Poulsbo

Known as "Little Norway," is a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich Norwegian heritage.

Welcome to Poulsbo: Little Norway on the Kitsap Peninsula

Poulsbo, known as "Little Norway," is a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich Norwegian heritage. Nestled between the snow-capped Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges with shores kissed by a scenic bay, Poulsbo was founded in the 1880s by Norwegian immigrants. This heritage shapes its vibrant tourist appeal, combining old-world charm with Scandinavian sophistication in a community that nearly 10,000 residents are proud to call home.

The heart of Poulsbo lies in its picturesque downtown, where rosemaled storefronts and historic murals line the streets, filled with Scandinavian-themed shops, heritage exhibits, and inviting green spaces. The aroma of freshly baked goods from local bakeries fills the air, enhancing the town’s cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Renowned for maintaining its Norwegian culture, Poulsbo is often compared to Leavenworth, Washington’s slice of Germany. The town thrives on its European flair with trendy eateries, wine bars, cafes, and pubs that feature award-winning local brews. Annual events like the Sons of Norway Lutefisk Dinner and Viking Fest celebrate this rich cultural legacy.

Poulsbo’s strategic location makes it a prime destination for both living and visiting. It offers a low crime rate, excellent schools, and a robust calendar of community activities, appealing to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With easy access to Seattle, Bainbridge Island, and the Olympic National Park, Poulsbo is not only a gateway to exploring the Pacific Northwest but also a vibrant community where tradition and modernity harmoniously coexist.
 

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Overview for Poulsbo, WA

11,652 people live in Poulsbo, where the median age is 43.8 and the average individual income is $42,950. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

11,652

Total Population

43.8 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$42,950

Average individual Income

Around Poulsbo, WA

There's plenty to do around Poulsbo, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

71
Very Walkable
Walking Score
52
Bikeable
Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Olmsted's Nursery, Britt’s Delish Creations, and Poulsbo Candy Shoppe.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining · $$ 0.85 miles 11 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 4 miles 16 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0.55 miles 12 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining · $$ 3.33 miles 18 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0.57 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0.1 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Poulsbo, WA

Poulsbo has 4,931 households, with an average household size of 2.34. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Poulsbo do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 11,652 people call Poulsbo home. The population density is 2,459.58 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

11,652

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

43.8

Median Age

47.24 / 52.76%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
4,931

Total Households

2.34

Average Household Size

$42,950

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Poulsbo, WA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Poulsbo. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
Poulsbo Elementary School
PUBLIC
PreK - 5th
3/5
Gateway Christian Schools
PRIVATE
K - 5th
No rating available
North Kitsap High School
PUBLIC
9th - 12th
4/5
Poulsbo Middle School
PUBLIC
6th - 8th
3/5
Poulsbo Adventist School
PRIVATE
2nd - 8th
No rating available
PUBLIC
PreK - 5th
3/5
North Kitsap Online Academy
PUBLIC
PreK - 12th
No rating available

Property Listings

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