Thinking About Moving to Redmond, WA

📍 Redmond, WA at a Glance

• Population: 73,256
• Location: East of Lake Washington, 16 miles northeast of Seattle
• Incorporated: 1912
• Known For: Microsoft headquarters, “Bicycle Capital of the Northwest,” Marymoor Park

🗳️ Politics & Civic Life

Redmond leans progressive with strong environmental initiatives and tech-friendly policies. The city council focuses on sustainable growth, transit expansion, and maintaining green spaces. Community engagement is high, with active neighborhood associations and regular town halls addressing growth management and housing affordability.

🚓 Crime & Safety

Redmond consistently ranks as one of Washington’s safest cities, with crime rates well below state and national averages. The city maintains a responsive police force and strong community policing programs. Property crimes are minimal, and violent crime is rare, making it particularly attractive for families.

🍽️ Dining & Entertainment

The dining scene reflects Redmond’s international workforce, featuring everything from authentic Indian cuisine at Kanishka to upscale American fare at Woodblock. Stone House offers farm-to-table dining, while Tipsy Cow Burger Bar serves gourmet burgers. The city hosts numerous festivals including Derby Days and So Bazaar, plus outdoor concerts at Marymoor Park’s amphitheater.

🏛️ Local Government

Redmond operates under a mayor-council government system with seven council members elected at-large. The city is known for efficient services, balanced budgets, and forward-thinking planning. Major initiatives include the Downtown Redmond Link light rail extension and comprehensive urban village development plans.

🚍 Transportation

While car ownership is common, Redmond offers expanding transit options. The B Line rapid transit connects to Bellevue, and the future Link light rail (opening 2024) will provide direct Seattle connections. The city’s extensive trail system and bike lanes have earned it recognition as a bicycle-friendly community. Major highways SR-520 and I-405 provide regional access.

🏘️ Housing & Real Estate

Redmond’s housing market features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and modern apartments. Median home prices hover around $1.2 million, reflecting the area’s desirability and high-income demographics. Popular neighborhoods include Education Hill, Grass Lawn, and the emerging Downtown district with new mixed-use developments.

🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life

Outdoor enthusiasts thrive in Redmond with over 1,300 acres of parkland. Marymoor Park spans 640 acres with an off-leash dog area, climbing wall, and velodrome. The Sammamish River Trail connects to regional trail systems for miles of car-free cycling and walking. Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park offers equestrian facilities and environmental education programs.

💼 Job Market

Redmond’s economy centers on technology, with Microsoft employing over 50,000 people locally. Other major employers include Nintendo of America, SpaceX, and Facebook. The median household income exceeds $140,000, among the highest in Washington. The city actively supports startups and small businesses through innovation districts and business-friendly policies.

🧑‍🏫 Education

Lake Washington School District serves Redmond with highly-rated schools including Tesla STEM High School and Redmond High School. The district consistently ranks among Washington’s best. Private options include the Overlake School and Evergreen School. DigiPen Institute of Technology offers specialized higher education in game design and computer science.

🌞 Climate & Weather

Redmond enjoys a mild Pacific Northwest climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Average summer highs reach the mid-70s, while winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing. The city receives about 38 inches of rain annually, mostly between November and March, with occasional light snow in winter.

💬 Community Sentiment

Residents appreciate Redmond’s unique position offering both suburban tranquility and urban amenities. The strong sense of community, excellent schools, and abundant job opportunities create high satisfaction levels. Common concerns include rising housing costs and increased traffic from rapid growth, though most feel the city manages development thoughtfully.

✨ Why People Are Moving to Redmond

Redmond attracts newcomers with its unbeatable combination of tech industry opportunities, top-tier schools, and exceptional quality of life. Whether you’re a young professional drawn to innovative companies, a family seeking safe neighborhoods and great education, or an outdoor enthusiast wanting easy access to trails and parks, Redmond delivers on all fronts while maintaining the friendly, community-oriented atmosphere that makes the Pacific Northwest special.