The Top 7 Worst Things About Living in Spokane, Washington

  Are you thinking about moving to Spokane, Washington? While it’s a beautiful place with many advantages, like any city, Spokane has its downsides. In this blog, we’ll dive into the top seven worst things about living in Spokane that you should be aware of before making the move. 1. Homelessness One of the most noticeable issues in Spokane is the growing problem of homelessness. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in tent encampments and visible poverty, especially in downtown and certain neighborhoods. While the city is making efforts to address the issue, it's been a tough challenge. Spokane’s City Council is actively working on finding solutions, including smaller resource centers spread across neighborhoods to provide support. However, not everyone is on board with these plans, and it remains a hot-button topic in the community. While homelessness may be a concern, some people moving from other states still find Spokane to be safer than where they came from. 2. Crime Rates Although Spokane is generally a safe place, property crime has been an issue, especially in certain areas. Spokane’s property crime rate is higher than the national average, including vehicle break-ins, theft, and vandalism. Neighborhoods vary in safety, so it’s important to do your research. A great tool to use is the Spokane County Crime Map, which helps you see where crime is more frequent and what types of crime are happening in specific areas. The good news is that property crime in Spokane has decreased by 16% this year, and violent crime is down 6%. 3. Drug Problems Like many cities across the country, Spokane has been significantly impacted by the opioid epidemic and other substance abuse issues. Drugs like methamphetamines and opioids are prevalent, leading to increased crime and public health concerns. You may notice more discarded needles or see people using substances in public places. First responders are responding to an alarming number of overdoses every day, with the number rising each year. While this is part of a national crisis, it’s a reality Spokane is grappling with as well. 4. Smoke from Wildfires Spokane’s location makes it vulnerable to wildfires during the summer, and when fires break out, the air quality can become hazardous. If you have respiratory issues or are sensitive to smoke, this is a serious concern. Some summers are worse than others, with weeks of hazardous air where it’s advised to stay indoors. While this past summer wasn’t too bad, previous years have seen several smoky days where the air was nearly unbreathable. Wildfire season typically hits in late summer, but it’s always something to be prepared for. 5. Housing Market & Lack of New Developments Spokane’s housing market has been hot for a while, and the demand for housing continues to outpace supply. The city is currently about 30,000 homes short of where it needs to be, and while new homes are being built, many feel that the developments aren’t thoughtful or well-planned. Some clients moving to Spokane from other states, like Texas, have noted that the housing developments here don’t offer the same community amenities like parks, pools, or gyms. Most of Spokane’s neighborhoods are older, and the ones that do offer amenities like Eagle Ridge are in high demand, making it challenging for new buyers to find their perfect spot. 6. Political Environment Spokane’s political scene is split almost evenly between conservative and liberal viewpoints, making for a politically diverse and sometimes contentious atmosphere. While the city itself leans more liberal, the surrounding county is more conservative, creating a mix of opinions that can lead to heated debates. This diversity can be a positive for those who appreciate different perspectives, but it can also be challenging if you're used to a more politically homogenous environment. To get a feel for Spokane’s political landscape, you can use resources like voting maps to see how different neighborhoods lean politically. 7. Limited Indoor Activities Spokane is an outdoor lover’s paradise, but if you’re someone who prefers indoor activities, you may find the options a bit limited. While there are museums, indie theaters, and some shopping options, Spokane lacks the bustling indoor recreational scene you’d find in larger cities. If you’re not into hiking, skiing, or water sports, you might have to be more proactive about finding things to do, especially during the long winter months when outdoor activities are less appealing. Every city has its pros and cons, and Spokane is no different. If you're a local, feel free to share what you think are the downsides of living in Spokane in the comments below. If you’re thinking about moving here, what concerns you the most? Spokane may have its challenges, but it’s still a place many people call home, and for good reason. If you're looking for more information about Spokane or want help finding the right neighborhood for you, don’t hesitate to reach out! And if you’re curious about all the fun things Spokane has to offer, check out our next post where we explore activities for every personality type.

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Celebrate at Valleyfest 2024 in Spokane Valley

Join the Spokane Valley community on September 21st and 22nd for Valleyfest 2024, a fun-filled weekend celebrating local talent, culture, and family entertainment. With events spread across multiple locations, including Mirabeau Point Park, Plantes Ferry Sports Complex, and CenterPlace Regional Event Center, there’s something for everyone at this annual festival. The festival kicks off with the exciting Hearts of Gold Parade on Sprague Avenue, followed by two days of live performances, games, and community activities.   Event Details Dates: September 21st - 22nd, 2024 Location: Mirabeau Point Park, 13500 Mirabeau Pkwy, Spokane Valley, WA 99216 Plantes Ferry Sports Complex, CenterPlace Regional Event Center Admission: Free Contact: Visit the Valleyfest website for a detailed schedule of events   What to Expect Hearts of Gold Parade: The weekend kicks off with the vibrant Hearts of Gold Parade on Sprague Avenue on Friday night. Come and see floats, marching bands, and community groups light up the street in celebration. Live Entertainment: Enjoy a weekend of live performances showcasing local musicians, dancers, and entertainers. It’s the perfect way to spend time with family and friends while taking in Spokane Valley’s talent. Activities for All Ages: From kids’ games and youth talent shows to interactive exhibits and sports activities, Valleyfest offers a wide variety of fun for attendees of all ages. Community Spirit: Valleyfest is powered by volunteers and funded by donations from local businesses and community members. It’s a festival that brings Spokane Valley together in celebration and support of the local community.   Why You Should Attend Free Family Fun: Valleyfest offers free admission, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy a weekend packed with activities and entertainment. Celebrate Local Talent: With performances and showcases from area youth, Valleyfest is a great opportunity to support the next generation of artists, athletes, and performers. Community Connection: Meet your neighbors, enjoy the Spokane Valley’s parks, and take part in this beloved annual event that’s all about coming together. Don’t Miss Out on Valleyfest 2024 Gather your family and friends and head to Spokane Valley for a weekend of festivities. From the parade to the park events, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy at Valleyfest. Keep an eye on the Valleyfest website for the full schedule of events.

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Experience High-Flying Action at Spokane Arenacross 2024

Get ready for two nights of thrilling motocross action at the 3rd Annual Spokane Arenacross, happening September 20th and 21st at the Spokane County Fairgrounds. Watch as amateur and professional riders from across the Northwest battle it out under the lights, showcasing their speed, skill, and daring stunts. Whether you're a die-hard motocross fan or looking for an exciting night out, Arenacross is the place to be!   Event Details Dates: September 20th - 21st, 2024 Time: Pits open at noon Spectator gates open at 6:00 PM Racing starts at 7:00 PM Location: Spokane Fair & Expo Center, 404 N Havana, Spokane, WA 99202 Admission: Spectator tickets: $20 (available at the gate) Pit passes: $20 Kids 5 and under: Free Contact: (509) 477-1766   What to Expect High-Flying Racing Action: Watch amateur and professional motocross riders as they hit the track and go head-to-head in high-speed, adrenaline-pumping races. Riders will perform daring jumps and stunts, making this a must-see event for motocross enthusiasts. Pit Passes Available: For an up-close look at the bikes and riders, grab a pit pass for $20 and get access to the pits starting at noon. It's a great way to meet the riders and see the machines that power the action. Food and Drinks: Enjoy a variety of food vendors and grab a drink at the beer garden while soaking in the high-energy atmosphere. Family Fun: Kids 5 and under get in free, making it a great family-friendly event for all ages.   Why You Should Attend Thrilling Entertainment: From heart-stopping jumps to intense competition, Spokane Arenacross delivers excitement from start to finish. Perfect for Families: With free admission for kids 5 and under, it's a budget-friendly way to enjoy a night of motorsports. Meet the Riders: Pit passes allow you to get behind the scenes, meet the riders, and see the bikes up close before they hit the track. Join Us for Spokane Arenacross 2024 Don't miss out on two nights of motocross madness at Spokane Arenacross. Bring your friends, family, and fellow racing fans for a high-energy event filled with action, food, and fun. Get your tickets at the gate, and be ready for an unforgettable weekend of racing excitement.

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