Stanwood's unique twin-city heritage is reflected in its distinctive layout, where the historic downtown meets the Stillaguamish River as it flows into Puget Sound. Originally founded as two separate towns in the late 1800s — Stanwood and East Stanwood — the communities merged in 1960, creating the distinctive dual-centered layout that defines Stanwood today. Located just 50 miles north of Seattle and 17 miles south of Mount Vernon, this small city offers a peaceful coastal setting while maintaining easy access to urban centers.

Rental options in Stanwood include a mix of single-family homes, boutique apartment communities, and newer townhomes, many offering views of the surrounding waterways and mountains. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,700, with newer developments featuring contemporary designs. Downtown Stanwood preserves its heritage through well-maintained buildings from the early 1900s, including the historic D.O. Pearson House, while the eastern area features newer residential communities and shopping centers. Neighborhoods in the uphill areas offer newer homes with more space and protection from the occasional river flooding that affects the lower elevations.

Commuters appreciate Stanwood's strategic location with access to State Route 532 connecting to Interstate 5, and the Amtrak Cascades train provides daily service to Seattle and Vancouver. The city's largest employers include the Stanwood-Camano School District and the Josephine Sunset Home, though many residents commute to Everett, Seattle, or Mount Vernon for work. The 684-acre Kayak Point County Park offers waterfront recreation, while Heritage Park and Church Creek Park provide additional outdoor spaces within the city limits. With a population of approximately 8,800 residents, Stanwood maintains its small-town atmosphere while continuing to grow and evolve.