Cities in Yakima County, Washington

by btobers · Published November 10, 2022 · Updated November 13, 2024

Yakima County, Washington, is located in south-central Washington and is a key agricultural center, established in 1865. The Yakima Valley within the county is particularly renowned for its apple orchards, vineyards, and hops, which fuel both local and national markets. The county is bordered by the Cascade Mountains to the west, offering a scenic backdrop to its fertile lands. Over the years, Yakima County has grown to include several cities and towns, each contributing to the county’s rich cultural and economic landscape.

County Facts:

Population: Approximately 260,000
County Seat: Yakima
Cities and Towns: 14, including both incorporated cities and unincorporated towns

List of Cities and Towns in Yakima County, Washington

1. Yakima

Year Founded: 1883
Population: Approximately 96,000
Population Density: 3,600 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 1,068 feet

Yakima, the county seat, is the largest city in the county and a central hub in the Yakima Valley, celebrated for its agriculture, particularly hops, apples, and wine production. The city’s position along the Yakima River offers both scenic beauty and practical benefits for agriculture. Yakima’s dry, sunny climate also supports outdoor recreation. Transportation is robust with Interstate 82, State Routes 12 and 24, and the Yakima Air Terminal connecting the city to other regions.

Things to Do:
Yakima boasts a range of activities, from wine tours and breweries to outdoor adventures along the Yakima Greenway, a 20-mile trail perfect for walking and biking. The Yakima Valley Museum offers a look into local history, while the annual Central Washington State Fair and the Fresh Hop Ale Festival draw crowds from across the state.

2. Sunnyside

Year Founded: 1893
Population: Approximately 17,000
Population Density: 3,100 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 778 feet

Sunnyside is known for its dairy and agricultural contributions, with many vineyards and orchards in its vicinity. Located along Interstate 82, Sunnyside has a mix of residential and agricultural landscapes. The warm, dry climate of the city is ideal for farming, and its geographical position provides easy access to the Yakima River.

Things to Do:
Sunnyside is famous for the annual Lighted Farm Implement Parade, celebrating local agricultural heritage with illuminated farm equipment. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the Sunnyside Wildlife Refuge, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. Local wineries and farmers’ markets offer fresh produce, wine tastings, and community gatherings.

3. Grandview

Year Founded: 1909
Population: Approximately 11,000
Population Density: 2,800 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 728 feet

Grandview, located in the heart of Yakima Valley’s wine country, is surrounded by vineyards and agricultural fields. The city is accessible via Interstate 82, connecting it easily to Yakima and other nearby towns. Known for its rich soil, Grandview plays an essential role in the county’s wine production.

Things to Do:
Visitors can explore local wineries, take part in seasonal festivals, and enjoy scenic views from nearby hills. Parks, such as Dykstra Park, provide family-friendly spaces, and the Grandview Museum offers insights into the town’s agricultural history.

4. Toppenish

Year Founded: 1887
Population: Approximately 9,000
Population Density: 3,700 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 765 feet

Known as the “City of Murals,” Toppenish is celebrated for its more than 70 murals depicting historical and cultural scenes. Agriculture is central to the city’s economy, and its location along State Route 22 makes it accessible to travelers and residents alike.

Things to Do:
Toppenish offers a unique experience with its mural walk, a self-guided tour showcasing local history. The American Hop Museum and Toppenish National Wildlife Refuge are popular destinations. Each summer, the Toppenish Rodeo attracts visitors for its traditional rodeo events.

5. Wapato

Year Founded: 1907
Population: Approximately 5,000
Population Density: 4,200 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 823 feet

Wapato is a small, close-knit community with a strong agricultural base. It sits along Highway 97, providing good connectivity to the Yakima Valley. Wapato’s residents are largely involved in farming, and the area is known for producing a variety of crops.

Things to Do:
Visitors to Wapato can explore local farms, markets, and community events. The nearby Yakama Nation Cultural Center offers insights into the region’s Native American heritage.

6. Mabton

Year Founded: 1905
Population: Approximately 2,500
Population Density: 2,000 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 700 feet

Mabton is a small agricultural town located southeast of Yakima, primarily known for its farming of crops like hops, grapes, and corn. The Yakima River runs close to Mabton, providing irrigation for agriculture.

Things to Do:
Mabton offers a tranquil experience with local parks and fishing spots along the Yakima River. Community events like Mabton Community Days bring residents together to celebrate their shared agricultural heritage.

7. Union Gap

Year Founded: 1883
Population: Approximately 6,000
Population Density: 1,800 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 1,077 feet

Union Gap is directly adjacent to Yakima and serves as a historical and commercial center. Home to the Yakima Valley Mall and major retail outlets, Union Gap combines historical charm with modern amenities.

Things to Do:
The Central Washington Agricultural Museum in Union Gap offers extensive displays of farming equipment and local history. Union Gap’s annual Old Town Days features traditional horse-drawn activities, rodeo events, and reenactments that celebrate the city’s past.

List of Communities in Yakima County, Washington

1. Buena

Year Founded: 1912
Population: Approximately 1,000
Population Density: 1,500 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 891 feet

Buena is a small community located just south of Yakima. Primarily agricultural, Buena is surrounded by farmlands and orchards, with many residents involved in local farming.

2. Parker

Year Founded: 1904
Population: Approximately 800
Population Density: 1,700 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 1,100 feet

Parker is a quiet, rural community that serves as a small residential area for local agricultural workers. It is located along the Yakima River, making it ideal for fishing and outdoor activities.

3. Harrah

Year Founded: 1946
Population: Approximately 625
Population Density: 1,400 people per square mile
Area Code: 509
Elevation: 778 feet

Harrah is a peaceful, close-knit community within the Yakama Indian Reservation. It maintains strong cultural ties to the Yakama Nation and is primarily agricultural.