Thinking about living in Woodinville Washington? As a local who's lived in Washington, we put together this complete detailed guide of Woodinville, containing everything you need to know!
Before you move here, read through this detailed guide and figure out if Woodinville is the right choice for you. Let's dive in!
Table of Contents
What is Living in Woodinville Like?
Woodinville, Washington offers a unique blend of rural charm and urban amenities. Let's explore the cost of living, housing options, and what makes this city special.
Cost of Living in Woodinville Washington
The cost of living in Woodinville, Washington, is higher than the national average, largely due to its desirable location and quality of life, with housing costs about 30% above the national median. Groceries and utilities are generally on par with national averages, around 5% higher, while transportation costs can be approximately 20% more due to the city's location and commuting patterns.
Healthcare costs in Woodinville are slightly above the national average by about 10%, but the quality of care is generally high. While living in Woodinville can be pricey, many residents find the benefits worth the cost.
Renting in Woodinville
Renting in Woodinville, Washington offers flexibility and access to the city's amenities without the long-term commitment of homeownership. The rental market is competitive, featuring a mix of apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. Average rent prices here exceed national averages, with studio apartments typically starting around $1,500 per month, and larger units or houses ranging from $2,000 to $3,500 or more.
Many rental properties in Woodinville include amenities such as parking, in-unit laundry, and access to green spaces. Some complexes even provide community features like fitness centers or clubhouses. For more information about Woodinville's neighborhoods, check out Legacy Homes' guide to Woodinville.
Buying a home in Woodinville
Buying a home in Woodinville, Washington, is a significant investment, with median home prices around $950,000, which is above the national average. The competitive market often favors sellers. Single-family homes dominate, with cozy cottages priced around $700,000 and luxurious estates exceeding $2 million. Many properties offer spacious lots, providing privacy and space for outdoor activities.
The home buying process in Woodinville typically involves working with a local real estate agent, securing financing, and navigating the competitive bidding landscape. It's crucial to be prepared and act quickly when the right property becomes available.
Top 5 Neighborhoods in Woodinville Washington
Woodinville boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character. Here are five standout areas to consider when moving to Woodinville.
Hollywood
Hollywood in Woodinville, Washington, is a vibrant neighborhood renowned for its wineries, tasting rooms, and diverse housing options, from apartments to single-family homes. With popular restaurants and shops, it's the lively heart of Woodinville's wine country, offering easy access to other parts of the city and nearby areas. For more on what to do in this area, visit Woodinville Wine Country.
Wellington
Wellington in Woodinville, Washington, is a family-friendly neighborhood known for its excellent schools and community feel, featuring mostly single-family homes with spacious yards. Residents enjoy several parks and trails, as well as community events throughout the year, all while benefiting from a balance of quiet suburban living and easy access to Woodinville's amenities and major highways for commuting.
Downtown Woodinville
Downtown Woodinville, Washington, serves as the city's bustling commercial and cultural hub, offering a walkable neighborhood with diverse housing options like apartments and townhomes. With an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, Downtown Woodinville continues to evolve, making it an ideal spot for those seeking to be at the center of the action. For a list of great things to do in this area, check out Legacy Homes' guide to the best activities in Woodinville.
Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley in Woodinville, Washington, offers scenic beauty and rural charm with larger lots and custom homes. While residents enjoy a secluded lifestyle with properties near green spaces or small farms, the area remains conveniently close to Woodinville's amenities and major transportation routes.
Winchester Hills
Winchester Hills in Woodinville, Washington, is a well-established neighborhood renowned for its mature trees, winding streets, and single-family homes on generous lots. With easy access to local parks, trails, and top-rated schools, it offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Schooling in Woodinville Washington
Education is a top priority in Woodinville, with excellent public and private options available for students of all ages.
Higher Education Options
Though Woodinville, Washington, doesn't have its own university, it offers easy access to higher education institutions like the University of Washington Bothell and Cascadia College, both in nearby Bothell. Additionally, residents often commute to Lake Washington Institute of Technology in Kirkland or to Seattle, where prominent institutions like the University of Washington's main campus and Seattle University are within reach.
Education Resources and Programs
Woodinville, Washington, is deeply committed to lifelong learning, offering resources like the Woodinville Library as part of the King County Library System, alongside various educational events and workshops on topics such as gardening and local history. Additionally, the city provides accessible tutoring centers and educational support services to help all students succeed academically.
Job Market in Woodinville Washington
Woodinville's job market is diverse and growing, offering opportunities in various sectors. Let's explore the employment landscape in this charming city.
In-Demand Jobs in Lake Woodinville Washington
Woodinville's economy is diverse, with several industries showing strong growth and demand for skilled workers.
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Wine and Tourism Industry: Given Woodinville's reputation as a wine destination, there's a constant need for sommeliers, tasting room staff, and hospitality professionals.
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Technology Sector: With its proximity to Seattle and Redmond, Woodinville attracts tech professionals. Many residents commute to nearby tech hubs, while some tech companies have satellite offices in Woodinville.
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Healthcare: The healthcare sector is growing in Woodinville, with opportunities in local clinics, specialty practices, and wellness centers.
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Education: Woodinville's excellent school system creates ongoing demand for teachers, administrators, and support staff.
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Retail and Service Industry: With a thriving downtown and commercial areas, there are numerous opportunities in retail, restaurants, and personal services.
For more information about living and working in Woodinville, check out Livability's guide to Woodinville.
Things To Do in Woodinville Washington
Woodinville offers a wealth of activities for residents and visitors alike. From outdoor adventures to culinary experiences, there's something for everyone.
Ride a Hot Air Balloon
Experience Woodinville, Washington, from a unique perspective with a hot air balloon ride that offers breathtaking views of the Sammamish River Valley and surrounding wine country, typically occurring at sunrise or sunset, providing spectacular photo opportunities, and often concluding with a celebratory champagne toast, making it perfect for special occasions or simply to appreciate the area's natural beauty from above.
Join a Woodinville Club
In Woodinville, Washington, joining clubs such as wine tasting groups, gardening societies, and outdoor recreation organizations provides excellent opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and engage with the community, while civic-minded residents can contribute to local growth through the Woodinville Chamber of Commerce or the local Rotary Club.
Buy a Wine Bottle at Chateau Ste. Michelle
A visit to Woodinville, Washington, isn't complete without stopping at Chateau Ste. Michelle, the state's oldest winery, where you can enjoy daily tastings, explore the beautiful grounds, and notably, during the summer months, delight in outdoor concerts that mix great music with the region's excellent wine, making it an essential experience for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Fine Dine at The Barking Frog
The Barking Frog, located at Willows Lodge in Woodinville, Washington, is a premier fine dining establishment offering an elegant yet comfortable experience with its Pacific Northwest cuisine, where the seasonal menu showcases local ingredients and includes perfectly cooked seafood, innovative vegetarian dishes, and an extensive wine list featuring local and international selections, complemented by a chef's tasting menu with wine pairings; for more dining options, check out Legacy Homes' guide to the best restaurants in Woodinville.
Golf & Buy a Bear Creek Country Club Membership
A membership at Bear Creek Country Club in Woodinville, Washington, offers more than access to an 18-hole course designed by Jack Nicklaus; it extends an opportunity to indulge in a dynamic lifestyle, complete with tennis courts, a fitness center, and social events that enrich community interaction and make the most of the scenic Woodinville landscape.
Pros and Cons of Living in Woodinville Washington
Like any city, Woodinville has its advantages and challenges. Let's explore some of the key pros and cons of calling this wine country gem home.
Living in Woodinville Washington Pros
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Natural Beauty: Woodinville is surrounded by lush landscapes, offering stunning views and outdoor recreation opportunities.
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Wine Country: With over 100 wineries and tasting rooms, Woodinville is a paradise for wine enthusiasts.
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Strong Community: Woodinville maintains a small-town feel with a tight-knit community and numerous local events.
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Excellent Schools: The Northshore School District, which serves Woodinville, is highly rated and offers quality education.
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Proximity to Seattle: While offering a more relaxed lifestyle, Woodinville is still within commuting distance of Seattle's job market and amenities.
Living in Woodinville Washington Cons
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Cost of Living: Housing prices and overall living costs in Woodinville are higher than national averages.
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Traffic: During peak hours, traffic can be heavy, especially for those commuting to Seattle or Bellevue.
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Limited Public Transportation: While improving, public transit options are still limited compared to larger cities.
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Weather: Like much of the Pacific Northwest, Woodinville experiences a lot of rain and overcast days, especially in winter.
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Growth Challenges: As Woodinville grows, it faces challenges in maintaining its small-town charm while accommodating new development.
FAQs About Living in Lake Woodinville Washington
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about life in Woodinville.
What is Woodinville known for?
Woodinville, Washington, is renowned for its thriving wine industry, with over 100 wineries and tasting rooms, and it offers beautiful natural surroundings like the Sammamish River Trail and nearby state parks, making it a premier destination for both wine enthusiasts and those seeking outdoor recreation, while also striking a harmonious balance between rural charm and modern amenities, thus attracting residents from the Seattle metropolitan area.
What are the top 5 restaurants in Woodinville?
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The Herbfarm: Known for its nine-course tasting menu featuring local, seasonal ingredients.
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The Barking Frog: Offers upscale Pacific Northwest cuisine in a cozy setting.
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Hollywood Tavern: A local favorite for burgers and comfort food with a great outdoor seating area.
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Purple Café and Wine Bar: Features an extensive wine list and a menu designed for wine pairing.
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Tandem Dinner & Wine Bar: Offers a unique dining experience with a menu that changes daily based on available local ingredients.
For more dining recommendations, check out Legacy Homes' guide to the best restaurants in Woodinville.
What cities and attractions are close to Woodinville, Washington?
Woodinville is conveniently located near several major cities and attractions:
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Seattle: About 30 minutes southwest, offering world-class attractions like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market.
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Bellevue: 20 minutes south, known for its shopping and dining options.
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Redmond: 15 minutes southeast, home to Microsoft and numerous tech companies.
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Snoqualmie Falls: 30 minutes east, a stunning 268-foot waterfall.
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Mount Rainier National Park: About 2 hours southeast, perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.
What is the weather like in Woodinville
Summer: Woodinville experiences a temperate climate typical of the Pacific Northwest. Summers tend to be warm and dry, with temperatures typically between the mid-60s and low 80s Fahrenheit.
Winter: Winters are cool and wet, with temperatures typically between the mid-30s and mid-40s. Snowfall is relatively rare but does occur occasionally.
Spring and Fall: Spring and fall are mild, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s. Rain is frequent year-round, with the most precipitation occurring between November and January.
How is Woodinville's Crime Rate?
Woodinville, Washington, is generally considered a safe place to live, with crime rates below the national average and a crime rating of 7 out of 10, indicating a favorable safety profile. While property crimes are more common than violent crimes, the city's police department is proactive in community engagement and crime prevention, offering programs like neighborhood watch and regular safety workshops. Overall, residents report feeling safe in their community, though it is always wise to take standard safety precautions as with any city.
Making the Move to Woodinville?
If you're considering a move to Woodinville, you're in for a treat. This charming city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, world-class wineries, and a strong sense of community.
Meet Corinne Smith, Your Trusted Woodinville Real Estate Advisor
Navigating the Woodinville real estate market can be challenging, especially if you're new to the area. That's where Corinne Smith comes in.
Corinne is a local real estate expert with years of experience in the Woodinville market. She has in-depth knowledge of the various neighborhoods, school districts, and local amenities.
Whether you're looking for a cozy starter home or a luxury estate in wine country, Corinne can help you find the perfect property. Her dedication to client satisfaction and attention to detail make the home buying process smooth and enjoyable.
To start your Woodinville home search or to learn more about the local real estate market, reach out to Corinne today.
