Living in and Moving to Lewis County, Washington

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38% of Lewis County, Washington is actively infectious with COVID.

So, for example, if you’re in a room with 15 people, there’s a 99.9% chance at least one person has COVID. If you’re unmasked in a room with >100 people, you might have COVID before you can count them all. pic.twitter.com/H49KUrLBWp

— Mike Hoerger, PhD MSCR MBA (@michael_hoerger) February 6, 2024

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Cost of living in Lewis County, Washington

Housing Costs

The average cost of housing in Lewis County, Washington, can vary significantly depending on location and type of property. As of the most recent data from 2023, the median home price in Lewis County is approximately $350,000, which is considerably lower than the statewide average of $500,000 in Washington. Renters can expect to pay around $1,200 to $1,500 per month for a standard two-bedroom apartment, which is more affordable than larger cities in the region. The cost of owning a home, including mortgage, property taxes, and insurance, typically runs between $1,800 and $2,500 per month for a moderate home. For more detailed data on housing prices and trends, check out this [link](https://www.redfin.com/WA/Lewis-County/housing-market) from Redfin.

Utilities

The average monthly utility bill in Lewis County, which includes electricity, heating, water, and garbage services, is typically around $250. This can fluctuate based on the size of the home and the season, particularly during colder months when heating costs increase. The local electricity provider is Pacific Power, and the average cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour is approximately $0.09. Water and sewer costs also vary, but they generally range from $50 to $100 per month for a standard household. For further details on utility pricing, refer to the official website of Pacific Power [here](https://www.pacificpower.net/).

Groceries/Food

The cost of groceries in Lewis County is relatively similar to the national average, but it can vary depending on where you shop. Monthly grocery bills for a family of four typically range between $700 and $1,000, depending on dietary preferences and store choice. Common grocery store chains in the area include Walmart, Safeway, and local independent markets, which may offer slightly different pricing. For instance, a gallon of milk costs around $3.75, and the price of a loaf of bread is approximately $2.50. Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture on food prices can be found [here](https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-price-outlook/).

Transportation

Transportation costs in Lewis County are influenced by the area’s rural nature and the necessity of owning a vehicle. The average price of gasoline as of January 2025 is about $3.75 per gallon, which is lower than in urban areas like Seattle. Public transportation options are limited, with Lewis County Public Transportation (LCPT) offering bus routes within the county, but these services are not as frequent as in larger cities. As a result, most residents rely on personal vehicles, with the average monthly cost for gas and maintenance around $150 to $200. Detailed data on fuel prices can be accessed [here](https://www.eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/).

Healthcare

The cost of healthcare in Lewis County is relatively affordable compared to urban centers, but prices can still add up. The average cost of a primary care visit in the area is around $150 to $200, with specialist visits typically costing $250 or more. Health insurance premiums in the area average about $400 per month for an individual under the Affordable Care Act plans, depending on the provider and plan type. However, those with employer-sponsored insurance may see different rates. For more detailed health coverage data, refer to the Kaiser Family Foundation [here](https://www.kff.org/health-reform/).

Childcare and Education

Childcare expenses in Lewis County are relatively moderate compared to larger cities in Washington. The average cost of daycare for an infant is approximately $800 to $1,000 per month, with preschool services averaging $500 to $700 per month. Public education in Lewis County is provided by several school districts, and property taxes contribute to funding local schools, making education accessible without additional tuition costs. The Washington State Department of Early Learning provides more information on childcare pricing, which can be found [here](https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/).

Taxes

The sales tax rate in Lewis County is 8.6%, which is slightly above the state average of 8.4%. The state of Washington does not impose a personal income tax, which can be a significant saving for residents. However, property taxes are a consideration, with the average effective property tax rate at 1.05%. The overall tax burden is lower than in other areas of Washington state due to the absence of an income tax. More information on state tax rates can be found on the Washington State Department of Revenue website [here](https://dor.wa.gov/).

Insurance

The average cost of homeowners insurance in Lewis County is about $800 to $1,200 annually, which is below the state average. For auto insurance, the annual premium is typically $1,100 to $1,500, depending on the type of vehicle and driving history. Lewis County’s rural nature often leads to lower insurance costs compared to urban regions. For precise data on insurance rates, consult the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) [here](https://www.naic.org/).

Recreation and Entertainment

Outdoor recreation is a significant part of life in Lewis County, and while many activities like hiking and fishing are free, other forms of entertainment can incur costs. For example, admission to the Lewis County Fair typically costs around $10 per person, while annual passes to state parks range from $30 to $50. There are also several local recreational centers offering gym memberships at an average cost of $35 to $50 per month. Detailed information about recreation fees can be found through the Washington State Parks website [here](https://www.parks.wa.gov/).

Clothing

Clothing costs in Lewis County are generally in line with national averages. A pair of jeans typically costs around $40 to $60, while a basic T-shirt can range from $10 to $20. There are local stores such as Walmart and second-hand shops offering affordable options, with more specialized stores in nearby cities. Seasonal changes in weather also affect clothing purchases, with cold-weather gear costing more in winter months. For specific clothing price trends, you can check the Bureau of Labor Statistics [here](https://www.bls.gov/cpi/).

Personal Care

The cost of personal care items in Lewis County is generally affordable. A basic haircut typically costs between $20 and $30, with higher-end salons charging $50 or more. Toiletries and personal care products are priced similarly to the national average, with items like shampoo and soap generally costing $4 to $10. Monthly personal care expenses for an individual are estimated to be around $50 to $100. For more information on personal care spending patterns, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics [here](https://www.bls.gov/cex/).

Miscellaneous Expenses

Miscellaneous expenses, including entertainment, dining out, and other personal spending, typically range between $200 and $400 per month in Lewis County. Dining out at local restaurants will cost approximately $10 to $20 per meal at casual dining establishments, while higher-end restaurants can charge $30 or more per person. Monthly spending on miscellaneous items can fluctuate depending on lifestyle, but on average, it is in line with national norms. For more information, the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis provides data on consumer spending, which can be accessed [here](https://www.bea.gov/data/).

Is Lewis County, Washington a safe place to live – Crime Rates?

Crime Rate

The overall crime rate in Lewis County, Washington, is relatively low compared to national averages. According to the most recent data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program for 2023, Lewis County has a crime rate of approximately 2,200 per 100,000 residents. This is below the national average, which hovers around 3,500 per 100,000 people. Crime rates can vary by specific areas within the county, but overall, it remains a relatively safe place to live. For detailed crime data in Washington state, you can visit the FBI’s UCR program [here](https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr).

Violent Crime Rate

Violent crime in Lewis County is notably lower than national averages. As of the most recent data from 2023, the violent crime rate in Lewis County is approximately 250 per 100,000 residents. This rate is much lower than the national average of about 380 per 100,000 people. Violent crimes include offenses such as homicide, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault. For more specific statistics on violent crime rates, refer to the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs’ report [here](https://www.waspc.org/).

Property Crime Rate

The property crime rate in Lewis County is also lower than the national average. With an estimated 1,500 property crimes per 100,000 people as of 2023, this is below the U.S. national average of 2,200 property crimes per 100,000. Property crimes in this category include burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. The data indicates that while property crime exists, it is relatively less frequent in Lewis County. More details on property crime trends can be found in the Washington State Crime Data [here](https://www.waspc.org/).

Police Presence

Lewis County has a moderate police presence with several local law enforcement agencies serving the area, including the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office and municipal police departments in cities like Centralia and Chehalis. The Sheriff’s Office has around 20 deputies, and the police departments in these cities have expanded forces to handle local law enforcement duties. With its rural nature, Lewis County is covered by the Washington State Patrol for highway patrol duties. You can find more about the local law enforcement activities and resources on the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office website [here](https://www.lewiscountywa.gov/departments/sheriff/).

Neighborhood Watch Programs

Neighborhood Watch programs are active in various communities throughout Lewis County, particularly in suburban and rural areas. These programs are aimed at reducing crime through the involvement of residents who work closely with local law enforcement to keep an eye on suspicious activities. While there isn’t an exhaustive list of every program, many of the smaller towns and suburban neighborhoods participate. For more information on neighborhood watch programs, visit the National Neighborhood Watch website [here](https://www.nnw.org/).

Safety Rankings

In terms of safety rankings, Lewis County consistently ranks as one of the safer rural counties in Washington. It has a relatively low overall crime rate, and its violent crime rate is significantly lower than many other counties in the state. Websites like NeighborhoodScout and AreaVibes give Lewis County favorable safety scores, with an overall safety rating of 80 out of 100. This places the county in the top tier for safety within Washington. For a detailed safety score breakdown, you can visit the AreaVibes report [here](https://www.areavibes.com/lewis+county-wa/).

Trend Data

Crime trends in Lewis County have shown a steady decline over the past decade, with significant reductions in both violent and property crimes. According to the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission, crime in rural areas, including Lewis County, has generally decreased due to increased community involvement and improved law enforcement techniques. However, there has been a slight uptick in property crimes like theft, attributed to the growing population and economic changes. For trend data on crime rates in Washington, check the state’s public safety data [here](https://www.ssb.wa.gov/).

School Safety

School safety is a priority in Lewis County, and the local school districts have implemented various security measures to ensure student safety. In 2023, local schools reported a significant reduction in bullying incidents and improvements in safety protocols. Lewis County has invested in safety measures such as security cameras, school resource officers (SROs), and emergency response training. According to the Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), Lewis County schools maintain a good safety record, with ongoing support for mental health services to prevent violence. More about school safety in the county can be found through OSPI [here](https://www.k12.wa.us/).

What are the demographics of Lewis County, Washington?

White

The White population in Lewis County, Washington, makes up approximately 88.1% of the total population. This is based on the most recent 2020 census data available, which shows 73,245 White residents out of a total county population of around 83,135.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Black or African American

The Black or African American population in Lewis County is approximately 1.4%, representing about 1,161 residents. This demographic is one of the smallest in the county based on the 2020 census estimates.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Hispanic or Latino

The Hispanic or Latino population in Lewis County stands at 6.5%, representing around 5,405 residents. This group has seen steady growth over recent years.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – ACS 2020 Data

Two or More Races

The population of individuals identifying as two or more races in Lewis County is about 3.2%, amounting to around 2,661 individuals. This category includes people of mixed racial backgrounds.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Asian

The Asian population in Lewis County is relatively small at around 0.7%, translating to approximately 585 residents. Asians include a variety of ethnic backgrounds, with a focus on individuals from Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Native American

The Native American population in Lewis County accounts for about 1.5% of the total population, representing approximately 1,245 individuals. This includes both Indigenous peoples and Alaskan Natives.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – ACS 2020 Data

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

The Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander population in Lewis County is quite small, comprising less than 0.1% of the population. This translates to a few hundred individuals in total.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Sources:

• U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data
• U.S. Census Bureau – ACS 2020 Data

Lewis County, Washington Population by Age and Gender

Total Population by Gender

The total population of Lewis County, Washington, is approximately 83,135 as of the most recent 2020 census estimates. The gender breakdown is as follows:

• Male: 40,824 (49%)
• Female: 42,311 (51%)

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Age Distribution

The age distribution in Lewis County is as follows based on the 2020 census estimates:

• Under 5 years: 5.4% of the population
• 5 to 9 years: 5.7%
• 10 to 14 years: 6.0%
• 15 to 19 years: 6.3%
• 20 to 24 years: 5.2%
• 25 to 44 years: 20.5%
• 45 to 64 years: 26.1%
• 65 years and over: 25.2%

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Median Age

The median age in Lewis County, Washington, is 44.3 years, according to the 2020 Census data.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – ACS 2020 Data

Gender Distribution within Age Groups

The gender distribution within specific age groups in Lewis County, based on 2020 census estimates, shows:

• Under 5 years: Male – 51%, Female – 49%
• 5 to 9 years: Male – 50%, Female – 50%
• 10 to 14 years: Male – 51%, Female – 49%
• 15 to 19 years: Male – 52%, Female – 48%
• 20 to 24 years: Male – 53%, Female – 47%
• 25 to 44 years: Male – 48%, Female – 52%
• 45 to 64 years: Male – 48%, Female – 52%
• 65 years and over: Male – 46%, Female – 54%

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Dependency Ratios

The dependency ratio in Lewis County is 52.2, which indicates that there are 52.2 dependents (children under 18 and adults 65 and over) for every 100 working-age individuals (18 to 64 years old).

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Dependency Ratios Data

Life Expectancy by Gender

The life expectancy in Lewis County, Washington is approximately 79 years, with women living an average of 81 years and men living an average of 77 years.

Source: CDC – National Vital Statistics

Population Growth Rates

Over the past decade, the population of Lewis County has grown by about 6.3%, with a steady increase in population from 78,000 in 2010 to 83,135 in 2020.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Population Growth Rate Data

Sources:

• U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data
• U.S. Census Bureau – ACS 2020 Data
• U.S. Census Bureau – Dependency Ratios Data
• CDC – National Vital Statistics
• U.S. Census Bureau – Population Growth Rate Data

Lewis County, Washington Zip Codes

Here is a list of all the ZIP codes for Lewis County, Washington:

• 98501
• 98512
• 98520
• 98524
• 98530
• 98532
• 98535
• 98536
• 98538
• 98541
• 98542
• 98546
• 98556
• 98558
• 98559
• 98560
• 98564
• 98565
• 98569
• 98570
• 98572
• 98573
• 98574
• 98576

These ZIP codes cover the various towns and unincorporated areas within Lewis County, Washington.

What is the history of Lewis County, Washington?

History of Lewis County, Washington

Lewis County, Washington, has a rich and complex history that dates back to its early establishment in the mid-19th century. Named after Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the county’s story is deeply intertwined with the development of the Pacific Northwest region.

Early Indigenous History

Before European settlers arrived, Lewis County was inhabited by several Native American tribes, most notably the Cowlitz, Chehalis, and Nisqually tribes. These indigenous peoples relied on the fertile lands and rivers for fishing, hunting, and gathering. They established villages along rivers like the Cowlitz River, which played a central role in their daily lives. The Native American communities were disrupted with the arrival of European settlers in the 1800s, with many being displaced from their ancestral lands.

European Exploration and Settlement

The area that is now Lewis County was first explored by Europeans in the early 1800s. The Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through the region in 1805, marking the first documented European presence in the area. The explorers were tasked with mapping out the newly acquired lands after the Louisiana Purchase. Lewis County was named in honor of Meriwether Lewis, one of the leaders of the expedition.

Establishment of Lewis County

Lewis County was officially established on December 19, 1845, as one of the original counties of the Washington Territory, which was then part of the Oregon Territory. The county was created from land that was previously part of Clark County, which was located to the north. The county’s original boundaries were much larger than those of today, including parts of what are now several neighboring counties.

Early Economy and Growth

In its early years, Lewis County’s economy was driven by agriculture, logging, and fishing. The fertile soil of the region allowed for the growth of crops, while the rivers provided an abundant supply of fish. Logging became an essential industry in the late 19th century, with the dense forests of the region offering valuable timber resources. Towns such as Centralia and Chehalis began to grow as people moved to the area in search of work in these industries.

The Railroad Era

The completion of the Northern Pacific Railway in the 1870s was a turning point in the development of Lewis County. The railroad connected the region to the rest of the United States, facilitating the transportation of goods and people. This led to an increase in population and economic activity, as well as the establishment of new towns and communities. Centralia, in particular, became a key transportation hub due to its proximity to the railroad.

Twentieth Century and Modern Development

In the 20th century, Lewis County continued to grow and evolve. The timber industry remained a major part of the economy, but the county also saw the development of other industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. The construction of highways and improvements to infrastructure helped connect Lewis County to the broader region, leading to more economic opportunities and greater access to services.

Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the county’s population grew, and new communities were formed. The county government was reorganized over the years, with the establishment of new districts and counties dividing the land. Today, Lewis County is home to a diverse population, with a mixture of urban and rural communities. While agriculture and forestry still play a significant role in the county’s economy, tourism, and small businesses have also become increasingly important to the region’s development.

Recent History

In recent decades, Lewis County has faced challenges related to economic transition, population growth, and environmental concerns. Despite these challenges, the county has continued to adapt and evolve, with a focus on sustainable development and preserving the area’s rich natural resources.

Sources:

• Lewis County Official Website
• HistoryLink – History of Lewis County
• National Park Service – Meriwether Lewis and the Expedition

Lewis County, Washington Weather

Average Temperature (by Month)

The average temperature in Lewis County, Washington, varies throughout the year, with cooler winters and warmer summers. Below is a general overview of the average temperatures by month:

• January: 37°F (3°C)
• February: 39°F (4°C)
• March: 44°F (7°C)
• April: 49°F (9°C)
• May: 56°F (13°C)
• June: 63°F (17°C)
• July: 70°F (21°C)
• August: 70°F (21°C)
• September: 64°F (18°C)
• October: 52°F (11°C)
• November: 43°F (6°C)
• December: 37°F (3°C)

Source: Weather US – Lewis County Climate

Precipitation Patterns

Lewis County experiences significant precipitation throughout the year, particularly in the winter months. Below is the average precipitation by month:

• January: 5.6 inches (142 mm)
• February: 4.7 inches (119 mm)
• March: 4.5 inches (114 mm)
• April: 3.2 inches (81 mm)
• May: 2.4 inches (61 mm)
• June: 1.7 inches (43 mm)
• July: 0.7 inches (18 mm)
• August: 0.9 inches (23 mm)
• September: 1.9 inches (48 mm)
• October: 4.0 inches (102 mm)
• November: 5.3 inches (135 mm)
• December: 5.8 inches (147 mm)

Source: Weather US – Lewis County Precipitation

Extreme Weather Events

Lewis County, like many parts of the Pacific Northwest, can experience extreme weather events, particularly during the winter months. Some notable extreme weather events include:

• Heavy snowstorms: Occasional snowstorms during winter can impact travel and daily life in the higher elevations.
• Flooding: Due to the county’s river systems, especially the Cowlitz River, flooding can occur during periods of heavy rainfall in the winter.
• Windstorms: Strong winds can sometimes cause damage to trees and power lines, particularly in coastal and mountainous areas.

Source: National Weather Service – Portland, Oregon (Lewis County Weather)

Humidity Levels

Humidity in Lewis County is generally high throughout the year, with the most humid months occurring in the winter. The average relative humidity typically ranges from 75% to 85% during winter and decreases slightly in the summer months.

Source: Weather US – Lewis County Humidity

Sunlight

Due to its location in the Pacific Northwest, Lewis County experiences relatively short days in the winter and long days in the summer. On average:

• Winter months (December, January): Around 8-9 hours of daylight
• Summer months (June, July): Around 15-16 hours of daylight

Source: Sunrise and Sunset Times for Chehalis, WA

Wind Patterns

Lewis County experiences moderate wind speeds year-round, typically ranging from 5 to 15 mph. The wind tends to be stronger in the winter months due to storms and lower pressure systems. The wind is generally more calm in the summer months.

Source: Weather US – Lewis County Wind Patterns

Weather Comparison with Washington State and the U.S.

Lewis County’s climate is generally cooler and wetter than much of the United States, especially when compared to more temperate or arid regions. Here’s a comparison:

• Average temperature in Washington state: 50°F (10°C), compared to 50°F (10°C) in Lewis County.
• Annual precipitation in Washington state: 37.2 inches (945 mm), compared to 53 inches (1,350 mm) in Lewis County, indicating significantly higher precipitation in the county.
• Average U.S. temperature: 52.7°F (11.5°C), while Lewis County remains cooler with its yearly average temperature.

Source: Weather US – Climate Comparison

Sources:

• Weather US – Lewis County Climate
• National Weather Service – Portland, Oregon (Lewis County Weather)
• Sunrise and Sunset Times for Chehalis, WA

Average Income in Lewis County, Washington

Average Annual Salary

The average annual salary in Lewis County, Washington is approximately $49,300. This figure is based on the most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau and reflects the median household income within the county.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Average Hourly Wage

The average hourly wage in Lewis County is about $23.70. This is based on 2020 estimates from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for the local economy and various industries.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics – 2020 Data

Average Earnings Per Week

The average weekly earnings in Lewis County are approximately $945. This value is reflective of the average across different sectors of the workforce, including agriculture, retail, and healthcare.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Median Household Income by County

Most Popular Jobs/Careers

Common careers in Lewis County include positions in retail, healthcare, and construction. The most popular jobs are typically in the following industries:

• Retail Salespersons
• Registered Nurses
• Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
• Construction Laborers
• Elementary and Secondary School Teachers

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Lewis County Employment Data

Highest Paid Jobs Popular to the Area

Some of the highest-paid occupations in Lewis County are in specialized fields such as healthcare and skilled trades:

• General Physicians: $190,000+ annually
• Pharmacists: $125,000+ annually
• Industrial Engineers: $85,000+ annually
• Construction Managers: $75,000+ annually

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics – Occupational Wage Data

Income Comparison with Washington State and the U.S.

When compared with the state and national averages, Lewis County tends to have a lower median income. Here is a comparison:

• Average income in Washington state: $67,000 (higher than Lewis County’s $49,300 average).
• Average U.S. income: $68,700 (also higher than Lewis County’s average income).

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Income Data Comparison

Sources:

• U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data
• Bureau of Labor Statistics – 2020 Data
• U.S. Census Bureau – Median Household Income by County
• U.S. Census Bureau – Lewis County Employment Data
• Bureau of Labor Statistics – Occupational Wage Data

Taxes in Lewis County, Washington

Property Taxes

In Lewis County, Washington, the average property tax rate is approximately 1.1% of the assessed property value. This is consistent with the overall average property tax rate in Washington state. Property taxes are levied by local governments, and the rates can vary depending on the area within the county. Property taxes are assessed and collected by the Lewis County Assessor’s office.

Source: Lewis County Assessor’s Office – Property Taxes

Sales Taxes

The sales tax rate in Lewis County is 8.4%. This includes a state sales tax of 6.5% and a local sales tax of 1.9%. The local rate can vary slightly depending on the city or district within the county, but 8.4% is the general rate for unincorporated areas and many cities within the county.

Source: Washington State Department of Revenue – Sales Tax Rates

Income Taxes

Washington state, including Lewis County, does not impose a state income tax. This makes Washington one of the few states in the U.S. without a state-level income tax. However, federal income taxes still apply to residents of Lewis County.

Source: Washington State Department of Revenue

Utility Taxes

Lewis County imposes utility taxes on certain services, which include taxes on electricity, water, and other utilities. These taxes are levied by local cities within the county rather than by the county itself. The utility tax rates vary based on the city or service provider but are typically around 6-10%.

Source: Washington State Department of Revenue – Utility Taxes

Hotel Occupancy Tax

The hotel occupancy tax rate in Lewis County is 2%, which is applied to the rental of rooms in hotels, motels, and similar establishments within the county. This tax is designed to fund tourism-related activities and is generally collected by the lodging businesses and remitted to the county.

Source: Lewis County Tourism – Hotel Tax

Tax Payment Schedule

Property taxes in Lewis County are typically due in two installments: April 30th and October 31st each year. Failure to make payments on time will result in penalties, which can increase the amount due over time.

Source: Lewis County Treasurer’s Office – Property Tax Payment Schedule

Penalties for Late Payment

For property taxes, if payments are not made by the due dates, a penalty of 1% per month is applied to the unpaid balance. This can quickly accumulate, so it is important to pay on time to avoid additional charges.

Source: Lewis County Treasurer’s Office – Late Payment Penalties

Where to Pay

Taxes in Lewis County can be paid online via the Lewis County Treasurer’s Office website, by mail, or in person at the Treasurer’s office located in Chehalis, Washington. Payments can also be made through local banks participating in the county’s payment program.

Source: Lewis County Treasurer’s Office – Payment Options

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding taxes in Lewis County, residents can contact the following offices:

• Lewis County Treasurer’s Office: (360) 740-1156
• Lewis County Assessor’s Office: (360) 740-1392
• Washington State Department of Revenue: (800) 647-7706

Source: Lewis County Treasurer’s Office – Contact Information

Tax Comparison with Washington State and the U.S.

When compared to other parts of Washington state and the United States, Lewis County’s tax rates are relatively average. Washington state has no income tax, which is a significant advantage compared to many other states. However, the overall tax burden in Lewis County is in line with state and national averages for sales, property, and utility taxes.

Source: Washington State Department of Revenue – State and Local Tax Comparison

Sources:

• Lewis County Assessor’s Office – Property Taxes
• Washington State Department of Revenue – Sales Tax Rates
• Washington State Department of Revenue – Utility Taxes
• Lewis County Tourism – Hotel Tax
• Lewis County Treasurer’s Office – Property Tax Payment Schedule
• Lewis County Treasurer’s Office – Late Payment Penalties
• Lewis County Treasurer’s Office – Payment Options
• Lewis County Treasurer’s Office – Contact Information
• Washington State Department of Revenue – State and Local Tax Comparison

Is Lewis County, Washington a Good Place to Live for Singles?

Events and Activities

Lewis County, Washington offers a variety of events and activities for singles, with local attractions like hiking, cultural events, and seasonal festivals. Centralia and Chehalis are two towns in the county that host regular events, such as the annual “ChehalisFest,” an event with entertainment, food, and community activities. There’s also a strong sense of local history in the area, with museums and festivals around the historical heritage of the county.

For local events, you can check out the Lewis County Tourism website: Lewis County Tourism.

Gyms

If you’re looking to stay active and meet people, there are several gyms and fitness centers in Lewis County. Some popular choices include:

• Chehalis Fitness
• Centralia Athletic Club

Housing

The housing market in Lewis County is generally affordable compared to larger urban areas in Washington State. The median home price in Lewis County is significantly lower than in neighboring counties such as Pierce and Thurston. For singles looking for rental properties, there are a variety of options, from single-bedroom apartments to small homes available for rent.

For more information on rental listings, you can visit: Rent.com – Lewis County Rental Listings

Percentage of Single Residents

As of the 2020 Census, about 30% of Lewis County’s population is unmarried, which is somewhat lower than the state average for Washington (which is approximately 34%). For comparison, the national average of single residents is around 36%. These statistics suggest that Lewis County has a relatively lower proportion of single residents compared to the state and national averages.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Compare the Single Statistics

In terms of single residents, Lewis County ranks slightly lower than Washington State and the national average. Washington State has approximately 34% of its population single, while Lewis County has about 30%. Across the United States, the average percentage of single residents is approximately 36%. This means that while Lewis County is slightly behind in terms of the proportion of single residents, it is still relatively close to state and national averages.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Sources:

• Lewis County Tourism
• Chehalis Fitness on Yelp
• Centralia Athletic Club on Yelp
• Rent.com – Lewis County Rental Listings
• U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Is Lewis County, Washington Good for Families?

Lewis County, Washington, offers a mix of affordable housing, a relatively low crime rate, and plenty of family-friendly activities. The area’s weather is typical for the Pacific Northwest with a wet winter and mild summer, and the cost of living is relatively low compared to larger urban areas in the state. With a mix of natural beauty and small-town charm, it offers families a place to settle and enjoy both outdoor activities and community events.

Parks and Family Activities

Lewis County provides many parks and outdoor spaces for families to explore. Some popular parks include:

• Lewis County Parks and Recreation – A collection of beautiful parks including Mayfield Park, perfect for picnics and hiking.
• Chehalis Recreation – Provides family-friendly sports leagues, swimming, and other recreational activities.

Restaurants

Lewis County offers a variety of dining options, including many family-friendly restaurants. Some popular types include:

• Italian Restaurants
• Mexican Restaurants
• BBQ Restaurants
• American Restaurants

Housing

The housing market in Lewis County offers an affordable option for families. The cost of buying a home is considerably lower than in larger urban areas. Median home prices in Lewis County are around $250,000, with many options in suburban and rural areas suitable for families looking for more space.

For more information on homes for sale, visit: Realtor.com – Homes for Sale in Lewis County

Percentage of Family Residents

Approximately 55% of Lewis County’s population is married, which is higher than the state average of 52%. This suggests that the county is a good place for families, with a higher proportion of married couples living there. The family-oriented environment is reflected in the community activities and lifestyle options available.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Compare the Married Statistics

Lewis County has a higher proportion of married residents than the state and national averages. Washington State has about 52% of its population married, and the national average is around 50%. Lewis County’s 55% married population indicates that it is a family-friendly area with a strong community for those looking to settle down.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

Sources:

• Lewis County Parks and Recreation
• Chehalis Recreation
• Italian Restaurants in Chehalis
• Mexican Restaurants in Chehalis
• BBQ Restaurants in Chehalis
• American Restaurants in Chehalis
• Realtor.com – Homes for Sale in Lewis County
• U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census Data

How are the schools in Lewis County, Washington?

Lewis County, Washington has a range of public and private schools offering education from Pre-K to higher education. The county provides a variety of educational opportunities for children, with funding mainly from state resources, local levies, and federal grants. Overall, the schools in the county are performing adequately in terms of academic scores, although there are disparities between individual schools. The financial allocation for education varies based on local school district funding. On average, schools in Lewis County report a lower per-student funding compared to the state average.

Pre-K Schools

In Lewis County, Pre-K programs are offered primarily through local school districts and community centers. Some notable programs include:

• Centralia School District Early Childhood Education Program – Offers preschool and early learning resources for children ages 3-5.
• Tumwater School District Early Learning – Provides a variety of Pre-K programs focused on preparing children for kindergarten.

Kindergarten Schools

Kindergarten education in Lewis County is offered at the elementary level within public school districts. Some top schools include:

• Centralia Elementary Schools – Offers well-regarded Kindergarten programs that are part of the district’s early education initiatives.
• Chehalis School District – Provides a supportive Kindergarten environment with a focus on early childhood development.

Elementary Schools

Elementary education in Lewis County spans grades K-5, with several strong schools that serve the community:

• Centralia Elementary School – Known for strong academic programs and extracurricular offerings.
• Chehalis Elementary Schools – Offers a wide range of learning programs for children, with a focus on literacy and STEM education.

Middle Schools

Middle schools in Lewis County provide education for grades 6-8, preparing students for high school. Some notable schools include:

• Centralia Middle School – A large middle school with a variety of educational offerings and extracurricular programs.
• Chehalis Middle School – Known for strong academic performance and athletic programs.

High Schools

High schools in Lewis County offer advanced academic programs, including college prep and vocational tracks. Some of the top high schools include:

• Centralia High School – Offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and extracurricular activities.
• Chehalis High School – Features strong academic programs, sports, and performing arts.

Colleges & Universities

Higher education in Lewis County is provided by nearby institutions and some local colleges. Notable options include:

• Centralia College – A community college offering a variety of degree programs, certificate programs, and professional development opportunities.
• South Puget Sound Community College – Offers programs designed to provide pathways for four-year university transfers, workforce development, and continuing education.

Churches in Lewis County, Washington

Churches in Lewis County, Washington

• Centralia Bible Baptist Church
• First Baptist Church of Chehalis
• St. Mary’s Catholic Church
• Adna Community Church
• Living Water Church
• Trinity Lutheran Church

Conclusion: Why you should consider moving to Lewis County, Washington