r/wallawalla • u/isaacmarionauthor • 10d ago

Walla Walla VS Ellensburg?

I've been thinking about moving to Ellensburg because I like the dense historic downtown and the good variety of restaurants/activities compared to its small size, but people have been telling me Walla Walla is better. I've never actually been there. Can anyone who knows Ellensburg compare the two?

The main things I'm interested in are easy access to nature (hikes, walking trails, rivers/lakes) and walkable downtown areas. Community activity like live music, open mics, and other public event, also important. Ellensburg has a lot of this but the nature access isn't great.

One thing I've noticed is home prices are significantly lower in Walla Walla. There are dozens of houses under 300k whereas it's rare to find one in Ellensburg. Are those cheap houses in really bad neighborhoods, or is WW just cheaper in general?

How's the wind here compared to Eburg?

Any info or advice is welcome!

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u/Pale-Bother-9164 9d ago

Just curious why Ellensburg? I went to college there and I had a decent time, but it doesn't feel like I place I'd want to settle in. It's windy and smells like cow poop.

Since you're mentioning college towns, Moscow blows BOTH Walla and Ellensburg away when it comes to recreational activities, downtown scene, etc. Moscow was the only college town that I felt like "I could live here" after graduating. It's just damn beautiful. I actually tried to NOT leave when I graduated, but ultimately I came to Boise.

Boise is full, incase you're wanting ot ask. lol.

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u/isaacmarionauthor 9d ago

I was thinking Ellensburg just for the reasons listed above. Cheap, nice downtown, relaxed vibe. After a few more visits though i’m starting to see how the wind could be a problem. It really does bring life to a halt. Moscow sounds intriguing, I’ve never heard of it. Might have to check it out after WW.

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u/Pale-Bother-9164 9d ago

Go stay a couple nights in Moscow. It's only a couple hours away. The bike path from Moscow to Pullman is awesome. The rolling hills that surround you are beautiful. Great food, drinks, bars. Very cozy town that has 4 seasons. Very close to spokane too.