AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Olympia, WA — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Olympia neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,500/mo
Median Rent
55,605
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
State of Washington
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Olympia? What Renters Need to Know

Olympia's cost of living is about 10% above the national average, mainly due to housing. Median rent is around $1,500/month.

Quick Facts

Population 55,605
Median Rent $1,500/mo
Top Employer State of Washington
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,500 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Olympia median rent matches the national median of $1,500/mo exactly.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Olympia is State of Washington, making the Downtown Olympia area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Olympia

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Downtown Olympia

Score: 86/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 85
Avg Rent $1,600
Schools 7/10
#2

South Capitol

Score: 84/100
Safety A
Walk Score 72
Avg Rent $1,700
Schools 8/10
#3

Eastside

Score: 82/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 55
Avg Rent $1,450
Schools 7/10

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#4

Westside

Score: 80/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 50
Avg Rent $1,400
Schools 7/10
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#5

Northeast

Score: 78/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 42
Avg Rent $1,350
Schools 7/10
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#6

Lacey

Score: 76/100
Safety A
Walk Score 38
Avg Rent $1,500
Schools 8/10
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#7

Tumwater

Score: 74/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 40
Avg Rent $1,400
Schools 7/10
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#8

Southeast

Score: 72/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 35
Avg Rent $1,350
Schools 6/10
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See All 8 Olympia Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Olympia Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Olympia renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Olympia.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Olympia properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Olympia

What is the cost of living in Olympia?

Olympia's cost of living is about 10% above the national average, mainly due to housing. Median rent is around $1,500/month. No state income tax helps offset costs.

Is Olympia a good alternative to Seattle?

Yes. Olympia is 60 miles south of Seattle with significantly lower housing costs, less traffic, and a progressive, arts-focused culture.

What are the best neighborhoods in Olympia?

South Capitol has beautiful historic homes. Downtown is walkable and vibrant. Lacey offers newer suburban development with good schools.

What is the weather like in Olympia?

Mild year-round with rainy winters and dry summers. Average temperatures range from 35°F in winter to 75°F in summer. Less rain than Seattle.

What are the major employers?

State government is the largest employer. Evergreen State College, Providence St. Peter Hospital, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord (nearby) also drive employment.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.