When it comes to building a custom home, Seattle’s Eastside suburbs offer some of the best real estate opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. From the luxury and privacy of Medina to the vibrant community of Kirkland, these neighborhoods are highly sought after by homebuyers and builders alike. In this article, we’ll explore the top suburbs around Seattle to build your dream home and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re looking for prestigious waterfront properties or family-friendly communities, Medina, Bellevue, Clyde Hill, and Kirkland provide exceptional living options.
Exploring Medina, Bellevue, Clyde Hill, & Kirkland
1. Medina: The Gem of the Eastside
Medina is Seattle’s premier luxury suburb, known for its expansive estates and exclusive waterfront properties. Situated along the eastern shore of Lake Washington, this small, quiet community is a haven for those seeking privacy and proximity to Seattle.
- Home Prices: Median home prices range from $4 million to $9 million, with many homes exceeding that range due to prime waterfront locations. Medina remains one of the most expensive suburbs in the region, a reflection of its prestige and exclusivity.
- School District: Medina is part of the Bellevue School District, which is consistently ranked as one of the top school districts in Washington State, with Medina Elementary and Bellevue High School being standout institutions.
- Hidden Gem: Medina’s historic Green Store has been a community fixture since 1903, offering a nostalgic reminder of the town’s rich heritage. This landmark embodies Medina’s blend of history and modern luxury, making it a unique and charming feature of the neighborhood in one of the best suburbs of Seattle.
- Why Build Here: Medina is the perfect place for those looking to create a luxury custom home with privacy, space, and stunning lake views. Its large, secluded lots are ideal for high-end estates, and its proximity to major employers in Bellevue and Seattle makes it convenient for executives. If exclusivity is a priority, Medina offers the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while keeping the best of Seattle within reach.
2. Bellevue: Urban Energy Meets Suburban Comfort
As one of the largest and most diverse suburbs of Seattle, Bellevue is a dynamic city that combines the vibrancy of an urban center with the comfort of suburban life. Home to major tech companies and renowned for its excellent schools and parks, Bellevue offers something for everyone.
- Home Prices: The median home price in Bellevue is around $1.4 million, with upscale areas like West Bellevue pushing upwards of $3 million. Bellevue’s real estate market is competitive, driven by its central location and growing tech economy.
- School District: Bellevue’s school system is one of the top-rated in the state, with standout schools like Newport High and the International School offering exceptional academic programs.
- Hidden Gem: Bellevue’s Kelsey Creek Farm, located in the Wilburton neighborhood, is a local favorite for families. This urban farm offers scenic trails, animal barns, and a peaceful retreat within the city, making it a perfect spot for residents to enjoy nature close to home.
- Why Build Here: Bellevue is ideal for professionals and families looking to build in a city that offers both urban amenities and suburban charm. The city’s thriving tech industry, including headquarters for T-Mobile and Expedia, makes it an attractive place for executives and professionals. Whether you’re building a modern home in downtown Bellevue or a spacious family estate in one of its quieter neighborhoods, this suburb offers a balance of work, play, and luxury living.
3. Clyde Hill: Prestige and Scenic Views
Clyde Hill is known for its sprawling properties, panoramic views, and a quiet, exclusive atmosphere. This prestigious community is ideal for those looking to build a custom home that combines privacy with proximity to downtown Bellevue and Seattle.
- Home Prices: Median home prices in Clyde Hill range from $3.5 million to over $5 million. Its large lots and stunning views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline drive demand, making it a highly desirable location for custom luxury homes.
- School District: Like its neighboring communities, Clyde Hill is part of the Bellevue School District, known for its excellent public and private schools.
- Hidden Gem: The Queen Bee Café is a beloved neighborhood spot in Clyde Hill. Known for its coffee and signature crumpets, this cozy café adds a touch of warmth and community to Clyde Hill’s refined atmosphere, offering a charming contrast to the area’s upscale reputation.
- Why Build Here: Clyde Hill, one of the finest suburbs of Seattle, is the perfect setting for a luxury custom home with breathtaking views, privacy, and space. The large lots allow for expansive estates with carefully crafted architecture. For professionals working in Bellevue, Redmond, or Seattle, Clyde Hill offers an escape from city life without sacrificing convenience.
4. Kirkland: Lakeside Living with a Creative Spirit
Kirkland is a vibrant lakeside community known for its charming downtown, artistic culture, and strong sense of community. Located on the northeastern shores of Lake Washington, Kirkland offers a unique blend of outdoor beauty and urban convenience.
- Home Prices: Median home prices in Kirkland are around $1.2 million, with premium prices for lakeside properties. As Kirkland continues to grow, its real estate market remains strong, offering both investment potential and a high quality of life.
- School District: Kirkland is part of the Lake Washington School District, which includes top-rated schools like Lake Washington High and the International Community School.
- Hidden Gem: Marina Park, a beloved waterfront destination in Kirkland, offers stunning views of Lake Washington, public art installations, and frequent community events. It’s a gathering place where locals enjoy lakeside activities and social events, embodying Kirkland’s creative and laid-back spirit.
- Why Build Here: Kirkland is ideal for those who want to enjoy lakeside living while staying connected to a vibrant, artistic community. Whether you’re building a modern home with lake views or a family residence close to downtown, Kirkland offers a balanced lifestyle. Its proximity to major tech employers like Google and GoDaddy makes it a great choice for professionals and families alike.
Why Build in Seattle’s Eastside Suburbs?
Each of these Eastside suburbs—Medina, Bellevue, Clyde Hill, and Kirkland—offers unique benefits for homebuilders. From Medina’s exclusivity to Kirkland’s community spirit, these neighborhoods provide the perfect combination of luxury living, top-rated schools, and proximity to major employers like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google. Building a custom home in these suburbs of Seattle allows you to take full advantage of the Eastside, where you can enjoy stunning views, serene neighborhoods, and all the conveniences of urban life. Whether you’re looking for privacy, lakeside living, or a bustling cultural scene, the Eastside suburbs offer unparalleled opportunities to create your dream home. Contact us today for more info on our homes!