Being the postman had its benefits -- Originally named Centerville, the town name was changed by postmaster D.O. Pearson, who changed it in honor of his wife's maiden name, Stanwood.
It was founded around trade and trade was the centerpiece of the town for decades
Being the postman had its benefits -- Originally named Centerville, the town name was changed by postmaster D.O. Pearson, who changed it in honor of his wife's maiden name, Stanwood.
It was founded around trade and trade was the centerpiece of the town for decades. Lumber and agricultural products were sent out by steamboat and later, by rail. To the west of Interstate 5 and the east of Puget Sound, Stanwood is a small community of just over 6,000 people that is just beyond the edge of the Seattle and Everett metropolitan areas.
Moving to Stanwood
You won't have to take the steamboat to get here these days, but you should plan your move as much in advance as possible, regardless of how you're getting here. This region is a popular place to live, so expect some competition when it comes time to find an apartment for rent in Stanwood. You might think it would be mostly a residential town serving as a suburban pad spot for people working in other areas, and you'd be mostly correct. There is some light industry and still quite a bit of agriculture, but most of the town made up of tract-style housing developments and a few apartment complexes. It's smart to be prepared to come up with first and last month's rent, and deposit when signing a lease. A good credit score will help you find deals and land the apt for rent you want. Like most small towns, the choices are more limited here, so having a plan and spending some time doing research goes a long way. Whether looking to secure a condo for rent or a single family home, the more time you can spend before the move, the more informed your choices will be.
Stanwood Neighborhoods
Essentially, there are just three parts of town that are parts that make up the larger neighborhood that is Stanwood.
Historic Stanwood: The older part of the community is where you will find historic buildings, the small downtown, and small units that can be rented as all bills paid apartments. It's the closest part of town to the waters of Puget Sound and runs mostly east-to-west along SR 532.
North/West Stanwood: To the north and west, housing tracts spread into the farmland and wooded areas. You'll find Heritage Park in this area.
South Stanwood: To the south of town lies the big city, but that's along I-5. Nearer the water, it's mostly green space and farms. You can dine at Dragon Palace once you're all settled in Stanwood.
Living in Stanwood
While you might be tempted to bring an umbrella after hearing about rainy winters, leave it behind when you move. Nothing says "I'm new here" like running around under an umbrella all the time. Summers see little rain and comfy temperatures that aren't too hot. It's great weather for hiking, biking, and getting out on the water. Like virtually any town in the Pacific Northwest, there's good coffee to be had. Check out Black Swan Coffee Roasting and Locals Espresso. For a night out, stop by Leatherheads Pub & Eatery or Viking Bar & Grill. There is an Amtrak station in town and it has easy connections to Vancouver, BC to the north, which is just over an hour's drive away as well. Test your mettle and swim the cold Puget Sound waters or take to the North Cascades and hit the slopes.