Issaquah

 

About

Nestled at the base of the Cascade Mountains, Issaquah, WA, is a vibrant and growing city known for its scenic beauty, excellent schools, and strong sense of community. Located just 17 miles east of Seattle, Issaquah offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences. With its historic downtown, abundant outdoor activities, and thriving local economy, Issaquah is one of the most desirable places to live in the Puget Sound region.

What Locals Love

• Outdoor Adventures: Issaquah is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, including Cougar Mountain, Squak Mountain, and Tiger Mountain, providing endless hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

• Charming Downtown: The historic downtown area is full of boutique shops, cozy cafés, and local restaurants that give Issaquah its unique character.

• Strong Community Feel: Frequent events, from the famous Issaquah Salmon Days Festival to farmers markets and outdoor concerts, make it easy to connect with neighbors.

• Top-Rated Schools: The Issaquah School District is consistently ranked as one of the best in the state, making this area a top choice for families.

• Easy Access to Seattle and Bellevue: With Interstate 90 running through the city, commuting to major job centers is convenient.

Why Buy a Home Here

Issaquah’s real estate market offers a mix of historic homes, modern townhomes, and luxury properties with mountain and lake views. Buyers are drawn to the city’s highly rated schools, scenic surroundings, and proximity to both outdoor recreation and urban amenities. The strong demand for homes in Issaquah makes it an excellent choice for long-term value and investment.

Things to Do

• Hike the Issaquah Alps: Explore trails at Tiger Mountain, Cougar Mountain, or Poo Poo Point for stunning views of the Puget Sound region.

• Visit the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery: Learn about the life cycle of salmon and see them in action during the annual fall migration.

• Enjoy Lake Sammamish State Park: This expansive park offers swimming, boating, kayaking, and picnic areas.

• Attend the Issaquah Farmers Market: Open seasonally, the market features fresh produce, artisan goods, and live entertainment.

• Explore Boehm’s Candies: Tour this local chocolate factory and taste handmade European-style confections.

Best Restaurants

• JaK’s Grill – A beloved steakhouse known for its generous portions and classic American dishes.

• Montalcino Ristorante Italiano – A cozy Italian restaurant offering authentic cuisine and an extensive wine list.

• Fins Bistro – A seafood favorite with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

• Max’s World Café – A hidden gem featuring eclectic international dishes.

• The Black Duck Cask and Bottle – A gastropub with an impressive selection of craft beer and comfort food.

Best Coffee Shops and Breweries

• Issaquah Coffee Company – A community favorite located in Gilman Village, known for its welcoming atmosphere and great coffee.

• Starbucks Reserve – A step above the standard Starbucks experience, with unique brews and a cozy ambiance.

• Big Block Brewing – A local brewery with a rotating selection of craft beers.

• Formula Brewing – A modern and stylish brewery offering IPAs, lagers, and seasonal releases.

• Rogue Issaquah Brewhouse – A well-known spot for craft beer lovers featuring Rogue’s signature brews and pub fare.

Insider Tips

• Best Time for Hiking: Spring and early fall offer the most pleasant weather, but winter hikes on clear days provide breathtaking views.

• Traffic Considerations: While I-90 makes commuting easy, rush hour traffic can be heavy—consider using public transit options like Sound Transit’s express buses.

• Local Events: Don’t miss Salmon Days in October, a fun-filled festival celebrating Issaquah’s rich salmon heritage.

Real Estate Market Data Highlights

• Median Home Price: $1,100,000+ (varies by neighborhood)

• Median Days on Market: ~10-15 days

• Walk Score: Varies by area; downtown Issaquah is highly walkable, while suburban areas require a car.

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