Expert Advice for Moving to Bellevue, WA | 2023 Bellevue Relocation Guide

Moving to Bellevue

Imagine trading your current address for a spot tucked between Seattle's skyscrapers and the ethereal beauty of the Cascade Mountains. Sounds appealing, doesn't it? Welcome to your comprehensive relocation guide to Bellevue, WA. In the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Bellevue offers a dynamic lifestyle like no other. From its innovative tech scene to its breathtaking panorama, it's not just a city--it's a world waiting to be explored. So, buckle up and let's dive into everything you need to know about making Bellevue your new home.

What to Know Before Moving to Bellevue

1. Bellevue is a Tech City Oasis

The heavy hitters of the tech world, Microsoft, Amazon, T-Mobile, and Expedia, have big footprints in Bellevue. If you're moving here for business purposes, this might be the move that propels your professional life to new heights! So, not only will you be surrounded by some of the world's most successful professionals, but you'll also get to understand what innovation looks like. Moving to Bellevue may just be the entrepreneurial inspiration you've been waiting for!

2. Bellevue, The Beautiful View!

Bellevue literally means 'beautiful view' in French, and the city lives up to its name! Surrounded by sublime mountains and glistening lakes, Bellevue ensures every 'Return Home' moment feels like entering a fantasy painting. Popular parks like Meydenbauer Bay Park offer waterfront views while you picnic and Bellevue Downtown Park lets you unwind in an urban retreat. And did we mention those breathtaking skyline views? A real treat for the eyes!

3. Bellevue Wears Education Like a Crown

Bellevue's educational system is one of the best in the state, making it a great choice for families. It's known for its high academic standards, innovative educational programs, and high graduation rates. The Bellevue School District is nationally recognized and Bellevue College is the third-largest institution of higher education in Washington. So if quality education ranks high on your list, pack your bags for Bellevue instantly!

4. Cultural Heritage Thrives in Bellevue

Now here's an underrated gem: Bellevue is rich in culture. Multiple cultural events take place throughout the year, including the annual Bellevue Arts Fair, which is one of the largest in the Pacific Northwest. Additionally, Bellevue's diverse population brings varied cuisine, arts, and cultural practices to its streets. The city even has a museum dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the Eastside and surrounding regions - a testament to its cultural appreciation!

5. Welcome to the City of Festivals and Events

Bellevue comes alive with events such as the Wintergrass Music Festival, Bellevue Jazz & Blues Festival, and Bellevue Fashion Week, to name a few. So, whether you are heavily into music, fashion, or art, you will soon find a festival that suits your taste. It's like living in a city that always has a celebration up its sleeve!

6. Get Ready to Embrace the Outdoors

You may already know that the Pacific Northwest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, but did you know that Bellevue has more than 100 parks? That's right - this city loves its green spaces. From Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park's 3,000+ acres of hiking trails to Lake Sammamish's waters for summer boating fun, Bellevue is an outdoorsy person's dream come true.

So, if you're considering a move to Bellevue, start gearing up for elaborate festivals, a thriving tech scene, a rich cultural atmosphere, top-notch education system, beautiful natural views and an endless list of outdoor activities. With so much to offer, Bellevue is more than just a city - it's a delightful living experience that you'll fall in love with over and over again!

What to know before moving to Bellevue, WA image

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Pros and Cons of Living in Bellevue

Pros of Living in Bellevue

Safety

Bellevue is considered one of the safest cities in Washington state. The crime rate is significantly lower than the national average, making the city ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees looking for a secure and peaceful place to live.

Quality Education

The city is well-known for its high standard of education. Bellevue School District is highly rated and has numerous public, private, and international schools that offer quality education to students, making it an excellent location for families with children.

Outdoor Activities

There are plenty of outdoor activities in Bellevue. With numerous parks, hiking trails, and lakes within the city, outdoor enthusiasts will have more than enough to keep them busy in all seasons.

Strong Economy

Bellevue has a thriving economy with numerous job opportunities in various sectors. Companies like Microsoft, T-Mobile, and Expedia are headquartered in the area, creating a strong job market for professionals.

Diverse Food Scene

Bellevue boasts a diverse food scene with a myriad of local and international cuisines. The city's restaurants serve everything from traditional American dishes to exotic cuisine from all over the world.

Cons of Living in Bellevue

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Bellevue is higher than the national average. This high cost of living impacts all areas including utilities, healthcare, groceries, and significantly, housing.

Traffic

Despite its size, the city often experiences heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. This could mean lengthy commute times and can add stress to daily routines.

Weather

The weather in Bellevue can be a downside for some. The city often experiences cloudy, drizzly weather which may not be appealing to everyone.

Urban Sprawl

The rapid growth and development of the city have led to urban sprawl. This has led to longer commute times to get to common places like grocery stores and restaurants, especially for those living in the outskirts.

Less Nightlife

Compared to nearby cities like Seattle, Bellevue tends to have less of a nightlife scene. If you're someone who enjoys the vibrancy of nightclubs, music venues, and late-night eateries, this could be considered a con.

Modern day picture of Bellevue, WA highlighting pros and cons of living in Bellevue, WA

Is Bellevue a Good Place to Live?

Bellevue, WA is a great place to live because it's a vibrant city offering excellent schools, an active outdoor lifestyle with its many parks and hiking trails, and a dynamic art scene. Its thriving economy, driven by an influx of tech companies, along with its diverse culinary scene, presents plenty of job opportunities and delicious foodie adventures. You'll also find friendly neighborhoods and a sense of community that make living here a delightful experience!

What Is Bellevue Famous For?

Bellevue Art Fair

This annual fair brings together a large display of creativity from a range of mediums, hosting more than 300 artists from around the nation. The unique blend of bright colors and fascinating ideas makes this free event a must-see when visiting Bellevue in the summer.

Bellevue Botanical Garden

At the Bellevue Botanical Garden, over 50 acres of display gardens, woodlands, meadows and wetlands are ready to explore. Its beautifully maintained lawns and exotic range of plants make this spot a serene break from the hustle of the city.

Nature Trails and Parks

If you're a nature enthusiast, outdoor activities at Bellevue's expansive network of trails and parks will get your heart pumping. It's an amazing place to enjoy a leisurely walk, intense hike, or a fun picnic with the family.

Downtown Bellevue

Downtown Bellevue is not only a hub for modern businesses but also a wonderful place for shopping, dining, and entertainment. With an array of high-end stores, diverse cuisine, and lively nightlife, there is something for everyone in this vibrant downtown area.

Capital building of Bellevue, WA in artistic rendering

Overview of Tax Rates

Property Tax

As of 2023, Bellevue, WA residents have a property tax rate of approximately 0.89% which is lower than the national average of 1.07%. This rate varies depending on the area of Bellevue, with some parts having higher rates than others.

Sales Tax

The sales tax in Bellevue, WA as of 2023 is roughly 10%. This is considerably higher than the national average sales tax rate which sits at around 7.12%. The high rate is due in part to the additional local taxes imposed by Bellevue and Washington state.

Income Tax

Bellevue, WA residents benefit from having no income tax as of 2023, courtesy of Washington state's tax policies. This is quite unusual as the average state income tax rate in the US is around 4.6%, making Washington one of the seven states with no state income tax.

Housing Market

Bellevue, WA's housing market is substantially more expensive than most parts of the US. The median home value is around $939,400, significantly higher than the national median of $315,000. Buyers should be prepared for competitive bidding, as homes are typically sold within 7 days. Conversely, renters may face an average rent of $2,600 for apartments, well above the national average of $1,650. Yet, despite the high costs, Bellevue attracts residents with its top-rated schools, thriving job market, and outdoor recreation opportunities, with a growth rate of 13% over the last decade.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Bellevue, WA is notably higher than the national average and many other cities. Factors such as housing, transportation, and groceries significantly contribute to these costs. Bellevue's thriving tech industry and high standard of living do attribute to the higher expenses. Despite these elevated costs, the quality of life and the strategic location make Bellevue an attractive location for professionals and families alike.

Weather & Natural Disasters

Bellevue, WA, lies in a Mediterranean Climate zone, characterized by mild, moist winters and warm, relatively dry summers. The average high temperature in July, the hottest month, floats around 76degF (24.4degC), while January witnesses lowest averages of around 36degF (2.2degC). Precipitation is frequent from October to early May, with the city receiving around 40 inches of rainfall annually. Snow is not a rare occurrence, particularly in winter months, but the amounts are usually manageable; averaging less than 5 inches per year. In terms of natural disasters, the Seattle Fault zone threads beneath Bellevue, making the area vulnerable to earthquakes. Additionally, landslides, often triggered by prolonged periods of rainfall, pose a potential risk. Thankfully, Bellevue is known to uphold robust disaster response systems, enhancing the city's resilience to such natural hazard events.

Economy & Job Market

* Technology

* Healthcare

* Retail

* Education

* Finance

Bellevue, WA is the buzzing tech hub in the Pacific Northwest. Historically known for lumber and farming due to its rich forest resources and fertile soil, Bellevue's economy has shifted dramatically in the last few decades. Now, Bellevue is recognized as a thriving metropolis for technology-led industries. It's home to tech giants like Microsoft, T-Mobile and Amazon, and has a thriving startup community that continues to grow each year. Retail, healthcare, education, and finance sectors also make up a significant portion of Bellevue's modern economy, making it a welcoming city for a diverse range of professions.

If you're planning to move to Bellevue, WA, you'll be happy to know that the job market here is teeming with opportunities. Bellevue boasts low unemployment rates, thanks to its robust economy. The technology industry offers the most opportunities, so if you're an IT professional, software engineer, or anything tech-related, Bellevue could be your personal paradise. However, don't despair if you're not into tech - healthcare, retail, education, and finance also offer numerous employment possibilities. If you're looking for the best areas to job hunt in Bellevue, the downtown region, Overlake, and Factoria are all popular employment hubs teeming with businesses in various sectors.

Traffic and Transportation

Bellevue, WA is a bustling city where the traffic patterns mimic a lively conversation, filled with ebbs and flows of stop and go. Brimming with over 140,000 people and countless businesses, the average commute time in Bellevue is about 23 minutes, shorter than the US average. For those who prefer to share the journey, the city has a stimulating array of public transportation options. With the King County Metro Transit and Sound Transit, getting around Bellevue feels like playing an exciting game of connect-the-dots. Need to fly? No problem! The city is served by the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, a stone's throw away. It's like Bellevue playing host to the world, connecting us to exotic places and fascinating people. So, buckle up! In Bellevue, the journey is just as exciting as the destination.

What is the traffic like in Bellevue, WA?

Best Neighborhoods in Bellevue

1. Downtown Bellevue

As the heart of the city, Downtown Bellevue is an urbanite's dream. Its high-energy vibes will challenge even the most experienced city dwellers with a mix of world-class shopping destinations, art galleries, and exquisite dining options. Downtown Bellevue offers cosmopolitan living with a sky-high cityscape and luxurious condominiums, while Bellevue Downtown Park gives residents a lush, green escape from the concrete jungle. This neighborhood is ideal for professionals seeking convenience and city culture.

2. West Bellevue

West Bellevue has a serene, suburban feel while being a stone's throw away from downtown. Resplendent in its beauty, the neighborhood boasts delightful parks, lakeside spots, and views of Mount Rainier. Meydenbauer Bay with its marina is a hotspot for boating enthusiasts. If you appreciate high-end residential living near the water with an opportunity to mix outdoor leisure with the elegance of the city, West Bellevue could be your next home.

3. Factoria

For those who value practicality, Factoria is unbeatable. This suburban neighborhood offers a blend of comfort and convenience. Factoria Mall takes care of all your shopping needs, while the diverse range of restaurants caters to all culinary tastes. Factoria is also loved for its stellar school system. With quick access to freeways and downtown, Factoria is a well-rounded choice for families who want a comfortable suburban lifestyle within reach of urban amenities.

4. Crossroads

Crossroads goes beyond being a geographical reference point. It's indeed a crossroads of cultures, boasting a multicultural residential makeup. The Crossroads Shopping Center, with its international grocery store, a mind-blowing variety of food stalls, and a year-round calendar of community events, is a true reflection of the neighborhood's diversity. For art lovers, the neighborhood offers live music shows and art exhibitions on a regular basis, making Crossroads a vibrant and inclusive place to live.

5. Bridle Trails

If you long for rustic charm, look no further than Bridle Trails. Known for its extensive equestrian trails, Bridle Trails provides a pastoral environment like no other in Bellevue. With leafy lanes, horse-friendly policies, and large lot sizes, the neighborhood offers a refreshing countryside charm without being too far from city conveniences. Bridle Trails is a hit among horse-lovers and those who yearn for tranquil living.

In conclusion, Bellevue, with its multifaceted neighborhoods, offers a range of lifestyle choices to meet diverse preferences. Whether you're hankering for vibrant city life, suburban peace, cultural vibrancy, or a pastoral retreat, Bellevue has a neighborhood to make you feel right at home. However, to really understand the charm and atmosphere of each neighborhood, don't just take our word for it - try exploring the city yourself, and you'll surely find your own slice of paradise in Bellevue.

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Things to Do

Have you just moved to Bellevue, WA and are looking for exciting activities to mark your arrival? Look no further! Nestled between Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish, Bellevue is known as a suburban sanctuary, where thrill-seekers, nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and foodies manage to find their little piece of heaven. Intrigued? Here are seven must-do activities that will have you living like a Bellevue local in no time!

1. Explore the Bellevue Botanical Gardens

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the Bellevue Botanical Gardens, spread over 53 acres. From meticulously maintained gardens to untamed woods, the place serves as a sanctuary to escape and experience nature at its best. Every season brings different blooms, making multiple visits worthwhile.

2. Visit Lake Washington

Experience Bellevue's pristine water bodies by heading to Lake Washington. From fishing, boating, kayaking to paddleboarding, it is a perfect place to enjoy water-related activities. The picturesque view of the sunset over the lake is nothing short of extraordinary - a must-see spectacle!

3. Take a Hike at Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park offers over 35 miles of trails that lead to stunning vistas and hidden waterfalls. Wildlife sightings are a bonus. Just remember to leave no trace - we love our park clean and green.

4. Dine at Bellevue's Hidden Spot - Swiftwater Cellars

In the spirit of less-known treats, treat your taste buds at this hidden gem. Not just a wine bar, Swiftwater Cellars offers delectable cuisine and an intriguingly cozy atmosphere. Their wine sourced from the renowned Suncadia Resort creates a dining experience like no other.

5. Browse Through the Bellevue Arts Museum

BAM! - and you're in the heart of Bellevue's arts culture. The Bellevue Arts Museum, affectionately referred to as BAM, hosts a diverse range of exhibitions relating to the fields of art, craft, and design. BAM guarantees a lovely bout of artistic edification and creative entertainment.

6. Shop at the Bellevue Collection

Retail therapy, anyone? Bellevue Collection is the leader in all things retail with a wide array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Upgrade your wardrobe, get a fancy dinner or catch a movie - all under the same roof!

7. Savor the Secret Tea Room Experience

A secret known by few, Bellevue has a hidden tea room in the Cakes of Paradise bakery. Here, you can enjoy high tea featuring a delightful assortment of sandwiches, scones, and cakes, complemented with a steaming cup of your choice of tea. Remember, ssshh... it's our secret!

In a nutshell, from mesmerizing nature walks to hidden dining spots, from dramatic arts to extravagant shopping hubs, Bellevue, WA is the perfect blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. So what are you waiting for? Put on your explorer's hat, step out and start to experience the opportunities this vibrant city offers. Welcome, new neighbor!

Find Movers for Your Bellevue Relocation

Having explored all the facets of relocating to Bellevue, WA, it's clear that an exciting adventure is about to unfold. This gem of the Pacific Northwest has so much to offer in terms of lifestyle, opportunities, and enchanting natural beauty. Now is the perfect time to make your move smoother and stress-free. Allow Great Guys Moving to connect you with top-quality, insured, and licensed movers to handle your moving needs. Submit your move's specifics, and we'll quickly link you with the most appropriate, cost-effective movers. Why wait? Embrace your fresh start in Bellevue today by requesting your free moving quote!

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