Average Rent and Home Prices in Sammamish, WA

Imagine a cozy one-bedroom apartment in Sammamish, Washington — a modest 700 square feet with a galley kitchen, in-unit laundry, and a balcony overlooking a well-manicured courtyard. Rents for a unit like this typically fall around $1,800 per month, a price point that reflects the city’s desirable location and strong job market. But how does that monthly cost compare to owning a home in Sammamish? As you weigh an apartment vs house in Sammamish, it’s important to look beyond the sticker price and consider the full scope of expenses.

The Housing Market in Sammamish Today

Sammamish, located just east of Seattle, is known for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and convenient access to major employers like Microsoft and Amazon. These factors have kept the local housing market competitive, even as inventory has tightened in recent years. While new apartment complexes and townhome developments continue to rise, especially near the city center, demand still outpaces supply, putting upward pressure on both rents and home prices.

One trend that sets Sammamish apart is the focus on green space and walkability in new construction. Many apartment communities now feature nature trails, community gardens, and park-like landscaping, catering to residents who value an active outdoor lifestyle. Single-family neighborhoods, meanwhile, pride themselves on tree-lined streets and generously sized yards, though this does come with higher maintenance costs for homeowners.

Renting in Sammamish: What’s Typical?

As of 2023, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Sammamish hovers around $1,800 per month, while two-bedroom units command closer to $2,200. These prices can fluctuate based on factors like square footage, included amenities, and proximity to key locations like the Sammamish Commons or highly rated schools.

Renters in Sammamish tend to skew younger, with many units occupied by single professionals or couples without children. Popular areas for renters include the walkable downtown core and the Klahanie neighborhood, which offers a mix of apartments, condos, and townhomes with convenient access to shopping and trails. While rent growth has slowed compared to the double-digit spikes seen in the early 2020s, costs are still trending upward at a rate of about 3-4% per year.

Owning a Home in Sammamish

For those looking to purchase a home, Sammamish’s median sale price currently sits at $1.2 million — a figure that reflects the area’s larger lot sizes, newer construction, and premium location. Assuming a 20% down payment and a 30-year mortgage at 6.5% interest, a typical buyer can expect a monthly payment around $6,080 before taxes and insurance.

On top of the mortgage itself, Sammamish homeowners need to budget for expenses like property taxes (which average 0.92% of a home’s assessed value), homeowners insurance (around $1,200 per year for a median-priced property), and HOA dues, which can range from $200-800 per month depending on the community and amenities. Utilities and maintenance costs also tend to be higher for homeowners, given the larger square footage and outdoor upkeep involved.

Renters vs. Homeowners: Who Lives Where?

Sammamish has a homeownership rate of 82%, well above the national average of 65%. This is driven in part by the city’s high median income (over $170,000 per household) and a housing stock that skews heavily toward single-family homes. Older residents and those with children are more likely to own, often drawn by the spacious homes and top-notch school district.

Renting, meanwhile, is more common among younger singles and couples, who may not yet have the savings or income to afford Sammamish’s steep entry point for homeownership. The city’s growing supply of apartments and townhomes has made renting a more viable option in recent years, though rising rents can still pose a financial challenge, especially for those early in their careers.

Estimates reflect mid-range properties and average usage.

What’s Driving Costs Up or Down?

Sammamish’s housing costs are heavily influenced by the strength of the local job market, with major employers like Microsoft and Amazon driving demand for housing at all price points. At the same time, strict zoning regulations and a lack of developable land have constrained new construction, exacerbating the imbalance between supply and demand.

One factor that could help moderate costs in the coming years is the city’s push for more diverse housing options, including apartments, townhomes, and condos. By allowing higher density development in key areas, Sammamish hopes to create more affordable options for both renters and buyers. The city has also explored partnerships with non-profit developers to bring more income-restricted units to the market.

FAQs About Housing in Sammamish

• Is Sammamish affordable to live in? While Sammamish has a high cost of living compared to the national average, incomes here are also well above average. For many residents, the city’s premium housing costs are offset by its strong job market, excellent schools, and high quality of life. However, affordability can be a challenge for those in lower-paying fields or just starting their careers.
• Why are housing prices so high in Sammamish? Sammamish’s housing prices are driven by a combination of factors, including high demand (fueled by the area’s strong job market and desirable amenities), limited supply (due to strict zoning and a lack of developable land), and the overall premium of the Seattle metro area.
• How does the cost of living in Sammamish compare to nearby cities? Sammamish tends to be pricier than neighboring cities like Issaquah and Redmond, primarily due to its larger lot sizes and newer housing stock. However, it’s generally more affordable than Bellevue or Seattle proper, making it an attractive option for those who want a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities.

Making Smart Housing Decisions in Sammamish

As you weigh the cost of living in an apartment vs house in Sammamish, it’s important to look beyond the monthly rent or mortgage payment. Factors like utilities, insurance, maintenance, and even commute costs can have a big impact on your overall budget and quality of life. For a full breakdown of typical monthly expenses in the city, check out our guide to the Average Monthly Expenses in Sammamish, WA.

Ultimately, the right housing choice for you will depend on your unique financial situation, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals. By understanding the full picture of Cost of Living in Sammamish, WA — from the price of groceries to the cost of childcare — you can make an informed decision that fits your budget and supports the life you want to live in this vibrant, growing city.