8 Best Places to Live on Seattle’s Eastside

Seattle's Eastside has developed a stellar reputation.

Consistently ranked among the best places to live in Washington, the Eastside can be a haven for thriving tech companies and a must-visit destination for appreciating the Pacific Northwest's unparalleled wine country.

The Eastside’s perfect balance of urban convenience and suburban charm has become a top choice for aspiring homebuyers seeking proximity to Seattle but distance from the city’s pulse.

Below, the team from Prevu curates a beginner’s guide to help you uncover some of the finest towns and cities on the Eastside of Seattle.

Best Places to Live on the Eastside

• Duvall
• Woodinville
• Bellevue
• Kirkland
• Newcastle
• Mercer Island
• North Bend
• Snoqualmie

Duvall

Duvall has blossomed into a charming residential community since its founding in 1910.

Carefully designed to preserve its small-town atmosphere, Duvall offers a diverse array of living options to suit almost any preference, from contemporary townhomes with modern amenities to cozy cottages and sprawling estates.

Though its rustic charm is a defining feature, Duvall is distinguished by its close-knit community. 

The town's lush green spaces, such as McCormick Park and Taylor Park, often serve as social hubs for locals. 

The picturesque surroundings provide ample opportunities for picnics and outdoor exploration, vistas of the Snoqualmie River, or a pick-up soccer game.

Duvall's strong sense of community is evident in its popular local establishments. Residents will often head to Main St., Duvall’s main thoroughfare, for dinner at The Grange or set off for a pint at Valley House Brewing. 

Duvall’s housing market caters to a wide range of budgets and preferences, from starter homes to luxurious estates, while the home styles can span from classic ramblers with inviting porches to sleek contemporary homes designed to complement the town's picturesque landscape.

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Woodinville

Woodinville is a hub for wine enthusiasts and culinary explorers despite its seemingly secluded nature. 

It's home to over 130 local or close-by wineries and tasting rooms, including the renowned Chateau Ste. Michelle and Novelty Hill-Januik Winery. The city also boasts an impressive selection of farm-to-table restaurants and artisanal eateries.

Outdoor lovers will find a wealth of options at their disposal. Visit the scenic Paradise Valley Conservation Area for a hike through serene forests and wetlands, or explore the Sammamish River Trail, where you can enjoy cycling or bird-watching along the riverbank.

Much of the city’s most desirable housing stock is nestled amid the verdant landscapes, and many of Woodinville’s picturesque neighborhoods are replete with custom-built homes and charming craftsman-style houses.

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Bellevue

Undoubtedly one of the Eastside’s most desirable and busiest cities, Bellevue has attracted some of the biggest tech giants in the industry while still retaining its bucolic character.

Home to heavyweights such as Microsoft, Facebook, and Amazon, Bellevue’s thriving tech scene has put the city on the map as a top destination for many homebuyers.

The influence of big tech is evident in the city’s rapid development. But Bellevue still hosts 2700 acres of parks and green spaces, creating a unique blend of urban sprawl and suburban charm. 

Besides the tech-focused economy, Bellevue offers a vibrant community atmosphere, with plenty of local events and festivals available for its residents. The city’s transportation system is also a major draw, as the King County Metro and Sound Transit provide many commuting options.

Lastly, Bellevue’s unbeatable access to Lake Washington caters to a wealth of buyers who are keen on experiencing the famous Pacific Northwest waterfront lifestyle. A vast selection of lakeside homes, many with private docks, offer an enticing experience for anyone desiring to place roots near Seattle.

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Kirkland

Nestled along the shores of Lake Washington, Kirkland is one of the Eastside’s largest suburbs, and its outdoor offerings and lively atmosphere are testaments to that. 

The 110-acre Juanita Bay Park allows residents to glimpse native foliage and wildlife while enjoying sunsets over the lake. For a more intimate escape, Watershed Park offers wooded trails amid towering trees and native flora.

The city's dining options are also one of Kirkland’s defining highlights. 

Café Juanita, an Italian gem, specializes in Northern Italian cuisine, while the Chainline Brewing Company offers locally crafted beers and a vibrant patio overlooking the Cross Kirkland Corridor. 

Shoppers can get their fix at Kirkland Urban, a mixed-use development featuring an array of boutiques, eateries, and entertainment options. Central Way is the city's main artery, connecting neighborhoods and hosting various community events yearly.

Stately waterfront estates with panoramic views of Lake Washington stand alongside mid-century modern gems tucked away in quiet, tree-lined neighborhoods. But Kirkland also caters to a wide range of budgets, offering cozy starter homes and charming condos.

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Newcastle

Though it was incorporated as a city in 1994, Newcastle’s origins date back to 1869, when it was established as a coal-mining hub at the foot of Cougar Mountain.

Newcastle's appeal is best captured by its picturesque landscape and recreational opportunities. 

Lake Boren Park, a local favorite, offers serene walking trails, picnic areas, and water views. Golf enthusiasts can indulge in the award-winning Golf Club at Newcastle, featuring two 18-hole courses and stunning panoramas of the surrounding region. And, of course, the Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park is the crown jewel of Newcastle’s recreation scene.

Though Newcastle’s main attraction is its residential beauty and tranquil lifestyle, there are plenty of dining and shopping options for anyone not wanting to leave the city limits. 

Yea's Wok offers delectable Chinese cuisine with a Taiwanese influence in a cozy atmosphere, while the Tapatio Mexican Grills serves up signature margaritas and classic Mexican fare. Coal Creek Parkway is the city’s business center, hosting the bustling Coal Creek Village and its various boutiques and shops.

Condos and townhomes provide urban living options near the city's heart, while a wide selection of single-family homes round out an enticing housing market.

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Mercer Island

One of the Pacific Northwest’s most coveted cities, Mercer Island has routinely ranked as one of the best suburbs to live in the United States.

The island’s crowning perk is its prime location. Mercer Island enjoys easy access to Seattle, while also being a stone’s throw away from Seattle’s bucolic Eastside. 

As expected of a suburban island, the city’s ambiance displays a tight-knit community and a laid-back, residential vibe. But Mercer Island doesn’t stop showcasing its exclusivity as one of Seattle’s most desirable suburbs.

The area’s bucolic streets host some of the most expensive real estate in Seattle. Meanwhile, a burgeoning shopping and dining scene continues to add to Mercer Island’s attraction.

Despite its proximity to bustling Seattle and obvious thru-traffic, it's easy to find tranquility on Mercer Island. Bucolic escapes, such as the Luther Burbank Park, allow residents to take in the serenity of Lake Washington or get some exercise at the park’s peaceful trails.

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North Bend

Just a 30-minute drive from Bellevue along I-90, North Bend is one of the Eastside’s most captivating cities. 

North Bend rests at the foot of Mount Si, and the mountain’s stately peaks serve as the backdrop for the city’s residents. Naturally, the mountain is also the area’s foremost attraction, with an array of waterfalls and lush trails all available at a moment’s notice.

Originating as a fishing village in 1889, North Bend has since become the Eastside’s most picturesque city, drawing outdoor enthusiasts from all over the country.

Some of the most striking architecture in North Bend reflects the town's love for the outdoors. From cozy mountain lodges nestled among towering pines to the iconic Snoqualmie Valley Historical Museum, which showcases the area's rich heritage, North Bend’s rustic charm is one of its most alluring traits.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find it hard to resist North Bend's numerous recreational opportunities. The town's extensive trail system, including the popular Rattlesnake Ledge Trail, offers residents unparalleled access to hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

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Snoqualmie

Though it exudes a sense of seclusion, Snoqualmie is a vibrant hub for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. 

The iconic Snoqualmie Falls, a breathtaking 268-foot waterfall, is the town’s signature attraction, while the nearby Northwest Railway Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich heritage.

Nature lovers will be spoilt for choice in Snoqualmie. 

Embark on an exciting hike up Mount Si, soaking in the panoramic views from the summit, or explore the serene trails of Meadowbrook Farm, where you enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding meadows and wetlands.

The tight bonds Snoqualmie shares with nature are also easily glimpsed in its diverse food scene. 

The Attic at Salish Lodge & Spa champions farm-to-table dishes, accompanied by stunning views of Snoqualmie Falls. Or you can savor authentic Italian cuisine at Gianfranco Ristorante Italiano, a dinner-only restaurant with charming decor and an extensive wine list. 

In addition, the historic Snoqualmie Depot offers a unique glimpse of the area’s past, while the Snoqualmie Casino is always on standby to liven your weekend plans.

The town's cozy neighborhoods boast many homes, from modern residences to luxurious estates, all offering captivating views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

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