Situating roughly 20 miles northeast of Seattle, Bothell has grown from a historical logging community to a top “Goldilocks” spot for the entire Seattle metropolitan region. The prime spot that borders Kirkland and Woodinville makes Bothell a most coveted spot for those looking to live a suburbian lifestyle that has easy access to employment centers within Bellevue and Seattle. The recent downtown renewal project has revitalized the entire urban center, turning a sleeping antiques-filled town into a lively, pedestrian-friendly spot that features up-to-date needs for a new breed of home buyer advocating a harmonious urban/suburb mix.

The one-of-a-kind identifying characteristic of Bothell is that it has the "straddle" element since it geographically straddles both King and Snohomish counties. In fact, having two counties further affects the convenience factors of residency, such as the rates paid for property taxes, school districts, and even power companies. With this unique geographical configuration combined with the development of Bothell into a biotech hub and an attractive riverside community, it has proven to be one of the best places to live.

The Bothell Lifestyle: Nature Meets Innovation

The lifestyle in Bothell revolves around the Sammamish River, which is a popular sightseeing point that attracts nature lovers and enthusiasts. The quality of life in this city is amazing due to its well-connected trail systems that enable people to walk or cycle to breweries along the Sammamish River and Burke-Gilman trail, which acts as one of the best routes for those wishing to explore nature.

The city has transformed into a thriving social and professional hub, with a walkable Main Street and the iconic McMenamins Anderson School defining its independent personality. There are endless things to do in Bothell, from visiting the historic Hannan House at the Park at Bothell Landing to attending summer concerts at the amphitheater. This vibrant atmosphere is balanced by a booming biotech industry, creating a unique environment where professional innovation meets community-focused weekends at spots like Summit Park.

Cost of Living & Housing Market

A mistake you didn't make was moving to Bothell, and if you are considering a move, knowing the cost of living in Bothell, WA is important to making an educated decision. Face it, Bothell is a desirable area, and the price to live there illustrates that. A desirable real estate market in Bothell makes it a sought-after area of the greater Seattle area, being slightly more affordable than Kirkland while maintaining a high cost-of-living standard for the Pacific Northwest. A fast-moving real estate market characterized by a high demand and a highly sought-after price range of $1M to $1.1M, illustrated by the high-rated schools and modern amenities, defines the area. Alternatively, those who are not yet prepared to take the plunge to invest in Bothell property can find the rental market to be strong, charging high prices due to the tech industry in Canyon Park and students at UW Bothell.

Because the schools in Bothell and amenities are so strong, well-priced homes for sale in Bothell rarely sit on the market for long. Here is a rough idea of what housing costs look like right now:

• Median Home Price: Estimated between $1,000,000 and $1,100,000.
• 1-Bedroom Rent: Typically $1,800 - $2,200 per month.
• 2-Bedroom Rent: Typically $2,300 - $2,800 per month.

Beyond housing, day-to-day costs like gas, utilities, and groceries track about 15-20% higher than the national average, which is standard for the Seattle metro area. If you are serious about buying a house in Washington, you need to factor these ongoing costs into your monthly budget.

Top Neighborhoods in Bothell

Bothell covers a fairly large area, and the vibe changes significantly depending on which hill or valley you choose. Here is a breakdown of the top neighborhoods to help you find the right fit:

• Downtown / Riverfront: This is the heart of the action and the best choice if you prioritize walkability. The housing market here has shifted toward modern condos, townhomes, and newer apartments. Living here puts you just steps away from the Burke-Gilman Trail and the iconic McMenamins Anderson School, making it ideal for those seeking an urban-suburban mix.
• Canyon Park & North Creek: Located to the north, this serves as the city’s commercial and biotech heart. You will find a high concentration of newer housing developments and business parks. While it feels more "planned" and busy than older neighborhoods, it is incredibly convenient for commuters who need immediate access to I-405.
• Norway Hill: If you are looking for trees, privacy, and stunning views, this is your spot. Known for its steep, winding roads and larger lots, Norway Hill offers a secluded, woodsy retreat from city noise while remaining just a short drive from local amenities.
• Maywood Hills: This is a classic, established neighborhood characterized by mid-century homes and leafy streets. Its central location makes it a solid middle ground for residents who want a traditional yard without being too far from the city center.
• West Hill: This neighborhood is located just west of the downtown area and offers elevation and proximity. It has a combination of older homes and beautifully renovated homes. It is a great option for people who want to be close to the downtown area and the revamping but want a traditional detached home as opposed to a condominium.

Commuting & Transportation

This is the point where the greatest hesitation always occurs. Bothell sits conveniently between I-405 and SR-522. This is very convenient; however, during the peaked hours of the day, the traffic at the intersections can be quite a bottleneck.

If your job is in Bellevue or Redmond, the commute is generally manageable, ranging from 25 to 40 minutes depending on traffic flow. The I-405 Express Toll Lanes are a major factor here; if you are willing to pay the toll or have a carpool, your commute time drops significantly.

However, the issue of reaching Seattle is a different matter. By car, it takes anywhere from 35 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time of day. Many people use public transit in order to avoid the hassle. Taking the Sound Transit Express buses, such as Route 522 to Seattle or Route 535 to Bellevue, is a common alternative. The Park & Ride lots in Bothell and Canyon Park get full, but it’s a safe alternative for people who would rather not drive.

• Drive to Bellevue: Approx. 25 - 35 minutes.
• Drive to Seattle: Approx. 35 - 50+ minutes.
• Bus to Seattle (Route 522): Approx. 60 minutes.

Schools & Education

For many households, the school district is the primary driver formoving to Bothell. Most of Bothell falls within the Northshore School District. This district is widely recognized across the state for strong academic programs and a wealth of extracurricular options, from robotics to performing arts.

Bothell is also a college town, though perhaps not in the traditional sense. It is home to the University of Washington Bothell and Cascadia College, which share a modern campus near the wetlands. This brings varied educational resources and a diverse student population to the area, contributing to the local economy without creating a rowdy "party school" atmosphere.

Note: Because of the county lines, some northern edges of Bothell may fall into different school districts. It is always smart to verify specific boundary lines for any home you are interested in.

Key Insights: What You Need to Know About Living in Bothell

Overall, Bothell has become one of the most sought-after communities for those who want to live in Washington without the intensity of a major urban core. Bothell is known for its high quality of life, which is anchored by a vibrant community and a strong sense of community that is hard to find elsewhere. A major draw for many is the city's reputation as a safe city; the crime rate is significantly lower than the national average, making it an exceptionally attractive place to live.

For those considering buying a home in Bothell, the Bothell real estate market remains competitive but offers more value than nearby Seattle. While the median home value has risen to approximately $1.1 million, prices in Bothell are generally more manageable than in the neighboring Eastside cities. Bothell also offers a range of rental options, with a median rent near $2,377, providing ample opportunities for those transitioning into the area. Living in Bothell offers more than just a place to sleep; Bothell boasts an array of urban amenities, from diverse dining options in downtown Bothell to unique community events like the Bothell Farmers Market and the Wassail Cider Fest.

Bothell is also home to top-tier institutional assets that drive its economy and appeal. The city is served by excellent schools within the Northshore School District and is a hub for higher education, offering various undergraduate and graduate programs at the UW Bothell campus. Bothell also provides a massive presence in Bothell for the biotech industry, creating robust job opportunities right in your backyard. Between the numerous parks like the North Creek Forest and the proximity to everything you need to know about Pacific Northwest living, Bothell is the right choice for anyone looking for a great place to live.

Local Job Market & Economy

You don't necessarily have to commute to Seattle to find a high-paying job. Bothell has quietly become a major hub for the biotech and life sciences sectors. Major employers like Seagen (formerly Seattle Genetics) and AGC Biologics have a massive footprint here.

The Canyon Park Business Center is home to numerous tech companies and manufacturing firms. This creates a strong local economy where many residents live and work within a five-mile radius. Additionally, the location allows for an easy "reverse commute" north to the Boeing assembly plant in Everett, or a short hop over to the wineries and tourism jobs in Woodinville.

Why Bothell is a Top Choice in the Seattle Metro

On the whole, Bothell is a lively community that has managed to strike a balance between job growth in biotechnology jobs and a sense of community. Bothell Washington has been noted for several factors, especially the level of safety within the community since the rate of crime recorded within the city is surprisingly low compared to similar cities within the country. Realistically, for those purchasing a home, the real estate within Bothell Washington still presents a competitive and rewarding experience for potential homeowners. The median price for a home stands at around 1.03 million, although for a medium-priced Washington state, this stands as a relative bargain compared to communities like Kirkland, Bellevue, or similar cities within Washington state. The rental prices for a medium-priced home stand at around 2,365 per month.

Living in Bothell provides an exceptional quality of life with great schools, since the city is served by the highly-rated Northshore School District, besides offering parks such as the North Creek Forest. Bothell has city amenities such as varied food places in the downtown area of Bothell, besides some iconic places to dine, for instance, the Bothell Farmers Market. In terms of education, for students, academics, or young professionals, Bothell has quality institutions, besides the quality education offered by the University of Washington Bothell, which provides quality undergraduate, graduate, and even online programs. Though the cost of living for groceries in Bothell is relatively higher than the national average, the city has an outstanding benefit due to the nearby city of Seattle. Thus, for those who are genuinely interested in purchasing a home in Bothell, the best approach would be to hire the services of a local real estate agent to help in understanding the current prices for homes in Bothell, besides assisting in the selection of the best place to reside.

Pros and Cons of Living in Bothell

If you are on the fence, here is a quick summary of the trade-offs residents face.

Pros

Moving to Bothell offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a high quality of life characterized by top-tier public resources and a strong connection to the Pacific Northwest outdoors.

• You get access to the highly-rated Northshore School District and incredible nature via the trail systems. 
• The price point, while high, is generally better than living in Bellevue or Kirkland. 
• Plus, the revitalized downtown offers a genuine sense of community.

Cons

While the city has many advantages, residents must also navigate some of the logistical challenges and growing pains that come with being a sought-after Seattle suburb.

• Traffic congestion at the I-405/SR-522 interchange is a daily reality. 
• The cost of housing is rising faster than in outlying areas. 
• Also, the nightlife is limited compared to Seattle, and the "straddle" between King and Snohomish counties can sometimes be confusing regarding taxes.

How Bothell Compares to Neighbors

Choosing the right suburb in the Eastside often comes down to balancing your budget with your lifestyle priorities. While Bothell shares the same lush, evergreen scenery as its neighbors, it offers a more grounded, "townie" feel compared to the high-gloss urban centers of the South. It serves as a strategic middle ground—offering the top-tier education and safety of the Eastside at a slightly more accessible price point than the lakefront communities. Whether you’re looking for a walkable downtown or a tech-heavy employment hub, here is how Bothell stacks up against its closest counterparts.

• vs. Kirkland: Bothell is more affordable and has a woodsy, suburban feel. Living in Kirkland offers direct access to the Lake Washington waterfront and a higher-density, walkable downtown, but you pay a significant premium for it.
• vs. Woodinville: Bothell has a more established business district and wider range of housing. Woodinville is more rural, with a strong tourist component and a reputation for wine country acreages.
• vs. Kenmore: Bothell has a larger, more active downtown and more local employment centers. Kenmore is quieter, primarily residential, and sits right at the top of Lake Washington.

Is Bothell the Right Place for You?

Bothell provides an attractive combination for those who wish to enjoy the benefits of the Pacific Northwest: trees, trails, and water access without being outside of the urban center. This is a town that has been able to grow up without sacrificing its identity. This is an amalgam of innovation and hometown roots.

The neighborhood has a competitive real estate market, and being ready with your financing goes a long way. It’s only natural that you are interested in the atmosphere. The best way to determine that is to spend an afternoon in the area. Walk the Sammamish River Trail, grab a burger at the McMenamins, and see what it’s like.

FAQs

Is Bothell WA expensive to live in?

Yes, relative to the national average, it is expensive. However, compared to its immediate neighbors like Bellevue and Kirkland, it is often considered a more mid-range option. Costs for housing and utilities align with the greater Seattle metro area.

What is the commute from Bothell to Seattle like?

It can be challenging. Expect a drive of 35 to 60 minutes depending on traffic severity on I-5 or SR-522. Many residents prefer using the Sound Transit Express bus service to avoid the stress of driving during rush hour.

Is Bothell in King County or Snohomish County?

It is in both. Bothell is one of few cities in the U.S. to straddle two counties. Most of the city is in King County, but much of it, mostly where Canyon Park is located, is in Snohomish County.

What is Bothell renowned for?

It's primarily known for a high concentration of biotech firms, a campus of the University of Washington, and its riverfront hiking and biking trails. But also quite famous is the McMenamins Anderson School-a junior high school remade into hotel and restaurant.

Does Bothell have good schools?

Yes, the primary school district serving the area is the Northshore School District. It is renowned for great test scores, excellent athletic programs, and good college preparation, hence a significant appeal to movers.