Living in Shoreline Washington - EVERYTHING You Need to Know
What is Living in Shoreline Washington Like?
Shoreline, Washington, located in King County, is home to approximately 56,000 people. The city offers its residents urban amenities and small-town charm, making it an attractive location for residents and visitors alike. Located north of Seattle, Shoreline offers good access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing. The city is near Interstate 5, which runs along the West Coast, providing easy access to other towns and attractions. With its lush greenery, mountain views, and proximity to Puget Sound, Shoreline embodies the stereotypical Pacific Northwest lifestyle. Shoreline residents and visitors enjoy recreational activities such as kayaking, hiking, and exploring the nearby Richmond Beach Saltwater Park. The Best of Shoreline includes a historic downtown, modern shopping centers, and residential neighborhoods with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.
One of the main attractions in Shoreline is the picturesque Richmond Beach Saltwater Park. The park offers beach access, scenic hiking trails, and inviting picnic areas for its visitors. It's a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and outdoor recreation. In addition to Richmond Park, Shoreline boasts several other fantastic parks, including Hamlin Park and Boeing Creek Park. These green spaces are adorned with amenities like playgrounds, sports fields, and serene walking paths, providing abundant opportunities for residents to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With its inviting ambiance and many recreational options, Shoreline offers a fulfilling experience for locals and visitors alike.
There are several large employers in and around Shoreline, Washington. Boeing has a significant presence in nearby Seattle and Everett, and the city is home to several healthcare and education institutions, including Shoreline Community College and the Swedish Edmonds Hospital. Additionally, several retail and hospitality businesses in the area provide employment opportunities for Shoreline residents.
The cost of living in Shoreline, Washington, is slightly higher than the national average, but it's relatively affordable compared to other cities in the region. Housing costs are the main factor contributing to the higher cost of living, as the demand for housing in the area has increased in recent years due to its proximity to Seattle, the availability of high-paying jobs, and the area's natural beauty. There are a variety of housing options for those living in Shoreline, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses. The average home value in Shoreline is around $750,000, making homeownership more attainable than in many of the surrounding cities.
If you're searching for a small town that offers convenient access to larger cities, a delightful downtown area, excellent schools, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, Shoreline, Washington, is the ideal place for you! Continue reading to discover more about what it's like living in Shoreline, Washington, including information about its various neighborhoods, schools, cost of living, and some pros and cons of living in Shoreline. Hopefully, the information in this blog will help you decide if living in Shoreline, Washington, is right for you and your family!
The Moving to Shoreline Washington Team
Let our team of trusted professionals help you buy or/and sell a home in Shoreline, Washington. To connect with a local expert/real estate professional in Shoreline, 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 Shoreline Washington?
If you're exploring a move to Shoreline, 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 Shoreline, Washington, by factoring in today's costs for housing (rent and own), utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and other necessities to live. To live in Shoreline, Washington, and rent, you would need to make $48,000 a year. To live in Shoreline, Washington, and buy a home, you would need to make $89,000 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 Shoreline Washington Tips/Info/Blog Posts
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Top Neighborhoods in Shoreline Washington
Situated in King County, Washington, Shoreline is a vibrant and diverse city with many distinctive neighborhoods. Here's a look at six of the best neighborhoods in Shoreline:
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Richmond Highlands: Richmond Highlands is a charming neighborhood offering a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. One of the main attractions in this neighborhood is the Richmond Beach Saltwater Park, which provides beach access, walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Puget Sound. The nearby Richmond Village Shopping Center offers various retail and dining options, adding to the convenience of the neighborhood.
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Meridian Park: Meridian Park is a neighborhood known for its quiet streets and tree-lined roads. It primarily consists of single-family homes, many of which feature well-maintained yards and gardens. Meridian Park is home to the Meridian Park Elementary School, making it an attractive neighborhood for families. Residents can enjoy the Meridian Park Playfield, which includes playgrounds, sports fields, and open spaces for outdoor activities.
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North City: North City is a vibrant neighborhood in Shoreline that offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The neighborhood features several shopping centers, restaurants, and coffee shops, making it convenient for residents. North City also has the North City Park, which offers amenities like sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The neighborhood is known for its sense of community and hosts various events and festivals throughout the year.
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Hillwood: Hillwood is a peaceful and well-established neighborhood in Shoreline. It is characterized by its quiet residential streets and predominantly single-family homes. The neighborhood is close to the popular Hamlin Park, which features walking trails, a playground, and sports courts. Hillwood residents also have convenient access to the Interurban Trail, a scenic pathway for walking, running, and biking.
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Briarcrest: Briarcrest is a diverse neighborhood in Shoreline that offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. The neighborhood is known for its community-oriented atmosphere and hosts various events and gatherings throughout the year. Residents can enjoy Briarcrest Park, which offers green spaces, playgrounds, and sports courts. The neighborhood also provides easy access to the Shoreline Community College campus.
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Innis Arden: Innis Arden is an upscale neighborhood located along the waterfront in Shoreline. It primarily consists of larger, luxurious homes with beautiful views of the Puget Sound. The neighborhood offers a private beach for residents, providing a serene and exclusive atmosphere. Innis Arden is also close to the Seattle Golf Club, making it an attractive location for golf enthusiasts.
If moving to Shoreline, 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 Shoreline, Washington.
20 Pros and Cons of Living in Shoreline Washington
Living in Shoreline Washington Pros
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Prime Location: Shoreline enjoys a prime location, situated just north of Seattle. This provides residents with easy access to employment opportunities, cultural attractions, and major city amenities while enjoying a quieter suburban lifestyle.
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Natural Beauty: Shoreline is known for its natural beauty, with picturesque waterfront areas, parks, and green spaces. Richmond Beach Saltwater Park and Shoreview Park are popular spots for outdoor activities and scenic views.
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Strong Community: Shoreline has a strong sense of community, with active neighborhood associations and community events that foster a welcoming and inclusive environment.
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Excellent Schools: The Shoreline School District is highly regarded, offering quality education and a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students.
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Parks and Recreation: Shoreline boasts an impressive park system with various parks, trails, and recreational facilities. Hamlin Park, Boeing Creek Park, and Cromwell Park are just a few examples of outdoor spaces those living in Shoreline, Washington, get to enjoy.
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Variety of Housing Options: Shoreline offers a diverse range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, apartments, and condominiums, catering to different preferences, lifestyles, and budgets.
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Transit Options: Shoreline is well-connected to public transportation. It has access to bus routes and light rail stations, making it convenient for residents to commute to Seattle or other neighboring areas.
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Cultural Diversity: Shoreline embraces cultural diversity with a vibrant community that celebrates different traditions, festivals, and cuisines from around the world.
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Economic Opportunities: Shoreline is home to a thriving business community, providing residents with local employment opportunities and contributing to the city's economic growth.
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Access to Higher Education: Shoreline is conveniently located near several prestigious universities and colleges, such as the University of Washington and Shoreline Community College, offering residents access to higher education options.
Living in Shoreline Washington Cons
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High Cost of Living: The cost of living in Shoreline is higher than the national average, including housing, utilities, and groceries.
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Traffic Congestion: Shoreline experiences heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours, resulting in longer commute times and frustration for residents.
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Limited Shopping Options: While Shoreline has retail centers and shopping areas, living in Shoreline, Washington, you'll need to go to a bigger city for some of your shopping needs.
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Limited Nightlife: Living in Shoreline, Washington, you're out of the hustle and bustle you'd get in a city like Seattle. The downfall is there are fewer options for bars, clubs, and late-night entertainment, which might be a negative for some people.
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Weather: Shoreline's weather can be wet and cloudy, with more rainfall than other regions, which may not suit everyone.
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Limited Job Opportunities: While Shoreline has a growing economy, the job market may be more limited than in larger urban areas, resulting in fewer employment options.
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Limited Cultural Amenities: Living in Shoreline, you'll find fewer cultural amenities, such as theaters, museums, and art galleries, than in larger cities, resulting in fewer entertainment options.
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Severe Weather: Shoreline may experience extreme weather conditions, such as storms and wind, impacting daily activities and outdoor plans.
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Noise Pollution: Certain areas of Shoreline may experience higher levels of noise pollution, particularly near busy roadways or commercial areas.
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Limited Healthcare Facilities: While there are healthcare facilities in Shoreline, specialized medical services may require traveling to neighboring cities.
FAQs About Living in Shoreline Washington
What is Shoreline known for?
Shoreline, Washington, is most known for its beautiful parks and beaches that line the Puget Sound. The city attracts visitors from all over the world and features various events and activities such as hiking trails, beachcombing, and water sports. The stunning views of the Sound are a sight to behold and have become an iconic symbol of Shoreline and the surrounding region.
What cities are nearby Shoreline?
Shoreline, Washington, is located in King County, part of the Puget Sound region in the northwestern part of the state. The city is approximately 10 miles north of Seattle and 15 miles south of the Canadian border. Shoreline is close to several other cities in the area, including Edmonds, about 5 miles to the northwest, and Lynnwood, about 7 miles to the south. The city is also within easy driving distance of other popular destinations in the region, such as the San Juan Islands, North Cascades National Park, and the Olympic Peninsula. Shoreline's central location in King County makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and nearby cities.
What is the weather like in Shoreline?
Living in Shoreline, Washington, you can expect mild weather throughout the year. In the winter months, the average high temperatures range from 45°F to 50°F, and the average low temperatures range from 32°F to 35°F. The city occasionally experiences light snowfall during the winter, with an average of 7 inches of snowfall annually. Summers in Shoreline are mild, with average high temperatures ranging from 70°F to 75°F and occasional hot spells in the 80s and 90s. The city receives around 33 inches of rain yearly, with most precipitation occurring in the fall and winter months.
Does Shoreline Washington have good public schools?
Students in Shoreline, Washington, attend public school in the Shoreline School District, which serves the city of Shoreline and some surrounding areas. For the 2022-23 school year, Niche.com ranks the Shoreline School District #9 out of the 252 school districts in Washington it ranked, giving it an overall A rating. The district is committed to providing a well-rounded education, including arts and athletics, and offers a variety of programs for students with different interests and needs. The district has a diverse student body and strong partnerships with local organizations and businesses. Families living in Shoreline, Washington, can feel confident that their children have access to a quality education.
Is Shoreline Washington safe?
Living in Shoreline, Washington, you'll find it a pretty safe place. Property crime rates in Shoreline are lower than the national average, and violent crime rates are significantly lower than the national average. NeighborhoodScout.com states Shoreline has a crime rate lower than 68% of all US cities. Shoreline, Washington, residents should feel relatively safe in their daily lives.
What is there to do living in Shoreline Washington?
Living in Shoreline, Washington, you will always have things to do. The city is located near Puget Sound and is surrounded by natural beauty, including Richmond Beach Saltwater Park and Hamlin Park, offering ample opportunities for beachcombing, hiking, and birdwatching. Shoreline boasts several parks, including Cromwell Park and Boeing Creek Park, which feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic walking trails. The city hosts several annual events, including the Shoreline Arts Festival, which showcases local artists and musicians, and the Shoreline Farmers Market, offering fresh produce and handmade goods. If you're looking for a day trip, Shoreline is near attractions like the Woodland Park Zoo and the Ballard Locks. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there is always something to do in Shoreline, Washington.
Who are large employers in Shoreline Washington?
If living in Shoreline, Washington, some of the top employers include the Shoreline School District, which employs over 1,000 people, the City of Shoreline, which employs over 300 workers, and Shoreline Community College, which employs over 500 people. Other notable employers in Shoreline include various healthcare facilities, retail stores, and restaurants. With a diverse range of employers, residents of Shoreline can find opportunities in education, government, healthcare, and more.
I want to relocate to Shoreline. How do I make it happen?
You've come to the right spot if you're looking to move to Shoreline, 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 Shoreline 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 Shoreline, Washington, is like as well as help with your mortgage if you decide to purchase a home.