By Michelle McClausky, Broker, Selling Wenatchee LLC | AXEN Realty, Wenatchee, WA (WA License #21033268). Updated October 2026.
Malaga is an unincorporated community along the Columbia River about 7 miles southeast of Wenatchee on the Malaga-Alcoa Highway. It's a rural alternative close to town: larger lots, river and canyon views, orchards and a short drive to Wenatchee shopping and schools.
Rules and boundaries change. Confirm zoning, short-term rental eligibility, school assignment and utilities for a specific address before you write an offer.
At a glance
| Malaga | |
|---|---|
| County | Chelan County (unincorporated) |
| Distance to Wenatchee | ~7 miles via Malaga-Alcoa Hwy |
| ZIP | 98828 |
| Public schools | Wenatchee School District (confirm assignment by address) |
| Electric | Chelan County PUD |
The vibe
Rural and quiet, with acreage homes, orchards and the Three Lakes golf area, while still close enough to Wenatchee for an easy commute.
Outdoor recreation
The Columbia River for boating and fishing, Three Lakes Golf Club, and quick access to Wenatchee's foothills trails and the Apple Capital Loop Trail. See Live Like a Local.
Housing types
Single-family homes on larger lots, acreage and orchard properties, manufactured homes and vacant land, plus some riverfront parcels.
Things to know before you buy
- Mostly well and septic. Many Malaga homes are on private wells or small water systems and septic, so well tests, septic inspection and water rights matter more here than in town.
- Unincorporated county. Zoning, permits and short-term rental rules come from Chelan County, not a city.
- Wildfire. Much of Chelan County sits in the wildland-urban interface. Ask about defensible space, roofing and siding materials, road access and insurance availability early; some insurers are selective in high-risk areas. Washington DNR's Wildfire Ready Neighbors program offers free home assessments.
- Wells and septic. Outside city sewer and water service, homes often rely on a private well and on-site septic system permitted through the Chelan-Douglas Health District. See my guide to wells, septic and water rights.
- Road access. Some properties use private roads or access easements; ask who maintains them.
Sources
- Wenatchee School District (ZIP 98828 served): https://www.wenatcheeschools.org/
- Distance Wenatchee to Malaga: http://www.distance-cities.com/distance-wenatchee-wa-to-malaga-wa
- Chelan County Community Development: https://co.chelan.wa.us/community-development
- Washington DNR, Wildfire Ready Neighbors: https://www.wildfireready.dnr.wa.gov/
- Chelan-Douglas Health District, on-site septic: https://cdhd.wa.gov/
“I had a great time with michelle selling my house. She was on point with every detail getting me full asking price! I've already referred my uncle to her and I'm sure he will have the same experience! Thanks Michelle!”