Between the sparkling waters of Hood Canal and the towering peaks of the Olympic Peninsula, Mason County offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and peaceful living. From scenic trails and quiet lakes to welcoming communities, this is a place where life moves at just the right pace.
A strong sense of community makes Mason County truly special. Friendly neighborhoods, thriving local businesses, and a vibrant arts and food scene create a deep connection among residents. Annual traditions like OysterFest, the Mason County Forest Festival, and bustling farmers’ markets bring people together to celebrate the area’s rich heritage and stunning surroundings. Whether enjoying fresh seafood, live music, or handcrafted goods, there’s always something to experience.
Living in Mason County means embracing a lifestyle of adventure, relaxation, and a true sense of home. Whether you dream of a waterfront retreat, a peaceful rural escape, or a friendly neighborhood, this is where you’ll find it.
Discover the beauty and community of Mason County.
Friendly neighborhoods, local festivals, and bustling farmers’ markets bring residents together. From the excitement of OysterFest to charming holiday celebrations, the county’s rich traditions and welcoming spirit create a true sense of belonging. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood, supporting local artisans, or attending a summer concert in the park, there’s always something happening to bring the community together.
Though it feels like a peaceful retreat, Mason County keeps you close to major destinations. Olympia is just a short drive away, offering easy access to state government, shopping, and dining. Seattle and Tacoma are within reach for work or entertainment, and for those who love to travel, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is just over an hour away. Whether commuting, exploring, or heading out on an adventure, Mason County is the perfect home base.
Mason County’s history is shaped by the land and sea, with a legacy built on timber, shipbuilding, and a strong connection to Hood Canal. Long before European settlers arrived, the Coast Salish people thrived here, using the region’s rich forests and waterways for trade, fishing, and everyday life. By the late 19th century, Mason County became a powerhouse in the timber industry, supplying lumber to a rapidly growing Pacific Northwest. Logging camps and sawmills sprang up across the county, transforming small settlements into thriving communities.
As the timber industry flourished, Mason County’s deep-water access made it an essential hub for boat building and maritime trade. Hood Canal, a natural fjord, provided a gateway for commerce and travel, linking the county to larger markets. Shipbuilders crafted sturdy vessels to transport lumber and seafood, while local fisheries took advantage of the canal’s abundant waters. Today, historic sites like the Shelton waterfront and the Simpson Lumber Company legacy remind residents of Mason County’s hardworking past.
The Mason County Forest Festival, a tribute to the area’s logging heritage, brings the community together with parades, competitions, and outdoor festivities. OysterFest, another beloved event, honors the county’s rich aquaculture industry, highlighting its role as a leader in sustainable shellfish farming.
Bordered by Hood Canal to the east and the Olympic Mountains to the west, the county offers a unique blend of coastal and inland beauty. Vast timberlands, serene lakes, and winding rivers define the region, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Located at the head of Hood Canal, Belfair acts as the commercial center for northern Mason County. It’s a gateway to outdoor recreation, including the scenic Theler Wetlands and proximity to Tahuya State Forest.
A waterfront community along North Bay, Allyn features picturesque views, a marina, and the Lakeland Village development, which includes a golf course and residential homes.
Nestled along the southern shore of Hood Canal, Union is known for its artistic heritage, stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, and proximity to outdoor activities like boating and hiking.
This small community serves as a gateway to the Olympic National Park’s Staircase region. It’s popular among scuba divers exploring the Hood Canal and offers local wineries and shops.
A rural area known for its logging history, Matlock offers a quiet lifestyle with opportunities for fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. It’s also home to the annual Old Timers’ Fair.
A serene community along Case Inlet, Grapeview is known for its waterfront properties, boating opportunities, and the Fair Harbor Marina.
Renowned for the Tahuya State Forest, this community attracts off-road vehicle enthusiasts, hikers, and campers seeking outdoor adventures.
Situated along Hood Canal, Lilliwaup is known for its oyster farms, scenic views, and access to hiking trails in the Olympic National Forest.
Home to Potlatch State Park, this area offers camping, fishing, and shellfishing opportunities along the shores of Hood Canal.
Located near the Skokomish River, this community is rich in Native American heritage and offers access to river and forest activities
Mason County is served by Shelton School District, Hood Canal School District, and North Mason School District, offering a variety of educational programs for students from preschool through high school. Shelton High School features career and technical education (CTE) pathways, college prep courses, and extracurricular activities, while North Mason High School provides strong STEM, arts, and athletics programs. Smaller school districts in the area focus on personalized learning and community involvement, creating a well-rounded educational experience.
Families seeking alternative education options can explore faith-based, Montessori, and experiential learning schools within and near Mason County. Schools like Evergreen Christian School provide a faith-centered curriculum, while Sandhill Montessori offers hands-on, individualized learning for younger students. Nearby, Olympia and Kitsap County expand private school options with institutions that focus on college prep, religious instruction, and specialized education programs tailored to various learning styles.
Mason County students have access to Olympic College – Shelton Campus, which offers associate degrees, technical training, and workforce development programs. Those looking for four-year degrees can commute to The Evergreen State College in Olympia or University of Washington Tacoma, both offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Technical education is also available through Bates Technical College and South Puget Sound Community College, preparing students for careers in healthcare, skilled trades, and technology.
Source: US Census
Nearly evenly split, with 50.0% male and 50.0% female residents. The median age in the county is 45.1 years.
Source: US Census
68,389
Source: Census.gov
Among residents aged 25 and older, 91.7% have earned a high school diploma or higher, while 20.4% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher
Source: Census.gov
The population is 82.0% White, 13.2% Hispanic or Latino, 4.9% identifying as two or more races, 3.5% American Indian or Alaska Native, 1.6% Asian, 1.1% Black or African American, and 0.6% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander.
Source: Census.gov
$74,388
Source: Best Places
Mason County has historically leaned conservative in elections. n the most recent presidential election, 50.2% of voters supported the Republican candidate, while 46.3% voted for the Democratic candidate.
4221 Harborview Dr., NW.
Gig Harbor, WA 98332
Listings Courtesy of NWMLS