Best Suburbs to Raise a Family in Seattle

Choosing the right place to raise your family is a decision that will impact your lifestyle, finances, and long-term happiness. With its scenic beauty and robust economy, Seattle offers numerous family-friendly suburbs, each with its unique set of features. This guide, by the best movers and packers Seattle has, aims to help you identify the best suburbs to raise a family in Seattle while also providing insights into nearby areas.

What Makes a Good Family Neighborhood?

Several key factors must be considered when choosing a place to settle with your family. Moving your family can be stressful, and children often have a harder time adjusting than adults. To make the transition easier, you need to pick a place that suits your needs and those of your kids. Consider these factors when evaluating a neighborhood for your family:

• Safety: A top priority for any family-friendly neighborhood. Always research crime rates and community safety records.
• Good Schools: High-quality education is crucial for your children’s development. Look for areas with top-rated schools.
• Outdoor Activities: Family-friendly neighborhoods should have parks, playgrounds, and access to outdoor recreation.
• Other Families: A network of families can provide support and social opportunities for both you and your children.
• Access to Healthcare: Reliable and accessible medical care is essential.
• Public Transportation: Convenient and safe public transport options are a bonus for commuting to work or school.

While no neighborhood may check every box, determining which factors are most important for your family will guide you in the right direction before you hire the local movers Seattle residents recommend.

Top Seattle Suburbs to Raise a Family

Relocating with a family is a significant decision. You want a community where your children can thrive, with excellent schools, a safe environment, and plenty of activities. Seattle and its surrounding areas offer many suburbs that cater to families.

1. Shoreline: Ideal for Families Who Need Proximity to Seattle

Shoreline, located just north of Seattle, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Families often choose Shoreline due to its excellent public schools, such as Shorecrest High School and Einstein Middle School, which consistently rank well in the state. The city’s proximity to Seattle (about a 20-minute drive) makes it ideal for parents who work in the city but want to raise their children in a more relaxed suburban environment.

• Education: Shoreline’s schools focus on academic excellence and extracurricular activities, providing a well-rounded education for children of all ages.
• Safety: The crime rate is lower than in many neighboring areas, giving parents peace of mind.
• Outdoor Activities: Shoreline is home to parks like Richmond Beach Saltwater Park, where families can enjoy scenic waterfront views, beach activities, and picnics. There’s also Hamlin Park, offering forest trails and playgrounds for children.

Shoreline is a top contender for families who prioritize proximity to Seattle with access to high-quality education and outdoor activities. If you’re considering a move, contacting movers in Shoreline WA can make the relocation process easier and more efficient.

2. Woodinville: For Nature Enthusiasts and Family Adventures

One of the best suburbs to raise a family in Seattle, Woodinville offers families a perfect combination of nature, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. Located about 20 miles northeast of Seattle, Woodinville is known for its peaceful, wooded surroundings, while still being close enough for an easy commute into the city. The suburb’s Northshore School District is highly rated, with schools like Woodinville High School known for strong academics and athletic programs.

• Outdoor Recreation: Families in Woodinville can take advantage of the area’s many nature trails, parks, and bike paths. Popular spots include Cottage Lake Park, which features a swimming area, fishing, and a play area for kids.
• Community Focus: Woodinville boasts a tight-knit, family-oriented community with regular local events such as Woodinville Celebrate!, which includes parades, music, and kids’ activities.
• Family Activities: Besides nature, Woodinville is famous for its wineries, many of which host family-friendly festivals and outdoor events. Families can enjoy relaxed afternoons at the vineyards or head to the Woodinville Farmers Market on weekends.

Families seeking a quieter, nature-filled environment with excellent schools and a strong sense of community will find Woodinville a great option for settling down. Besides, if you’re looking for professional help with your move, movers in Woodinville WA are experienced in facilitating smooth transitions.

3. Bellingham: A Coastal Community for Families Seeking a Slower Pace

Located about 90 miles north of Seattle, Bellingham offers a unique mix of urban and coastal living with a small-town feel. For families looking for an alternative to the fast pace of Seattle, Bellingham provides a scenic, slower-paced environment with a strong focus on outdoor recreation and education. Bellingham School District is recognized for providing high-quality education, and Western Washington University adds a vibrant cultural element to the town. Also, consider the following:

• Outdoor Activities: With Bellingham Bay and Mount Baker nearby, Bellingham is perfect for families who love the outdoors. It offers year-round hiking, kayaking, and skiing. Parks like Whatcom Falls Park and Boulevard Park are family favorites, with trails, waterfalls, and beach access.
• Educational Opportunities: Bellingham has top-rated schools and excellent programs in both public and private institutions. It’s also known for having active parent-teacher associations and community support for schools.
• Health and Safety: The city has a robust healthcare system, with PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center being one of the top hospitals in the area. Its low crime rate and clean environment make it a safe and healthy place to raise kids.

If you’re seeking a close-knit, active community with beautiful surroundings and an emphasis on education, Bellingham is a great choice for your family. If it catches your eye, consider hiring movers in Bellingham WA for a smooth relocation experience.

4. Kennewick: A Growing Community with Family-Focused Amenities

Located in the Tri-Cities area of southeastern Washington, Kennewick has emerged as one of the best suburbs to raise a family in Seattle, with great schools, affordable housing, and a robust economy. The city’s schools, such as Kamiakin High School and Southridge High School, are well-regarded, and the area is well known for its family-friendly amenities. But there is more:

• Affordable Living: Kennewick offers affordable housing compared to many Seattle suburbs, making it a great option for young families or those looking to get more value for their money.
• Parks and Recreation: The Tri-Cities region is famous for its parks and also for the access to the Columbia River, where families can enjoy boating, fishing, and walking along the riverside. The Southridge Sports and Events Complex is a popular spot for families, offering a splash pad, playgrounds, and various sports fields.
• Economic Growth: Kennewick is part of a rapidly growing region, and its economy is booming. This makes it a great option for families seeking job stability while maintaining a suburban lifestyle.

Kennewick is ideal for families looking for affordable housing, excellent schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation. Thus, for those ready to make the move, movers in Kennewick WA can assist with the process.

5. Lakewood: Suburban Charm with a Community Focus

Lakewood, located just outside Tacoma, is a diverse and growing suburban community perfect for families. The suburb is known for its Fort Steilacoom Park, a sprawling green space with walking trails, sports fields, and a dog park, which makes it a favorite for active families.

• Parks and Nature: With American Lake nearby, Lakewood provides ample opportunities for water-based activities such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Lakewood Towne Center offers family-friendly shopping and entertainment options.
• Educational Opportunities: Lakewood is served by the Clover Park School District, which includes strong public schools like Lakes High School. The community also has access to specialized educational programs, including Clover Park Technical College for career-focused learning.
• Community Events: Lakewood is famous for its local festivals and events that unite the community. Events like the Lakewood Farmers Market and the annual SummerFEST draw families from around the region.

For families seeking a suburb with a community focus, outdoor recreation, and a diverse population, Lakewood is a fantastic option. Should the suburb sound like your ideal town, consider contacting Lakewood WA movers to assist with your relocation.

6. Sammamish: Top-Ranked Suburb for Families

Sammamish consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in Washington, and for good reason. Accordingly, this suburb is perfect for families thanks to its top-rated public schools, safe neighborhoods, and many parks and outdoor activities. Located 20 miles east of Seattle, Sammamish offers a peaceful retreat from the city, making it ideal for families looking to settle down in a safe, suburban environment.

• Top Schools: Sammamish is part of the Lake Washington School District, known for academic excellence. Schools like Eastlake High School are well-regarded.
• Outdoor Recreation: Families can enjoy numerous parks, including Beaver Lake Park and Pine Lake Park, which offer boating, fishing, and playgrounds.
• Community Events: Sammamish hosts frequent community events, such as outdoor concerts and holiday festivals, ensuring there’s always something fun for families to do.

Among the best suburbs to raise a family in Seattle, Sammamish is a fantastic choice for families who value excellent education, safety, and outdoor activities. So, if this area seems like a good fit for your family, hiring professional movers in Sammamish can make the transition even smoother.

7. Mercer Island: A Safe and Scenic Choice for Families

Mercer Island, nestled between Seattle and Bellevue in Lake Washington, is one of the most desirable suburbs in the region, particularly for families seeking safety and excellent schools. Connected to both cities by the I-90 floating bridge, Mercer Island offers the perfect combination of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities.

• Top-Rated Schools: The Mercer Island School District is among the best in the state. Schools like Mercer Island High School and Lakeridge Elementary School provide a strong educational foundation.
• Safety: The island’s quiet residential areas, coupled with a strong local police presence, contribute to its reputation as one of the safest places to live in the Seattle area.
• Outdoor Activities: The island also features numerous parks and outdoor spaces, including Luther Burbank Park and Pioneer Park, where families can enjoy hiking, swimming, picnicking, and even off-leash dog areas. The waterfront views and access to Lake Washington make Mercer Island ideal for families.
• Community-Oriented Living: Mercer Island has a close-knit community feel, with many local events such as the annual Summer Celebration and farmers’ markets that bring families together.
• Beautiful Weather and Scenery: Mercer Island enjoys slightly better weather than nearby areas. The island’s scenic views of Lake Washington and tree-lined streets also add to its charm and make everyday life a little more picturesque.

However, one thing to note is that Mercer Island is among the more expensive areas in the Seattle region. The cost of housing reflects its exclusivity and the demand for family-friendly, safe environments with high-quality schools.

Working with local movers in Mercer Island can make the process seamless for those ready to move. Moving to this scenic, family-friendly area provides access to excellent education, outdoor activities, and a welcoming community, all within minutes of both Seattle and Bellevue.

Finding the Right Suburb for Your Family

Each suburb listed offers unique advantages, from proximity to Seattle’s urban core to peaceful, nature-filled retreats. Whether looking for excellent schools, affordability, or plenty of outdoor activities, the Seattle region has a suburb that fits your family’s appetites. As you explore the best suburbs to raise a family in Seattle, consider the lifestyle you want for your family. And don’t forget the factors most important to you—education, safety, or a strong sense of community.

Why Choose Us

History

Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage is locally owned and operated by the same family for four generations, since 1890. We have a well-established reputation for service quality and reliability with a high percentage of repeat household and commercial clients.

Professionalism

We’re a certified ProMover by the American Moving and Storage Association with A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, voted “Best in Western Washington” in 2009 and from 2011 to 2016 by KING5. Our company is fully licensed and insured and member of WMC and AMSA.

Value

Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage provide free, no-obligation in-home estimate and competitive rates, including low minimum rates for shipments moving under 300 miles. We’ve set a refund policy for unused packing materials and three Puget Sound locations to help clients save on travel fee costs.