$697,653Average Value$497Average Price per Sq Ft31Homes 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
there is a firefighter station around. sometimes, i can hear them going out. its very safe.
5.0Current Resident
10/20/2016Niche Review
I enjoy that the area for the most part is quite and is a bit further away from all the hustle and bustle of downtown. There is a bunch of stores and great restaurants in the immediate vicinity.
Are you familiar with the Bitter Lake neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
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 34 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Bitter Lake, Seattle over the last 12 months is $664,000, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Enjoy peaceful waterfront living on Bitter Lake in this updated condo with direct dock access. The home features a 2020 kitchen remodel with modern cabinetry, solid-surface counters, and quality appliances, along with in-unit laundry for everyday convenience. A wood-burning fireplace adds year-round comfort, while the spacious covered patio provides a front-row seat to the lake and expansive
**PREFERRED LENDER OFFERING UP TO $8,000 IN CLOSING CREDITS** Completely reimagined and custom renovated, this stunning 1,920 SF Broadview/Bitter lake home offers modern luxury, functional living, and exceptional outdoor space. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 updated bathrooms, this move-in-ready residence showcases quality craftsmanship throughout. Bright, open living spaces are highlighted by luxury
FHA-approved, no rental cap, and no special assessments! A smart and affordable path into homeownership or an easy downsizing option in Bitter Lake. Located in Linden Park Condos, this updated 1-bedroom, 1-bath home offers the simplicity, flexibility, and value today’s condo buyers are looking for, along with secured entry, ample guest parking, and one garage parking space. Freshly painted and
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
Welcome home to this crisp, turnkey townhome in sought-after Greenwood. 1,420sf across three thoughtfully designed levels, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence combines flexibility and comfort. Versatile floor plan is ideal for modern living, featuring a lower-level bedroom & 3/4 bth perfect for a home office, guest suite, roommate arrangement, or true third bedroom. Upstairs, two spacious bedrooms
Welcome to this beautifully updated corner-unit home in the desirable Greenwood neighborhood, where modern upgrades meet comfort and convenience. This light-filled residence benefits from its end-unit positioning, offering enhanced privacy and an abundance of natural light through large windows. Thoughtfully refreshed throughout, the home features a brand-new roof, full interior paint including
Experience modern luxury in this stunning new construction home located in Seattle's desirable Bitter Lake neighborhood. Offering 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, this thoughtfully designed residence showcases exceptional craftsmanship and upscale finishes throughout. The chef-inspired kitchen features premium Thermador appliances, luxury custom-designed cabinetry, and an open-concept layout perfect
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
Welcome to this stunning brand-new construction home in Seattle's sought-after Bitter Lake neighborhood. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2.25 bathrooms, this thoughtfully designed residence offers modern comfort and elevated style throughout. The gourmet kitchen showcases custom-designed cabinetry, premium Bosch appliances, and a seamless open-concept layout perfect for everyday living and entertaining.
Coveted end-unit townhome with TWO parking spaces (garage + dedicated space) & a private yard! Tucked away from the street in an established community, offering privacy, abundant natural light, and great outdoor spaces. Walls of windows illuminate the open-concept living area w/ Brazilian cherry hardwood floors, an electric fireplace, and a spacious kitchen featuring stainless steel appliances, a
Bittertree Condominiums is an eight-unit apartment building at 13310 Greenwood Ave N in Seattle’s Greenwood neighborhood. Built in 1996, the property features two large studios, two one-bedroom units, and four two-bedroom units. All units include in-unit washers and dryers, private balconies, and access to a secured garage with seven parking stalls. The building sits on a 6,787 SF LR3 (M) zoned
Step into charm and modern comfort in this Craftsman retreat. This beautifully updated 3bed + bonus room home blends timeless character w/ thoughtful upgrades. The spacious primary suite offers a peaceful escape, complete with a recently renovated 3⁄4 bath featuring a sleek walk-in shower, marble double-sink vanity, and heated towel rack. The main floor provides versatility, with a formal dining
Welcome to The Aries at Bitter Lake—an affordable, income-restricted community offering quality apartment homes in the heart of Bitter Lake.Designed for households who meet income qualifications, The Aries offers thoughtfully designed studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes featuring modern kitchens, spacious closets, and bright, open living spaces—all at an affordable
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
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;
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,
Welcome to 314 North 134th St in Seattle, WA! Large corner 1 and 2 Bedroom Unit, Lots of storage and very quiet. Our conveniently located building is a charming, safe, and quiet place to live. It is just 100 feet up from a beautiful private lake. Quiet, Bus, Deck, Security Lock. Water/Sewage/Garbage Included in rent! Absolutely No smoking/vaping or pets on the premises.Inside, you'll
Welcome to Avia Apartments, a boutique Greenwood community offering studio, one-, and two-bedroom homes with updated interiors, including LVP flooring, renovated kitchens and baths, and private patios or balconies. Residents enjoy on-site laundry, controlled access, and reserved parking. Located near restaurants, cafés, parks, and transit, Avia offers easy access to Aurora Ave N and the RapidRide
Experience top-tier community amenities at our affordable community of Linden Flats in Seattle, WA. Your pet can enjoy its own amenity in a bark park designed just for them. Our dedicated on-site leasing and management team is here to answer your questions and provide a personalized tour of our welcoming community.
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