bellevue
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Moving to a new city may feel like a big step and most importantly you’ll have tons of questions related to lifestyle, cost of living, safety, and jobs. Since Seattle is no more the hot destination as it was a few years back, you would be aware that Bellevue has taken its spot in the list of most preferred moving places in Washington State but what does day-to-day life look like?

You would’ve read about the growing jobs, the great schools, the parks, or even the shopping centers. But are they enough to pack the bags? Wouldn’t you love to learn more about Bellevue, the city that sits across Lake Washington from Seattle, drenched in scenic beauty?

Our Bellevue moving guide is for you. It discusses everything related to the third-largest city in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. This means that once you are through our guide, you’ll be the best to answer every query related to the city.

Without wasting much time, let’s delve into the Bellevue details. 

QuickFacts

Quick facts to know before moving to Bellevue

  • Bellevue is the third-largest city in the Seattle Metropolitan Area.
  • It is the fifth-largest city in Washington State.
  • The city's name is derived from the French term belle vue ("beautiful view").
  • Bellevue was first settled by European Americans in 1869 by William Meydenbauer and Aaron Mercer.
  • Bellevue is bordered by the cities of Kirkland to the north and Redmond to the northeast along the Overlake and Crossroads neighborhoods.
  • The city is highly diverse in population.
  • The climate is Oceanic in Bellevue.
  • The crime rate is lower in Bellevue.
  • Bellevue has a thriving art scene.
  • The tech industry is big and pays fat in Bellevue.

Top 10 things to know before moving to Bellevue

  • Bellevue experiences a temperate marine climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers.
  • The city is a major economic hub.
  • The city has plenty of jobs.
  • The city is home to a large Asian population.
  • The public transport system is good.
  • Bellevue offers a vibrant cultural scene with theaters, art galleries, and music venues.
  • Plenty of outdoor activities are available.
  • The city is much more affordable than Seattle.
  • The quality of education is much higher.
  • Bellevue is much safer.

Is Bellevue, Washington a good place to live in?

Bellevue boasts pleasant weather, a thriving job market, and amazing nightlife, making it one of the best places to call home in Washington. There’s no shortage of jobs and most companies pay well. In addition, the city's infrastructure is also one of the best in the state.

Is Bellevue expensive to live in?

Before you pack the bags to Bellevue, you need to know that the city is one of the most expensive cities to live in the United States. The main contributor to the high cost of living in Bellevue is housing costs, which are among the highest in the country. Even the monthly home rentals are higher than the US average.

What's the population of Bellevue, WA?

As per the latest census, Bellevue has a population of 151,854 people, and the density is 4,538 people per square mile. The city has 60,953 households and 39,419 families, and the median age here is 38.5. The demographic is highly diverse. Bellevue has one of the highest concentrations of Asian population, which is 40.53%.

To know the population better, here are a few stats.

  • Bellevue’s total population is 151,854.
  • The population is made up of 50.1% males and 49.9% females.
  • The median age in Bellevue is 38.5.
  • The city population is made up of 43.5% White, 2.5% Black or African American, 40.5% Asian, 0.2% Native American, and 5.2% from two or more races.
  • About 7.2% of the population is of Hispanic ethnicity.
  • The median household size in Bellevue is 2.4 persons.
  • About 52.9% of the residents are married couples living together.
  • On average, 7.6% of the residents are single and have children.

Bellevue has one of the longest commuting times in Washington, which is 24.0 minutes. Despite the robust public transportation system, most people prefer traveling by their car and this leads to heavy traffic on roads. The US average is 26.4 minutes.

If you are keen to know how the city residents reach the office regularly, here are the latest stats:

  • About 77.2% drive their car alone
  • About 9.5% carpool with others
  • About 2.5% work from home
  • Approximately 8.7% take mass transit

What is the weather like in Bellevue, WA?

Bellevue has a mild oceanic climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters and the climate is greatly influenced by Lake Washington. The city has an average of 155 sunny days per year. In summers, the temperatures touch the 70s and July is the month with the most hours of sunshine, averaging 15.5 hours per day. Bellevue experiences mild winters with average highs around 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and average annual snowfall is 6.8 inches.

Here are a few Bellevue weather facts.

  • The city receives about 42 inches of rain, on average, per year. The US average is 38 inches of rain per year.
  • Bellevue averages 6.8 inches of snow per year. The US average is 28 inches of snow per year.
  • On average, the city gets about 155 sunny days per year, against the US average of 205 sunny days.
  • The city receives some kind of precipitation, on average, 161 days per year in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail.
move to Bellevue

Top reasons to move to Bellevue, WA

Here are key reasons why moving to Bellevue could be the right choice.

Tip: While moving the home, safety of your belongings is the priority and you need a trustworthy mover at your side. Know the top-rated moving companies in Bellevue.

  • Good jobs

    Bellevue is a hub for high-paying jobs, especially in the tech industry. Major companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and T-Mobile have large campuses nearby, and the city’s job market continues to thrive with opportunities in software development, finance, and healthcare.

  • Booming economy

    The city has a booming and diverse economy supported by technology, real estate, retail, and business services. Bellevue has consistently ranked among the best cities in the U.S. for economic growth and financial health.

  • Racial diversity

    Bellevue is one of the most diverse cities in Washington. Nearly 40% of the population is of Asian descent, and residents represent a mix of cultures, languages, and backgrounds, creating a vibrant and inclusive community.

  • Good schooling options

    The Bellevue School District is consistently ranked among the top in Washington State. In addition to excellent public schools, there are also prestigious private institutions and easy access to higher education facilities.

  • A robust public transport system

    Bellevue offers a well-connected public transportation system including buses, shuttles, and upcoming light rail extensions. This makes commuting convenient whether you're going to Seattle, Redmond, or around Bellevue itself.

  • Plenty of open places

    Bellevue is filled with parks, trails, and open green spaces. Whether it’s a lakeside stroll at Meydenbauer Bay Park, hiking through Cougar Mountain, or relaxing in Downtown Park, residents enjoy nature all around.

  • More fun activities

    From fine dining and luxury shopping at Bellevue Square to annual cultural festivals, art galleries, and tech meetups — Bellevue has something for everyone. The city also hosts music events, theater performances, and offers easy access to skiing and water sports just a short drive away.

pros and cons Bellevue

Pros and Cons of living in Bellevue

The pros and cons of living in the city aren't exactly the same for everyone. What may be a pro for some could be a con for others.

Pros of living in Bellevue
  • Diverse population
  • Thriving nightlife
  • Good food scene
  • Booming economy
  • More jobs
  • Low crime rate
  • Good education
Cons of living in Bellevue
  • Heavy rain
  • Heavy traffic
  • High cost of living
  • High home rental

What are the best neighborhoods in Bellevue?

If you are moving to Bellevue with your family, your priority would be to find a home in a decent neighborhood. Fortunately, the city has many great neighborhoods to rent or buy a house.

To help you, we’ve filtered out the 10 best neighborhoods in Bellevue to consider for your move.

Rank Neighborhood Home Value Average Rental
1 Hill Top / Cougar Mountain $1,794,808 $5,531
2 Newport Shores $3,182,364 $4,619
3 Forest Park / Summit Ridge $1,822,922 $4,631
4 Horizon Heights / Cougar Hills $1,620,410 $5,165
5 Vuemont South / Sky Mountain $2,080,317 $5,531
6 Newport Hills $1,431,697 $3,849
7 Lakemont $2,244,381 $4,040
8 Somerset $1,988,564 $5,532
9 Interlake $1,533,944 $5,531
10 Bridle Trails $1,980,273 $3,653

Cost of living in Bellevue, WA

One of the major factors that you need to consider while moving to Bellevue is that the city is highly expensive.

As per the recent statistics, Bellevue is one of the most expensive cities to live in the US. The housing costs, transport, healthcare, groceries, and all amenities cost here higher than most neighboring cities.

Here is a break-up of the cost of living in Bellevue, WA, compared to Washington state and the national average:

Living Expense Bellevue Washington National Average
Overall 135.5 109.8 100
Grocery 121.3 105.8 100
Health 129.8 98.1 100
Housing 161.6 118.5 100
Median Home Cost $1,554,196 $575,894 $338,100
Utilities 122.3 111.2 100
Transportation 131.8 127.7 100
Miscellaneous 158.5 116.5 100
Job Market

How is the job market in Bellevue, WA?

Bellevue has one of the strongest economies in the US and this contributes to the job sector. If you are moving here for job reasons, you have got brighter chances here to get one. The jobs have increased by 2.4% in the last year. Technology, telecommunication, e-commerce, services, and healthcare are major areas where you can apply for a job.

And we’ve got a few job-related facts in Bellevue, which may benefit you.

  • The job growth in Bellevue has been negative.
  • The future job growth over the next ten years is predicted to be 39.9%
  • The unemployment rate here is 4.4%
  • Jobs have decreased by 5.2% over the past year
  • The average salary in Bellevue is $97,000
  • The median home cost in Bellevue is $1,554,196

Here is a breakdown table to better understand the Bellevue job market.

Employment Information Bellevue, Washington United States
The income per Cap $92,441 $37,638
Household Income $161,300 $69,021
Unemployment Rate 4.4 6%
Recent Job Growth -5.2% -6.2%
Future Job Growth 39.9% 33.51%

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Fastest growing jobs in Bellevue, Washington

Bellevue’s booming economy also brings in plenty of jobs. With many offices and companies within the boundaries, you’ve higher chances of getting a good job with a decent package. Our experts have made a list of the 10 fastest-growing jobs in Bellevue.

Rank Job Title Growth Average salary
1 Sales associate 151.8% $36,965
2 Customer service representative 151.6% $33,288
3 Project manager 144.1% $97,120
4 Program manager 135.1% $76,613
5 Consultant 133.1% $86,240
6 Account manager 127.5% $84,433
7 Software developer 123.0% $117,230
8 Server 118.3% $31,210
9 Receptionist 114.4% $33,560
10 Business analyst 110.4% $76,509

Top career options in Bellevue, Washington

While you’re job hunting in Bellevue, the pay slip would be the priority. And knowing the best-paying jobs in the city would make things easier. The cost of living in Bellevue is one of the highest in the country, and naturally, this will reflect on the pay slip. Most organizations pay hefty salaries which will help you make a comfortable life. To help you, we’ve got a list of top career options in Bellevue.

Rank Job Title Average salary Entry level salary
1 Executive vice president $252,501 $128,000
2 Senior vice president $246,121 $122,000
3 Vice president, product management $229,942 $167,000
4 Director of search engine optimization $217,077 $124,000
5 Vice president, marketing development $211,944 $122,000
6 Senior director, product management $209,292 $153,000
7 Senior practice manager $203,421 $122,000
8 President/chief executive officer $202,475 $102,000
9 Senior director $201,872 $124,000
10 Vice president - products $194,502 $121,000

What's the average salary & income in Bellevue, WA?

Salary is a major factor that decides whether a place is good to live. You need to know that Bellevue is highly expensive, and the salary you may receive will be a vital factor in your decision-making. Fortunately, Bellevue has some good companies that pay well, especially tech companies. The average salary here is $97,000, and anything above $90k is good enough to comfortably live.

  • Bellevue’s average annual pay for average jobs is $96,000 a year
  • Bellevue’s average hourly pay for average jobs is $46 an hour
  • Bellevue’s average weekly pay for average jobs is $1,080 per week
  • Bellevue’s average monthly pay for average jobs is $8,180 per month
  • Bellevue’s top earners (90th percentile) make $207,000 annually

Major industries in Bellevue, WA

Bellevue is a major economic hub of Washington State, and IT business and technology are major sources of jobs here. Moving here for a job is a good idea, and it is natural to be curious about the major industries here. Knowing this, we’ve listed them out for you.

  • Technology
  • Telecommunication
  • Retail
  • Tourism
  • Services
  • Real estate
  • Construction

Best companies to work for if you’re moving to Bellevue, WA

We all love working at companies that maintain outstanding employee relationships. And this matters in Bellevue as well. You are lucky that the city has many decent organizations that take pride in being employee-friendly in nature. We’ve got a list of the top 10 among them. Go through the best companies that will help you tweak the search list while you are looking for a job in Bellevue.

  • Intellectual Ventures
  • Esterline
  • John L. Scott Real Estate
  • Valve
  • Efinancial
  • Smartsheet
  • Apptio
  • Expedia Group
  • The Odom Corporation
  • Parallels
Housing Market

How is the housing market in Bellevue, WA?

An average house in Bellevue costs $1,554,196, which is more expensive than in most cities in the US. Similarly, home rentals are also among the highest in the country. Though your income will likely be higher in Bellevue due to its strong economy and high cost of living, the home prices may feel like a burden on your wallet.

We’ve got the latest city housing facts for you.

  • Bellevue’s median home cost is $1,554,196.
  • The median age of Bellevue’s real estate is 42 years old.
  • The city’s home appreciation in the last 10 years has been 167.2%.
  • Renters make up 59.2% of the Bellevue population.
  • About 2.4% of houses and apartments in Bellevue are available to rent.

Average rental prices in Bellevue, Washington

Once you are in Bellevue, the initial days will most likely be spent in a rented home, and having an idea of the home rental prices is essential. Rentals here may seem expensive, but salaries are generally high to match the cost of living. We've researched the average rental costs in the city to help you plan better.

  • Bellevue’s average rent for a studio apartment is $2,180
  • Bellevue’s average rent for a 1-bedroom home or apartment is $2,695
  • Bellevue’s average rent for a 2-bedroom home or apartment is $3,090
  • Bellevue’s average rent for a 3-bedroom home or apartment is $3,600
  • Bellevue’s average rent for a 4-bedroom home or apartment is $4,220

What are taxes like in Bellevue, WA?

Taxes play a major role in your income and your takeaway is determined greatly by the cuts authorities make. While you are deciding to pack the bags to Bellevue, it is a good idea to know the taxes here. Our experts have collated the different tax-related facts.

Here are a few tax-related facts in Bellevue:
  • There is no personal income tax in Bellevue. The US average is 4.6%.
  • The sales tax rate in Bellevue is approximately 10.1%. The US average is 7.3%.
  • The average property tax rate in Bellevue is 1.05%.

What Is Bellevue, Washington Most Known For?

Bellevue has no shortage of entertainment, both indoor and outdoor. Relocating to this city, your weekends and holidays will be packed with exciting entertainment.

  • Visit the Bellevue Aquatic Center

    Great for swimming, aquatic therapy, and fun activities for the whole family.

  • Enjoy nature at Bellevue Botanical Garden

    A 53-acre urban refuge showcasing beautiful gardens and natural wetlands.

  • Watch a show at Bellevue Youth Theater

    This inclusive theater offers performances by and for the local community.

  • Try golf at one of the many golf courses

    Bellevue boasts several top-tier golf courses perfect for all skill levels.

  • Get thrilled at Tiger Mountain Paragliding

    Experience breathtaking aerial views with a tandem paragliding adventure nearby.

  • Visit Gilman Village in Issaquah

    Just minutes away, this shopping and dining destination offers charm and history.

  • Explore nature at Snoqualmie Falls

    One of Washington’s most popular natural attractions, only a short drive from Bellevue.

  • Stop and shop in Old Bellevue

    Historic Main Street is filled with boutiques, cafes, and fine dining options.

  • Take a walk at Bellevue Downtown Park

    This 21-acre park offers a scenic escape in the heart of the city, with trails and a waterfall feature.

  • Visit the Original Selfie Museum

    Capture fun, creative selfies in this Instagram-worthy interactive art space.

Safety in Bellevue, WA

Safety is a major concern when you relocate to a new place, and when your new destination is Bellevue, you need to know that the city is much safer than most big cities in the US. The recent records state that the crime rate has been gradually coming down in recent years. The city has a violent crime rate of 9.6, which is much lower than the US average of 22.7. About 63% of the residents feel safe here.

  • The violent crime rate in Bellevue is 9.6 while the US average is 22.7.
  • The city’s property crime is 45.6 while the US average is 35.4.
  • Your chance of being a violent crime victim here is 1 in 656.
  • Your chance of being a property crime victim is 1 in 29 in Bellevue.
  • About 63% of Bellevue’s population feels safe in the city.

Best Schools & Universities in Bellevue, WA

Whether you're still schooling or have school age kids or not, if you're moving to Bellevue, you'd most likely be interested in the best schools in the city. Here we've made a list of the best elementary, middle, high, and colleges in Bellevue. Check out the list below:

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