Rural, Not Removed: How economic development thrives in Skagit County

It’s not uncommon for entrepreneurs to flock to the bright lights of the big city.

But big cities come with big expenses, too. Pricey real estate, exorbitant rents, high property taxes, and sizable salaries and wages can often negate the positives that go hand in hand with operating in a highly populated area like Seattle or Vancouver.

Not so in Skagit County. Although you get access to the 6.5 million people living within 100 miles of our area, you also get the perks of operating in a more rural area, including a lower cost of doing business.

Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County welcomes you to explore our cost-competitive, business-friendly location within the Pacific Northwest and all of the perks that come with it: access to technology and trade – as well as the tulips!

Lower Cost of Doing Business

One of the most appealing aspects of choosing to operate in Skagit County is how significantly lower business operational costs are.

You’ll typically pay much less to buy or lease property versus what you’d pay in Seattle or Vancouver. Additionally, lower salaries and wages help business owners keep labor costs under control despite having access to our highly skilled workforce.

And did you know that businesses in Skagit County and Washington state can take advantage of significantly lower tax rates? These include:  

• No corporate income tax
• No personal income tax
• No Value Added Tax (VAT)
• No inventory tax
• No tax on interest, dividends, or capital gains
• No local business and occupation (B&O) tax

Those savings add up quickly, leading to increased profitability.

Incentives and Financing

We want businesses to expand and thrive in Skagit County. EDASC can point businesses in the direction of a wide variety of non-traditional financing options to support the growth of your business, from low-interest SBA 504 loans and community development funds to local revolving loan programs and industrial revenue bonds.

Click here to explore funding solutions!

Strong Sense of Community  

Businesses that rely heavily on relationships can benefit from setting up shop in Skagit County, which tends to be more tight-knit than an autonomous, urban area.

Our diverse, increasingly multicultural and welcoming communities are receptive to new business ideas and take pride in being part of their success.

Better Quality of Life

Skagit County is the gateway to the San Juan Islands and North Cascades National Park, affording spectacular recreation activities for any outdoor enthusiast. We’ve also got a thriving arts community, access to top-notch health care services, and ample retail and cultural amenities.

Suffice to say, rural doesn’t mean removed. Living here means you can still get to three international airports and seaports within two hours, but with far less traffic congestion.

Are you ready to learn more about the benefits of opening and growing your business in our corner of the Pacific Northwest? Contact us today and discover how valued your investment will be.