Longtime lurker here, I'm a remote worker and Average temperature is around 51--F, so expect cold winters. Median household income is $189,519, which feels pretty solid for the area. With a population of 14,487, Bothell East is a small town. Rent is about $2,181/month for a decent place. You can expect to pay around $2,181 for rent here. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Does this match your experience? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. Night life is decent if you know the right spots.
1 upvotes
7 Replies
Parker
My experience has been mostly positive. it was the best decision I ever made. The only thing I'd watch out for is school system. Other than that, Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
35 upvotes
Josiah Castillo
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a real estate agent who relocated here from Boston about 3 years ago. The main reasons were cost of living and my partner's job.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Diverse dining options
- Lots of family-friendly activities
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Nightlife is limited
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are affordable, gas is pretty good.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. No regrets on my end..
32 upvotes
Isabelle T.
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a data analyst, 58, moved here 7 years ago from Austin. I've lived in Maple Ridge and Highland, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Growing food and restaurant scene
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally average - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Winters are long and cold
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The community vibe situation is wild and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Maple Ridge: Great for young professionals. better than expected vibes, walkable.
- Highland: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Austin, everything felt improving. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $100K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
It's not for everyone but it works for us.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
29 upvotes
Asher
I'm a software engineer and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. The community is better than expected and there's always something going on.
28 upvotes
Grayson
We moved here with our family and it's improved dramatically in recent years. Schools in South area are pretty good. Kids love it here.
19 upvotes
Theodore Anderson
Moved here from Austin about 3 years ago. it's exactly what I was looking for. Still getting used to housing market but It's not for everyone but it works for us..
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