Kingston, WA (Seattle, Bellevue, Renton: homes, buyers, school districts)

[JP_GoBucks]

My wife and kids (ages 15 and 9) are relocating to the Seattle area. We currently live in the Chicago area. My place of business will be in Bothell. We are considering Kingston because (1) we really want a change of lifestyle - taking a step back is FINE with us, and (2) the housing seems more affordable.

I lived in the Seattle area (Renton, Kirkland, Bothell) in the 80's and 90's.

Is there Anybody who lives in Kingston (or near that area) can comment on the lifestyle, the community and the schools?

I know the commute will be a bit much, but hoping the Kingston-Edmonds Ferry is doable.

I appreciate the feedback. Thanks,

[kanhawk]

I live about 90 minutes south of Kingston. I can't give too many specifics about schools, etc. but my impression of Kingston itself has always been positive. It seems like a nice small fairly tidy place that's pretty laid back. The ferry comes right there to the town from Edmonds and has a frequent schedule.

[hotshawt]

I'm just a few minutes south in Suquamish. I moved here to be more "in the country". I love it. But, I don't have to commute. Of the 5 school districts in the county, I would rate North Kitsap #2 behind only Bainbridge (and they consider themselves a suburb of Seattle, they even have a Seattle area code....can you say Bellevue West?). Brand new high school in Kingston. Also the newer of the two middle schools. North County has a bit higher prices in housing compared to South County, but it is a buyers market. It's about a 30 minute ferry ride to Edmunds, and mainlanders say it's 20-60 minutes into downtown seattle depending on traffic. Shopping is minimal in Kingston area (Albertsons, Hardware store and a new Rite Aid). Great pub by the ferry dock (Drifters). Otherwise you will have to drive to Poulsbo (15-20 minutes) which is a slight upgrade from Kingston shopping (Home Depot, WalMart Supercenter), or most likely, Silverdale (Mall, Costco, etc). I absolutely love this area, even when I can't see the Sound from my deck because of the clouds. Kingston, Hansville, Indianola, Suquamish, Lofall and Poulsbo are all areas you should check if the North County is what you are looking for.

[FernCreek]

You also might want to take a look at the community of Indianola, just south of Kingston.

It's a close-knit waterfront community where people know each other, which is great for kids. It also has lots of character, with homes -- and people -- of all sorts.

Although it would add a bit onto your commute, personally I find the extra time to be very worth it.

[JP_GoBucks]

Thanks for the info on Indianola. What do you think the big difference is there from Kingston making it worth the extra commute time? Do the kids go to Kingston schools or does Indianola have their own schools?

[hotshawt]

Indianola kids go to Kingston Middle and Kingston High Schools.

[mistydog]

Originally Posted by JP_GoBucks

Thanks for the info on Indianola. What do you think the big difference is there from Kingston making it worth the extra commute time? Do the kids go to Kingston schools or does Indianola have their own schools?

My kids started going to the elementary school in Kingston and they love it. The principal is very open and interested in helping all the kids. The PTA seems very involved. My son attended the Science Olympics and that was great for him. The school has lots of clubs and after school programs going on. So far if my kids have any problems or need help both of their teachers email me back right away.

[mistydog]

Indianola kids go to Suquamish elementary. Kingston kids go to Gordon or Woffle elementary.