Located on the western shores of Lake Union, Westlake is a waterfront community with sweeping views and city accessibility. Because of its scenic lakefront appeal, Westlake served as the setting of the 1993 rom-com hit film Sleepless in Seattle. The neighborhood's architectural diversity appeals to a wide range of buyers. Tall skyscrapers stand near traditional cottages along the cozy streets. The peaceful water to the east gives a welcome break from the sights and sounds of this bustling city. Westlake earns an A-plus rating from Niche and the community holds the No. 2 spot for the best neighborhoods to live in the state. Like many communities in Seattle, Westlake residents praise its commuting, outdoor activities, public schools and nightlife.
In Westlake, house boats as well as single family homes and condos are commonly found.
Westlake residents can easily take sailing classes at the Small Boat Center in Lake Union.
Just down the road from Westlake, you can take a plane ride on one of Kenmore Air's sea planes.
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Skyline views from houseboats and floating homes
On average, homes sell for close to $650,000 and sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 42 days. Westlake buyers can settle into a compact houseboat for $200,000 to $600,000, with prices increasing based on square footage and amenities. These unique floating homes stretch into the marina offering full views of the lake. Turnkey condos with city skyline views sell for $600,000, a popular choice for buyers who seek a more low-maintenance lifestyle. A bungalow or Tudor is a rare find. These sought-after properties start at around $1 million. Because of these unique offerings, Marcel Kluetz, Broker at Queen Anne Real Estate, says these attributes make Westlake one of the most desirable areas in the city.
In Westlake, you can occasionally find Crafstman inspired homes tucked in between many condos.
Modern townhomes and condos are commonly found on the sloping hills of Westlake in Seattle.
A row of House Boats under the Aurora Bridge in the Seattle neighborhood of Westlake.
In south Westlake, condos are mixed with commercial spaces due to its proximity to Downtown.
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Art-focused programs and post-secondary options
Many Westlake students begin their studies at Hay Elementary before ascending to McClure Middle and Lincoln High. All three schools earn an A-minus grade or better from Niche, with Lincoln High standing out as holding the 2023 state soccer championship. Families with kids also have a selection of nearby charter and private education options to explore. The Northwest School is a Grade 6 through 12 art-focused private program that has served the community for over three decades. The school is roughly three miles from the University of Washington and Seattle University. Established in 1861, UW is a public research university spread across over 700 acres, offering students a choice of over 180 majors. Seattle U is a progressive Jesuit Catholic private institution, founded in 1891 and serves over 7,000 on its 50-acre campus.
John Hay Elementary School street sign.
McClure Middle School is a public institution.
Welcome to The Northwest School.
Lincoln High in Wallingford is just a short commute away from Westlake in Seattle.
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Beach days, museums and passing the time on Lake Union
The Westlake Greenbelt attracts residents seeking a leisurely ride or run along its breezy shoreline. Locals often congregate on blankets spread across the grassy hillside, taking in the scenic views of Lake Union and the distant skyline. As evening approaches, dog walkers stroll through Tomas C. Wales Park, enjoying the sunset, with the lake as a backdrop. On the south side of the Lake Union Park Bridge, is the Museum of History and Industry, where residents can enjoy an outdoor lunch on the museum’s lawn. Along the way, is Goose Beach, where boating enthusiasts launch their small vessels while others relax nearby, taking in the surroundings.
The protected bike lanes along Lake Union green belt make for a pleasant ride in Westlake.
Westlake residents enjoy quiet time with their dogs by looking out into Lake Union.
Westlake locals love to enjoy warm summer days by relaxing near the lake shore.
Dog lovers will have a blast at Goose Beach in Westlake, right at South Lake Union Park.
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Sipping and shopping along Dexter Avenue
Westlake homeowners head to Dexter Avenue for dining out. Herkimer Coffee's sleek and airy outpost is a relaxing place to start the day with a beverage and a pastry. MotherIndia serves traditional staples of curries with locally sourced produce and ingredients. For after work, The Toledo features a happy hour with an edgy underground vibe with craft cocktails and elevated bar fare. This central locale is minutes from some of Emerald City's best food and beverage destinations, with endless options to explore. For additional shopping and local food spots, Kluetz recommends a stop at Belltown's edgy shops and galleries. Just like the restaurants and eateries, local grocers are just around the corner. Lyon's Grocery sells grocery essentials and pre-made sandwiches. Chain grocers such as Trader Joe's and QFC are also minutes away.
Trader Joe's in Queen Anne is very close to Westlake and is one of the main stores in the area.
Caffe Umbria in Westlake is one of many options to grab a cup of coffee or a scone.
Mother India's building in Westlake is characterized by its unique long and narrow shape.
Westlake locals flock to The Toledo for happy hour cocktails in a unique basement bar vibe.
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Traveling to Downtown Seattle and other nearby areas
Westlake is convenient to Downtown Seattle, especially for office commuters who will have a 2-mile trip to the city center. Westlake is also a pedestrian-friendly area with sidewalks and plenty of access to public transportation. Homeowners are blocks from the Link Light Rail station and the RapidRide bus stops, making a car-free lifestyle possible in this accessible location.
Westlake stands out as a coveted waterfront community, offering a blend of scenic beauty, architectural diversity and city accessibility.
Bus commuters can catch route 62 which runs through Westlake's Dexter Avenue super frequently.
There are endless amazing amenities you can access within walking distance of Westlake.
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
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Hanif Ratansi,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Trolley Hill Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Playground
Lake Union Park
Boating
Fishing
Kayak/Canoe
Bhy Kracke Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Playground
Thomas C. Wales Park
Dog Park
Trails
Hiking
MacLean Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Multi-Purpose Field
5th and Lynn Park
Transit
Airport
Seattle-Tacoma International
27 min drive
Bus
Westlake Ave N & Highland Dr
Bus
Aurora Ave N & Prospect St
Bus
Westlake Ave N & Crockett St
Bus
Westlake Ave N & Galer St
Bus
Aurora Ave N & Galer St
Bus
Dexter Ave N & Galer St
Bus
Aurora Ave N & Crockett St
Reviews
Niche Reviews
4.02 Reviews
4.0
7/17/2017Niche Review
This location is great for those who work downtown and don't want a long commute. It is close to everything; restaurants, stores, downtown on Seattle waterfront. Not exactly a family neighborhood, more for career oriented singles or couples. Some street noises but nothing too bad.
End-of-dock Seattle houseboat with panoramic open-water views, a spacious rooftop deck, and two covered main-level decks. Enjoy vaulted ceilings, walls of windows, a full kitchen with a breakfast bar, a built-in queen bed, a full bath, and onboard laundry. The upper bonus room is ideal for entertaining, an office, or a guest space. Watch fireworks, Duck Dodge, water planes, and sunrises over Lake
Just reduced! New price for this light-filled condo in Westlake with stunning views of Lake Union. Grab it before it's gone! Walking distance to prime tech companies; Minutes to Downtown Seattle; Bus station right in front of the building. Open-concept layout offering ample nature light. Updated kitchen showcasing granite countertops, SS appliances, and abundant cabinet storage. Spacious bedroom
Exceptional Floating Home on Lake Union (FOWR #740) Renovated, this stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence is perfectly moored on South Lake Union. The open-concept features a sunlit living room, modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and a spacious dining area. Enjoy serene waterfront living just minutes from Downtown Seattle, Fremont, and the University. Annual moorage lease $2,500/mo
City Living Made Simple~Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in this rare main-floor 2-bedroom condo, ideally located just steps from downtown Seattle. Surrounded by major employers like Amazon, Swedish, and Virginia Mason, this home is a commuter’s dream. Inside, you’ll find an open, light-filled layout with a welcoming living area and a well-equipped kitchen ready for your next
Welcome aboard 'Ginger'—your floating oasis at the End of the dock on Lake Union in the open water and NO obstructed views. This modern Seattle houseboat offers a rare lifestyle on the water with stunning views from the expansive rooftop deck. Featuring a queen bedroom, queen sleeping loft, washer/dryer, and clever storage throughout, it lives large—ideal as a full-time residence or weekend
Step aboard a whimsical, artist-inspired 2BR/1BA Seattle Houseboat~one of Seattle’s original City-Registered Housebarges. Located on a desirable outer dock with a leased slip and unobstructed Lake Union views through a wall of windows. Upper level features grand artistic pillars, an open living/dining/kitchen with granite counters and newly refinished floors. Walk or bike to Google, Adobe,
Leeward is your home in South Lake Union, with a social scene all its own and stylish studio, one-, and two-bedroom floor plans that offer two schemes of contemporary finishes including flat panel cabinetry, quartz countertops, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and wood-style flooring.
Light and bright, this east-facing 1-bedroom condo puts you front and center with sweeping views of Lake Union throughout. The well-thought-out floorplan welcomes you with an inviting entry, a spacious living room filled with natural light, a cozy gas fireplace, and a private patio. The kitchen is an entertainer’s dream with ample storage, generous counter space, an island, and an adjoining
You'll love coming home to Summit at Lake Union Apartments in Seattle, offering renovated apartments with modern kitchens and baths. Invite your friends over for a barbeque on our rooftop deck and enjoy the picturesque view of Lake Union, the Cascade Mountains, and Downtown Seattle. The convenience of our close proximity to Downtown Seattle, I-5, Hwy 99, and public transportation means that
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Hanif Ratansi,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
3,480
Median Age
33
Population Density
36 ppl/acre
Population under 18
14.1%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
3.2%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$158,814
Significantly above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$178,052
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
100%
College Graduates
89.1%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
45.3%
Significantly above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
89.5%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
40''
Average Winter Low Temperature
36°F
Average Summer High Temperature
76°F
Annual Snowfall
8''
Area Factors
Very Bikeable
Bike Score®
86/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
82/ 100
Good Transit
Transit Score®
69/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
