Best known as the hometown of Kurt Cobain, Aberdeen is a gritty little city whose rundown streets and aging buildings create a beautifully grungy atmosphere that never fails to charm, contrary to what that imagery in our description might inspire. If you’re one of those people lured by this gritty-city life, then you'll want to have a quick read to learn everything you need to know about renting and living in Aberdeen.
In the year 1902, Aberdeen was affectionately known as "The Hellhole of the Pacific", or "The Port of Missing Men"
Best known as the hometown of Kurt Cobain, Aberdeen is a gritty little city whose rundown streets and aging buildings create a beautifully grungy atmosphere that never fails to charm, contrary to what that imagery in our description might inspire. If you’re one of those people lured by this gritty-city life, then you'll want to have a quick read to learn everything you need to know about renting and living in Aberdeen.
In the year 1902, Aberdeen was affectionately known as "The Hellhole of the Pacific", or "The Port of Missing Men". It was a place where a bloodthirsty outlaw could stumble into downtown, look upon the bounty of gambling and brothels and saloons, and say "Now, this is my kind of town!" While the good old days of murder and mayhem are long gone, you can still find beauty in the little things - like fresh salmon caught on a cool day, getting lost in the woods, or enjoying a funny joke written on cardboard by some creative local panhandler. You don't have to go far to enjoy the great outdoors, or find some good music, or pick up groceries.
It's an easy-going life, and you can live it for a real cheap price. Rental rates typically range from about $400 - $1,000. Studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom apartments can all be found for $500 or less. However, the downside is that very few apartment rentals have the convenient amenities of bigger communities. There are a couple of places with laundry facilities, small fitness centers, and playgrounds. However, the majority places are older, smaller, more basic apartment buildings with little-to-none as far as amenities go. There are also some duplexes, townhomes, and a few very cute, quiet little country homes that rent for $600 - $800, which are great for renters who have grown tired of apartment life. In the $800 - $1,200 range are some nicer, bigger rental homes, including the occasional ranch house out in the sticks, surrounded by horses and livestock.
Speaking of horses, if you are one of those rare renters that ride into town like a cowboy of the Old West, you’ll be happy to know that there are a few landlords with horse-friendly pet policies. It may take some legwork looking around the outskirts of town, but yes, there are some extremely pet-friendly rentals around here. Cat and dog friendly apartments will be very easy to find, just expect to pay an extra $200 deposit for each pet.
For all those families moving to town, it should be known that Aberdeen isn't the best place in Washington for rearing children. There are fiends, dumpster-divers, panhandlers, and thieves, however most of the crimes committed here are of the lazy, too-high-to-harm variety. There's certainly nothing to be afraid of - no gangs or serial killers - but, if you want a nicer family-friendly environment, then look to the outskirts of town.
There you have it, dear reader. The good, the bad, and the ugly of Aberdeen. Now it's time to scroll through those listings and begin a new life here in the harbor. Enjoy!
-By Katy Comal
