Our Community - Yakima

Yakima, Washington features lush green valleys surrounded by hills and mountain peaks in the scenic Yakima Valley region. Located in the heart of Washington, Yakima enjoys a pleasantly mild climate, uncommon for mountainous areas. The name ‘Yakima’ is in honor of the Yakima Native American tribe, whose Reservation lies on the outskirts of town.

According to the Census 2000 Data, Yakima, WA reported a population of 71,845, with a metropolitan area that includes nearly 230,000 residents. Spread throughout 19 square miles, Yakima is Yakima County’s largest city and Washington’s ninth largest city. Yakima’s primary roadway is Interstate 82. Other easily accessible highways include U.S. Hwy-12, U.S. Hwy-9 and State Route 24. Yakima lies 145 miles southeast of Seattle, while Spokane is 200 miles to the southwest.

Yakima is the seat of Yakima County, known as “The Fruit Bowl of the Nation”. Rich, fertile soil contributes to the production of apples, cherries, grains, grapes, pears and a variety of vegetables. Yakima’s retail core has not been as successful, with many businesses recently transferring to the nearby city of Union Gap. Despite the retail slump, the greater Yakima Valley area is full of job opportunities. More than 250 manufacturing firms and an extremely successful wine industry with over 40 local wineries keep the economy prosperous.

Yakima, Washington boasts more than thirty parks that encompass more than 300 acres of the city. Recreational facilities include public and private 18-hole golf courses, public tennis courts, playgrounds, picnic areas and one indoor and four outdoor swimming pools. The Yakima River provides excellent opportunities for fishing, a ten-mile trail and a wildlife sanctuary. Visitors to the area enjoy the Yakima Area Arboretum, Yakima Indian Painted Rocks and several sporting events sponsored by local teams such as the Yakima Sun Kings and the Mavericks.

Yakima, WA also has a wealth of popular vacation destinations located within less than a day’s drive. The beautiful Pacific beaches lie to the west, while nearby the Columbia River offers opportunities for boating and windsurfing. A trip to the vibrant city of Seattle reveals sites such as Mt. Rainier National Park, Puget Sound and the Space Needle. The Canadian border is a few short hours away and opens up a wealth of additional exciting recreational opportunities for the whole family.

Residents in the Yakima Valley region enjoy an enviable quality of life. The climate is dry and mild and is heavily influenced by the Cascade and Rocky Mountains. The generally close-knit communities have access to a wide variety of churches, civic organizations and excellent schools. The region’s facilities for higher education include Central Washington University, City University, Heritage College and Yakima’s branch of Washington State University.

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