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OLYMPIA PROFILE

Olympia, the capital city of Washington, is situated at the southern tip of Puget Sound.

Olympia's metro area has a population exceeding 200,000 and is the focal point of the region for commerce, shopping, culture and entertainment. Evergreen State College is a top liberal arts institution.

Mount Ranier reflected in a lake near Olympia | See more photos!

© iStockPhoto.com/Hoovie918

The starkly beautiful Mt Rainier and the Olympic Mountains offer plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities.

The diverse mix of businesses, shops and restaurants in the historic downtown district and the waterfront Farmers Market make Olympia a top destination.

Among GreatPlacesToRetire.com cities, Olympia ranks high in climate, proximity to nearest large city and man-made hazards risk. Olympia ranks low in taxes and natural hazards risk.

For more detailed city facts -- including data on home prices, population demographics, medical care, air quality, water quality and more -- click on the City Report graphic below:

To Olympia City Report