Anacortes and Vicinity
Anacortes is located on beautiful Fidalgo Island, about 90 minutes Northwest of Seattle, Washington, and about 90 minutes Southwest of Vancouver, British Columbia. It is the first island of the San Juan Archipelago, and is accessible by bridge from the mainland, by bridge from Whidbey Island, by ferry from Victoria and the San Juan Islands and by airplane from anywhere.

Anacortes is in the westernmost part of Skagit County, an area of Washington State known worldwide for it's amazing natural beauty. From the tulip fields to the Cascade Mountains to the island beaches and seascapes, there is nowhere that compares for scenery, climate and recreational opportunities.

There are many events and festivals that take place here throughout the year, adding to the ambiance and charm of this friendly community, and serving to enhance the bonds that can only be found in a small town. See our links page for more information on local events.

Facts and Figures
Population (2004)
    Anacortes (City Limits) 15,470
    Fidalgo Island 20,053
    Skagit County 106,906
Average Temperatures
    January - 45.5 max; 35.1 min
    July - 76.0 max; 52.3 min
Average Rainfall - 26" annually
Average Snowfall - trace to 3"
Property tax rates - (may vary) @ 1.5% of assessed value.

Miscellany
Anacortes is served by Island Hospital, a full-service hospital with airlift service to University and Harborview hospitals in Seattle, a birthing center, a physical therapy center, a full surgery center, Lifeline services and a full complement of other related services.

There are thousands of acres of undeveloped, protected forest lands in Anacortes as well as public boat launches, playgrounds, a municipal indoor swimming pool and other recreational facilities maintained by the Parks Department and City of Anacortes.

The Anacortes School District continues to rank as one of the best in the state, with Mount Erie Elementary recently being seeded as in the top 25 based on state academic test results. Anacortes graduates receive very high marks from receiving universities and colleges, and rank well above the state average on SAT scores. There are four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school in the district. There are also strong specialized programs for accelerated students, athletics, music and art.

Also in Anacortes you will find a nearly brand-new library, a radio station, a weekly newspaper, a bowling alley, a first-run three-screen movie theater, a place to get your drivers license and registration, 4 marinas, 2 major grocery stores, a community live theater production company, great shopping, an old-fashioned Fourth of July parade, lots of great restaurants and live music venues and a town full of wonderful people who have discovered and cherish our quality of life and are ready to welcome you, too!