Bothell, WA, offers a high quality of life with a welcoming small-town feel, excellent schools, and abundant outdoor recreation through its parks and trails like the Sammamish River and Burke-Gilman Trails. The city has a safe, family-friendly atmosphere with a walkable downtown full of local shops and restaurants, plus a strong sense of community supported by events and festivals. Its convenient location near Seattle and the Eastside makes commuting and exploring the region accessible. Housing costs are significantly above the national average, and newer homes often have smaller lots, making affordability and space challenges for some residents. While Bothell’s nightlife is limited compared to larger cities, its charm, community, and amenities make it one of the most desirable places to live in Washington.
North King County
North King County, encompassing cities like Bothell, Kenmore, Lake Forest Park, Shoreline, and parts of Woodinville, offers a mix of suburban and rural communities with some industrial and commercial areas. The region provides convenient access to both Seattle’s urban amenities and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, including the Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy parks like Marymoor Park, Rattlesnake Lake, Snow Lake, and Goldmyer Hot Springs nearby. Cultural experiences and local festivals add to the area’s appeal.
The PNW has always felt safe to me, expansive and like there is a deep untapped richness here, both richness in land, in people, in development and potential but also a richness in what already exists. We’re rich in diversity, growth, economy, food, art, people and culture. -Courtney Royce, Broker
Discover the area
Bothell
Kenmore
Lake Forest Park
Lake Forest Park is a peaceful, wooded suburb on Lake Washington known for its large lots, quiet atmosphere, and strong sense of community. Residents enjoy access to nature through parks, trails like the Burke-Gilman, and community spaces such as the Town Center, which hosts events and features favorites like Third Place Books. Families are drawn to its highly rated schools and the safe, close-knit environment, while professionals value its convenient proximity to Seattle. However, the high cost of housing, limited walkability due to hilly terrain, and lack of a vibrant nightlife mean most errands and entertainment require driving. Overall, Lake Forest Park offers a serene suburban lifestyle ideal for families and those seeking a community-focused retreat near the city.
Shoreline
Shoreline offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to Seattle, combining highly-rated schools, abundant parks and trails, and a strong sense of community. Residents enjoy over 400 acres of green space, Puget Sound beaches, and well-maintained neighborhood amenities, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Housing is generally more affordable than in Seattle, and excellent transit options—including bus lines and the new Link light rail—make commuting convenient. While it lacks a central downtown and some areas near Aurora Avenue may have higher crime, the city’s 14 distinct neighborhoods provide variety and charm. Overall, Shoreline is a safe, family-friendly suburb with a mix of urban and suburban conveniences, attracting young professionals and those seeking outdoor recreation.
Woodinville - Downtown
Downtown Woodinville, WA, blends small-town charm with upscale urban amenities, offering a walkable hub filled with wineries, restaurants, boutiques, and community events. The area is family-friendly, with highly-rated schools, abundant parks, and access to outdoor recreation via the Burke-Gilman and Eastrail trails, as well as nearby hiking and kayaking on the Sammamish River. Residents enjoy a vibrant culinary scene, seasonal events, and a strong sense of community, all while being within easy reach of Bellevue, Kirkland, Redmond, and Seattle. While housing and rental costs are high, the combination of nature, amenities, and convenient location makes Woodinville ideal for families, professionals, wine enthusiasts, and outdoor lovers. Overall, it offers a lush, pedestrian-friendly lifestyle that balances luxury, recreation, and small-town appeal.
The PNW has always felt safe to me, expansive and like there is a deep untapped richness here, both richness in land, in people, in development and potential but also a richness in what already exists. We’re rich in diversity, growth, economy, food, art, people and culture. -Courtney Royce, Broker
Discover things to do
WOODINVILLE WINE - WAREHOUSE DISTRICT
KENMORE AIR
ST EDWARDS STATE PARK
