Serving All of Kirkland, WA

Welcome to Kirkland, Washington, where Lake Washington waterfront beauty meets a tech-forward community living in the heart of the Eastside region. As a lakeside city just 12 miles east of Seattle, Kirkland balances natural Pacific Northwest splendor with modern urban amenities along the eastern shores of Lake Washington. Whether you're planning a home renovation, building an addition, or require reliable construction expertise, partnering with a top general contractor in Kirkland, WA is crucial for realizing your vision and navigating local building codes and waterfront regulations.

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Kirkland's stunning waterfront and diverse amenities work well for those who appreciate both outdoor recreation and cultural sophistication. Spots like Marina Park and the Cross Kirkland Corridor give you excellent settings for kayaking, cycling, or just taking in breathtaking lake views. The sparkling waters of Lake Washington and the Olympic Mountains visible across the water remind you daily why this location hits different. If you're into recreational activities, Juanita Beach Park and Bridle Trails State Park deliver everything from swimming and beach volleyball to miles of forested trails and seasonal festivals.

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Life in Kirkland is energetic and welcoming, with a strong sense of community and environmental pride woven into its identity. The city has earned its reputation for a walkable downtown district, where you can check out authentic local businesses, boutique shopping, and award-winning dining that actually brings people together. Landmarks like the Kirkland Performance Center and the lakefront parks show what the city's all about, while local celebrations, like Kirkland Uncorked and the Summer Evening Concert Series, give you a real sense of its character.

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Experience Kirkland, where Pacific Northwest innovation meets the warmth of a close-knit waterfront community, making it a standout place to live, work, and thrive.

 

Kirkland's Waterfront Community Character

 

Kirkland, Washington, masterfully combines its tech-forward economy with a welcoming, lakeside-focused lifestyle, offering an engaging experience for residents and visitors throughout the region. The city's downtown core features an impressive array of independent shops, galleries, and local dining establishments that reflect its commitment to preserving waterfront character while supporting innovation and entrepreneurship.

 

Cultural attractions flourish throughout Kirkland, with premier destinations like the Kirkland Arts Center and the historic downtown waterfront district. These cultural treasures invite exploration; The city showcases its artistic heritage through engaging exhibitions, live performances, and immersive community experiences. Annual celebrations such as Kirkland Uncorked and the Summer Evening Concert Series bring the community together in appreciation of its diverse interests and shared lakefront lifestyle.

 

Kirkland is recognized for its commitment to preserving natural beauty and environmental sustainability. Parks such as Juanita Bay Park and the Lake Washington waterfront provide beautiful backdrops for paddleboarding, hiking, and nature appreciation. The city's emphasis on maintaining accessible waterfront, supporting local businesses, and celebrating its outdoor heritage reflects its dedication to authentic community living.

 

Kirkland's neighborhoods are welcoming and inviting, each offering its own unique personality and charm. From the sophisticated waterfront homes of Houghton to the vibrant downtown district, Kirkland provides a range of lifestyle options suited to any preference. The city's excellent educational institutions, safe neighborhoods, and abundant cultural and recreational opportunities make it an outstanding place to establish roots.

 

Whether you're attracted by its stunning natural beauty, thriving tech economy, or the genuine warmth of its atmosphere, Kirkland delivers an exceptional quality of life that's as impressive as its stunning Lake Washington setting.

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Neighborhoods and Zip Codes of Kirkland, WA

 

Kirkland, Washington, is a city of distinctive neighborhoods, each offering its character, community atmosphere, and unique appeal. Here's a guide to some of Kirkland's key neighborhoods, along with their corresponding zip codes:

 

Downtown Kirkland (98033):

 

Downtown Kirkland stands as the heart of the community, known for its waterfront location, boutique shops, and vibrant local business scene. This area features beautifully maintained parks, lakefront restaurants, and galleries. It's a hub for those who appreciate walkability, waterfront charm, and proximity to Marina Park and the Lake Washington shoreline. The downtown district hosts numerous community events and is home to landmarks like the Kirkland Performance Center.

 

Juanita (98034):

 

Juanita is a well-established neighborhood situated along the northeastern edge of Lake Washington. This area offers a mix of single-family homes, waterfront properties, and easy access to parks and schools. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to Juanita Beach Park, Juanita attracts families, professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a residential setting with strong community character and beautiful lakefront access.

 

Totem Lake (98034):

 

Totem Lake is a revitalized mixed-use neighborhood offering a blend of modern apartments, townhomes, and commercial development. This area provides convenient living with access to The Village at Totem Lake shopping center, dining, and entertainment. The neighborhood's central location makes it appealing to young professionals and families who value accessibility, modern amenities, and community connection.

 

Finn Hill (98034):

 

Finn Hill is a residential area featuring a mix of architectural styles and hillside properties. This neighborhood offers a strong sense of community with tree-lined streets and proximity to Big Finn Hill Park and O.O. Denny Park. Residents appreciate the area's natural setting while remaining close to schools and shopping areas along the I-405 corridor.

 

Houghton (98033):

 

Houghton encompasses elegant waterfront and hillside residential areas along Lake Washington's eastern shore. This area features upscale single-family homes, mature landscaping, and spectacular lake views. The neighborhood offers sophisticated living with easy access to beaches, parks, and downtown Kirkland amenities, making it highly sought after by professionals and established families.

 

North Rose Hill (98034):

 

North Rose Hill is a peaceful neighborhood offering a mix of luxury homes and renovated Craftsman-style residences. This area provides quiet residential living with access to parks like North Rose Hill Woodlands and convenient connections to I-405. The community's wooded setting makes it appealing to those seeking suburban tranquility while maintaining proximity to employment centers.

 

Market (98033):

 

Market is a waterfront-adjacent neighborhood south of downtown Kirkland featuring a blend of residential and commercial development. This area offers access to Lake Washington beaches, local restaurants, and community parks. Residents enjoy the neighborhood's proximity to both downtown Kirkland and regional transportation corridors.

 

With its distinct neighborhoods offering everything from waterfront sophistication to wooded suburban tranquility, Kirkland provides diverse living options to accommodate any lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the lakefront charm of Downtown Kirkland, the family-friendly atmosphere of Juanita, or the modern conveniences of Totem Lake, this Lake Washington city has a neighborhood ready to welcome you.

 

Income and Education in Kirkland, WA

 

Kirkland, Washington, serves as an economic center for the Eastside region with a technology-driven economy and strong commitment to educational achievement. The city's diverse industries, including technology, healthcare, education, and professional services, create a robust economic environment. The median household income is $143,533, contributing to a comfortable standard of living, making Kirkland an appealing destination for professionals, families, and entrepreneurs seeking opportunity and community.

 

Education plays a central role in Kirkland's continued growth, with residents valuing academic achievement and lifelong learning. About 68.4% of the population holds bachelor's degrees or higher, reflecting the community's strong educational attainment. The city is served by Lake Washington School District, which offers comprehensive academic programs designed to foster student success and prepare graduates for higher education and careers in an increasingly competitive global economy.

 

Private and independent schools throughout Kirkland provide specialized educational approaches to meet diverse learning needs. The city also benefits from proximity to Lake Washington Institute of Technology and Northwest University, both of which are recognized for their academic programs and workforce development initiatives. The University of Washington's Bothell campus, located nearby, contributes to the region's reputation for educational excellence and provides opportunities for advanced study.

 

These institutions offer comprehensive academic and professional training programs, ensuring a skilled workforce that drives Kirkland's continued economic stability and growth. With its focus on quality education and robust economic opportunities, Kirkland remains a city where individuals and families can achieve their goals and build successful futures.

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Schools in Kirkland, WA

 

Public Schools:

 

The second-largest school district in Washington State, Lake Washington School District, serves Kirkland, Washington, providing high-quality education to students throughout the city. The district offers numerous programs designed to meet diverse educational needs. Notable public schools in the Kirkland area include the following:

 

Lake Washington High School:

 

Lake Washington High School serves grades 9-12 and is known for its comprehensive curriculum, competitive athletics, and strong Advanced Placement program. The school offers numerous AP courses, the Project Lead The Way curriculum, and career and technical education programs. Its well-rounded approach to education prepares students for college and career success while maintaining strong community support and school spirit.

 

Juanita High School:

 

Serving students in grades 9-12, Juanita High School provides a supportive learning environment with a focus on academic achievement and personal growth. The school offers diverse extracurricular activities, athletics, and college preparatory coursework, including courses sanctioned by the University of Washington and the University of Cambridge. The school's house system creates a strong sense of community.

 

Finn Hill Middle School:

 

Finn Hill Middle serves students in grades 6-8 with a focus on foundational skills and character development. The school emphasizes academic excellence, social-emotional learning, and extracurricular engagement in a nurturing environment. Teachers work closely with families to support each student's educational path and build a strong foundation for high school success.

 

Kamiakin Middle School:

 

Kamiakin Middle School serves grades 6-8 and provides a comprehensive educational experience with strong academic programs and diverse athletic and arts opportunities. The school maintains high standards while offering support programs to ensure all students can succeed.

 

Carl Sandburg Elementary:

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Carl Sandburg Elementary serves kindergarten through fifth grade with a focus on foundational skills and community values. The school emphasizes literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional learning in a welcoming environment. Teachers create personalized learning experiences that support each child's educational journey.

 

John Muir Elementary:

 

John Muir Elementary is a highly-rated school serving kindergarten through fifth grade. The school provides quality education with a focus on academic excellence, character development, and community engagement while maintaining strong parent involvement and support.

 

Private Schools:

 

Northwest University:

 

Northwest University is a private Christian university located in Kirkland, offering undergraduate and graduate programs. Known for its faith-based education, strong academic programs, and commitment to service, Northwest emphasizes intellectual development, spiritual growth, and leadership. The university offers excellent career preparation in a supportive community environment.

 

Eastside Preparatory School:

 

Eastside Preparatory School is a private college preparatory school serving grades 5-12. The school provides rigorous academic programs with small class sizes, personalized attention, and a focus on critical thinking and creativity. Students benefit from individualized learning plans and strong college placement support.

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Higher Education:

 

Lake Washington Institute of Technology:

 

Lake Washington Institute of Technology is a public technical college serving students seeking career-focused education and workforce development. The college offers associate degrees, certificate programs, and bachelor's degrees in high-demand fields. Known for its hands-on training approach, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry partnerships, the institution provides excellent career preparation.

 

Northwest University:

 

Northwest University offers undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines including business, education, ministry, and nursing. The university is recognized for its Christian values, quality academic programs, and commitment to developing future leaders. The modern campus and growing reputation make it an excellent choice for students seeking faith-based higher education.

 

University of Washington Bothell:

 

Located just minutes from Kirkland, the University of Washington Bothell is a comprehensive public university offering undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines. Programs in STEM fields, business, education, and healthcare have earned the university recognition. UW Bothell's modern facilities and excellent reputation make it an outstanding choice for students seeking quality higher education close to home.

 

Public Transportation and Major Highways in Kirkland, WA

 

Kirkland, Washington, features a transportation network that enables residents and visitors to navigate the Eastside region and greater Seattle area efficiently. From public transit connections to Seattle to accessible highway infrastructure, Kirkland ensures connectivity throughout the metropolitan area.

 

Public Transportation:

 

King County Metro:

 

King County Metro operates extensive bus service throughout the Eastside region, including multiple routes serving Kirkland. The system connects Kirkland residents to employment centers, shopping areas, and educational institutions throughout King County. Key routes include the 255, which provides frequent service between Kirkland, Bellevue, and Seattle via the SR 520 floating bridge. Other routes connect to Redmond, Bellevue Transit Center, and regional park-and-ride facilities. Metro provides an affordable transportation option for commuters and residents without personal vehicles.

 

Sound Transit:

 

Sound Transit operates express bus routes serving Kirkland and the I-405 corridor. These routes provide connections to Seattle, Bellevue, and other regional destinations. The agency's Stride bus rapid transit system is under development, with the S2 Line planned to serve the I-405 corridor, including a station at Northeast 85th Street in Kirkland, offering high-frequency service with direct connections to light rail and other transit services.

 

Community Transit:

 

Community Transit provides commuter service connecting Kirkland to Snohomish County communities, including Everett, Lynnwood, and Mill Creek. These routes serve commuters working in Kirkland's business districts and residents traveling to northern employment centers.

 

Major Highways:

 

Interstate 405:

 

I-405 runs north-south through Kirkland, serving as the primary freeway connecting the Eastside communities. This major commuter route connects Kirkland to Bellevue, Renton, Bothell, and Lynnwood, providing access to I-90, SR 520, and I-5. The freeway includes express toll lanes that offer reliable travel times during peak hours. I-405 provides access to Kirkland via exits at Northeast 70th Place, Northeast 85th Street, NE 124th Street, and Northeast 132nd Street.

 

State Route 520:

 

SR 520 is a major east-west freeway connecting Seattle to the Eastside via the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge across Lake Washington. The route provides direct access between Kirkland, Redmond, Bellevue, and Seattle's University District. This corridor serves thousands of daily commuters and includes high-occupancy vehicle lanes and extensive transit service. SR 520 intersects I-405 just south of Kirkland, providing seamless connections throughout the region.

 

State Route 522:

 

SR 522 serves the northern portion of the Kirkland area, connecting to Bothell, Woodinville, and communities in Snohomish County. This highway provides an alternate route for commuters traveling between the Eastside and northern communities, offering connections to I-405 near the Bothell city limits.

 

Northeast 85th Street:

 

Northeast 85th Street serves as a major arterial connecting downtown Kirkland to I-405 and continuing east to Redmond. This corridor provides access to commercial districts and residential neighborhoods and will serve as a major transit hub with the planned Stride BRT station. The street connects Kirkland's waterfront to regional transportation networks.