Looking for the top commuter towns near Seattle is important for anyone who wants to enjoy city benefits without the constant hustle. By reading Verified Movers reviews, folks and their families can find quality moving assistance and really nail down the best spots to call home. It’s all about weighing up the essentials. We’ll highlight towns that don’t just cut down on commute times but also offer a living experience that ticks all the boxes for a wide range of people. Whether you’re on the move for your job or family or just chasing a change of scenery, finding that perfect commuter town among the best commuter towns to Seattle can seriously level up your life in the Emerald City’s orbit.
What Are Some Things a Quality Commuter Town Needs to Have?
Before we get into the towns themselves, it’s necessary to explore some reasons to do so. Whatever town around Seattle you choose needs to cover some basics.
So, here are some of the main things you want to analyze before the big move:
- Proximity to Seattle
- Affordability
- Transportation and communication to Seattle
- Educational opportunities in the area
- Amenities in the area
Proximity to Seattle is a must
Being close to Seattle is a game-changer. It’s not just about cutting down on commute times. Above all, it’s about making your daily life way more manageable and fun. Living near Seattle means you’re never too far from the action, whether it’s work opportunities, cultural hotspots, or just the general buzz of the city.
This proximity lets you tap into the best of Seattle without the hassle of a long commute. It’s like having the city’s perks on your doorstep while still enjoying the chill vibe of the suburbs. For those moving from California to Washington, keeping an eye on the distance to Seattle is crucial because it shapes how you’ll balance work, play, and everything in between. So, when we dive into finding that perfect spot near Seattle, remember that distance does more than just save time. Overall, it helps you save a lot of time.
The best commuter towns to Seattle need to be affordable
The median sales price for homes in Seattle has hit $850,000, which is up by 3% from last year. That’s a hefty price tag. It highlights how crucial affordability is when you’re picking out the best spots for setting up a new life, especially around Seattle. If you’re eyeing a move, finding that sweet spot where you can live well without getting hammered by Seattle’s high cost of living is key.
Commuter towns are looking more and more attractive and as some of the best cities to start a new life because they offer that much-needed balance. They’re easier on the wallet while still giving you access to all the cool stuff Seattle has to offer. Choosing a place like this means you can really focus on building a great life for yourself, enjoying day-to-day comfort without stressing over costs. It’s like hitting the jackpot for anyone ready to turn the page and start fresh.
Transportation is an absolute must
For anyone commuting, how easily you can zip into work and back really shapes your day. That’s why having solid public transport and road connections is non-negotiable in those commuter towns. Seattle’s got this impressive setup with buses, light rail, and even ferries, raising the bar for what’s expected in terms of getting around. It’s super important for the towns nearby to step up with reliable, quick transportation options that mesh well with Seattle’s system. Picking a place with strong transport links is not just about easing daily commutes. Above all, it’s about starting a lifestyle that’s both greener and more connected. It lets you dive into all the cool stuff near Seattle without getting dragged down by city traffic.
Don’t overlook educational opportunities
The quality of education is a big deal for those moving with family. Before you scroll through long distance movers Washington reviews and hire these movers for your move, you must know that great schools are the heartbeat of these communities, offering solid academics and cool extracurriculars that shape well-rounded kids. If you’re opening a new chapter of your life, how much a town values education can really tip the scales. It’s a key piece of the puzzle for anyone dreaming of a fresh start in the Seattle area.
Amenities available in the town itself
Choosing the right commuter town around Seattle? It’s all about the amenities these places have to offer. Think grocery stores, eateries, gyms, parks, and community hangouts. A town that’s packed with a variety of services and fun stuff to do doesn’t just cover the basics. Above all, it builds a vibe of community and a sense of really belonging there. If you’re considering moving to one of these towns, teaming up with some of the top movers in Seattle is a game changer.
Let’s Go Over Some of the Best Commuter Towns to Seattle
Now that we have some basic information on what we’re looking for, it’s time to explore Seattle’s area. It’s definitely full of gems that you will surely enjoy whether you’re moving as an individual or with your family. This list surely won’t cover every commuter town you’ll find, but here are just some towns we think you should consider:
- Bellevue
- Kirkland
- Renton
- Issaquah
- Redmond
- Bothell
- Lynnwood
Bellevue
Bellevue is one of the best commuter towns to Seattle. It’s very close to downtown Seattle, just a 10-mile hop across Lake Washington, which is a breeze thanks to the I-90 and 520 bridges. Plus, getting around has become even easier with the Sound Transit 550 bus connecting Bellevue and Seattle, and with the East Link light rail on the horizon for April 2024, things are looking up for commuters.
Sure, Bellevue has a reputation for being a bit pricier, with the median home price of around $1.1M, but it makes up for it with all the cool stuff it offers. Before you contact long distance moving companies Bellevue let’s go over some of the things the area offers. We’re talking big shopping malls, beautiful parks, and food from all over the globe. It’s all about giving residents a top-notch lifestyle. With an easy commute, awesome amenities, and a shortcut to Seattle’s job scene, Bellevue is a solid pick for anyone looking for a great commuter town.
Kirkland
Kirkland is this cozy spot on the eastern shore of Lake Washington that hits the sweet spot for folks wanting a mix of quiet suburbia and the buzz of Seattle. Just about 11 miles from downtown Seattle, getting to the city is pretty straightforward. All you need is a 38-minute trip on public transit like the King County Metro and Sound Transit.
The place is loaded with cool shopping spots, loads of outdoor activities, and an amazing variety of food that’s sure to keep your taste buds happy. Do you need anything more before checking out the long distance moving companies Kirkland and relocating? The average Kirkland house price was $1.12M last month. It’s a top pick for anyone looking for a place that offers both the city’s opportunities and a peaceful suburban vibe.
Renton
Renton, just a stone’s throw away (about 11 miles southeast) from Seattle, is turning heads as a very appealing commuter town. It’s got that sweet spot of being easy on the wallet while still offering an easy ride into the city. It’s just a brisk 20-minute train journey via Sound Transit and Amtrak or a seamless bus trip with King County Metro, and you’re downtown before you know it.
But there’s more to Renton than just the commute. Before contacting long distance moving companies Renton, know that the place is packed with everything you could want. It has shopping malls, eateries, parks, and spots for your weekend adventures, making it a hit for various lifestyles. With affordable living, a short hop to Seattle, great public transport, and loads of local perks, Renton is a no-brainer for anyone wanting to get the city excitement and suburban comfort. Home prices here were up 0.9% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $675K.
Issaquah
Issaquah stands out as the go-to spot for people looking for the best commuter towns to Seattle. Situated about 15 to 20 miles out, depending on which way you’re headed, Issaquah hooks up its residents with a bunch of ways to get into the city, including a handy 42-minute bus ride with Sound Transit that makes commuting easy.
But Issaquah isn’t just about getting to and from Seattle. With lively shops, tasty dining spots, and the natural beauty of trails and parks right on your doorstep, it’s got all the essentials plus a bit extra for a fulfilling day-to-day life. Plus, Issaquah’s big on keeping life quality top-notch, focusing on education, safety, and community vibes that bring everyone together. Whether you’re family-bound or flying solo, this mix of easy city access, awesome amenities, and a tight-knit community feel is why Issaquah’s on the map as a prime pick for Seattle commuters. Plus, the median house price here is more affordable than in many other places nearby, it’s around $806K.
Redmond
Redmond stands out as this cool mix of peaceful suburban life with a techy twist, thanks to being home to big names like Microsoft and Nintendo of America. It’s got this vibe that’s perfect for folks who want to be near Seattle but are after a bit more calm in their daily life. It’s located just 15 miles east of Seattle.
But it’s not just about the easy commute. Redmond is packed with stuff to do and see. From shopping hubs to outdoor spots like the Sammamish River Trail, not to mention all sorts of foodie places, there’s something for everyone. Families enjoy it too, thanks to its top-notch schools, safe streets, and lively community scene, with tech events and cultural festivals keeping things interesting. And with a light rail extension on the horizon, getting to Seattle is going to get even easier. Whether you’re in tech or just looking for a great place to live that offers both affordability and high quality of life, Redmond’s balancing act between convenience and suburban feel makes it a top pick for anyone wanting to stay close to Seattle without being caught up in its fast pace. The average Redmond home value is $1,233,011.
Bothell
Bothell’s transformation in the last decade is seriously turning heads, especially for those working in Seattle who are on the lookout for that chill suburban feel. About 20 miles northeast of the big city, Bothell offers a pretty easy commute, thanks to a variety of transport options.
The place has bloomed, seeing a 40% jump in population, which speaks volumes about its charm. A big draw is Bothell’s revamped downtown, which mixes modern living with that cozy small-town vibe we all love. It’s like getting the best of both worlds. You move to a place that is more affordable than Seattle, packed with amenities. Plus, you’ve got easy access to the city’s buzz as well as tranquil nature spots. The average Bothell home value is $973,51.
Lynnwood
Lynnwood is just a quick 16 miles north of Seattle. It’s quickly becoming the go-to spot for folks wanting a sweet deal on the cost of living without giving up the easy commute to the city. The average Lynnwood home value is $725,185 which is affordable compared to Seattle. The buzz is really about the Lynnwood Link Extension that’s on track to open in 2024, which is going to be a game changer. It will cut the trip to downtown Seattle down to just 28 minutes. This upgrade is a big reason why Lynnwood’s catching the eye of anyone looking for a commuter town.
The town itself has a lot going for it, with places like Alderwood Mall for your shopping fix, a bunch of different places to eat, and loads of spots for fun and recreation that suit all sorts of interests. Plus, Lynnwood’s spot on the map makes getting around very easy, not just to Seattle but to other key spots around Puget Sound, too.
Find the Right Place to Call Home!
Exploring the best commuter towns to Seattle reveals diverse lifestyles and opportunities. Each town offers unique benefits like affordability, convenient transportation, a variety of amenities, and community spirit. You should find a balance between suburban tranquility and city accessibility. Of course, the importance of aligning personal priorities with each town’s offerings, such as commute times, educational quality, community engagement, and recreational activities is important. Discovering the right town ensures a fulfilling lifestyle in the lively Pacific Northwest!