📍 About GEG & Spokane
Spokane International Airport (GEG) serves the Inland Northwest region and is located just a few miles west of downtown Spokane. The city offers a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural activity, and affordable living, making it a popular destination for both individuals and families relocating for work.
🏡 Where to Live
Popular Areas
- South Hill – Residential, tree-lined, historic homes, great schools
- Kendall Yards – Trendy, walkable, close to downtown
- Airway Heights – Closest to the airport, newer developments
- Liberty Lake – Family-oriented, newer construction, golf & trails
- Spokane Valley – Suburban, mix of families and singles, affordable
🚗 Commute Times to GEG
- 5–15 min: Airway Heights, West Spokane
- 15–25 min: South Hill, Downtown Spokane, Spokane Valley
- 25–35 min: Liberty Lake, North Spokane
🎓 Top School Districts
🧳 Things to Do – Local & Nearby
🌲 Outdoor Activities
- Hiking: Riverside State Park, Iller Creek, Beacon Hill
- Water: Spokane River kayaking, Lake Coeur d’Alene (30 min)
- Winter Sports: Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park
- Golf: Liberty Lake, Indian Canyon, Downriver Golf Course
🏛️ Indoor & Cultural
- Downtown Spokane: The Fox Theater, Bing Crosby Theater, Riverfront Park
- Shopping: River Park Square, Northtown Mall, local boutiques
- Breweries: No-Li Brewhouse, Iron Goat Brewing, Whistle Punk
- Events: Lilac Festival, Hoopfest, Bloomsday Run
✈️ Nearby Airports
- Spokane International Airport (GEG): On-site – major regional hub
- Felts Field (SFF): General aviation, east of downtown
- Seattle-Tacoma Int'l (SEA): ~4.5 hours – largest international hub nearby
🧭 Helpful Resources for Newcomers
🛡️ Crime & Safety + Town Info
- Safest areas: South Hill, Liberty Lake, parts of North Spokane
- Downtown: Revitalized, but still variable block to block
- Airway Heights: Rapid growth, mixed residential and commercial
💰 Cost of Living
- Median Home Price: ~$340,000 in Spokane; ~$450,000 in Liberty Lake
- Average 1BR Rent: ~$1,200/month
- Utilities: ~$150–$200/month
- Gas & Groceries: About national average
- State Income Tax: None – Washington has no income tax
🌆 Neighborhood Highlights
- Kendall Yards: Trendy, walkable, mixed-use district near downtown
- South Hill: Historic homes, quiet, family-friendly
- Liberty Lake: Lakeside living with new homes and good schools
☀️ Seasonal Weather
- Winter: Cold with snow, especially December–February
- Spring: Rainy with warming temps
- Summer: Warm, dry, highs in 80s–90s
- Fall: Crisp, beautiful foliage, early snow possible late October
🚇 Transportation & Traffic
- Car recommended: Public transit is limited outside of downtown
- Transit: Spokane Transit Authority (STA) covers central metro area
- Traffic: Light compared to other cities; minor delays on I-90
🏥 Healthcare & Urgent Care
- Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center
- MultiCare Deaconess Hospital
- Indigo Urgent Care / Providence ExpressCare
🫂 Social Life & Community
- Young Professionals: Breweries, First Fridays, riverfront events
- Families: Great parks, library system, seasonal events
- Volunteering & Churches: Strong community presence in both
🍽️ Dining & Food Scene
- Top Picks: Wild Sage, Italia Trattoria, Luna
- Casual Eats: The Flying Goat, Frank’s Diner, Satellite Diner
- International: Queen of Sheba (Ethiopian), Sushi.com, Pho Van
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Training: Expect a moderate pace with a mix of traffic types
- Shifts: Rotating, including late nights and early mornings
- Community: Tight-knit group at GEG, supportive environment
📦 Moving Tips
- Winter prep: Snow tires & windshield scraper are essential
- Moving season: June–August is peak apartment turnover
- Utilities: Avista (gas/electric), City of Spokane (water/sewer)
❓ FAQs
- Is Spokane expensive?
No — lower cost than Seattle or Portland, moderate compared to national average - Is GEG a busy tower?
Moderate traffic — mix of commercial and general aviation, great for development - Is Washington state tax-friendly?
Yes — no income tax, but higher sales tax (~8.9%)