1. It Always Rains in Washington
Only western Washington gets heavy rainfall regularly. Eastern Washington is mostly dry and even arid in places, so the “it always rains” stereotype is misleading.
2. Everyone Owns a North Face Jacket
While popular, not every Washingtonian owns this brand. Many locals prefer practical, varied outdoor gear depending on their lifestyle.
3. People Never Use Umbrellas
Though many locals use rain jackets or hoods instead, umbrellas are definitely used and not universally frowned upon, especially by newcomers and tourists.
4. Washington Means Seattle
The state has a rich diversity of cities, towns, and environments beyond Seattle—from vineyards in Yakima Valley to coastal towns and rugged mountain areas.
5. Everyone Drinks Starbucks Coffee
While Starbucks originated in Seattle, many residents favor locally owned coffee shops or other chains like Dutch Bros., reflecting a broad coffee culture.
6. We’re All Pot-Smoking Hippies
Marijuana legalization is in place, but the population is varied, including many professionals, families, and outdoor enthusiasts not fitting this stereotype.
7. Macklemore is Everyone’s Personal Friend
Though the rapper is from Seattle, most residents don’t personally know him, and this stereotype exaggerates local celebrity connections.
8. Everyone is a Die-hard Seahawks Fan
While the Seahawks have a large fanbase, not everyone follows football passionately or supports the team.
9. The Seattle Freeze Is Everywhere
This stereotype about Seattle’s social coldness doesn’t apply statewide. Many Washingtonians, especially outside Seattle, are friendly and welcoming.
10. The Only Cool Thing to See is the Space Needle
Washington offers many cultural attractions such as the Museum of Pop Culture, wineries, and vibrant local festivals beyond the Space Needle.
11. Washingtonians Are Lumberjacks and Tree Huggers
While forestry and environmentalism are part of the state’s identity, many residents live urban, tech-centered lifestyles that don’t fit this image.
12. Everyone Listens to Grunge Music
Music tastes in Washington are diverse, ranging from indie and hip-hop to jazz and classical; the grunge era is just one chapter in a rich musical history.
These stereotypes oversimplify Washington’s vibrant, diverse culture and geography, and it’s time to see the state beyond clichés.
Sources
(https://newstalkkit.com/7-surprising-wa-state-stereotypes-outsiders-always-get-terribly-wrong/)
(https://www.reddit.com/r/Washington/comments/1ek8pd8/what_are_some_washington_things_only_we_get_and/)
(https://sashamaps.net/docs/maps/washington-stereotypes)
(https://www.deviantart.com/drewthecheddarlover/journal/EACH-US-STATE-W-STEREOTYPES-AGE-collab-journal-1068603361)
(https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8740186/)
