Living in Kirkland Washington - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
What is Living in Kirkland Washington Like?
Kirkland, Washington, is located on the eastern shore of Lake Washington, 12 miles east of Seattle. The city is well-connected to other parts of the region via major highways and public transportation, making it easy to get around. With over 92,000 residents, Kirkland is a vibrant and diverse community with plenty to offer.
One of Kirkland's top attractions is its picturesque waterfront, home to marinas, beaches, parks, restaurants, cafes, and shops. Juanita Beach Park and Marina Park are popular destinations for residents and visitors alike, with their sandy beaches, swimming areas, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The waterfront is undoubtedly a great place to spend a day or evening. Kirkland is also known for its many parks and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city boasts close to 30 parks and 25 miles of trails, including Bridle Trails State Park, a 482-acre park with horseback riding trails and a nature preserve. Other popular parks include Big Finn Hill Park, and Waverly Beach Park.
Living in Kirkland, Washington, you'll find several major employers, including Google, Tableau, and Northwest University. The tech industry has been a significant driver of Kirkland's economy in recent years, with many startups and established companies choosing to locate in the city. The city also has a thriving healthcare industry, with several hospitals and medical centers in the area.
The cost of living in Kirkland is higher than the national average due in part to the city's desirable location and the strong job market. Housing costs, in particular, are high, with the median home price in Kirkland over $1 million. However, the city's strong economy and high quality of life make it a popular destination for those looking for a great place to live and work in the Pacific Northwest.
With the fantastic scenery, abundant recreation, high-paying jobs, and a thriving economy, living in Kirkland, Washington, might be the right choice for you and your family. Read on to learn more about living in Kirkland, including info on Kirkland neighborhoods, schools, cost of living in Kirkland, and pros and cons of living in Kirkland, to see if moving to and living in Kirkland, Washington, is the right decision for you!
Skip Ahead to:
1. The Moving to Kirkland Washington Team
2. What is the Cost of Living in Kirkland Washington?
3. Living in Kirkland Washington Tips/Info/Blog Posts
4. Best Neighborhoods in Kirkland Washington
5. Public Schools in Kirkland Washington
6. Top Destinations & Attractions in Kirkland Washington
The Moving to Kirkland Washington Team
Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in Kirkland, Washington. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Kirkland, Washington, CLICK HERE. To start receiving emails with homes that match your criteria anywhere in Washington, CLICK HERE and sign up for Listing Alert. With a little info on what, where, and how much, you'll get newly listed homes matching your criteria sent to your inbox as they hit the market. This can give you a big leg up in your home search.
The first step in the home-buying process is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Todd Davidson is an experienced mortgage broker and can help you get the best financing option for your home purchase. Not quite ready yet? Todd can help you put together a plan to get you there. Whether you're thinking a few months or a year or more if you want to buy a home, reach out to Todd and he can help. CLICK HERE to email Todd and set up a call to get the process started or just call him at 971-275-2465.
Todd Davidson
Mortgage Broker
What is the Cost of Living in Kirkland Washington?
If you're exploring a move to Kirkland, Washington, or any place, the cost of living would be a significant factor in your decision-making. I calculated the REAL cost of living in Kirkland, Washington, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Kirkland, Washington, and rent, you would need to make $65,000 a year. To live in Kirkland, Washington, and buy a home, you would need to make $101,000 a year. Rental amount is based on current low end cost of studio or one bedroom, purchase is based on recent low end sales of a three bedroom and monthly payment with 20% down.
Living in Kirkland Washington Tips/Info/Blog Posts
23 FAQs A REALTOR GETS ASKED > CLICK HERE
18 MORTGAGE FAQs > CLICK HERE
NEW BLOG ALERT SIGN UP > CLICK HERE
WANT TO KNOW WHEN A HOME MATCHING YOUR CRITERIA GETS LISTED? SIGN UP FOR LISTING ALERT > CLICK HERE
MORTGAGE INFO > CLICK HERE
FREE HOME OWNERSHIP GUIDE > CLICK HERE
Top Neighborhoods in Kirkland Washington
A big challenge with moving to Kirkland, Washington, is going to be picking the right neighborhood. There's a lot of good ones! With top-rated schools, gorgeous green spaces, and plenty to see and do, living in Kirkland, Washington, you'll find the neighborhood and community are off the chart. Below are just a handful of the great Kirkland, Washington, neighborhoods you'll get to choose from:
Downtown Kirkland
Downtown Kirkland is a bustling neighborhood with a mix of high-rise condos, townhouses, and single-family homes. The neighborhood is near Marina Park, a popular lakefront park with a playground, beach, and several restaurants. The area also has several other parks and walking trails, including Juanita Bay Park and the Cross Kirkland Corridor Trail. Downtown Kirkland is known for its lively arts and culture scene, with several art galleries, theaters, and music venues. There are also several shops, restaurants, and cafes in the area and major employers such as Google and Tableau. Several highly-rated schools are in the area, including Peter Kirk Elementary, Kirkland Middle School, and Lake Washington High School. If living in Kirkland, Washington, check with the Lake Washington School District to verify which schools your kids will attend.
Houghton
Houghton is a quiet and affluent neighborhood located on the eastern side of Kirkland, featuring a mix of mid-century and newer single-family homes. The neighborhood is near several parks, including Bridle Trails State Park, a popular equestrian park with miles of trails. The area also has several shops and restaurants, including the Houghton Village shopping center. Houghton is known for its high-quality schools, including the highly rated Lakeview Elementary, International Community School, and Lake Washington High School. If living in Kirkland, Washington, check with the Lake Washington School District to verify which schools your kids will attend.
Juanita
Juanita is a diverse neighborhood located on the northern shore of Lake Washington, featuring a mix of mid-century and newer single-family homes and apartments. The neighborhood is near Juanita Beach Park, a popular lakefront park with a beach, playground, and picnic area. The area also has several other parks and walking trails, including Big Finn Hill Park and Saint Edward State Park. Juanita is known for its laid-back vibe, with several locally owned shops and restaurants in the area. Several highly-rated schools serve the neighborhood, including Juanita Elementary, Finn Hill Middle School, and Juanita High School. If living in Kirkland, Washington, check with the Lake Washington School District to verify which schools your kids will attend.
Rose Hill
Rose Hill is a suburban neighborhood located on the eastern side of Kirkland, featuring a mix of mid-century and newer single-family homes and townhouses. The neighborhood is near several parks, including Grass Lawn Park, which features a playground, sports fields, and a community garden. The area also has several shops and restaurants, including the Rose Hill Village shopping center. Rose Hill is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with several community events and activities throughout the year. Several highly-rated schools serve the neighborhood, including Rose Hill Elementary, Kamiakin Middle School, and Lake Washington High School. If living in Kirkland, Washington, check with the Lake Washington School District to verify which schools your kids will attend.
Totem Lake
Totem Lake is a rapidly growing neighborhood in the northern part of Kirkland, featuring a mix of mid-century and newer apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. The neighborhood is near several parks, including Juanita Woodlands Park and St. Edward State Park. The area also has several shops and restaurants, including the Totem Lake Village shopping center. Totem Lake is known for its convenient location, with easy access to major highways and several major employers in the area. Several highly-rated schools serve the neighborhood, including John Muir Elementary, Kamiakin Middle School, and Juanita High School. If living in Kirkland, Washington, check with the Lake Washington School District to verify which schools your kids will attend.
If moving to Kirkland, Washington, and you'd like to buy a home in one of these fabulous neighborhoods, CLICK HERE to sign up for LISTING ALERT to be the first to know when a home matching your criteria gets listed for sale in Kirkland, Washington.
Public Schools in Kirkland Washington
Living in Kirkland, Washington, your kids will attend some of the best schools in Washington. The Lake Washington School District serves Kirkland and the surrounding area. The Lake Washington School District serves over 31,000 students in 31 elementary schools, 13 middle schools, and 10 high schools. It is one of the largest districts in the state. The graduation rate for the Lake Washington School District is an impressive 95%, well above the state average.
For school year 2022-23 Niche.com, ranks the Lake Washington School District as the #3 school district in Washington, with an overall grade of A+. The district is known for its rigorous academic programs, exceptional teachers, and strong community support. Students in the district consistently score above average on state and national tests, and many go on to attend some of the best colleges and universities in the country.
Living in Kirkland, Washington, you'll find that the schools offer exceptional education in a supportive and engaging environment. With a highly ranked school district, strong community support, and a commitment to academic excellence, Kirkland's public schools are an excellent choice for families looking for a great education for their children.
Top Destinations & Attractions in Kirkland Washington
Moving to Kirkland, Washington, and wondering what there is to do? Quite a bit! Below is a list of some of the more popular destinations, attractions, and events you'll want to put on the to-do list if you live in Kirkland, Washington:
Marina Park: This park is located in the heart of downtown Kirkland and offers stunning views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline. It features a playground, a sandy beach, a fishing pier, and picnic areas.
Juanita Beach Park: This popular park is located on the shores of Lake Washington and features a sandy beach, swimming area, playground, picnic facilities, and volleyball courts.
Kirkland Summerfest: Held annually in August, this festival features live music, art displays, food vendors, and a beer and wine garden. There are also activities for children, including a Kids Zone with face painting and games.
Kirkland Arts Center: This nonprofit arts organization offers classes, workshops, and exhibitions in various media, including painting, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, and glass.
Cross Kirkland Corridor: This 5.75-mile trail runs through the heart of Kirkland and is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and cycling. It passes through several parks and neighborhoods and features public art installations.
Kirkland Wednesday Market: Held weekly from June through September, this farmers market features fresh produce, artisanal foods, and crafts from local vendors.
Kirkland Urban: This mixed-use development in downtown Kirkland features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a movie theater and a bowling alley.
Kirkland Performance Center: This intimate theater hosts a variety of performances, including live music, theater productions, and comedy shows.
Kirkland Oktoberfest: Held annually in September, this festival celebrates German culture with beer gardens, live music, food vendors, and games.
Lake Washington: Kirkland is located on the eastern shore of Lake Washington, which offers a variety of water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming as well as some spectacular views.
Pros and Cons of Living in Kirkland Washington
Living in Kirkland Washington Pros
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Location: Kirkland is located on the eastern shore of Lake Washington, just a short drive from Seattle, giving its residents easy access to all the amenities of a major city while still enjoying the quieter, more suburban feel of Kirkland.
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Outdoor activities: Kirkland is surrounded by natural beauty, including Lake Washington, several parks, and the nearby Cascade Mountains. Living in Kirkland, Washington, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, boating, and other activities.
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Strong economy: Kirkland has a strong and diverse economy, with major employers in industries like technology, healthcare, and education. Living in Kirkland, Washington, you'll find plenty of jobs in the area.
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Good schools: The Lake Washington School District serves Kirkland and consistently ranks highly in national rankings. Families living in Kirkland can feel confident that their children receive a quality education.
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Unique festivals: Kirkland is known for its fun and quirky festivals, including the Kirkland Uncorked wine festival, the Kirkland Classic Car Show, and the Kirkland Oktoberfest. These events offer a chance to experience the city's unique character and community spirit.
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Lakefront living: Kirkland has a long stretch of lakefront property, offering stunning views of Lake Washington and easy access to water activities like boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Living in Kirkland, Washington provides amenities other cities can't match.
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Dog-friendly culture: Kirkland is a dog-friendly city, with many parks, trails, and businesses welcoming furry friends. Living in Kirkland, Washington, you'll find your pets are not only tolerated but celebrated.
Living in Kirkland Washington Cons
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High cost of living: Kirkland is an affluent city with a high cost of living, particularly when it comes to housing. The median home price is significantly higher than the national average, and rental costs can also be steep.
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Traffic congestion: Kirkland is located near Seattle, so commuters can face heavy traffic congestion during peak hours, making long and frustrating commutes for those working in Seattle or other nearby cities.
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Limited nightlife: While Kirkland has many great restaurants and bars, the nightlife scene is less vibrant than in some larger cities, which may be a drawback for those looking for a more active social scene.
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Rainy weather: Like much of the Pacific Northwest, Kirkland experiences a lot of rain, particularly during the fall and winter months, making living in Kirkland challenging for those who are used to a drier and sunnier climate.
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Lack of affordable housing options: Housing costs in Kirkland can be high, making it difficult for those with lower incomes or limited budgets to find affordable housing within the city limits.
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Limited parking: Like many cities in the Seattle area, parking can be a challenge in Kirkland, particularly in the downtown area.
FAQs About Living in Kirkland Washington
What is Kirkland known for?
Kirkland, Washington, is most known for its beautiful waterfront parks and beaches, which draw visitors from around the region and are a beloved feature of the community. Kirkland's location on Lake Washington gives it a unique character and provides numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
What cities are nearby Kirkland, Washington?
There are a number of great cities within a 20 mile radius of Kirkland, Washington: Bellevue, Redmond, Bothell, Woodinville, Sammamish, Issaquah, Seattle, Mercer Island, Snoqualmie, and Renton.
What is the weather like in Kirkland?
Living in Kirkland, Washington, you'll experience relatively cool, wet winters and mild and dry summers. In winter, you can expect high temperatures in the mid to high 40s °F and lows in the low to mid 30s°F. It is not uncommon for Kirkland to receive snowfall during the winter months, although the amounts are generally light and infrequent. In the summer months, temperatures in Kirkland typically range from the mid 60s°F to the mid 70s°F, with occasional spikes into the 80s°F. The city enjoys plenty of sunshine during the summer months and low humidity, making it an ideal time to explore the area's many parks and outdoor attractions. Kirkland receives an average annual rainfall of around 37 inches.
Does Kirkland Washington have good public schools?
Yes. Niche.com ranks Lake Washington School District, #3 in the state of Washington. With high graduation rates and an A+ rating, kids who live in Kirkland, Washington, will get a good education!
Who are some large employers in Kirkland Washington?
If living in Kirkland, Washington, some top employers are: Google, with over 5,000 employees at their campus in Kirkland, Lake Washington School District, with over 3,000 employees, Evergreen Health, with over 2,500 employees, the City of Kirkland, with over 500 employees, and Kirkland's Park Place, a shopping center with over 400 employees.
Is Kirkland Washington safe?
Living in Kirkland, Washington, you will find it's extremely safe. Crime figures back that up. Kirkland, Washington's, property and violent crime rates are lower than the state and national average.
I want to relocate to Kirkland. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Kirkland, Washington. There’s a lot of information on this website to help including some helpful links below. If you want to ask questions, try our Facebook Group > Moving to Washington where we have broad group of locals to answer any question you might have. If you’re looking to buy a home in the Kirkland area, getting pre-approved for a mortgage should be your first step. For Mortgage Info, reach out to me. I would love to tell you more about what living in Kirkland, Washington, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.