Top 12 Pros and Cons of Living in Bellevue, WA

Bellevue, Washington, often referred to as the “City in a Park,” is a hub of innovation, natural beauty, and upscale living. With its modern skyline, vibrant neighborhoods, and thriving cultural scene, it’s no wonder many people dream of calling Bellevue home. However, life in this picturesque Pacific Northwest city comes with its own set of challenges. So whether you’re searching for a luxury apartment in Downtown Bellevue or a cozy apartment in Woodridge, you’ve come to the right place.

In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore the various pros and cons of living in Bellevue, helping you decide if this dynamic city is the right place for you.

Fast facts about living in Bellevue

  • Known for: Thriving tech industry and outdoor recreation
  • Fun fact: Bellevue means "beautiful view" in French, a fitting name for its picturesque landscapes.
  • Population: Approximately 150,000 residents
  • Average rent: $3,191 per month for a one-bedroom apartment
  • Median home sale price: $1,670,000
  • Public parks: Over 100 parks, covering nearly 2,800 acres
  • Proximity to Seattle: About 10 miles east, accessible via the I-90 and SR-520 bridges
  • Languages spoken: Predominantly English, with a significant presence of Mandarin, Spanish, and Hindi speakers
  • Schools: Highly rated Bellevue School District and private school options

living in bellevue washington

1. Pro: Thriving job market

Bellevue is home to a robust job market, particularly in technology, healthcare, and finance. Tech giants like Microsoft, Amazon, and T-Mobile have a significant presence here, along with numerous startups and global corporations. This abundance of job opportunities makes Bellevue a popular destination for professionals in these fields.

Top employers in Bellevue

  • Microsoft
  • Amazon
  • T-Mobile
  • Expedia Group
  • Overlake Medical Center

2. Con: High cost of living

The cost of living in Bellevue is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting its status as one of the Pacific Northwest’s most affluent cities. Housing costs are particularly steep, with a median sale price for a home in Bellevue of $1,670,000 and average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Bellevue around $3,191.

Daily expenses in Bellevue, including transportation, groceries, and dining out, are higher than in many areas, with utilities and healthcare costs also above average. While higher salaries and excellent amenities offset some costs, many residents find it challenging to save or manage discretionary spending in this expensive city.

3. Pro: Stunning natural surroundings

Bellevue lives up to its name, offering residents breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and lush greenery. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore local trails, go kayaking on Lake Washington, or visit nearby national parks like Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park.

Popular outdoor recreation areas

  • Bellevue Botanical Garden
  • Mercer Slough Nature Park
  • Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park
  • Lake Sammamish State Park
  • Downtown Park

4. Con: Traffic congestion

While Bellevue’s location is ideal for commuting to Seattle or Redmond, traffic congestion is a common issue. Peak hours on the I-405 and SR-520 can lead to delays, and parking in downtown Bellevue can be expensive and limited.

Bellevue transportation scores

  • Walk Score: 41
  • Transit Score: 37
  • Bike Score: 42

5. Pro: High-quality education

Bellevue offers some of the best schools in Washington, making it a desirable location for households prioritizing education. The Bellevue School District consistently ranks highly, and there are numerous private schools and higher education institutions, such as Bellevue College.

tree lined lake in bellevue washington

6. Con: Limited affordable housing

Bellevue’s upscale real estate market makes it challenging for first-time homebuyers and those on a tight budget to find affordable housing. Many residents consider nearby cities like Renton or Kirkland for more affordable options.

7. Pro: Vibrant downtown area

Downtown Bellevue is a hub of activity, featuring high-end shopping at Bellevue Square, fine dining, and cultural attractions like the Bellevue Arts Museum. The area’s walkable layout and modern amenities make it a favorite spot for residents and visitors alike.

Discover Bellevue’s most pedestrian-friendly areas in The 10 Most Walkable Neighborhoods in Bellevue, WA.

8. Con: Rainy weather

Like much of the Pacific Northwest, Bellevue experiences frequent rain, particularly from October to April. The cloudy weather can take some getting used to, although many residents embrace it as part of the region’s charm.

9. Pro: Strong community spirit

Bellevue is known for its diverse and welcoming community. Residents enjoy a calendar full of events, from cultural festivals like the Bellevue Arts Fair to outdoor concerts at the Meydenbauer Center.

10. Con: Lack of nightlife

While Bellevue offers a variety of restaurants and bars, it lacks the vibrant nightlife found in nearby Seattle. Those seeking an exciting nightlife scene may need to travel across the lake to the Emerald City.

living in bellevue washington

11. Pro: Convenient location

Bellevue’s central location provides easy access to Seattle, Redmond, and nearby outdoor attractions. Whether you’re commuting to work or planning a weekend getaway, the city’s connectivity is a significant advantage.

Popular destinations and commute times

  • Seattle: 15–20 minutes via I-90 or SR-520
  • Redmond: 15 minutes via WA-520
  • Mount Rainier National Park: 2 hours via WA-167 S
  • Olympic National Park: 2.5 hours via ferry and US-101

12. Con: High taxes

Washington state has no income tax, but Bellevue residents face high sales and property taxes, which can add to the overall cost of living.

Pros & cons of living in Bellevue (Summary)

  • Pro: Thriving job market
  • Con: High cost of living
  • Pro: Stunning natural surroundings
  • Con: Traffic congestion
  • Pro: High-quality education
  • Con: Limited affordable housing
  • Pro: Vibrant downtown area
  • Con: Rainy weather
  • Pro: Strong community spirit
  • Con: Lack of nightlife
  • Pro: Convenient location
  • Con: High taxes

The post Top 12 Pros and Cons of Living in Bellevue, WA appeared first on Apartment Living Tips - Apartment Tips from ApartmentGuide.com.



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