Kitsap County is best known for its naval heritage, ferry connections to Seattle, and its mix of small-town lifestyle with big-city access. Home to about 277,000 residents as of 2023 (U.S. Census Bureau), the county offers a blend of military history, outdoor recreation, and a strong small-business economy that sets it apart in Washington State.
A Quick Overview of Kitsap County
Kitsap County sits on the Kitsap Peninsula, bordered by the Puget Sound and Hood Canal. It is a hub for commuters traveling to Seattle, Bremerton’s Navy shipyard, and surrounding towns. Known for its scenic views of the Olympic Mountains, Kitsap combines affordability compared to Seattle with a tight-knit community vibe.
Fast Facts
- Population: ~277,000 (U.S. Census, 2023)
- Largest city: Bremerton
- Commute: Ferries connect Bainbridge Island and Bremerton to downtown Seattle
- Economy drivers: Navy bases, small businesses, healthcare, and tourism
What is Kitsap County Known For?
Kitsap County is most recognized for three key areas: its history and naval presence, its lifestyle shaped by natural beauty, and its growing economy.
1. Kitsap County’s Naval and Military History
Kitsap is home to Naval Base Kitsap, the U.S. Navy’s third-largest installation. The Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton has been a central employer since 1891. Generations of families have ties to the Navy, and veterans make up a significant part of the population. The county’s culture is deeply shaped by this military presence.
2. A Lifestyle Blending Nature and Community
People choose Kitsap for its outdoor lifestyle. Residents enjoy:
- Hiking in Green Mountain and Illahee State Park
- Visiting historic Poulsbo’s “Little Norway” waterfront
- Exploring Bainbridge Island’s wineries and farms
- Fishing, kayaking, and boating in Liberty Bay and Hood Canal
Kitsap is also known for its festivals: Whaling Days in Silverdale, Viking Fest in Poulsbo, and local farmers markets that showcase the county’s agricultural roots.
3. Kitsap’s Economy and Business Growth
While the Navy is the largest employer, Kitsap is growing in healthcare, technology, and small business.
- Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and St. Michael Medical Center are leading healthcare providers.
- Small businesses—from independent restaurants in Port Orchard to boutique shops on Bainbridge—thrive in Kitsap’s supportive local economy.
- Kitsap County’s median household income is $92,000 (Kitsap EDA, 2024), higher than the Washington State average, reflecting steady growth.
Kitsap’s Cities and What They’re Known For
Each city adds to Kitsap’s identity:
- Bremerton: Naval shipyard, ferries, revitalized downtown, art scene.
- Poulsbo: Nicknamed “Little Norway,” famous for Scandinavian heritage.
- Silverdale: Shopping hub, Kitsap Mall, Whaling Days festival.
- Bainbridge Island: Affluent community, arts, wineries, ferry to Seattle.
- Port Orchard: Historic waterfront, affordable housing, family-friendly.
- Kingston: Gateway to Edmonds via ferry, small-town charm.
- Hansville & Indianola: Known for lighthouses, beaches, and community events.
Lifestyle and Housing in Kitsap County
Kitsap appeals to families, retirees, and commuters. Housing is more affordable than Seattle, though rising demand has pushed up prices. The median home value in Kitsap County was about $537,000 in 2024 (Redfin).
Residents often commute to Seattle for work, but remote jobs and small businesses are becoming more common. Schools in districts like North Kitsap and Bainbridge Island are well-rated, making the county attractive to young families.
Transportation: Ferries, Highways, and Transit
Kitsap is known for its ferry system.
- Bainbridge Island–Seattle Ferry: About 35 minutes, a commuter favorite.
- Bremerton–Seattle Ferry: About 60 minutes, scenic ride through Puget Sound.
- Kingston–Edmonds Ferry: Key link to Snohomish County.
Kitsap Transit also operates buses and the fast ferry system, cutting travel times to Seattle. These connections make Kitsap a commuter-friendly county while maintaining a relaxed lifestyle.
Education and Community Culture
Kitsap residents take pride in education and cultural life.
- Olympic College in Bremerton serves students countywide.
- Bainbridge Island is home to arts organizations, museums, and galleries.
- Local libraries and community centers anchor neighborhoods, offering classes and events.
Why Kitsap County Matters Now
Kitsap is one of Washington’s fastest-growing areas because it offers balance. It has the affordability missing in King County, the culture of a close-knit community, and access to Seattle jobs without city congestion. For businesses, Kitsap represents a strong market with both military stability and rising civilian demand.
FAQs About Kitsap County
What is Kitsap County known for?
Kitsap is known for its naval history, ferry connections to Seattle, and a lifestyle that blends outdoor recreation with community living.
Is Kitsap County a good place to live?
Yes. Kitsap offers affordable housing compared to Seattle, strong schools, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly communities.
What cities are in Kitsap County?
Major cities include Bremerton, Poulsbo, Silverdale, Bainbridge Island, Port Orchard, Kingston, and several smaller towns like Hansville and Indianola.
What drives the Kitsap County economy?
The Navy is the largest employer, followed by healthcare, small businesses, tourism, and growing tech-related work.
How do people commute from Kitsap to Seattle?
Most commuters use Washington State Ferries from Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, or Kingston. Kitsap Transit’s fast ferries are also popular.
What is the cost of living in Kitsap County?
The cost of living is lower than Seattle but higher than rural counties. Median home prices are about $537,000 (2024).
Why is Kitsap County growing?
Growth comes from affordable housing, ferry access to Seattle, and people seeking lifestyle balance outside major cities.
Takeaway
Kitsap County is known for more than just its Navy roots. It represents a unique mix of history, outdoor lifestyle, and economic growth that makes it stand out in Washington. For residents and businesses, Kitsap offers small-town living with big opportunities just a ferry ride away.
Sources
- U.S. Census Bureau (2023 population data)
- Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (income, economy)
- Kitsap County Government
- WSDOT (ferry schedules)
- Redfin Housing Data (2024 median home values)