If you are looking to make a move to the Eastside of the Seattle metro area, you have likely narrowed your search down to a few key contenders. Two names that pop up constantly are Bothell and Bellevue. On paper, they might look like neighbors, but in reality, they offer completely different lifestyles and fit very different budgets.

Think of Bellevue as the "Second City" of Washington. It is urban, polished, and serves as a major tech hub with high-rise living and luxury estates. Bothell, on the other hand, is the "Booming Suburb." It has a revitalized downtown, a strong biotech presence, and a vibe that feels more connected to nature than to a skyline. Choosing between them usually comes down to three things: your budget, your tolerance for a commute, and whether you prefer a sleek urban setting or a wooded, relaxed neighborhood.

At a Glance: Key Differences

Before we dive deep into the numbers, it helps to see the high-level differences. Bellevue is significantly larger, with a population hovering around 150,000, while Bothell feels more intimate with about 50,000 residents.

Here is how they stack up on the major factors:

• Housing Cost: Bellevue is the premium option, often costing 40-50% more than Bothell.
• Vibe: Bellevue feels like a polished mini-metropolis; Bothell feels like a modernizing town tucked into the woods.
• Location: Bellevue is central to everything (Seattle, Redmond, Issaquah). Bothell is further north, which means a longer drive to the city core.
• County: Bellevue is entirely within King County. Bothell is unique because it straddles the line between King and Snohomish counties, which can affect your taxes.

Cost of Living & Housing Market

Let's be honest—housing costs are usually the deciding factor for most buyers. As of early 2026, the price gap between these two cities is substantial.

If you are looking to buy a home, Bellevue commands some of the highest prices in the state. You should expect median sold prices to hover between $1.5M and $1.7M. The inventory here leans toward luxury: think high-rise condos with concierge service or sprawling mid-century modern estates on large lots.

Bothell offers a much more approachable entry point for the Eastside. Median prices here generally sit in the $900K to $1M range. You get a lot more house for your money in Bothell, where the market is full of split-level single-family homes, ramblers, and a wave of new construction townhomes.

For renters, the story is similar but slightly less dramatic. Bellevue rents remain high, averaging over $2,700 a month for a standard unit. Bothell offers some relief, with averages closer to $2,200–$2,400. Interestingly, while Bellevue rents have held steady, we saw Bothell rents dip slightly—about 3%—heading into 2026, giving tenants a bit more negotiating power.

One specific detail to watch for in Bothell is the county line. Because the city sits in both King and Snohomish counties, your property tax bill can vary depending on which side of the street you live on. Generally, living on the Snohomish side can offer slight tax advantages depending on the specific school and fire levies active that year.

Lifestyle & Vibe: Urban Polish vs. Suburban Charm

The day-to-day experience of living in these cities is where you really feel the difference.

Bellevue is often called the "Manhattan of the PNW," and for good reason. It is clean, meticulously planned, and very busy. The downtown core is dominated by the Bellevue Collection, offering high-end shopping and fine dining that rivals downtown Seattle. The parks, like the stunning Meydenbauer Bay Park, are manicured and pristine. If you love walking out of your condo to grab sushi and shop at luxury boutiques, this is your spot.

Bothell flips the script with a vibe that focuses on community and nature. The city has done an incredible job revitalizing its downtown, centered around Main Street and the McMenamins Anderson School—a historic school turned into a dining and entertainment complex with a pool and movie theater. Life here feels slower. You are more likely to spend your weekends walking along the Sammamish River Slough or visiting local mom-and-pop shops than browsing designer brands.

Walkability is another major contrast. Downtown Bellevue is a walker's paradise, but once you leave the core, it becomes very car-dependent. Downtown Bothell is also highly walkable and charming, but the majority of the residential neighborhoods are classic suburban sprawl, meaning you will likely need a car for most errands.

Commuting & Transportation

This section is critical if you work in downtown Seattle or the Bellevue tech hub. The commute can be a dealbreaker.

Bellevue is centrally located, making it the transit heart of the Eastside. You have easy access to the 520 bridge if you are heading to Seattle, and I-90 is just minutes away. Commuting within Bellevue is generally a breeze, and the city is well-served by the East Link Light Rail, connecting you to Redmond and Seattle efficiently.

Bothell, however, is famous for a tough commute. If you live in Bothell and work in Bellevue or Seattle, you are at the mercy of the I-405 corridor. During rush hour, that drive south can easily take 45 to 60 minutes or more. Off-peak, it might only be 15 minutes, but consistency is rare.

Public transit in Bothell is decent but lacks the direct rail access Bellevue enjoys. Most commuters rely on the Sound Transit Express bus (route 535) or drive to the Lynnwood Transit Center to catch the Light Rail. Also, keep in mind that tolling on the 405 Express Lanes and the 520 bridge will be a line item in your monthly budget if you drive alone.

Schools & Education Districts

For many movers, the quality of the local school district is a top priority. Both cities are served by districts that are highly regarded across the state.

Bellevue School District is consistently ranked among the top in the nation. The district is known for rigorous academics, extensive AP programs, and specialized options like the International School. It is a high-achieving environment that draws people from all over the world.

Bothell is primarily served by the Northshore School District. While it may not always grab the national headlines like Bellevue, it is incredibly well-respected locally. The district is known for strong community support and has seen significant investment in facilities recently, such as the modern North Creek High School.

Additionally, Bothell has a unique "college town" element thanks to the University of Washington Bothell campus. This brings a youthful energy and educational resources right into the heart of the city, something most suburbs lack.

Job Market & Economy

You don't necessarily have to commute to Seattle to find great work. Bellevue is a global business hub in its own right, hosting headquarters for major players like T-Mobile and PACCAR, plus a massive Amazon HQ2 presence. It is a powerhouse for tech and corporate roles.

Bothell has carved out its own niche as a biotech and life sciences hub, particularly around the Canyon Park business center. Companies like Seagen and various medical device manufacturers are headquartered here.

If you work in biotech, living in Bothell might actually shorten your commute compared to living in Seattle or Bellevue.

Verdict: Which City Fits Your Profile?

So, which one is right for you? It usually comes down to the lifestyle you want to buy.

Choose Bellevue if:

• You want a walkable, luxury urban lifestyle with high-end amenities.
• You need a short, predictable commute to Seattle or Redmond.
• You have a higher housing budget ($1.5M+) and prioritize resale value in a blue-chip market.

Choose Bothell if:

• You want more space for your money and prefer a detached home over a condo.
• You enjoy a wooded, river-adjacent vibe with a strong sense of local community.
• You work in the biotech sector, work remotely, or don't mind a longer commute in exchange for a quieter neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bothell cheaper than Bellevue?

Yes, significantly. Housing costs in Bothell are typically 40% to 50% lower than in Bellevue. While a median home in Bellevue might cost $1.6M, a comparable home in Bothell is often closer to $950,000.

How long is the commute from Bothell to Bellevue?

It varies wildly depending on the time of day. Without traffic, it is a quick 15-20 minute drive. However, during morning or evening rush hour, the congestion on I-405 can push that drive to 45 or even 60 minutes.

Does the Light Rail go to Bothell?

No, the Light Rail does not have a direct stop in Bothell. Residents usually take a bus or drive to the nearby Lynnwood Transit Center or Redmond to access the rail system. Bellevue, in contrast, has direct Light Rail stations.

Is Bothell in King County or Snohomish County?

It is actually in both. Bothell straddles the county line, so some neighborhoods are in King County and others are in Snohomish County. This is important to check before buying, as it affects which utility companies you use and how your property taxes are calculated.