There are tons of great communities within Seattle. Whether you're single and looking for a…
The city of Kirkland, Washington, is a suburb of Seattle that is fast becoming a residential hub for people who work in the Emerald City.
If you are thinking about moving your family to Kirkland but want to go into the move aware of any issues that you might face, here is our list of 10 things you should know about living in Kirkland, Washington.
1. What Is The Cost Of Living In Kirkland, WA?
One of the less than ideal parts about this Seattle suburb is the high cost of living.
The cost of living in Kirkland, Washington, is extremely high compared to the national average. Home prices in Kirkland are averaging at around $424,700 while the national average is $175,700. That’s 141.7 percent higher than the national average. Similarly, the average apartment rent in Kirkland is $1,398.00 while the national average is $920.00. That’s 52 percent higher than the national average.
When put into comparison with the national average, housing and cost of living in Kirkland are very high — more than 100 percent higher than the national average – while this may be disheartening for people looking into moving to Kirkland, there are some major perks that come with relocating to the Kirkland area.
2. Employment Opportunities In Kirkland
While the cost of Kirkland housing might have you down, here’s something that might lift your spirits.
Because Kirkland is a suburb of Seattle — one of the fastest-growing cities in America, employment opportunities are expansive.
With the median household income of Kirkland residents being just over $90,000 annually and unemployment rates low, moving to Kirkland is a financially safe choice.
3. Education System In Kirkland
When it comes to testing scores, Kirkland, Washington can boast of an education system that ranks high above the national average. There are both public and private schooling options available, making Kirkland a very desirable zip code to be in.
4. Kirkland Has A Gorgeous Waterfront
Kirkland has several points that offer residents distant views of the Emerald City skyline. While some might think that Seattle boasts of the best waterfront views, Kirkland residents might debate this.
People considering moving to Kirkland should take some time to explore Marina Park and Carillon Point. Trust us, after seeing these waterfront locations, you’ll be convinced that Kirkland is the place to be.
5. Kirkland’s Crime Rates Are Low
Though the cost of living in Kirkland might be high, the crime rate is relatively low — lower than the national average in fact. Kirkland is estimated to be 65% safer than other U.S. cities, and the crime rate only continues to go down each year.
6. Kirkland Has Outdoor Recreation Opportunities
While many people have to sacrifice outdoor recreational opportunities for a convenient location, Kirkland dwellers don’t need to make any such sacrifice.
Even though Kirkland is in a convenient and bustling city, residents still have the chance to enjoy the great outdoors only a hop and a skip outside their front doors.
The city of Kirkland has worked really hard to make nature accessible for residents by leaving large areas of land forested for the enjoyment of walkers or cyclists. Consider exploring the many nature trails hidden away in Kirkland such as Bridle Trails or Watershed Park or Juanita Bay Park
7. Kirkland Has Traffic
Any suburb of Seattle is bound to have traffic, that’s just an unfortunate reality of being near a big city.
Because many Kirkland residents commute daily into Seattle for work or school, the traffic in the city can get pretty bad during rush hours.
If you are considering moving to Kirkland, this is one of the things that you should know going in. Yes, there will be traffic, but if you’re looking for a location near Seattle this is a sacrifice you’ll have to make.
8. Kirkland Is Known For Wineries
It’s true, Kirkland has great wineries.
If you are a wine lover, Kirkland is probably one of the best Washington cities that you could choose to live in. Kirkland neighbors Woodinville, an area known for its wine country and is close to more than 100 wineries or tasting rooms.
9. Kirkland Has Great Shopping & Cuisine
Downtown Kirkland offers an adorable shopping scene accompanied by classy Bistros. Kirkland offers a diverse selection of cuisines and is sure to have something to suit the needs of a diverse clientele.
If you are seriously considering moving to Kirkland, take a day trip to downtown Kirkland and spend several hours exploring everything that this gorgeous suburb of Seattle has to offer.
10. Kirkland Has A Great Community
Described as a close-knit community, Kirkland residents report being very satisfied with the sense of community that they experience.
Of course, it’s impossible for everyone in the city to know everyone else (it isn’t exactly a population 1,000 scenario), but different areas of the community offer different opportunities for residents to be involved and meet one another.
Having a community is such a vital part of relocating anywhere and can give new homeowners such a sense of belonging in their new city.
Bonus: Who Is Kirk?
A forefather and founder of Kirkland, Mr. Peter Kirk opened one of the largest rolling steel mills in the area. The mill was aimed at helping to make rail transportation in the area more viable. Peter Kirk’s mill created countless jobs for people in the region and helped to develop the city into what it is today. The city’s namesake naturally evolved from his contributions.
Need Help With Your Move To Kirkland?
Relocating to Kirkland soon? If you are moving to Kirkland in the near future and need some help with the moving process, contact On The Go Moving to hear about our moving services.
We offer a variety of moving packages to suit the needs of our various clients and want to help you find the right moving plan for your big day.
To speak with one of our expert Kirkland movers about our moving services, give On The Go Moving a call today.
