NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDES
GET TO KNOW GREATER SEATTLE
Narrowing down your search to specific cities and neighborhoods is one of the first steps in the home buying process. While I always recommend driving through each area, spending time walking the streets and visiting local stores, it can also help to get a sense of what a neighborhood has to offer at a high level so you can decide which are worth investigating further. That’s why I created these neighborhood guides for areas such as Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, and more.
Under each neighborhood you’ll be able to learn more about what recreational activities are available such as parks, the major employers and offices, and what the unique appeal of each place is.
As a Washington native and resident of over 20 years, I can offer personal insight into what may be a good fit for you and your family depending on what you value in your future neighborhood. If you have specific questions about an area, feel free to contact me directly and I’d be happy to share more details. You can also download my free guide to relocating and living in greater Seattle to help you discover new neighborhoods, home costs, and in general what to expect when moving to Seattle.
kirkland
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East of Seattle and neighboring Bellevue, Kirkland is a vibrant neighborhood that shores Lake Washington.
Kirkland is known for its beautiful waterfront parks, including Marina Park and Juanita Beach Park, which offer stunning views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline. The city also features many excellent restaurants, shops, and galleries, particularly in the charming downtown area. A few local favorites include Cactus, Como, and Zoka coffee!
Kirkland is home to a number of notable businesses and organizations, including the headquarters of Google, and the Kirkland campus of Northwest University. In addition, Kirkland has excellent schools.
Take a more in depth look at what it’s like to live in Kirkland.
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bellevue
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Situated just east of Seattle over the 520 bridge, Bellevue is the high-tech and retail center of the Eastside. With nearly 100 parks, Bellevue is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and is considered a “city in a park.”
The cost of living in Bellevue is generally higher than the national average, and housing costs can be particularly expensive. However, Bellevue residents enjoy a high standard of living and the city has a strong economy with a diverse range of industries.
Bellevue is known for its excellent schools and educational opportunities. The Bellevue School District is consistently ranked among the best in the state of Washington.
There are many things to do in Bellevue. Having a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. The city is also home to a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops.
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seattle
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Seattle is the largest city in the state and has a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. While there is no exact count, it is generally estimated that there are around 100 neighborhoods in Seattle. The best neighborhood to live in Seattle depends on your lifestyle and goals.
Areas such as Belltown, Capitol Hill, Queen Anne, Downtown, and U-District will have a city feel, while neighborhoods such as Magnolia, Greenlake, Madrona, and Ravenna may feel more residential. Regardless of the neighborhood in Seattle, there is always something to do!
The attraction to Seattle is its thriving job market, excellent public transportation, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and proximity to outdoor activities. The city is home to many major companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing, which provide a wide range of employment opportunities.
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woodinville
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Calling all wine lovers! About 20 miles northeast of downtown Seattle sits this wonderful community. With over 130 wineries and tasting rooms, Woodinville is known for its wineries, breweries, and distilleries.
In addition to its wine industry, Woodinville also has many parks and trails for outdoor recreation, new restaurants popping up, and live music. Be sure to check out a summer concert at Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery!
Offering a semi-rural atmosphere, you can find larger properties and lot sizes. There is a high quality of life here, with excellent schools and low crime rates. Perfect for those that love to be close to cities, but have that sense of privacy.
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sammamish
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Approximately 20 miles east of Seattle, Sammamish is a residential area known for its excellent schools, nature, parks, and Lake Sammamish. In 2021, for the second year in a row, Sammamish was named the best small city in the U.S. by Wallethub.
The city is home to several parks and trails, including Pine Lake Park and the East Lake Sammamish Trail. Boating Lake Sammamish during the summer is a popular activity, and its proximity to mountains in the winter makes it an ideal area for those that love the outdoors.
The city has a strong sense of community and hosts several annual events, including the Sammamish Farmers Market and the Sammamish Arts Fair.
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west seattle
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You guessed it! A charming area west of Seattle connecting to Downtown by the West Seattle Bridge. You can have the peace and quiet of West Seattle, with the bustling downtown just minutes away! Known for its beautiful Puget Sound views as well as both the Olympics and Cascade mountain ranges.
There are many outdoor activities, such as walking along Alki Beach, hiking in Schmitz Park, or kayaking in the Puget Sound. The area is also home to several parks, including Lincoln Park and Camp Long. You will find diverse dining options and a thriving arts and culture scene.
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Homes for Sale in West Seattle
redmond
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Home to Microsoft and Nintendo, Redmond is a quick commute east of Bellevue and Kirkland. Named the “The Bicycle Capital of the Northwest,” Redmond offers access to a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and skiing.
The charming downtown area has seen tremendous growth over the years with new restaurants, coffee shops, and cafes popping up. A few favorites include Woodblock and Matador.
Mostly part of the Lake Washington School District, Redmond is known for its excellent schools and has many residential areas. The cost of living in Redmond can be higher than other areas particularly when it comes to housing. However, many residents feel that the quality of life in the city is worth the expense.
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renton
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Just 11 miles southeast of Seattle and Bellevue’s southern neighbor, Renton is also on the very south end of Lake Washington. The city has introduced a range of shopping and dining options, such as the Landing and TopGolf.
Renton has been recognized for its growing job market, with several major employers located in the area, including Boeing, Paccar, and Providence Health & Services.
The cost of living in Renton can be more affordable than some other Greater Seattle areas. Due to its location, traffic can be a challenge during peak commuting hours, however housing affordability can be a great trade off.
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