$708,076Average Value$487Average Price per Sq Ft16Homes For Sale
Bitter Lake lies in the heart of the neighborhood in this north Seattle neighborhood.
Bitter lakes and logging legacies
Bitter Lake started with Douglas-fir and Western Redcedar trees. Logging companies in the 19th century filled the local 20-acre pond with so much tannic acid that the lake earned its bitter name, which the neighborhood adopted shortly after. However, it was the Seattle-Everett Interurban Railway that truly helped shape the identity and future of Bitter Lake. Bitter Lake sits on the outskirts of city limits, so the railway helped to connect the area to major cities like Seattle and Everett. With time, the Interurban trolley line was replaced with the Interurban Trail and Washington State Route 99.
Established homes by the Interurban Trail
Homes in Bitter Lake tend to be lower priced than in surrounding neighborhoods, with the average home value roughly $200,000 less than in the Seattle Metro Area. However, according to Dawn Rutherford, Northwest regional manager at The Seattle Public Library, “Bitter Lake has had significant growth in the last few years, with many apartments and condos coming in.” Renters make up most of the neighborhood now, and buyers can find condos that cost between $290,000 and $440,000. The neighborhood also has established single-family, single-story ranches and bungalows that cost between $660,000 and $870,000. Some builds from the early 1900s and recent years even list for over $1 million. Many neighborhood streets don’t feature sidewalks, but the nearby paved Interurban Trail promotes walking and cycling among residents.
A row of colorful homes on a sunny spring day in Bitter Lake neighborhood.
Multi-level homes can be found next door to single-story homes in Bitter Lake.
You can find rows of town homes along Greenwood Avenue in Bitter Lake.
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The Bitter Lake Community Center has a lot to offer residents.
Bringing together the Bitter Lake community
Residents can attend family skate nights, enroll in dance classes or head to the gym at the Bitter Lake Community Center. Locals can also participate in summer activities and foodbank initiatives put on by the community center in partnership with the Broadview Branch of The Seattle Public Library, which Rutherford oversees. The library plays its own pivotal role in the community, as well. “The library provides both Homework Help for kids and teens and Adult Tutoring, which is mostly focused on supporting recent immigrants,” says Rutherford. “Both of these programs rely on local volunteers, folks interested in getting involved in the community. And we have Community Conversations monthly at the library so residents can learn how they might benefit from, or contribute to, the community depending on their circumstance.” Connections between the community and personal faith are plentiful, too; there are almost 30 houses of worship within 3 miles of Bitter Lake.
Mekong Village Vietnamese restaurant is well known on Aurora Avenue in Bitter Lake.
Homecooked meals and Vietnamese coffee
Bitter Lake is home to a few highly rated restaurants. Rutherford recommends Lotus Pond Vietnamese Cuisine, saying, “The food is incredible, and I swear they have the best Vietnamese coffee in Seattle…and I’ve tried many.” La Cabaña Restaurant may have an unassuming storefront, but its menu features authentic Central American cuisine that tastes like a homecooked meal. The Living Room Cafe is an industrial chic coffee shop serving specialty drinks and baked goods in seasonal flavors. It’s also a go-to quiet spot for remote workers and a snack shack for on-the-go customers. Aurora Avenue is the central commercial street in Bitter Lake, featuring an Amazon Fresh grocery store, more restaurant options, and brand names like Lowe’s Home Improvement, Ross Dress For Less and Office Depot. For medical services, Bitter Lake residents are within 1 mile of UW Medical Center – Northwest Seattle Hospital.
Homes, condos, and parks line the shores of Bitter Lake in Seattle.
Enjoying the outdoors around Bitter Lake
When locals want to stretch their legs and get fresh air, The Bitter Lake Playfield features a wading pool, athletic courts and a sizeable playground. It’s also adjacent to Bitter Lake, the prominent water feature for which the neighborhood is named. While Bitter Lake may not be known for many lakeside events, it’s stocked with rainbow trout, and fishermen and families alike have open-to-the-public shoreline access. At Bitter Lake Reservoir Park, residents can find outdoor exercise equipment and a community garden space just north of the fenced-in reservoir. There is also an unshaded playground for kids to get their energy out on.
T crosswalk in front of Broadview Thomson K-8 school is a colorful Bitter Lake landmark.
Seattle’s first International Baccalaureate World School
Students from kindergarten through eighth grade can enroll at the Broadview-Thomson K-8 School; however, the school also offers a free federally funded preschool program for qualifying families and their three- and four-year-olds. The school earns a B rating on Niche and is ranked No. 8 on Niche’s list for standout middle schools in the Seattle area. High schoolers can attend Ingraham High School, which has an A on Niche and was the first Seattle-area school to become an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School.
Bitter Lake has bus transportation throughout.
Bus stops galore
Public transportation is a highly viable option for Bitter Lake residents. King County bus stops run all along the area’s borders and many of its streets, such as North 130th and North 125th streets. Bitter Lake is also right at the intersection of Washington State Routes 99 and 523, making travel by car smooth and accessible. When locals want to go out of state, King County International Airport is 14 miles south.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
The neighborhood is coming up. Great for younger people who want a smaller community feel away from downtown Seattle.
4.0Niche User
12/23/2015Niche Review
this place is awesome, it is near bitter lake. there are high schools very close. i play basketball there some times. LA fitness and Chinese supermarket right across street is very convenient. people here are friendly. traffic is good. lots of buses go through here. the only bad thing is that it is a little too far from seattle university, and traffic can be bad in the morning.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Bitter Lake
US
Homicide
3
4
Sexual Assault
5
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
6
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Bitter Lake Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Bitter Lake, Seattle sell after 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Bitter Lake, Seattle over the last 12 months is $623,000, down 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Light-filled mid-century gem nestled on a designated "Healthy Street," this updated home offers a safer, quieter setting for walking and biking with reduced traffic. Inside, you'll find original hardwoods gracing the cozy living room with a gas fireplace. 1940 charm fills this one-level home sited on a large lot with beautiful landscaping ready to bloom in the Spring. Detached garage with alley
New Construction| Mountain Views| Great Location...Discover this stunning new home built with meticulous attention to detail, elevated finishes and a fantastic view of Mt. Rainier and the Cascades. Savor the large windows throughout that fill the home with abundant natural light. The open-concept living, dinning and kitchen lead to a sunny west-facing deck, creating a perfect indoor-outdoor
Welcome home to this charming 2bed/1bath Seattle gem set on a generous lot with flexible living space. Thoughtfully updated with hand scraped hardwood floors, fresh paint, updated trim, siding, and more, this home blends timeless character with modern touches. Inside, a bright and welcoming layout is filled with natural light. Vaulted ceilings and skylights create an open, airy feel, while the
This spacious 999 sqft, 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, top floor, end unit condo offers remodeled kitchen & bathroom, new carpet, vinyl plank flooring, fresh paint, updated lighting, cozy wood-burning fireplace, full-size washer & dryer in unit, and overlooks the private park. Ideal for investment or personal use (no rental cap, strong HOA reserves, and onsite management). Enjoy secure garage parking
Lakefront living at its finest! This desirable interior unit has a private balcony overlooking the courtyard gardens and pool with view of the lake. This complex is one of Seattle's best kept secrets with fully gated access hiding a private beach on Bitter Lake with dock and fishing pier, a tennis court, a huge heated pool with cabana containing event space, kitchenette and changing rooms; and
Lakefront living at its finest! This beautifully remodeled condo offers stunning Bitter Lake views the moment you walk in. Enjoy a newly updated kitchen with quartz countertops, premium stainless-steel appliances, and stylish fixtures. The bath features elegant new tile in the tub surround. Relax on your private balcony overlooking the lake or take advantage of resort-style amenities including a
What’s the only thing better than a fresh start? Finding the perfect place to make it. So look no further, because this Broadview home is the ultimate opportunity to build something singularly “you.” Situated on a huge 7,200-foot buildable lot, the home itself features hardwood floors, a living room with a wood-burning fireplace, a dining room, and a kitchen with eating space. Also find two
Discover this in-city retreat! Spacious, garden-facing condo offering comfort and efficiency with a thoughtful layout, newer LVP flooring, fresh paint, new water heater, and great storage including a pantry and linen closet. Enjoy your private patio, relax by the outdoor pool and spa, or explore nearby Bitter Lake trails. Stay active with the on-site fitness center and studio. Community security
Welcome to Bitter Lake, where urban convenience blends seamlessly with established neighborhood living. Tucked within the Linden Park Condos, this spacious two-bedroom, one-bath home offers exceptional city value and flexibility—making it a smart option for both homeowners and those looking toward long-term investment with no rental cap. Enjoy your own private balcony, ideal for morning coffee
Potential meets Opportunity! This spacious 706 sqft, 1-bedroom/1bath Condo located in the Bitter Lake is the perfect blank canvas ready for a transformation. Linden Park Condominiums, is professionally managed, strong HOA reserves, secured entry, amenities, on-site manager and secured parking + list of recent upgrades. This Condo includes all appliances, in-unit laundry, fireplace(wood), on-site
Live the quintessential Seattle lifestyle near Bitter Lake! This bright 2-bed condo offers 830 sf with vaulted ceilings and a loft-style primary bedroom for a fun, airy feel. Freshly updated, clean, and move in ready! You will love the tankless water heater, parking for 2+ (tandem) and its central location. Boutique setting on a 4,375 sf lot with parking and in-unit laundry. Close to parks,
Tired of cookie cutter attached townhomes on postage stamp lots? This home is anything but. It lives like new construction after the 2024 rebuild but sits on a huge, fenced lot affording privacy and room for play. Large windows and multiple skylights look out to the sky and greenery and bring in tons of light. The open floor plan makes gatherings feel both intimate and spacious with an electric
Light and bright south-facing corner unit with hardwood floors throughout the main living space. The kitchen features plenty of cabinets, granite countertops with a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and a pantry for extra storage. The cozy living room offers a gas fireplace and sliding door that opens onto a private balcony. Upstairs, the vaulted primary suite provides a spacious retreat
Welcome to The Aries Affordable Apartments in the Heart of Bitter Lake!Discover comfortable living designed for households earning 50% and 60% Area Median Income (AMI). Choose from thoughtfully designed studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes that fit your lifestyle and budget. Each apartment features modern kitchens, generous closet space, and bright, open layouts that make you
Available Now! Welcome home to a well-designed townhome offering comfortable urban living in one of Seattle’s desirable north-end communities. Built in 2004, this thoughtfully laid-out residence features approximately 1,650 sq ft of living space with 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, making it ideal for modern living or flexible work-from-home lifestyles.The main floor features open kitchen / family room
Sanford Hildebrandt Seattle, a 62+ affordable community, offers 276 beautiful studio senior apartments in Seattle. Each apartment has a beautiful lanai for enjoying a relaxing morning or evening. There are beautiful walking trails around Lake Bitter, a new putting green in our courtyard and new landscaping. Utilities included except phone and cable TV. INCOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY; SUBSIDIZED;
Two-floor upper unit home in a beautifully restored Craftsman residence, nestled in Seattle’s quiet Broadview neighborhood. This spacious upper unit blends classic architecture with modern design and comfort, offering an elevated living experience in North Seattle. The thoughtfully renovated 3-bedroom, 1.75-bath layout features an open-concept main level filled with natural light, designer
ACTIVE, INDEPENDENT, & MAINTENANCE-FREE SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY IN SEATTLE, WA*Must be age 61+ or better (or 55+ with a disability)Get more out of life at SHAG Interurban Senior Living in Bitter Lake, Seattle. Here you’ll find a place where age is just a number. Amazing new adventures, a community of friends and a welcoming home are all waiting for you to explore! Best of all,
FULLY FURNISHED mid-term rental- UTILITIES & lawn care included. Minimum of 1 month rental. California Spanish inspired home. Drenched in natural light. Living room has big picture windows, bamboo floors, gas fireplace. Two steps up into the dining room with French doors leading out to a 400 square foot deck. Kitchen has newer stainless steel appliances and tiled floors. Upstairs has 3 bedrooms
ACTIVE, INDEPENDENT, & MAINTENANCE-FREE SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY IN SEATTLE, WA*Must be age 61+ or better (or 55+ with a disability)Get more out of life at SHAG's New Haven Senior Living Apartments. Here you’ll find a place where age is just a number and active senior living, a community of friends and a welcoming home is all within your reach. Check out our remarkable one- and
Nice and super spacious 1890 sf 3 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom very private townhome surrounded by trees. Fully applianced chef’s kitchen with newer high-end appliances. Large living space, not your typical skinny townhouse. Very open concept. Huge primary bedroom with deck, private bath and walk in closet One car garage. Off street parking. Terms: First and one month rent deposit. Lease Duration: 12
Welcome to Viv, your urban retreat in the heart of North Seattle with the stunning Pacific Northwest as your backdrop. At Viv, everything you need is just a short walk, bike ride, or drive away. From your morning yoga class or grocery shopping to pet-friendly parks and easy access to highways and public transportation, convenience is key.We offer spacious, affordable housing for those who
Large renovated apartments off of Greenwood Avenue. Spacious floorplan, new appliances, secure building, off-street parking. Steps to Bitter Lake, the Library, and Bus routes.Storage units and parking included. No pets allowed.Fixed utility fee of $85 (WSG).
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