If you follow along with our blog posts you will know that we often highlight many hidden gems throughout Kirkland. However, taking a look at the bigger picture, we think it is safe to say that Kirkland itself is a hidden gem here in the PNW. If you are considering moving to the area, we thought we would make the decision easier for you and share our top 10 reasons to live in Kirkland! 

The Schools
The most frequently asked question real estate agents receive is “how are the schools?”, and we are proud to say that Kirkland’s 25 public and private schools are among the top ranking schools in Washington. The caliber of education offered here in Kirkland makes it a great place to raise a family. This district’s average SAT scored 200 points higher than the national average, and 83% of their students enter a two or four year college right after high school. Your children will grow up with one of the best educations in the PNW here in Kirkland!

Beautiful Waterfront Views
The waterfront views in Kirkland are arguably one of the most iconic aspects of Kirkland. With miles of waterfront views, there is something for everyone. If you are into water-sports, the marina is boasting with boats, paddle boarders, parasailers and more during the summer months! If you are looking for a romantic evening, the waterfront offers many dining options with amazing food and views. If you are looking to take in the view, the many paved pathways and benches allow for a family friendly area for walks, picnics, and runs.

Proximity to Seattle
Speaking of the views, if you look across the water on a clear day you will be able to see the skyline of Seattle. The hustle and bustle of the big city is only a short car ride away, providing the advantages of a big city, without having to necessarily live there. Attend concerts, events, and conventions in Seattle with the ability to return to your quiet neighborhood in Kirkland.

Small Town Feel
Views of Seattle kiss Lake Washington as you look out onto the water, but when you turn and look into Kirkland from the waterfront you can truly feel the quaintness that Kirkland so humbly boasts. From parades and community events held in the downtown area, to familiar shop owners and family owned restaurants, there is always a friendly face to greet you here in Kirkland. Although our community keeps growing, there is an understanding that the draw to Kirkland is feeling like you know everyone, and that is exactly what you will keep getting here in Kirkland. 

Supportive Community
Among those smiling faces in Kirkland is a supportive community that is ready to help. This past 18 months showed proof of the support our community can pull together. When the pandemic hit, the Kirkland Chamber wasted no time providing grants for small businesses affected in our community. In fact, they were one of the first organizations in the country to rally support for raising money in the month of March 2020. Our local organizations are also committed to the well-being of our community, like Attain Housing, which stepped up and continued to raise money for our most vulnerable community members who were on the verge of homelessness. We are proud to be members and supporters of such incredible organizations that serve our community.

Many Different Communities
Cities across the Nation have different ways of distinguishing their areas and neighborhoods. But here in Kirkland, we've taken it to a whole new level. With 14 unique neighborhoods as defined by the Kirkland Alliance of Neighborhoods, there is a lot to learn, and multiple ways to become involved. To take that even further, within each community we have developed distinct divisions of living here, including historical living and waterfront living. 

Growth Potential
While Kirkland will always maintain the small town feel, the growth potential here for businesses is phenomenal. With big businesses like Google housing their campus here in Kirkland, the opportunities are literally in your backyard. It is predicted that more tech companies will move into areas like Kirkland, providing jobs and resources for our community.

Higher Education
In addition to incredible K-12 schooling, Kirkland also has two colleges in town, Northwest University and Lake Washington Institute of Technology. Both great universities offer a breadth of career paths, all right here in Kirkland!

Gateway to the Eastside
Kirkland is proudly part of the Eastside, (basically anything to the right of the water from Seattle). With neighboring cities like Bellevue and Redmond, opportunities, shopping, culture, careers and basically anything you are looking for can be found just a few miles away.

The Nature
We left the best for last! Kirkland does a phenomenal job of preserving and maintaining the beauty of the parks and nature in our community. Although the PNW has beautiful nature everywhere, Kirkland houses some of the most picturesque parks in the PNW. Use this list here as a resource to find your next Kirkland outdoor adventure!