Redmond

 

About Redmond

Redmond, WA, often recognized as the “Bicycle Capital of the Northwest,” is a thriving city on the Eastside of the Seattle metro area. Best known as the home of Microsoft and Nintendo of America, Redmond blends a tech-driven economy with natural beauty, offering a perfect mix of urban amenities and outdoor recreation. Located about 15 miles east of Seattle, the city is bordered by Kirkland, Bellevue, and Sammamish, providing easy access to employment hubs, shopping, and entertainment.

With its excellent schools, extensive park system, and vibrant downtown, Redmond is an ideal place for professionals, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. The city has invested heavily in infrastructure, including the upcoming expansion of the Link Light Rail, which will make commuting to and from Seattle even more convenient.

What Locals Love

• Outdoor activities – Over 59 parks, 40 miles of trails, and easy access to Lake Sammamish make Redmond a paradise for nature lovers.

• Thriving tech hub – Microsoft’s campus and other major employers provide a strong job market and economic stability.

• Vibrant downtown – Redmond Town Center, boutique shops, local restaurants, and seasonal events create a lively community feel.

• Top-rated schools – Served by the highly acclaimed Lake Washington School District.

• Cycling culture – The city hosts an annual bike race and offers excellent bike trails, including the Sammamish River Trail.

Why Buy a Home in Redmond

Redmond is one of the most desirable places to live in the Seattle area due to its job opportunities, quality of life, and natural beauty. The real estate market is competitive, with home values steadily appreciating due to high demand. Whether you’re looking for a modern condo in the heart of downtown, a spacious single-family home in Education Hill, or a luxury estate in Trilogy, Redmond offers diverse housing options.

Investing in Redmond real estate means gaining access to:

• Strong home value appreciation due to high demand.

• Excellent schools and family-friendly amenities.

• Proximity to tech employers like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon.

• Great outdoor lifestyle with parks, trails, and waterfront access.

Things to Do in Redmond

1. Marymoor Park – Redmond’s largest park with trails, a dog park, summer concerts, and sports fields.

2. Sammamish River Trail – A scenic biking and walking trail connecting Redmond to Woodinville and Bothell.

3. Redmond Town Center – An open-air shopping and entertainment destination with retail stores, dining, and seasonal events.

4. Microsoft Visitor Center – A fun and interactive space showcasing Microsoft’s innovations and tech history.

5. Farrel-McWhirter Park – A unique farm park featuring animal encounters, horseback riding, and nature trails.

6. Concerts at Marymoor – A summer outdoor concert series featuring top artists in a scenic setting.

Best Restaurants in Redmond

• Woodblock – A cozy gastropub offering craft cocktails and locally inspired dishes.

• Tipsy Cow Burger Bar – Famous for their farm-to-table burgers and extensive beer selection.

• Matts’ Rotisserie & Oyster Lounge – A local favorite for fresh seafood and Northwest cuisine.

• Sichuanese Cuisine – Authentic and flavorful Sichuan-style Chinese food.

• Pomegranate Bistro – A charming eatery serving comfort food with a Northwest twist.

Best Coffee Shops and Breweries

• Victor’s Celtic Coffee – A long-time favorite for handcrafted coffee and a cozy ambiance.

• Mercurys Coffee Co. – A popular drive-thru coffee spot known for organic, high-quality espresso drinks.

• Postdoc Brewing – A craft brewery near Marymoor Park featuring a variety of IPAs and lagers.

• Black Raven Brewing – Known for its creative and bold craft beers, including the famous Trickster IPA.

• Mac & Jack’s Brewing Company – One of the most well-known local breweries, famous for African Amber.

Insider Tips

• Avoid peak traffic hours on SR-520 – Redmond is well-connected to Seattle via the SR-520 floating bridge, but rush hour traffic can be heavy. Consider public transit options or biking.

• Explore the weekend farmers market – Redmond’s Saturday Market (May–October) is a great place to find fresh produce, artisan goods, and live music.

• Plan ahead for Marymoor concerts – Bring a blanket or low chair for lawn seating, and carpool to avoid parking hassles.

• Bike-friendly city – If you love cycling, take advantage of the city’s well-maintained bike lanes and scenic trails.

• Tech-focused community – Many networking and business events cater to Redmond’s thriving tech scene, great for professionals looking to connect.

Real Estate Market Data Highlights

• Median Home Price: ~$1.2M (varies by neighborhood and home type)

• Median Days on Market: ~14–21 days

• Walk Score: Varies by neighborhood (Downtown Redmond: ~75, Education Hill: ~30)

• School District: Lake Washington School District, known for top-rated schools like Redmond High School and Tesla STEM High School