Snohomish County, Washington

Native Americans in canoes on Mukilteo Beach, circa 1861–62

Snohomish County, Wash

File:Race

Race

EdmondsCCSnoqualmie-Hall

I-405

US 2

Snohomish County, Washington is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington. As part of the Seattle metropolitan area, it is situated to the north of King County and south of Skagit County, with the Puget Sound lying to the west and the Cascade Range to the east. The county seat and largest city is Everett. Established on January 14, 1861, Snohomish County was carved out of Island County and named after the Snohomish tribe.

History

The area now known as Snohomish County was historically inhabited by Coast Salish peoples, including the Snohomish, Snoqualmie, Skykomish, and others, who occupied the region for thousands of years prior to European settlement. The county was formed from a portion of Island County and has grown significantly since its establishment, driven by logging, fishing, and later, aerospace and technology industries.

Geography

Covering an area of 2,196 square miles, Snohomish County's geography ranges from the saltwater beaches of Puget Sound to the mountainous terrain of the Cascade Range. It includes notable geographic features such as the Snohomish River, which flows through the county, and Mount Pilchuck, a popular hiking destination. The county's proximity to both the mountains and the sea provides a diverse array of outdoor recreational activities.

Demographics

As of the most recent census, Snohomish County has a population that reflects a diverse and growing community. The county has seen steady population growth, attributed to its location within the Seattle metropolitan area, making it an attractive place for both residential and commercial development.

Economy

The economy of Snohomish County is diverse, with significant contributions from the aerospace, technology, and manufacturing sectors. The presence of the Boeing assembly plant in Everett, one of the largest building structures in the world by volume, is a major employer in the county and a key component of the regional economy. Additionally, the county benefits from its agricultural lands, particularly in the production of berries and nursery plants.

Government and Politics

Snohomish County operates under a charter form of government, with elected officials including a County Executive, a Prosecuting Attorney, and a Sheriff, among others. The county is known for its mix of urban and rural politics, with varying political leanings across different regions.

Education

The county is served by multiple school districts, offering a range of educational opportunities from elementary through high school. Higher education is represented by institutions such as Everett Community College and the University of Washington Bothell, providing access to post-secondary education and workforce training.

Culture and Recreation

Snohomish County is home to a vibrant arts scene, numerous parks, and recreational areas. The county's natural beauty, including its forests, rivers, and coastal areas, offers residents and visitors alike a multitude of outdoor activities, from hiking and skiing in the Cascades to kayaking and fishing in Puget Sound.

Transportation

Transportation in Snohomish County includes a network of state highways, the Interstate 5 corridor, and public transit options such as buses and the Sound Transit light rail system, which connects the county with the greater Seattle area. The county also manages Snohomish County Airport (Paine Field), which provides commercial and general aviation services.