Washington state, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!

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Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

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READ MORE Lake Texoma should be capitalized

Why Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized For Editorial Consistency? A Tour And Travel Blog Take 

BY  Sibashree Sep 1, 2025

As a writer and editor of travel blogs for 10 years, grammatical consistency is of paramount importance to me. You have to be specific about the spelling convention. You cannot just choose the USA spelling convention one day and follow the British, Canadian, or Australian convention the next day.  Along with the spelling convention, capitalization, and formatting are two other important technical or basic aspects for editorial cohesion. Now, the concern I am going to address today is why Lake Texoma should be capitalized.  Here, I will discuss why Lake Texoma should be capitalized in all travel blogs and guides for grammatical correctness, official reasons, and more. The key areas covered in this blog are: What Is Lake Texoma, And Why Is It So Famous? The name Texoma stands for a blend of the states of Texas and Oklahoma, as the lake is located at the border of these two states.  Further, it is located on the Red River and is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. As a major water reservoir, it is a major source of flood prevention, recreation, and water supply for these two states. Moreover, it is an important hub for the generation of hydroelectric power.  Also, with a shoreline of 500 miles, Lake Texoma is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and boating. Millions of visitors flock to this beautiful lake every year.  So, it is an important tourist spot and an important local identity for the states of Texas and Oklahoma. It is also a place of national and international importance, with the construction of the lake taking us back to the days of the Second World War. Why Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized? From grammatical correctness to the U.S government confirming capitalization, there are many reasons why Lake Texoma should be capitalized.  1. Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized Because It Is A Proper Noun If we consider the basic grammatical standards, Lake Texoma should be capitalized as it is a proper noun. Furthermore, the name consists of a generic part or descriptor, Lake, and a proper noun or name, Texoma.  According to official grammatical standards, when a geographical feature has a generic descriptor and a name, both should be capitalized. For example, Mount Everest, Victoria Lake, etc.  2. All Educational And Legal Sources Use Capitalization While Writing Lake Texoma From schools to universities, many educational institutions across levels incorporate Lake Texoma in their curriculum, and everywhere it follows a capital casing.  You can check out the geography textbooks, state resource maps, and state guides. When students learn that Lake Texoma should be capitalized from the very beginning, they develop better writing style, communication skills, and grammatical correctness.  On the other hand, legal documents such as property papers, deeds, water rights, and land zoning need to have Lake Texoma in a capitalized format.  This is very crucial, as if you miscapitalize any word in a legal document, it can lead to ambiguity and can even make your clauses and claims invalid.  3. The U.S. Government Officially Confirms The Use Of Lake Texoma In Capitals You will find Lake Texoma written in a capitalized format in all public-facing government documents.  All the documents of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, including news, bulletins, updates, environmental assessments, or reports, have Lake Texoma in a capitalized format.  Furthermore, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and the Texas Water Development Board follow the capitalization norms for reservoirs with names. So, in every document, they write “Lake Texoma.”  4. State-Level Regulations For Capitalizing Lake Texoma Oklahoma and Texas have recognized the capitalized format of Lake Texoma for all their official documents, including: Public Works Reports State Park Brochures Tourism Websites This consistency across all documents helps Lake Texoma to be recognized and registered as a geographical name of repute. 5. Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized For Editorial Consistency In reference to where I began the discussion, Lake Texoma should be capitalized to maintain editorial consistency.  If I write “lake Texoma” in one section of my article and “Lake Texoma” or “lake texoma” in other places, it impacts my credibility and professionalism as a writer.  So, Lake Texoma should be capitalized to: Make readers believe in my credibility as a writer. Showcase that I pay attention to every detail. Maintain the authenticity and authority of the guide.  Help readers avoid confusion about Lake Texoma as a general location.  Moreover, using the right and consistent capitalization format helps to improve user experience. So, it positively impacts the overall performance of my blogging site and helps me score better in the E-E-A-T assessments by Google's Quality Raters.  6. Standard Style Guides Agree That Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized The Chicago Manual of Style, Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, MLA Handbook, and all other major style books suggest that Lake Texoma should be considered as a compound proper noun and should be capitalized.  In this compound proper noun, “Lake” is the general descriptor, and “Texoma” is the name of the water body.  So, all the media outlets across all formats, including North Texas e-News, KTEN, and WFAA, use Lake Texoma in a capitalized format.  Why Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized Everywhere? (Beyond Grammar 101) There are deeper reasons why we need to capitalize Lake Texoma. From the technical reasons of improving SEO practices to the more profound aspect of cultural identity, here is more about why capitalizing Lake Texoma is imperative. 1. SEO And Online Search Capitalization or casing does not directly impact how Google’s algorithm processes a keyword. However, when I capitalize Lake Texoma, it gives a positive signal about the readability, structure, and professionalism of my content.  However, there are more reasons why capitalizing Lake Texoma helps me.  • Adherence To Keyword Convention And Consistency All the tourism boards and travel sites used the spelling convention of Lake Texoma. Therefore, when I follow this convention, it enhances the relevance of the keyword and its adherence to the norm.  • Proper Capitalization Ensures Better Visibility On The Search Engine Result Page (SERP) When I capitalize Lake Texoma, which is the correct format, I improve the quality of my article. Also, proper capitalization helps me to win the confidence of the readers. Thus, it indirectly boosts the SEO performance of an article.  Informative and high-quality content always has better chances of having a higher ranking on the SERP, and it can even feature in the snippets, AI overview results, or voice search queries.  • Improving CTR Or Click-Through Rates When an SEO title or meta description has a good structure, it has better chances of getting clicked. So, using Lake Texoma in the correct format will improve the clickability of my article.  2. Professionalism And Attention To Detail Capitalizing Lake Texoma helps me to maintain a professional tone and format for my article. It is all the more important in a legal, scientific, or official context.  3. Being Respectful To The Regional Identity Lale Texoma is important for the geographical and cultural landscapes of Oklahoma and Texas. So, when we write the name correctly, it shows respect for the region and the regional identity of the people there.  Also, Lake Texoma is important because of the shared emotion of the communities in these two states. So, we cannot afford to be culturally careless.  4. Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized For Branding And Marketing How you follow the spelling and grammatical conventions and adhere to a standard style in your writing becomes a part of your brand identity.  So, when we write Lake Texoma correctly on our website, brochures, emails, campaigns, or any other marketing material, we establish our authority or credibility as a brand.  Also, with this small thing done right, a brand can get better clicks, books, or sales than its competitors. Wrong spelling and casing format are often one of the biggest turnoffs for readers.  Common Mistakes To Avoid In Lake Texoma Spelling We often overlook the correct format and make these small mistakes while writing Lake Texoma. The common mistakes we make are: Common Mistakes in Lake Texoma CasingThe Correct Format lake texomaLake TexomaTexoma LakeLake Texomalake TexomaLake TexomaLake texomaLake TexomaLAKE TEXOMALake Texoma Why Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized? A Case Study Of Different Usages And Significance Here are some case studies for using Lake Texoma as the capital.  1. How Government And Media Houses Write Lake Texoma There is no ambiguity about capitalizing Lake Texoma in the official documents of the government of the USA.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) writes Lake Texoma for storm and flood planning.  Recreation.gov is the official federal land reservation site in the USA. It writes Lake Texoma.  Local news channels and newspapers always capitalize Lake Takoma when covering any news. 2. How Local Businesses Write Lake Texoma All the businesses in the locality capitalize the Lake Texoma spelling to maintain their credibility and boost online visibility.  It also helps the customer to reach the physical or online store accurately.  3. Capitalization Of Lake Texoma In Technology And Mapping Systems The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and other government resources used the capitalized format of Lake Texoma.  Furthermore, applications such as Garmin, Apple Maps, and Google Maps fetch data from these websites, and thus, they also use the capitalized format of Lake Texoma.  Now, you may argue that searching for Lake Texoma or “lake texoma” will yield the same results. It’s true, but here you are depending on machine correction.  However, when you enter the correct format during your search, you will enjoy better mapping experiences and more accurate data.  Summary Table Of Confirmation: Why Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized In this table, I have summed up the official and grammatical confirmations you have for capitalizing Lake Texoma.  Source or the Type Of ConfirmationExamplesEducational Institutions• Geography curriculum in schools, colleges, and universities• Text Books• State Curriculum GuidelineFederal Agencies• U.S. Army Corps of EngineersLegal Documents• Land and Zoning Contracts• Water Access DocumentsState Governments• Texas Parks and Wildlife DepartmentTourism Boards• Oklahoma and Texas Tourism Board BrochuresMedia Outlets• News Stories and FeaturesOfficial Maps• Google Maps• Apple Maps Why Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized? A Small Detail Makes A Big Impact Capitalizing Lake Texoma is beyond keeping my article or any writing grammatically correct. It is also related to SEO success and better online visibility. Furthermore, it is about the quality and credibility of writing in the online and offline worlds where readers trust the author.  So, when writing, begin Lake Texoma with a capital L and capital T to see how a small detail makes a big impact.  Why Lake Texoma Should Be Capitalized: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Lake Texoma.  1. What Grammatical Rule Applies For Capitalizing Lake Texoma? The grammatical rule of capitalizing a proper noun applies to writing Lake Texoma with a capital L and capital T. Furthermore, in a compound proper noun, the general descriptor (here, the lake) and the actual name of a place (here, Texoma) both should be capitalized. 2. What Happens When Lake Texoma Is Written In Lower Case? If I write Lake Texoma in lowercase, it affects the credibility and overall detailing of my article or any write-up. Furthemore, it can impact user experience, leading to poor online visibility and a low EEAT score. Now, you may argue how capitalization is associated with EEAT scores. However, when I place myself as a reader, I would rather trust a site that keeps spelling, formatting and casing accurate rather than one that is clumsy in these aspects. Furthermore, it can create confusion in legal documents, and in a business document, it can affect the brand image and value.  3. Is Lake Texoma Capitalized In School Textbooks? Yes, Lake Texoma is capitalized in school textbooks. In fact, higher educational institutions also capitalize Lake Texoma in the curriculum, reading resources, and every document.  Read Also... 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READ MORE best places to travel in October

What Are The Best Places To Travel In October In The USA? Plan The Best USA Vacations In Fall 

BY  Sibashree Oct 11, 2025

Potter and Tioga Counties in Pennsylvania are the newest vacation hotspots in the USA in the fall season. The fifth position in the 2025 USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Destination for Fall Colors has further brought this into the limelight.  Hiking the canyon rims, watching the stars at the Cherry Springs, live entertainment, and great local food make Potter and Tioga stand out.  On the other hand, USA Today has recently named Mackinac Island the Best Place to Visit for Fall. Since 2023, it has been placed in the top three destinations in the list of USA Today as one of the best places to travel in October in the USA.  Tim Hygh, the executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, has shared his thoughts with MLive.com. “Fall on Mackinac Island is a remarkable experience, from the tranquil atmosphere to the brilliant fall colors, and we are incredibly honored to receive this recognition.”  So, are you ready to enjoy the whiff of the fudge in the air in Mackinac Island? Or, do you want to explore more places to travel in October in the USA? Here is a complete travel guide. What Is The Leaf-Peeping Season In The USA? Why Is It So Special? With the leaves of the trees turning orange and golden yellow, and the earth getting covered with dry leaves, Autumn announces the season of Thanksgiving and Halloween.  Furthermore, it is the season of apple picking and pumpkin harvesting.  Mid-September to early November is the leaf peeping season in the USA. However, the peak season for the foliage color reaches different parts of the country at different times in the month.  Parts in the USALeaf Peeping Season West, the Aspen Groves in Colorado and Utah• Late September• Early OctoberMidwest• OctoberBlue Ridge Mountains and the Southern Part of America• Late OctoberNortheastern America, such as Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire • October The Leaf Peeping Season In The USA In The Current Year  In the current year, the fall season has officially set in on 6th October. However, because of a pretty dry season since late July, the fall colors seem to be less visible in different parts of the country till now.  Furthermore, due to the “Urban Heat Island Effect,” the urban areas are likely to have less vibrant fall colors, and the ocean influences in the coastal areas will also impact and delay the change of foliage colors.  So, in the current year, we will have to wait till mid and late October for the leaf peeping season to reach its full glory. Even in the northeast, the drought stress since the end of August and a consistent temperature of around 80°F will delay the arrival of fall colors. Having said that, Hudson Valley, New Jersey, and some other locations in the northwestern region have already started showing mild colors. In addition, a wet beginning to summer and the long dry spell afterward have created a favorable condition for apple and pumpkin harvesting, two other major attractions of the fall season, along with the change of leaf colors.  Moreover, the species of the trees (Red Maple Trees offer red foliage and ash trees offer yellow foliage) and their locations impact the fall colors. Trees at higher elevations and near lakes and ponds show better colors.  What Are The Best Places To Visit In October In The USA?  Have you seen the painting, Four Seasons, by Egon Schiele? The 1917 painting beautifully captures the spirit of the fall season with the shades of golden yellow and red. The “Autumn” painting of Helmer Osslund is another amazing depiction of the season, where nature sheds the old and gets ready for the new.  Some places in the USA are nothing short of these iconic paintings in the fall season. Let’s find out what special they have in store for us.  1. New England Region Average Temperature: 3-17 °Celsius The New England Region covers states such as Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.  The crisp air and silent roads with trees in golden, orange, and red shades make the region an ideal choice for autumn vacations.  Vermont Average Temperature: 5-15 °Celsius Vermont is the quintessential autumn destination you need to visit in the USA. The scenic drive along Route 100 and the views of the Green Mountains are breathtaking, with the leaves changing their colors.  You can also visit the apple orchards and pumpkin farms for a first-hand harvesting experience.  New Hampshire Average Temperature: 5-12 °Celsius Home to the White Mountains, New Hampshire is one of the best places to travel in October in the USA. You can explore the state parks and enjoy the iconic ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway.  The small towns here are ideal for experiencing the autumn festivities.  Salem, Massachusetts Average Temperature: 6-18 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Salem, Massachusetts (@destsalem) Known as the Witch City, Salem is associated with the Infamous Witch Trials of 1692. You can be a part of the month-long Haunted Happening Festivals in October in Salem. The festivities include ghost tours and parades.  Also, visit the Salem Witch Museum for a somber and eerie experience.  2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bordering North Carolina And Tennessee Average Temperature: 9-21 °Celsius Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers the most amazing views of the fall foliage with its diverse elevation.  You can hike or go for scenic drives in the national park. You can even explore nearby small towns such as Pigeon Forge.  3. Aspen, Colorado Average Temperature: -1 to 13 °Celsius With the aspen trees turning golden yellow in October, Aspen looks beautiful, and the Rocky Mountains create the perfect backdrop.  Furthermore, the Maroon Bells in Colorado, one of the most photographed mountains in America, looks stunning with the changing colors of foliage.  4. Boston Average Temperature: 10-17 °Celsius Beacon Hill and Back Bay are some of the most popular neighborhoods in Boston to see autumn foliage.  Furthermore, visit the Boston Common and Public Garden to enjoy a beautiful urban landscape in autumn.  5. New Orleans Average Temperature: 20-25 °Celsius Known for its Voodoo culture, New Orleans is most alive in the Halloween Season. Take a tour of the local cemeteries and the French Quarter to soak in the eerie vibe.  6. Orlando, Florida Average Temperature: 18-29 °Celsius Be a part of the Halloween Horror Nights festival in Orlando. It is one of the scariest festivals in the USA, with scare zones, haunted houses, and live acts inspired by popular horror movies and TV shows.  7. Savannah, Georgia Average Temperature: 14-25 °Celsius One of the most haunted cities in America, Savannah is a must-visit in October. A tour of the historic district of the city is spooky. Also, you can enjoy the changing colors of autumn foliage.  8. San Francisco, California Average Temperature: 12-21 °Celsius Home to the notorious Alcatraz Island and prison, San Francisco is one of the most prominent locations for dark tourism in the USA.  Also, if you want to see autumn colors, you can visit Golden Gate Park.  9. Asheville, North Carolina  Average Temperature: 7-21 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Asheville | Asheville, North Carolina (@visitasheville) Asheville, in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is one of the most scenic locations in October. The trees in the mountains change their colors faster, and you can take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to see the colors. Also, visit the Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in America.  10. Santa Fe, New Mexico Average Temperature: 4-14 °Celsius Santa Fe shows a beautiful fusion of Native American and Spanish culture. In October, you can be a part of the Santa Fe Harvest Festival and go hiking in the Sangre De Cristo Mountains.  The leaves of the aspen trees in the mountain trails turn golden yellow in the season.  11. New York City Average Temperature: 14-18 °Celsius Central Park is the epicenter of seeing fall colors in New York City. You can also be a part of the Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village, which is the largest in the country.  Otherwise, you can just chill at the outdoor cafes and enjoy the Broadway shows.  12. Leavenworth, Washington State Average Temperature: 7-18 °Celsius With the charm of a Bavarian-style village, Leavenworth is just another small town in the USA that turns magical in October.  The small town hosts an Oktoberfest. It is a German-style celebration with great food and music. Furthermore, the entire town is decked up in fall foliage, pumpkins, and everything autumn.  13. Lake Tahoe: California And Nevada Border Average Temperature: 10-21 °Celsius Surrounded by mountains, Lake Tahoe is one of the most serene places to travel in October in the USA. With the summer crowd gone, the foliage in the mountains and around the lake starts changing colors.  You can do kayaking and hiking here. Or, you can just relax by the lake for some tranquility.  14. Chicago Average Temperature: 4-21 °Celsius Chicago bustles with energy in October as it hosts many renowned festivals. It is the month of the Chicago International Film Festival and the Lincoln Park Autumn Harvest.  Also, with the nip in the air, it is the best time to try the signature deep-dish pizzas. 15. Zion National Park, Utah Average Temperature: 4-20 °Celsius Hike through the famous trails such as the Narrows and Angels Landing in Zion National Park and witness how the fall foliage creates a contrast against the red rock canyons in the park.  The views are dramatic, and with the summer crowd gone, the ambiance is peaceful.  16. Potter And Tioga Counties, Pennsylvania Average Temperature: 3-17 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Potter Tioga (@visitpottertioga) Blessed by the Appalachian Mountains, Potter and Tioga Counties have the most amazing forests and verdant hills. So, the autumn vistas here are quite dramatic.  Furthermore, the Pine Creek Gorge, or the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, is at the epicenter of the autumn attractions here.  Moreover, you can do horse riding, hiking, or biking through the Pine Creek Rail Trail for an unforgettable experience.  17. Mackinac Island, Michigan  Average Temperature: 4-12 °Celsius View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mira (@lightbender_photo) Autumn on Mackinac Island is captivating. Enjoy a ride in the bikes or horse-drawn carriages to see the changing fall colors. It is famous for its car-free lifestyle.  Also, don’t forget a visit to the Mackinac Island State Park, famous for limestone arches, woods, and trails.  Visiting The Best Places To Travel In October In The USA: A 7-Day Itinerary  Are you in the USA this autumn? Try this 7-day itinerary to explore the best places to travel in October in the USA.  DaysLocationActivitiesDay 1Salem • Drive from Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Salem• A Visit to the Witch House and Walking through the Historic StreetsDay 2Boston• Walking through the Freedom Trail and Exploring Places such as Boston Common, Paul Revere House, and Faneuil Hall.• A Visit to Boston Common and Enjoying a Boat Ride.• Walking through Beacon HillDay 3Boston to Vermont• Foliage Drive from Boston to Vermont for 4-5 Hours.• Stopping by the Woodstock Town to See Fall Colors. • Trying Maple Syrup at a Sugar House. Day 4Vermont and New England• Hiking in the Green Mountain National Forest for Foliage Views• Shopping at Vermont Country Store• Afternoon Drive in the BerkshiresDay 5Vermont to New York City• A Drive for Around 5 Hours• Exploring Central Park• Visiting the NYC Landmarks such as Rockefeller Center and Times SquareDay 6New York City• Visiting the Metropolitan • • Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)• Brooklyn Bridge Walk• Visiting the 9/11 MuseumDay 7Departing from New York City• Souvenir Shopping• Trying Classic Bagels• Airport Travel What Is The Cost Of A 7-Day Fall Vacation In October In The USA? Here is the estimated cost of a 7-day fall vacation in the USA in October. The budget range here is wide because I have considered budget, mid-budget, and high-end traveling and their various options.  Types of CostEstimated BudgetNotesAccommodation$600-2100• Hostels• Budget Inns• Boutique Hotels• B&BsTransportation$200-600• GasTolls• Parking• Subway• Rental CarTrainFood and Drink$350-1000• Quick• Service• Groceries• RestaurantsAttractions$150-450• Entry Fees• ToursTicketsTotal$1300-4150• (Excluding flight tickets to the USA) A Calendar Of October Festivities In The USA  In October, try being a part of these nationwide and local festivals.  Time of MonthFestivalsDetails2025 DatesEarly OctoberAlbuquerque International Balloon Fiesta• The Largest Hot Air Balloon Festival in the World• Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico4th to 12th October 2025First Two Full Weekends in OctoberNational Apple Harvest Festival• Visit Biglerville, Pennsylvania. 4th and 5th October and 11th to 12th October13th OctoberColumbus Day• A Federal Holiday Celebrating America’s Past13th OctoberMonth-Long ActivitiesSalem Haunted Happenings• Visit Salem, MassachusettsN/AMid-OctoberFall-Foliage Festivals• Visit Vermont, New Hampshire, and MarylandN/A31st OctoberHalloween• Nationwide Celebration with Themed Parties and Spooky Tours31st October Best Places To Travel In October In The USA: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the best places to travel in October in the USA.  1. What Is The #1 Place To Vacation In The US? New York City, the Yellowstone National Park, and Los Angeles are some of the most popular places for a vacation in the USA. However, if you want to enjoy a vibrant nightlife, you can visit Las Vegas or Reno. Also, Orlando is the place to be for theme park fun. 2. What Is The Cheapest Vacation Destination In The USA? Oklahoma City, known for its distinct cowboy culture, is one of the cheapest vacation destinations in the USA. You can visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City Zoo, and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum here. Furthermore, the cost of living in the city is way below the national average.  3. Where To Take Kids For Fun In The US? With the presence of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, Orlando is the most coveted location for kids visiting the USA. However, if your little one loves nature and wilderness, Yellowstone National Park, Olympic National Park, and the Dry Tortugas National Park are some of the best places to be.  Read Also: Check the Best Warm Winter Destinations in USA! The Best Places to Visit in February in the USA in 2025! The Best Places To See Northern Lights In The USA: When And Where To Watch Aurora Borealis

READ MORE best beaches in California

11 Best Beaches In California That You Must Visit Once In Your Life

BY  Sibashree Sep 27, 2025

The beautiful, majestic Californian coastline is what dreams are made of - vibrant boardwalks, an infinite horizon, and rolling waves. Each beach I visited in California welcomed me with its own personality. So, while Treasure Island welcomed me to its calm and serene coastline, Santa Monica impressed upon me its vibrant, lively spirit.  Exploring the best beaches in California was a dream come true - and now I can tell you about the best beaches. The problem with all such blogs on the internet is their number game - if there are 20 beaches in a single state, then a travel blog’s job is to pick the most beautiful ones for you, and not list all of them to rank higher.  My apologies for the rant - let’s get down to business now! On that note, I’ve tried listing down the best beaches in California. My parameters? Well, I’ve got quite a few - check them out before jumping down to my list of California’s best beaches! Does the beach come with a long coastline and a great view?  Is the water good for swimming? What activities can you try?  How’s the sand? Is there a restaurant to dine at? Does the restaurant offer takeaway? How’s the parking? Can you rent umbrellas and chairs?  Is there anything unique or rare about the beach? Stay tuned. 11 Best Beaches In California: Keeping my parameters, let’s check out the best beaches in California: 1. Treasure Island Beach, Laguna Beach: This is truly one of the best beaches in California - it looks exactly like what people imagine a beach to look like, complete with clear, blue water and sandy coves.  In the whole of Southern California, this beach has the bluest water - it is worth the drive to Orange County to visit this beach. Located near the Montage Laguna Beach resort in Treasure Island, this beach is maintained beautifully with easy access to pathways, showers, and restrooms.  Additionally, you will find a cave on the beach that leads to a cove, turquoise water, and tide pools. Also, you can go on dolphin and seal sightings. Plus, you can park your vehicle for free in the area close to the beach.  2. McWay Falls, Big Sur: I loved visiting McWay Falls, the only waterfall in California that directly flows onto a beach. Located inside the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, you cannot access the beach since it is off-limits for protecting the surrounding landscape.  However, you can go on a short and easy hike from the main lot of the park, leading to a sort of overlook. The falls are situated to the south of the main town, and it’s a must-stop if you are on a road trip on Highway 1.  3. Point Dume, Malibu: A beautiful headland at Malibu’s northern end, Point Dume happens to be a state-reserved spot with lookout points, hiking trails, and a hidden beach. You can access this beach from a rocky, unpaved path.  Situated off Cliffside Drive, this area has very limited parking, but the reward is panoramic views of the picturesque Santa Monica Bay. Moreover, if you go on a clear day, then you will be able to see Catalina Island as well.  Also, we spotted whales during the migratory season, usually between December and April. My partner and I loved the casual, local feel of the beach.  4. Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica: Santa Monica is one beach that literally everyone knows. My partner was living in Santa Monica for three years before moving away earlier this year.  And he told me that the popular beach is not the one locals usually go to. So, when I visited him in April this year, we checked out both spots - the popular tourist spot, the Pier, and the local spot.  For starters, let’s talk about the popular spot - Yep, I’m talking about the iconic Pier, always buzzing with activities - from endless stretches of soft sand to the amusement park, there’s so much to do. Also, there’s a path for riding bikes on the beach - it’s perfect for biking near the coastline.  5. Will Rogers State Beach, Pacific Palisades: Now, Will Rogers State Beach is the one locals love in Santa Monica. Located to the north of Santa Monica Pier, this beach has a casual, relaxing atmosphere, perfect for hanging out. Moreover, it’s not very crowded - it’s nothing really compared to the Pier.  Having said that, I had a lot of fun stuffing streetside food from local carts. Also, we went to Back On The Beach Cafe for lunch - we had a meal while soaking up the sun with our feet in the sand. Ah!  Moreover, we biked down to the spot from the neighbourhood and avoided parking. However, there’s paid parking available here. Plus, we were impressed with the clean restrooms.  6. Montaña de Oro State Park, Los Osos: To the south of the beautiful Morro Bay, Montaña de Oro State Park spans over 8,000 acres of remote beaches, tide pools, and cliffs. We spent an entire day exploring the area, and we had so much fun that we went back the next day. The most accessible (and convenient) beach here is Spooner’s Cove - it has plenty of basic amenities and parking space. Also, if you love hiking, then you should check out the Bluff Trail for coastal wildflowers and rocky coves, especially in the Spring.  7. Victoria Beach, Laguna Beach: Popular for the legendary Pirate Tower on the cliffside, Victoria Beach is a beautiful (not to mention scenic) spot in the whole of Orange County. Another local gem, you can access this beach by going down the steep stairs near Victoria Drive.  When the tide is low on the beach, you can take a walk to the Pirate Tower and explore the tide pools. In addition, when the sun sets, you can take some of the best photos of the beach. Also, there is no official parking space, and as a result, it gets difficult to find a spot, especially on holidays and weekends.  8. La Jolla Shores, San Diego: This flat, wide beach is in the upscale neighbourhood of La Jolla. Perfect for paddleboarding, surfer lessons (for beginners), and kayaking, this San Diego beach is a must-visit, especially if it's your first time in San Diego.  There’s parking available, but it fills up quickly on weekends. Moreover, this spot is only a few minutes from the charming La Jolla Cove, another must-stop if you are here. Why? You can go snorkelling and explore the rocky reefs. Also, if you are lucky, you will spot some cute sea lions lounging.  9. Santa Claus Lane, Carpinteria: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jessica (@bourbonisvegan) Of course, I have been to several beautiful beaches in the world, and the view has always been a crucial parameter for me! But this is not one of those beaches - the point of visiting it is not the view. I loved the shallow, calm water here - we swam and even tried out paddleboarding for the first time. You can find the beach close to Padaro Lane - it’s a local favourite and perfect for couples and families. Moreover, if you are lucky, then you will find free parking since only a limited spots are available for free. Also, you won’t find a lot of amenities here - in that case, it's best to carry snacks and gear.  10. Morro Rock Beach, Morro Bay: Before I get to the beach, let me tell you about Morro Rock - it's a volcanic plug that is 576-feet tall and naturally dominates the entire shoreline. Moreover, the beach is sandy and wide with frequent fog and moderate waves, giving it an otherworldly (not to mention eerie) feel.  The spot is located close to Highway 1. As a result, it is super easy to find parking for free. Also, you can easily access restrooms and a marina nearby.  11. Under Bixby Bridge, Big Sur: Undoubtedly, Bixby Creek Bridge is one landmark in California that is always popular in photographs. Yep, the spot is one of the most photographed spots in California.  Hidden beneath this bridge is a small beach that you can access only via steep, unmarked trails. It can be a little risky to reach a secluded beach - but if you are fit, go for it! The beach is only 15 minutes from Highway I.  Flanked by strong cliffs and strong waves of the Pacific, this beach is south of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Remember, this is not the place for swimming. So, it’s best to visit if you want to see the unmatched and rugged, natural beauty of the beach, especially during golden hour. Are Beaches In California Safe? The best beaches in California are not always universally safe. While typically open, the quality of water tends to fluctuate due to various reasons like bacterial contamination, strong currents, and large surfs.  As a result, it is best to always check current guidelines from local park staff and health agencies.  Moreover, it is best to swim at beaches that have lifeguards. Plus, just be aware of the weather and other conditions since they are prone to rapid change.  On that note, let’s look at the potential hazards that you can face on California's beaches.  Bacterial contamination. Rip currents.  Large waves.  Cold water.  Sudden drop-offs. Rocky shores. Sharks. Safety Tips: So, here are some safety tips to remember while exploring the best beaches of California: Check local weather and ocean conditions. Swim at a beach that has lifeguards.  Be aware of all your surroundings.  Always be familiar with your limitations.  Keep yourself hydrated.  Always be careful near the burn areas. Frequently Asked Questions: Check out the most frequently asked questions about the best beaches in California: 1. Is It Safe To Swim In The Sea In California? Beaches in California are usually open recreationally. Having said that, it is not always safe to swim in California’s seas due to potential hazards like bacterial contamination. So, it is always vital to stay aware of information on closures, beach postings, etc. Check local websites for regular information, especially while planning a trip.  2. What Is The Least Popular Beach In California? The least popular beaches in California are as follows:• Wildcat Beach. • Black Sands Beach. • Mattole Beach. • Gold Bluffs Beach. • Tomales Bay.• Marshall’s Beach.  3. Why Is Laguna Beach Water So Clear? Laguna Beach is one of the only cities in California with a fishing and boating-free coastline. Also, removing marine wildlife is prohibited on this beach. These are two major developments that ensure the ocean’s overall health is fine.  Read Also: 11+ Best Beaches In Portugal That You Must Visit Once In Your Life 9 Best Beaches In Greece That You Must Visit Once In Your Life Uluwatu Beach: The Prettiest Beach In Bali