Here are 12 stereotypes about Washington (the state) that don’t hold up under scrutiny and deserve to be put to rest:
1. It Rains All the Time in Washington
- Reality: While the western side gets plenty of rain, eastern Washington is actually quite dry, even desert-like in places. The whole state is not a constant downpour.
2. Everyone in Washington Loves Starbucks
- Reality: Washington does have a strong coffee culture, but there are countless local roasters and coffee stands—more people than you think prefer Dutch Bros. or mom-and-pop shops.
3. Washington = Seattle
- Reality: Seattle is just one city. Washington is home to mountains, wine country, farmland, and vibrant small towns with their own unique cultures.
4. All Washingtonians Are Tech-Savvy
- Reality: While the tech industry is strong, not everyone works in tech or is highly skilled with computers.
5. Washington Is Always Cold
- Reality: The state has a range of climates—from mild coastal weather to hot summers in the east and cold winters in the mountains.
6. Everyone Listens to Grunge Music
- Reality: Grunge originated in Seattle, but today’s music scene is diverse, including indie, hip-hop, jazz, and more.
7. All Washingtonians Are Die-Hard Seahawks Fans
- Reality: While the Seahawks have a strong fan base, not everyone follows football or roots for the team.
8. Washington Is Full of Lumberjacks and Tree Huggers
- Reality: There are foresters and environmentalists, but the population is as diverse as the landscape.
9. Washington Is All Liberal
- Reality: The state has a mix of political beliefs, with conservative and independent communities especially outside the cities.
10. It’s Always Gloomy and Depressing
- Reality: While overcast days are common, residents enjoy a high quality of life and access to outdoor activities year-round.
11. Everyone Owns a North Face Jacket
- Reality: Outdoor gear is popular, but not everyone owns or wears North Face—especially in eastern Washington.
12. Bigfoot Roams the Forests
- Reality: Bigfoot is a fun legend, but there’s no evidence it exists in Washington or anywhere else.
These stereotypes oversimplify the diversity, climate, and culture of Washington State. The real Washington is far more complex and interesting than these clichés suggest.
Sources:
- https://wanderhealthy.com/what-is-washington-famous-for/
- https://keyw.com/5-fun-myths-people-outside-of-wa-still-believe-about-washington/
- https://www.theodysseyonline.com/washington-state-stereotypes-myth-or-fact
- https://sashamaps.net/docs/maps/washington-stereotypes