Top 10 Washington Cities According to Real Estate Experts

With three national parks, over 8,000 lakes, and 155 miles of Pacific Ocean shoreline, Washington stands out with its natural beauty. Moreover, the Evergreen State is also one of the most prosperous in the country, with a median household income of $84,247 in 2022—about $6,000 more than the national average. As the home of major companies such as Amazon and Microsoft, Washington boasts abundant employment opportunities. While the Seattle region remains a highly sought-after relocation destination, there are certainly many other towns along the coastline and in the state’s interior that attract new residents with their idyllic settings, outdoor-focused lifestyle, tight-knit communities, and family-friendly amenities.

Here are 10 of the best places to live in Washington:

1. Seattle

As the Pacific Northwest’s tech hub, Seattle has long been an attractive place to live due to high-paying jobs, opportunities for professional growth, and tech innovation. However, there are many other exciting aspects of this vibrant city. Its music scene has given birth to some of the best rock bands of all time, and there are remarkable art museums and restaurants. Furthermore, the city is surrounded by stunning nature, perfect for those who wish to embrace the great outdoors.

“Countless summer and winter activities await right outside our doorstep. Water enthusiasts can sail on Puget Sound or stand-up paddleboard on Lake Washington. Scenic peaks nearby offer challenges for both novice and experienced hikers. When winter arrives, a quick 1.5-hour drive leads to numerous snow sports destinations. Seattle, undeniably, is a recreational fan’s paradise,” said Cassie Walker Johnson, a managing broker.

The city is also home to many neighborhoods, each with distinct energy and character, such as laid-back Magnolia, historic Ballard with its Nordic roots, upscale Laurelhurst on Lake Washington, and vibrant Queen Anne with breathtaking city views.

The only downside to life in Seattle is its steep cost, especially for new homeowners. The median sale price is $834,000, with homes being snatched off the market after approximately eight days, according to Zillow.

2. Bellevue

Nestled between Lake Sammamish and Lake Washington, Bellevue is recognized for having some of the best views of Seattle and Mount Rainier. This young city—incorporated in the 1950s—is a favorite among families due to its numerous parks (2,700 acres) and top-notch schools.

“Our city council designed Bellevue’s skyline as a ‘tiered wedding cake.’ This design allows for ample sunlight, beautiful views, and superb amenities throughout the city,” stated Joseph Brazen, an agent.

Furthermore, Bellevue’s real estate market is sizzling hot, with 45 percent of homes pending within a week of listing. Eric Dang from John L. Scott Real Estate advises looking in Eastgate, a hub for new-construction homes that offers excellent schools, easy access to downtown, and impressive value for the price.

3. Walla Walla

Residents of this picturesque town on the border of Oregon and the Walla Walla Valley can access over 120 nearby wineries. Furthermore, compared to other wine regions in the country, such as Napa or Sonoma, real estate is relatively affordable here, with a median home value of $407,000, according to Zillow.

Allison Stensrude, an agent, noted, “An increase in new-construction homes provides buyers with more opportunities. I recommend the Pioneer Park area; it features mature landscaping, beautiful historic homes, and is within walking distance to parks and downtown Walla Walla.”

4. Mercer Island

Living on Mercer Island means experiencing a beautiful blend of waterfront living just minutes from bustling Bellevue and Seattle. With over 473 acres of parkland, green spaces, walking trails, and three public beaches, residents can enjoy a lakefront vacation vibe every day. There are also a variety of home styles available.

“The island’s architectural landscape reflects a journey through time and styles. From cozy vintage cottages dating back to the 1900s to mid-century designs and traditional two-story homes with modern touches, Mercer Island truly offers something for everyone,” remarked Lori Holden Scott, a broker.

5. Woodinville

Woodinville’s stunning setting in a scenic river valley is only enhanced by the presence of its over 130 wineries. It features parks, restaurants, boutique shops, and excellent schools. Moreover, if you crave big-city experiences, Seattle is just 20 miles south.

Broker Chelsey Samonte suggests exploring neighborhoods like Wellington, which features beautiful landscapes and exquisite architecture. Additionally, Hollywood Hill and Saybrook offer a charming rural feel and close-knit communities with access to top-tier schools and recreational facilities.

According to Zillow, the median home value is $1,239,000, down five percent since last year.

6. Olympia

“Olympia is ideal for those seeking a mid-sized city with little traffic and lower housing costs than its neighboring markets. Its proximity to everything Seattle offers enhances its appeal,” said Missy Watts, a broker. Washington’s capital is about an hour away from Seattle and two hours from Portland, Oregon, with residents enjoying many beaches, lakes, and urban amenities. The city’s downtown creative district spans 30 blocks, showcasing local breweries, galleries, theaters, and a farmers market.

Furthermore, Olympia is particularly popular among retirees for its vibrant arts scene, abundant medical facilities, and incredible outdoor access. “Washington has no state income tax, making it an attractive town for those living off pensions, Social Security, and retirement account withdrawals,” she added.

7. Bainbridge Island

“Bainbridge Island is the Nantucket of the West,” remarked Ty Evans, an agent with Windermere Real Estate. This island, located just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle, provides its residents with a unique blend of two distinct lifestyles. The island features the Grand Forest, a 240-acre nature preserve with numerous hiking and cycling trails, as well as high-ranking schools, shops, and restaurants. Waterfront properties are particularly sought after in areas like Port Madison, Crystal Springs, and Lynwood Center.

Moreover, the architectural styles on the Island vary widely. Most homes are built in Pacific Northwest fashion with a focus on natural wood, reflecting the area’s beauty.

8. Spokane

With the Spokane River flowing through its downtown and a wealth of natural sites nearby, Spokane is a sanctuary for those desiring a tranquil and laid-back urban environment to live and raise families. Furthermore, the city boasts various hiking and biking trails, five winter resorts within an hour’s drive, more than 70 lakes, numerous golf courses, and wineries, creating an appealing lifestyle for its approximately 229,000 residents.

Moreover, unlike other cities in Washington, Spokane’s real estate market is relatively affordable. The median sale price in July 2023 was $386,000, according to Zillow. “The current market appears slightly slower than in previous years as interest rates rise, yet potential buyers now have more inventory to choose from following the pandemic shortage,” explained Marissa Lewis from John L. Scott Real Estate.

9. Whidbey Island

“Whidbey Island is one of the most unique places on Earth,” commented Cheryl Keefe, a John L. Scott Real Estate agent. “You are surrounded by stunning natural beauty, from the Salish Sea to towering forests.”

This 37-mile-long island in Puget Sound, located about 30 miles north of Seattle, offers breathtaking views of the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. Life here centers around outdoor activities—hiking, boating, fishing, wine tasting, and enjoying its many public beaches.

According to Louis Muniz, a Windermere Real Estate agent, while the median sale price in July was around $715,000, the price on the island’s north end drops to about $475,000. “One of our most popular waterfront locations is Mutiny Bay, known as the ‘Gold Coast of the Northwest,’ sought after for its 180-degree views of the Olympic Mountain range, sandy beaches, and stunning sunsets,” Muniz said.

10. Bellingham

This coastal college city of about 100,000 lies 90 miles north of Seattle, offering a taste of the classic Pacific Northwest lifestyle. Residents enjoy stunning scenery, proximity to North Cascades National Park, numerous water activities, winter sports, and a plethora of craft breweries and farm-to-table restaurants. The variety of home styles ranges from classic Craftsman-style bungalows to newer residences.

According to real estate agent Renata Mason, the median home price in Bellingham is just over $700,000 as of July 2023. “Once interest rates stabilize, demand from pent-up buyers will surge. Furthermore, I recommend visiting multiple times to experience all of our seasons if you’re considering relocating here.”