Working in Kenmore: Recommendations for cities/neighborhoods (with reasonable commute is fine) (Seattle: apartments)

[ZeugeneH]

Hi everyone,

My partner will be working in Kenmore starting from September, and so we will be in the process of moving our family to the Seattle area from this summer. Any recommendations about cities/neighborhoods (with reasonable commute would be fine) would be much appreciated! We will likely be renting an apartment during the fist year while getting ourselves familiar with the Seattle area and doing house hunting (our budget is in the range of 450k to 550k).

Things important to our family:
(a) safety
(b) schools (we have a 1.5 yo and a 3 yo, so we would like to find a location that is in a zone for good schools from elementary to high school levels)
(c) walkability (to parks, coffee shops, restaurants, bookstore, little shops, farmer's market, etc)
(d) friendly to families with young children
(e) cultural events


Thank you very much!

[homesinseattle]

Hi ZeugeneH,

I would definitely in that price range ($550 would give you a better shot) focus on Bothell and Northshore school district. It would be very close to work, a friendly community, great schools, safe and an easy jaunt into Seattle for cultural events. Of course, living in Seattle proper would improve your walkability, coffee shops, bookstores. Unfortunately, that would take things out of your stated price range. Another benefit of Bothell-Kenmore is that you can head out Hwy 522 toward Monroe and be on your way to trailheads and beautiful mountains in no time. Old town Bothell isn't Seattle but for sure has some charm.

[CrazyDonkey]

Rent an apartment in Lynnwood and start saving your money. Worry about schools when or if you start house hunting.

Lynnwood WA Apartments For Rent - 22 Rentals | Zillow