Whidbey Island is located in Puget Sound, just 25 miles north of Seattle, Washington and lies between the Olympic Peninsula and the I-5 corridor of western Washington. The island forms the northern boundary of Puget Sound. There are approximately 60,000 residents on Whidbey with half of those living in rural locations.
The island is the largest island in the State of Washington and the 5th largest island in the contiguous United States. Whidbey Island is known for its soaring views and rural charm and the “rain shadow” climate and casual but cultured attitude made it the perfect choice for a full-time residence or vacation home.
Cities / town centers on Whidbey Island
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Oak Harbor, to the north, is the largest city
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Coupeville – (County Seat for Island County) is in the middle
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Greenbank : a bit south of Coupeville
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Langley : on Saratoga Passage
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Freeland : at the end of Holmes Harbor
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Clinton : South end of the island…ferry terminal to Mainland
The economy of the northern end of Whidbey Island is strongly influenced by the presence of Whidbey Island Naval Air Station (N.A.S. Whidbey) near Oak Harbor. N.A.S. Whidbey is Oak Harbor’s largest employer. Oak 
Harbor has a predominately service-based economy and several national
chain stores have been attracted to the Oak Harbor area. Whidbey is also
becoming known for its wine, with vineyards and wineries open for visitors
and wine tasting. And let’s not forget the wild turkeys that wander around… enjoying the view and eating snails and slugs in the garden.
The economy of South Whidbey Island relies heavily on tourism-related commerce, small-scale agriculture, and the arts. South Whidbey is a natural draw for retired people who want the lifestyle of a rural community but the amenities of being just 45 minutes from Seattle where some of the finest medical facilities in the United States are located, along with major league sports, excellent shopping and world class art museums, theatre and concerts.
See my Favorites Places page to find out more via the internet about many other things that Whidbey has to offer for a great lifestyle!