4 Things You Should Know Before Relocating To Bothell, Washington
Thinking about moving to Bothell, Washington? Just north of Seattle, Bothell offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience.
With its rich history, first-class amenities, and booming economy, itโs no surprise more people are open to relocating to Bothell. Before you pack your bags, here are four essential things you should know.

1. The Evolving Real Estate Landscape
Bothell's downtown has transformed over the past few years. The city's downtown renovation project has brought new life to the area. This change has sparked growth in both commercial and residential sectors.
Housing options here fit diverse needs and budgets. According to The NeighborhoodScout, the city is the 26th largest settlement in the state and houses 24 associated boroughs. You'll find modern apartments, spacious townhomes, and single-family houses.
Neighborhoods like Bothell East, Stipek Park, City Center, and Mill Creek East are particularly popular, each providing a distinct vibe that suits different lifestyles. However, the cityโs property rates fall in the top brackets in Washington. Moreover, its housing industry often ranks among the most lucrative nationwide. The median home price is also on the rise, reflecting the areaโs growing desirability.
Itโs $1,086,753, the most expensive in the state and the country. The city ranks among the top 10% of the highest appreciating home rates. Its yield is over 3%, bringing the annual appreciation rate to over 13%. New construction continues to reshape the city's skyline. Over the past decade, the cityโs population surged by over 40%, transforming itself from a quaint suburb into an emerging urban center.
The Seattle Times reveals the city redesigned Highway 522, displacing it away from Main Street, and established a vibrant new downtown. Moreover, Council member Jenne Alderks plans to add more buses and opportunities to get around town. She believes the suburb can be a college town, as she plans to integrate UW Bothell and Cascadia College students into the city. Furthermore, she emphasizes making the city walkable and less car-dependent.
2. Cost of Living
Livingcost suggests Bothell offers a balanced cost of living compared to nearby cities like Seattle. While housing, rent, utilities, groceries, and transport are significant expenses, the city has a high quality of life. Its median living cost is below $2870, ranking it among the top 3% of most expensive cities internationally.
Moreover, among 2202 cities worldwide, it ranks just outside the 200 places and 7th in Washington as the priciest. It ranks as the 708th liveable city in the country and 17th in the state. Relocating involves more than finding a new home. Understanding the financial landscape is crucial. Budgeting for the move and ongoing expenses ensures a seamless switch and a more rewarding living routine.
Home insurance rates reflect local weather patterns and construction costs. NerdWallet reports the cityโs average annual standard home insurance rate as $1,260 compared to Washingtonโs $1,225. However, it is 34.2% lower than the countryโs median of $1,915. The standard home insurance doesnโt cover earthquake, landslide, flooding, or mudslide damages. However, it typically includes wildfire and winter weather damage.
Remember, the Pacific Northwest climate affects home maintenance needs. Regular upkeep becomes crucial due to frequent rain and moisture. Many homeowners work with local Bothell painters to protect their properties from weather damage. While it might seem like an added expense, a fresh paint job can enhance your home's curb appeal and value and prevent costly repairs.
EA Pro Painters recommends hiring licensed and insured local professional painters. They provide the most durable, eco-friendly, and reliable supplies, ensuring your home remains unharmed by unfortunate events.
3. Safety and Community
Safety is a primary focus for anyone relocating to another city, and Bothell doesnโt disappoint. It boasts lower crime rates than many other areas in Washington, making it a safe choice for families and individuals alike.
CrimeGrade rates the city as B- for overall crimes. It further grades Bothell as A- for violent crimes, B- for property crimes, and C- for other crimes. The city is safer than 57% of US cities, and the crime rate is only 35.84 per 1,000 residents. Moreover, the area averages a crime every 3 hours 19 minutes, with Southeast Bothell touted as the safest. Similarly, if your house has no home security system, it is 300% more prone to robbery.
Besides safety, Bothell is known for its strong sense of community. Local events, farmers' markets, and community gatherings are regular occurrences, helping new residents feel welcome. The cityโs focus on fostering a tight-knit community is evident in the many programs and initiatives bringing people together.
4. Access to Amenities and Lifestyle
Bothellโs strategic location offers easy access to various amenities. The city is surrounded by natural parks, providing tons of alternatives for recreational ventures like hiking and biking. Burke-Gilman Trail features 18.8 miles of walking, running, or biking circuits. The Park at Bothell Landing hosts community events throughout the year. Cultural attractions add to daily life. The Bothell Historical Museum shares local heritage.
Additionally, Bothell's education system ranks among the nationโs top performers. The cityโs schools are rated highly, making it a great place for childrenโs education. Its school districts are superior to over 96% and 91% of all Washington and US school districts, respectively. The University of Washington Bothell campus brings academic energy to the area. Also, the city includes Edmonds and Everett school districts.
Commuting is also convenient, with major highways connecting Bothell to Seattle and neighboring cities. This makes it an ideal place for those who work in the city but prefer a quieter home environment.
Commonly Asked Questions
Q1. What is the weather like in Bothell, Washington?
Bothell experiences a temperate climate with mild, wet winters and dry summers. Expect plenty of rainfall during the cooler months, which keeps the area lush and green. Summers are comfortable, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
Q2. How walkable is Bothell?
Bothell has a walk score of 29 out of 100, making it quite unsafe for pedestrians and a car-dependent city. Moreover, it has transit and bike scores of 33 and 35, respectively. This means that it has limited public transportation and inadequate bike lanes.
Q3. How far is Bothell from Seattle, and how is the commute?
Bothell is over 16 miles from Seattle, and the commute usually spans 20โ30 minutes by car, based on traffic. You can also catch a bus, which will take around 1 hour and 10 to 30 minutes.
Bothell, Washington, is a wonderful place to call home, offering vibrant community life, safe neighborhoods, and accessible amenities. Thanks to its strategic location and improved infrastructure, you can enjoy countless career opportunities.
Whether you're drawn by the scenic parks, the friendly atmosphere, or the convenient location, Bothell has something for everyone. Take time to explore these aspects before making your move. Remember to research current market conditions and visit different neighborhoods. This helps ensure you find the right spot in this growing city.
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