27 Cities Near Seattle, WA to Live in 2024

Seattle is a phenomenal city with a picturesque skyline and cultural depth — perfect for those who are ready to meet its bustling energy. But if you’re looking to avoid the population density and high cost of living without having to sacrifice urban amenities, you may want to explore cities near Seattle, Washington, instead.

Whether you’re looking for a reprieve from the big city or more affordable rent, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’ll explore some of the best places to live around Seattle.

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

1. Kirkland

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 16.2 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 19 minutes via I-405 and I-90 W.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 29 minutes via bus No. 311
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 19 minutes via SR 520 Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,130
• Population: 92,151
• Median household income: $121,998
• Walk score: 51
• Transit score: 40
• Bike score: 48

To start our list, we have Kirkland, one of the most beautiful cities north of Seattle. Kirkland boasts lovely neighborhoods, excellent transportation options, and tons of outdoor spaces along Lake Washington. It’s the perfect place for a professional hoping for an easy commute from a nearby Seattle suburb.

North Rose Hill is one of Kirkland’s more affordable neighborhoods. Though this neighborhood is inland from Lake Washington, it does contain Forbes Lake, a much smaller but equally beautiful body of water attached to North Rose Hill Woodlands Park. However, if you have a larger budget and a bit more time to find a rental, check out the Highlands neighborhood — it’s close to downtown, and it’s got detached houses for rent.

2. Des Moines

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 17.5 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 22 minutes via I-5 N.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 1 hour and 11 minutes via bus No. 165 and S Line
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 45 minutes via Des Moines Memorial Drive and 15th Avenue S.
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,090
• Population: 32,408
• Median household income: $73,131
• Walk score: 41
• Transit score: 37
• Bike score: 40

Des Moines is one of Washington’s many coastal cities nestled on the shores of Poverty Bay. Beyond its stunning waterfront views, Des Moines is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the region.

Des Moines’ inclusive atmosphere flows into its local waterfront farmers markets and education system. Plus, with proximity to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, residents have the world at their doorstep. Anyone seeking idyllic coastal living will no doubt find what they’re looking for in this city near Seattle.

3. Issaquah

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 17.1 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 18 minutes via I-90 W.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 36 minutes via bus No. 554
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 55 minutes via I-90 Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,820
• Population: 39,344
• Median household income: $132,984
• Walk score: 31
• Transit score: 24
• Bike score: 37

Issaquah is a Seattle suburb with just under 40,000 residents. It’s one of the best cities surrounding Seattle for nature lovers, as the city is encircled by Lake Sammamish and major parks, including Tiger Mountain State Forest, Squak Mountain State Park, and Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park.

You’ll find a major creative presence in the city, with plenty of shows at the Village Theatre and downtown events like Concerts on the Green. Foodies, on the other hand, can head to the farmers market, which typically plays host to over 8,000 residents.

While Issaquah is certainly not one of the cheapest places to live near Seattle, it’s an excellent place for families to lay roots in well-built single-family homes.

4. Bellevue

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 10.1 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 13 minutes via I-90 W.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 22 minutes via bus No. 550
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 12 minutes via I-90 Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,940
• Population: 152,767
• Median household income: $140,252
• Walk score: 41
• Transit score: 37
• Bike score: 42

Bellevue is one of the best towns near Seattle for those who seek the suburban lifestyle. Its tree-lined streets, massive parks, and picturesque residential neighborhoods make it the perfect destination for young families or professionals looking to plant deep roots.

There are many unique Bellevue neighborhoods, but two stand out as great places to start your apartment hunt. Downtown Bellevue is the heart of the city, with recreational options and proximity to shops, while Northwest Bellevue is a suburban paradise that’s just a walk away from the city center.

5. White Center

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 8.8 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 14 minutes via I-5 N.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 36 minutes via H Line bus
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 52 minutes via 21st Avenue SW
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,800
• Population: 16,631
• Median household income: $71,827
• Walk score: 91
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 69

At only 2.25 square miles, White Center is a very small town — by area. On the contrary, moving to White Center puts you in one of the closest cities near Seattle’s downtown center, meaning you’ll be one of over 7,000 residents per square mile. In fact, Seattle has been working toward incorporating the area since the mid-2000s.

There are two distinct White Center neighborhoods, North White Center and South White Center. If you prefer to be right in the middle of the action, then North White Center’s bustling commercial center is where you belong. On the other hand, if you prefer quieter residential neighborhoods, South White Center is the place to be.

6. Renton

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 12.3 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 17 minutes via I-5 N.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 20 minutes via bus No. 111
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 21 minutes via Lake Washington Boulevard S.
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,370
• Population: 104,047
• Median household income: $84,374
• Walk score: 40
• Transit score: 34
• Bike score: 35

If you’re looking for cities around Seattle with a diverse population, a rich rock-’n’-roll history, and a growing number of residents, Renton is your spot. The city’s rent prices are relatively affordable, but its increasing popularity may change that in the near future.

If you squeeze into the Renton rental market, downtown Renton offers many recreation options, a recently revitalized vibe, and unique neighborhoods. If you need a neighborhood in which to start your apartment search, check out the area around Earlington Park. It’s a safe, affordable area with a short commute to downtown Seattle

7. Shoreline

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 11.5 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 13 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 50 minutes via E Line bus
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 11 minutes via Interurban Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,740
• Population: 56,960
• Median household income: $95,623
• Walk score: 50
• Transit score: 42
• Bike score: 49

Shoreline is a dream for anyone looking for a safe town to call home, as its crime rates are below the national average. People are flocking to Shoreline for its mountain views, beach access, and dozens of parks, so the population has been growing in recent years.

You’ll need an open mind, patience, and time to rent in Shoreline, as there aren’t many apartments or rentals like other towns near Seattle, Washington. If you do find a rental, it will likely be in a newer-build apartment community with amenities that would undoubtedly cost much more in central Seattle.

8. Kenmore

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 13.8 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 19 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 43 minutes via bus No. 322
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 31 minutes via Burke-Gilman Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,360
• Population: 23,478
• Median household income: $141,463
• Walk score: 28
• Transit score: 32
• Bike score: 34

If you’re looking to rent in Kenmore, you’re in luck. It’s one of the many towns near Seattle, Washington, with excellent rental options from studios to townhomes. In many of Kenmore’s apartment communities, units have amenities like fireplaces and swimming pools. No matter which rental unit you go for, the northernmost shoreline of Lake Washington will be close by.

Kenmore has many distinct features, namely its tumultuous history with bootlegging during the Prohibition era. However, in recent years, Kenmore has become a fun community undergoing significant revitalization efforts and new developments.

Today, Kenmore is home to Bastyr University and boasts many neighborhoods ranging from the affordable to the affluent. With such a rich history, great parks and entertainment options, and proximity to Seattle, this city has a unique character in this region.

9. Edmonds

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 16.8 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 23 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 41 minutes via bus No. 41
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 48 minutes via Fremont Avenue N.
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,320
• Population: 42,593
• Median household income: $96,775
• Walk score: 48
• Transit score: 32
• Bike score: 41

Edmonds is one of the towns near Seattle, WA, with a ferry port, a lovely farmers market, a bevy of delectable eateries, and many small businesses along Fifth Avenue. It may be less than 20 miles from central Seattle, but Edmonds exudes small-town charm usually reserved for the movies.

That said, if you’re moving to Edmonds, prepare for lofty rent rates. But rest assured that the city’s amenities, location, and vibe rationalize its high cost of living.

10. Mercer Island

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 7.1 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 12 minutes via I-90 W.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 23 minutes via bus Nos. 554 and 212
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 48 minutes via I-90 Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,620
• Population: 25,172
• Median household income: $170,000
• Walk score: 33
• Transit score: 26
• Bike score: 33

Living on Mercer Island may feel more like a resort than a bustling city. However, locals still enjoy quick access to Seattle, Bellevue, and Kirkland while living in an idyllic setting. On the island, you'll find a handful of shops, galleries, and pubs, and you’re always within walking distance of the waterfront. Mercer Island isn’t one of the most affordable cities near Seattle, but you’ll get to enjoy Pacific Northwest island living.

Most apartment complexes and condos are on the north end of Mercer Island near Interstate 90, which offers quick access to downtown Seattle. Choose a spot near Luther Burbank Park for more green space.

11. Lake Forest Park

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 12.4 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 17 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 41 minutes via bus No. 322
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 25 minutes via Burke-Gilman Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,510
• Population: 13,186
• Median household income: $139,881
• Walk score: 52
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 49

Lake Forest Park is a relatively small city just north of Seattle that was one of the area’s first planned communities. Located opposite Kenmore on Lake Washington’s northernmost shores, Lake Forest Park borders Seattle city limits to the south. As such, you’ll have access to the city’s major bus lines and numerous tons of restaurants, making Lake Forest Park one of the most accessible small towns near Seattle.

Start your apartment search in the Sheridan Beach neighborhood if you’re looking to live in an apartment complex or community with many amenities, including the Town Center at Lake Forest Park, which is the commercial hub of the town.

12. Mountlake Terrace

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 13.8 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 16 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 26 minutes via bus No. 510
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 39 minutes via Burke-Gilman Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,240
• Population: 21,543
• Median household income: $87,785
• Walk score: 52
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 41

Mountlake Terrace is one of the cities outside of Seattle that lives up to its name, with gorgeous views of the Cascade and Olympic mountains and access to the scenic Lake Ballinger. This city won’t bore you, as it’s home to annual events, a recreation center, and a public golf course in Ballinger Park.

The average rental rates in Mountlake Terrace aren’t exorbitantly high, but they aren’t cheap either. You’ll find rental units in apartment communities and condos dotted around Mountlake Terrace.

13. Bainbridge Island

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 9.9 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 49 minutes via WA-304 (this route includes ferry)
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 1 hour and 9 minutes via Bainbridge Island-Seattle ferry service and C Line bus
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 46 minutes via Bainbridge Island-Seattle ferry service and WA-305
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,540
• Population: 24,494
• Median household income: $145,475
• Walk score: 19
• Transit score: 18
• Bike score: 39

It’s easy to see why Vogue named Bainbridge Island the Nantucket of the Pacific Northwest. Bainbridge Island sits in the Puget Sound, tucked between the Olympic Mountains and the Cascade Mountains. Almost three times the size of Manhattan Island, Bainbridge Island features waterfront properties, public parks, shoreline neighborhoods, and wineries.

There are clusters of apartments off Washington State Route 305 and the Seattle Bainbridge Ferry, which docks in central Seattle for optimal commuter convenience. You can also choose a waterfront location to enjoy the panoramic views of Seattle.

14. Redmond

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 17.8 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 21 minutes via WA-250 W. and I-90 W.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 38 minutes via bus No. 545
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 49 minutes via SR 520 Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,950
• Population: 76,732
• Median household income: $472,971
• Walk score: 33
• Transit score: 39
• Bike score: 51

Redmond boasts diverse resident demographics, spanning from young professionals to established generational families. This city close to Seattle has some of Washington’s most expensive housing options, with the average one-bedroom apartment rent surpassing the $2,000 mark.

Life in Redmond is picturesque. Its many parks, live music, and booming economy make it a veritable goldmine for those looking to make the move to Washington. Even so, Redmond has notoriously high levels of traffic, rents, and population density.

15. Lynnwood

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 17 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 19 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 56 minutes via bus No. 421
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 44 minutes via Interurban Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,460
• Population: 43,212
• Median household income: $67,576
• Walk score: 54
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 49

Renting in Lynnwood offers a fun mix of the commercial and the residential. The city is known for its shopping centers and strip malls, but it’s got a lot more to it than meets the eye. Lynnwood is a small town at heart, with a few homegrown hangouts and entertainment options.

That said, it does not lack in terms of urban living options, with many apartment communities boasting luxurious amenities. If you prefer to get your kicks in the great outdoors, head to one of the city’s greenbelt trails, forested areas, lakes, or golf courses.

16. Bothell

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 16.5 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 23 minutes via Bothell Way NE and I-5 S.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 46 minutes via bus Nos. 239 and 311
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 45 minutes via Burke-Gilman Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,211
• Population: 49,017
• Median household income: $116,578
• Walk score: 29
• Transit score: 33
• Bike score: 35

Bothell is a popular Seattle suburb for young professionals and families. It's a tranquil spot centered around North Creek Forest and the Sammamish River. The town values community — a love that is expressed through many annual events that take place throughout the year.

As Bothell is one of the most conveniently located cities near Seattle, WA, locals take their pick of apartments near Interstate 405 or Washington State Route 522 for a more convenient commute. If commuting isn’t a concern, consider choosing an apartment on the south side of Bothell. There, you'll find more amenities in nearby Kirkland and Bellevue. Students attending the University of Washington Bothell can enjoy the suburban air without sacrificing access to Seattle’s nightlife.

17. Sammamish

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 20.9 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 26 minutes via I-90 W.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 52 minutes via bus No. 554
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 2 hours and 20 minutes via SR 520 Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,570
• Population: 65,845
• Median household income: $195,648
• Walk score: 13
• Transit score: 16
• Bike score: 28

WalletHub recently named Sammamish among the Best Small Cities in America for indicators ranging from safety to housing costs and quality of life. It also makes the ranks for friendliest towns and picture-perfect places to live, raise a family, and relax without giving up convenience to Seattle.

Sammamish is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with scores of greenspaces around Tiger Mountain State Forest and Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park. You can find a nature-inspired spot to live while staying close to Interstate 90. Of course, you can also live closer to Interstate 405 and Bellevue for quicker access to urban amenities.

18. Kent

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 19.9 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 22 minutes via I-5 N.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 27 minutes via S Line
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 58 minutes via Interurban Trail and Green River Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,060
• Population: 134,392
• Median household income: $79,781
• Walk score: 40
• Transit score: 35
• Bike score: 44

Kent is a highly coveted Seattle neighborhood and an up-and-coming neighborhood in its own right — it’s currently experiencing revitalization and urbanization efforts that make it an excellent place to call home. Kent has a great selection of homes and apartments on the rental market and decent vacancy rates, meaning you’ll likely find something available.

If you’re looking for an affordable Kent neighborhood, start with East Hill. It’s got a lot of rental options and a diverse mix of residents. Downtown Kent is also a great option; it’s a bit more expensive than East Hill, but if you prefer your streets to be busy, then it is the place for you.

Cities Near Seattle With Higher Commute Times

While we aren’t exactly facing a remote work revolution, remote work is indeed on the rise across the nation. There is a substantial population of people who aren’t tethered to a specific location simply for work. If you’re among that group of individuals, you have some freedom to choose a home a little farther away in a place that meets your needs and doesn’t break the bank.

The following cities may not be suburbs of Seattle, Washington, or ideal for those who will have to commute to work every day, but for full- or part-time remote workers, these cities might be the perfect place to call home.

1. Everett

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 28.3 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 29 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 39 minutes via Greyhound
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 3 hours and 29 minutes via Burke-Gilman Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,050
• Population: 111,337
• Median household income: $71,357
• Walk score: 49
• Transit score: 39
• Bike score: 55

Everett is part of Snohomish County and offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and urban amenities. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is just a drive away for near-endless hiking opportunities. Or, if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, head downtown to take in the vibrant arts scene in places like the Historic Everett Theatre.

The job market here is thriving thanks to major employers like Boeing. In the next decade, you can expect to see continuing development. Whether it’s a weekend kayaking on Possession Sound or enjoying some of the many restaurants in the downtown district, Everett proves it is a true Washington gem.

2. Snoqualmie

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 28.4 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 30 minutes via I-90 W.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 1 hour and 4 minutes via bus Nos. 208 and 554
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 3 hours and 25 minutes via I-90 Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,876
• Population: 13,621
• Median household income: $171,241
• Walk score: 70
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 50

Snoqualmie triangulates Seattle and Redmond, offering the perfect reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city and its immediate suburbs. It’s also home to one of Washington’s most iconic natural wonders, Snoqualmie Falls, which includes an observation deck surrounded by a two-acre park. On the weekends, you’ll see many residents enjoying nature on the miles of hiking trails.

Though it’s only a 30-minute drive from downtown Seattle, Snoqualmie offers a small-town vibe, a family-friendly community environment, and a top-tier school system, making it perfect for families looking to settle down. If you’re seeking a high quality of life in the Pacific Northwest, it’s one of the best cities near Seattle to live in.

3. Tacoma

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 33.8 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 34 minutes via I-5 N.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 42 minutes via bus No. 590
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 3 hours and 52 minutes via Interurban Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,890
• Population: 221,776
• Median household income: $69,956
• Walk score: 54
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 48

Though it’s just a 35-minute drive from downtown Seattle, Tacoma has made a name for itself for its waterfront views and local culture. Folks travel from out of town to visit Browns Point Lighthouse Park, the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, and the Tacoma Mall.

In Tacoma, you’re never far from outdoor recreational opportunities — whether you take it to Commencement Bay or Mount Rainer is up to you! From an economic standpoint, you’ll find a thriving job market, particularly in the education, healthcare, and technology sectors. The Port of Tacoma is one of the largest West Coast container ports, too, providing plenty of work in a relatively inexpensive rental market.

4. North Bend

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 29.7 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 29 minutes via I-90 W.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 1 hour and 15 minutes via bus Nos. 208 and 554
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 3 hours and 41 minutes via I-90 Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,000
• Population: 7,902
• Median household income: $123,287
• Walk score: 75
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 68

North Bend is an irresistibly charming little town in the Snoqualmie Valley. Though residents here enjoy the tranquil, natural escape, they’re never far from employment opportunities thanks to their proximity to Interstate 90.

Even so, most people move here for the outdoor recreational opportunities, from skiing near Snoqualmie Pass to hiking in the Cascades. North Bend offers a small-town atmosphere complete with a quaint drivable downtown district. The community hosts many events, such as the Fall Food Truck Series at Si View Park and Oaktoberfest, a celebration where residents plant native trees and plants to promote a healthy ecosystem.

5. Lake Stevens

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 33.3 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 34 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 53 minutes via bus No. 425
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 4 hours and 6 minutes via Burke Gilman Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,460
• Population: 39,848
• Median household income: $99,296
• Walk score: 23
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 32

Lake Stevens encompasses its namesake lake, offering a stunning natural setting for residents to enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and more. Though the outdoor recreational aspect is what draws many people to this town, it’s the close-knit community that keeps them.

In Lake Stevens, you’ll enjoy several community events and festivals throughout the year, a top-rated school system, and a surprising number of job opportunities for a lakeside town thanks to its proximity to both Everett and Seattle. For water and nature lovers, it’s one of the best towns around Seattle.

6. Federal Way

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 23.3 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 25 minutes via I-5 N.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 29 minutes via bus No. 177
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 2 hours and 46 minutes via the Interurban Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,980
• Population: 97,863
• Median household income: $72,969
• Walk score: 38
• Transit score: 31
• Bike score: 37

Federal Way boasts an idyllic position between Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound. It’s a gorgeous locale that’s not too far from central Seattle but just far enough to make your own home away from the city.

The best part about living in Federal Way? It’s a renter’s dream destination: 43% of the city’s residents are renters. That means you’ll have your pick of the many rental units available in the area, spanning from basic studios to luxury apartments. This town also has plenty of shopping opportunities and green spaces, including West Hylebos Wetlands Park and Celebration Park.

7. Auburn

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 27.8 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 27 minutes via I-5 N.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 34 minutes via S Line
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 2 hours and 25 minutes via Interurban Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,020
• Population: 84,858
• Median household income: $79,415
• Walk score: 33
• Transit score: 25
• Bike score: 41

As the 14th-largest city in Washington, Auburn features an eclectic mix of cultures. There’s always something to do in a city with casinos, suburban living, rural peaks, and a bustling downtown center. In short, it’s a fun place to live, but because there are so many different elements at play, you’ll have your work cut out for you finding an apartment in a neighborhood that works best for you.

If you’re having a hard time getting started, check out downtown Auburn at the start of your apartment search. It’s where you’ll find entertainment options, good eats, and a decent business center. Bonus: Downtown isn’t nearly as expensive as West Hill.

8. Woodinville

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 22.3 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 24 minutes via I-405 S. and I-90 W.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 38 minutes via bus No. 311
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 1 hour and 56 minutes via Burke-Gilman Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,910
• Population: 13,261
• Median household income: $127,689
• Walk score: 73
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 76

Woodinville is one of our favorite small towns around Seattle, as it draws in newcomers with its tight-knit community. Here, you’ll find dozens of tasting rooms, boutiques, and outdoor recreation. Woodinville attracts tourists for its wineries, but you'll also find spirits and craft brews to sample. Living in Woodinville also provides close access to snow skiing, hiking, biking, and kayaking opportunities.

The majority of apartments around Woodinville are on the north side of town near Washington State Route 522. However, if you live in the south region, you'll be closer to the waterfront amenities of Kirkland and Bellevue.

9. Mukilteo

• Distance from downtown Seattle: 25.6 miles
• Commute time to Seattle via car: 29 minutes via WA-525 S. and I-5 S.
• Commute time to Seattle via public transport: 48 minutes via N Line
• Commute time to Seattle via bike: 2 hours and 54 minutes via Interurban Trail
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,410
• Population: 21,096
• Median household income: $109,738
• Walk score: 25
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 29

Mukilteo sits along the Puget Sound, sandwiched between Lynnwood and Everett. This town offers numerous restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and pubs to explore. It's a popular place for young professionals looking for a quick commute into the city and families looking for high-quality schools.

Many of the apartment complexes around Mukilteo are along the northwestern tip of the city, meaning you can live near Lighthouse Park and embrace waterfront living. You'll also find a mix of newer apartment complexes and older mid-rises along Washington State Routes 525 and 526.

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