Bigelow Highlands, Olympia,WA

Bigelow Highlands, a charming neighborhood in the southeast part of Olympia, WA, is a wonderful choice for those looking to settle in a community that balances nature, convenience, and a friendly atmosphere. Known for its peaceful streets lined with well-kept homes and mature trees, Bigelow Highlands offers residents a suburban feel while still being close enough to enjoy the perks of city life. Whether you’re a family, a young professional, or someone looking to enjoy a quieter lifestyle, this neighborhood provides a welcoming environment with plenty of amenities nearby.

One of the standout attractions in Bigelow Highlands is the wonderful access to green spaces and outdoor activities. The area is near several parks, including the popular Bigelow Park, which features walking trails, picnic spots, and open fields perfect for weekend outings or evening strolls. For those who enjoy staying active, the neighborhood is also close to the Tumwater Falls Park, where you can explore scenic waterfalls and enjoy a bit of local history. Additionally, residents appreciate the proximity to Olympia’s well-regarded schools and community centers, making it an ideal area for families with children.

When it comes to convenience, Bigelow Highlands is just a short drive from Downtown Olympia, typically around 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. This means you can easily access the vibrant downtown scene, full of charming shops, restaurants, and cultural spots like the Washington Center for the Performing Arts. Grocery stores, cafes, and other daily necessities are also readily available within or near the neighborhood. For those moving to Olympia, Bigelow Highlands offers a perfect blend of peaceful suburban living combined with quick access to the heart of the city and all its attractions.

21% of the Bigelow Highlands population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 21% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Bigelow Highlands demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,020 residents, Bigelow Highlands is notably smaller than many other Olympia neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Bigelow Highlands has a population density of 3,081, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Olympia neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 39, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Bigelow Highlands crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Bigelow Highlands, the median home price is about $366,360, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Bigelow Highlands have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

With an average rent price of $1,606, rental rates in Bigelow Highlands are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School ratings in Bigelow Highlands combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Bigelow Highlands can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.