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Buying your first home is an exciting milestone—but in today’s competitive market, affordability can feel like a major hurdle. The good news? There are still communities across the Pacific Northwest where first-time buyers can find homes under $450,000.
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy craftsman, a low-maintenance condo, or a starter home with room to grow, we’ve done the research to help you get started. In this article, we’re highlighting the top cities in the PNW where homeownership is still within reach.
From vibrant small towns to up-and-coming suburbs, these locations offer a balance of value, livability, and opportunity—perfect for buyers taking that exciting first step. And with the guidance of a Northwest MLS broker, you’ll have a trusted expert by your side to help you navigate the market and find the home that’s just right for you.
Let’s dive in and explore your options!
Top Cities for Residential Homes Under $450,000
If you’re dreaming of a traditional single-family home with a yard, space to grow, and a place to truly call your own, you’re not alone. Residential properties remain the most sought-after option for first-time buyers—and the good news is, there are still cities in the Pacific Northwest where homeownership is within reach.
| City | Residential Homes Sold | Residential Home: Median Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tacoma | 1,127 | $399,950 |
| Bremerton | 426 | $392,750 |
| Moses Lake | 377 | $329,000 |
| Shelton | 369 | $346,400 |
| Longview | 356 | $359,000 |
| Olympia | 328 | $405,000 |
| Port Orchard | 264 | $405,000 |
| Walla Walla | 261 | $358,990 |
| Port Angeles | 210 | $348,375 |
| Ellensburg | 208 | $392,498 |
| Ocean Shores | 208 | $350,000 |
Top Cities for Condominiums Under $450,000
Looking for a low-maintenance lifestyle without sacrificing comfort or location? Condominiums can be a smart and affordable choice—especially for first-time buyers.
Across the Pacific Northwest, here are the top ten cities with the largest selection of condos priced under $450,000, combining convenience, amenities, and access to vibrant neighborhoods.
| City | Condos Sold | Condo: Median Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle | 773 | $370,000 |
| Everett | 223 | $335,000 |
| Kent | 177 | $355,000 |
| Tacoma | 172 | $354,500 |
| Bellingham | 163 | $349,999 |
| Federal Way | 158 | $300,000 |
| Renton | 152 | $349,950 |
| Auburn | 115 | $365,000 |
| Puyallup | 115 | $339,000 |
| Kirkland | 103 | $375,000 |
| Lynnwood | 97 | $365,000 |
Top Cities for Manufactured Homes Under $450,000
If you’re looking for an affordable path to homeownership, manufactured homes offer excellent value—often with more space and flexibility than other options in the same price range.
Across the Pacific Northwest, many cities provide a wide selection of manufactured homes with most priced well under $450,000, making them a great choice for first-time buyers, retirees, or anyone seeking budget-friendly housing without compromising on comfort.
| City | Manufactured Homes Sold | Manufactured Home: Median Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| Puyallup | 116 | $118,200 |
| Auburn | 100 | $125,000 |
| Everett | 93 | $137,500 |
| Olympia | 76 | $118,750 |
| Marysville | 69 | $124,000 |
| Sequim | 69 | $210,000 |
| Bellingham | 65 | $142,000 |
| Federal Way | 61 | $115,000 |
| Bremerton | 59 | $130,000 |
| Bothell | 54 | $194,975 |
| Spanaway | 47 | $111,000 |
Data for all reported MLS sales from 2024 in Washington state.