Are you thinking about moving to Kirkland, Washington, but aren't sure if it's the right fit for you? So let's dive into the pros and cons of living in this charming Seattle suburb to help you decide if you should make the move in 2024. And make sure to stay till the end of the video so that you can check out the bonus tip that I have for you. So let's quickly tune in into what you must know before moving here.
Hi, my name is Darius Sensies, your Greater Seattle REALTOR® friend. Living in Kirkland, Washington offers a unique blend of natural beauty, urban amenities, and a thriving tech scene. But like any city, it has its ups and downs.
And as your friendly neighborhood REALTOR®, I'm here to give you the inside scoop on everything that you need to know before moving to Kirkland, Washington. So let's get started with the first pro. One of the biggest advantages of living in Kirkland, Washington, is its stunning natural beauty and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Washington, Kirkland boasts numerous waterfront parks, beaches, and trails. Juanita Beach Park and Marina Park are local favorites, offering picturesque views, swimming areas, and picnic spots. The Cross Kirkland Corridor, a 5.75-mile trail, is perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling, providing a scenic route throughout the city.
In 2024, Kirkland will continue to invest in its parks and green spaces. The Totem Lake Park project, set to be completed later this year, will add another beautiful area for residents to enjoy, featuring walking trails, a playground, and an elevated boardwalk through the wetlands. This commitment to preserving and enhancing natural spaces makes Kirkland an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the main cons of living in Kirkland, Washington, is the high cost of living. As of 2024, the cost of living in Kirkland is significantly higher than the national average, primarily due to housing costs. The median home price in Kirkland is around $1.4 million, making it challenging for many potential buyers to afford a home here.
Additionally, everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation are higher than the national average. While the high salaries in the area can offset some of these costs, it's essential to carefully consider your budget before moving to Kirkland. Kirkland's thriving jog market is a significant draw for many people considering relocating to here.
The city is also part of the larger Seattle metro area's tech hub, often referred to as the Silicon Forest. Major tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon have a strong presence in the area, providing numerous high-paying job opportunities. In 2024, Google is set to complete its new 760,000 square foot office complex here in Kirkland, further boosting the local job market.
Besides tech, Kirkland's economy is diverse with strong sectors in healthcare, education, and retail. Evergreen Health is one of the largest employers here in the city, and it offers numerous job opportunities in the healthcare field. For entrepreneurs and small business owners, Kirkland's supportive business environment and growing population make an attractive place to start or expand a business.
The city's economic development program offers resources and support for local businesses, contributing to a dynamic and resilient local economy. While Kirkland's job market is thriving, one of the downsides of living in Kirkland, Washington is the traffic congestion, especially for those commuting to Seattle or other nearby cities. During peak hours, the I-405 and SR-520 can become heavily congested, leading to long and stressful commutes.
The average one-way commute time for Kirkland residents is about 30 minutes, but it can be significantly longer during rush hours. The limited public transportation options exacerbate the issue. While there are bus services and park-and-ride facilities, Kirkland lacks direct light rail connection to Seattle and other major employment centers.
To mitigate this issue, many residents opt for alternative commute methods like carpooling, vanpooling, or working flexible hours. Some companies offer remote work options, which can help reduce the commute-related stress. However, it's important to factor in the potential commute times when considering moving to Kirkland, Washington.
Kirkland's vibrant downtown area is a major pro for those considering living in Kirkland, Washington. The downtown core offers a pedestrian-friendly mix of boutiques, locally-owned coffee shops, health and beauty spas, and award-winning dining options. The waterfront location adds to the charm, providing beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Throughout the year, Kirkland hosts numerous community events and festivals that bring residents together. Kirkland's Summerfest, a popular annual event, features live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. The weekly Kirkland Wednesday Market offers fresh produce, artisan goods, and a chance to connect with local vendors.
In 2024, the city continues to support and expand its community events, fostering a strong sense of community and making Kirkland a lively and engaging place to live. Whether you're looking for a quiet coffee shop to work out of or a bustling festival to enjoy with friends and family, downtown Kirkland has something for everyone. One of the cons of living in Kirkland, Washington, is the rainy weather.
Kirkland, like much of the Pacific Northwest, experiences significant amounts of rainfall, particularly from October through May. The city receives an average of 41 inches of annual rainfall, which can be a downside for those who prefer sunnier climates. The frequent rain can lead to overcast skies and dam conditions, which some people find gloomy.
It can also limit the outdoor activities during the wetter months. However, many residents embrace the rain, enjoying the lush green landscapes it creates and finding ways to stay active indoors. If you're considering moving to Kirkland, it's essential to be prepared for the rainy weather, investing in good rain gear and finding indoor hobbies can help you make the most of the city's climate.
Kirkland is home to excellent healthcare facilities, making it a great place for those who prioritize access to quality medical care. Evergreen Health Medical Center, a top-rated hospital, offers a wide range of medical services, including a nationally recognized stroke center, a comprehensive cancer center, and excellent maternity care. In addition to Evergreen Health, Kirkland residents also have access to numerous specialized clinics, urgent care centers, and medical practices.
The city's proximity to Seattle also means that world-class medical institutions like the University of Washington Medical Center and Seattle Children's Hospital are within reach. For seniors and retirees, Kirkland offers several high-quality assisted living and long-term care facilities. The city's commitment to healthcare extends to community wellness programs, with initiatives focused on promoting healthy lifestyles and preventative care.
While Kirkland offers many amenities, one of the cons of living here in Kirkland is the limited public transportation options. The city primarily relies on bus service provided by King County Metro and Sound Transit, which can be less convenient than light rail or other rapid transit options. There are plans to improve the public transportation infrastructure, including better bus rapid transit services and potential future light rail extensions in the meantime, residents may find public transportation options limited compared to larger cities.
If you prefer not to drive, this can be a significant drawback. However, many residents find the convenience of living in a walkable, bike-friendly city with numerous amenities within close proximity helps offset the limitations of public transportation. A bonus tip for those considering living in Kirkland, Washington is the absence of state income tax.
Washington is one of only nine states in the US that does not levy a state income tax, allowing residents to keep more of their earnings. This can be a significant financial benefit, especially for high-income earners and those working in the tech industry. While the cost of living in Kirkland is high, the lack of state income tax helps offset some of these expenses.
It also makes the area more attractive to businesses and professionals, contributing to the region's strong economy and job market. So there you have it, the pros and cons of living in Kirkland, Washington. While the city offers stunning natural beauty, excellent schools, a vibrant community, it also comes with a high cost of living and some traffic challenges.
If you're still asking yourself, should I move to Kirkland? Remember, every place has its ups and downs. Kirkland might just be the perfect fit for you if you value a balanced lifestyle with access to both urban amenities and outdoor adventures. Also, the strong job market is a huge plus, especially for tech professionals.
So if you decide to move here, I'll be here to help you find a new home in this wonderful city. If you'd like to learn more about Kirkland real estate and surrounding areas, then be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and follow me on all my social channels so you don't miss any future videos. Also, hit the like button if you found this video informative, and you can click on the boxes on the screen to view my other videos too.
Once again, I'm Darius Senzies, your greater Seattle realtor friend. Thank you for watching, and I'll catch you in the next video.
