Bellevue

 

About Bellevue

Bellevue is a dynamic, fast-growing city located just east of Seattle, across Lake Washington. Known for its stunning skyline, vibrant downtown, and excellent quality of life, Bellevue is often considered one of the best places to live in Washington. The city offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, with expansive parks, top-rated schools, and a thriving business scene. Major tech companies, including Microsoft, Amazon, and T-Mobile, have a strong presence here, making Bellevue a major hub for innovation and opportunity.

What Locals Love

• Access to Nature & Green Spaces – Bellevue is home to over 2,700 acres of parks and open spaces, including the iconic Bellevue Downtown Park, Mercer Slough Nature Park, and Cougar Mountain.

• Diverse Shopping & Dining – The Bellevue Collection, featuring Bellevue Square, Lincoln Square, and The Bravern, offers luxury shopping and diverse dining options.

• Excellent Schools – Bellevue School District is consistently ranked among the top in Washington.

• Booming Tech Industry – Many major companies have regional headquarters in Bellevue, creating ample job opportunities.

• Cultural Events & Festivals – The Bellevue Arts Museum Arts Fair, Snowflake Lane, and Bellevue Jazz & Blues Festival draw crowds from across the region.

Why Buy a Home in Bellevue?

Bellevue is one of the most desirable real estate markets in Washington, thanks to its strong economy, excellent schools, and high quality of life. The city’s proximity to Seattle, yet with lower crime rates and a more suburban feel, makes it ideal for families and professionals alike. Home values in Bellevue have shown consistent appreciation, making it a smart investment.

Things to Do in Bellevue

• Bellevue Botanical Garden – A peaceful retreat featuring seasonal floral displays and walking trails.

• Meydenbauer Bay Park – Enjoy waterfront views, kayaking, and sandy beaches.

• KidsQuest Children’s Museum – An interactive museum perfect for families with young children.

• Chism Beach Park – A hidden gem for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying Lake Washington.

• Shopping & Entertainment at The Bellevue Collection – High-end retailers, dining, and a luxury cinema experience.

Best Restaurants in Bellevue

• Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi – A high-end rooftop dining experience with breathtaking views.

• Din Tai Fung – World-famous Taiwanese dumplings in Lincoln Square.

• Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar – Award-winning seafood by Chef John Howie.

• Cactus Bellevue – A vibrant Southwestern and Mexican restaurant.

• John Howie Steak – One of the region’s top steakhouses.

Best Coffee Shops & Breweries

• Third Culture Coffee – A cozy spot known for unique international-inspired coffee.

• Bellden Café – A socially responsible coffee shop with locally sourced ingredients.

• Cafe Cesura – A stylish café with expertly crafted espresso drinks.

• Resonate Brewery + Pizzeria – A laid-back brewery offering craft beers and artisan pizzas.

• Bellevue Brewing Company – A local favorite for craft beer lovers.

Insider Tips

• Best Views – Head to Bellevue Downtown Park or the rooftop of Ascend Prime for unbeatable skyline views.

• Traffic Considerations – Bellevue’s roads can get busy during rush hour, so plan your commute accordingly.

• Hidden Gem – Kelsey Creek Park offers a quiet escape with farm animals and scenic trails.

Real Estate Market Data Highlights (Updated Quarterly)

• Median Home Price: ~$1.4 million

• Median Days on Market: ~14 days

• Walk Score: 41 (car-dependent in most areas, but walkable downtown)

• School Ratings: Bellevue School District is highly rated, with many schools scoring 9-10/10 on GreatSchools.