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Bitter Lake, Seattle,WA

Neighborhood Data
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If you're considering a move to the north part of Seattle, Bitter Lake offers a charming blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. This neighborhood is known for its friendly community atmosphere and lush green spaces, making it a great spot for families and individuals who appreciate outdoor activities. One of the standout features of Bitter Lake is Bitter Lake Park, which boasts walking trails, a playground, and a pond perfect for relaxing afternoons or weekend picnics. The park is a local favorite, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

For those who enjoy a vibrant local scene, Bitter Lake doesn’t disappoint. The neighborhood has a growing number of cafes, eateries, and small shops that give it a cozy, small-town feel while still offering plenty of modern amenities. Bitter Lake Village is a notable spot where you can find a variety of dining options and community events. It's also a great place to meet neighbors and get involved in local happenings. Plus, the community often hosts farmers markets and seasonal festivals, adding to the neighborhood’s inviting vibe.

While Bitter Lake feels like a peaceful escape, it's also conveniently close to Downtown Seattle, making it an excellent choice for commuters. The drive to the city center typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic, and there are public transit options that connect the neighborhood to various parts of Seattle. This accessibility allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: a quieter living environment with easy access to the cultural and professional opportunities of downtown.

Community Snapshot

Population 9,489
Density (People/sqml.) 9,326
Median Age 45.5
Married Couples
37%
37% of the population of Bitter Lake aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
14%
14% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

14% of the Bitter Lake population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 14% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Bitter Lake neighborhood age breakdown chart

Bitter Lake demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 9,489, the number of residents who reside in Bitter Lake is about average in size compared to other Seattle neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Boasting a population density of 9,326, Bitter Lake is more densely populated than many other Seattle neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 46, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in Bitter Lake

Crime Safety Index Score Locked 1 2 3 4 5

 

Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Bitter Lake neighborhood age breakdown chart

Bitter Lake Crime Map

The Bitter Lake crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

? /10
Home Price $669,864
Median Rent $1,646
People/Household 2.0

Home Price Breakdown

Bitter Lake neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 62% Own 39%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 46% After 2010 54%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Bitter Lake, home prices come in around $669,864, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Bitter Lake can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $1,646, rental rates in Bitter Lake are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Starbucks
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Rain Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Theatre Arts
Theatre Arts
min.
min.
AMC Oak Tree 6
Cinema
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Krispy Kreme
Fast Food
min.
min.
Jack in the Box
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Sprouts Farmers Market
Grocery Store
min.
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Amazon Fresh
Grocery Store
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Parks

Playground
Playground
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Lowe's
Home Improvement
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7-Eleven
Convenience Store
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min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Aurora Ave N & N 125th St
Bus Stop
min.
min.
Greenwood Ave N & N 125th St
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

B/C Wing
Clinic
min.
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University of Washington Medical Center - Northwest
Hospital
min.
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Health Care

Broadview Family Dentistry
Dentist
min.
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Kidz Dental Haven
Dentist
min.
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Safety

Seattle City Fire Station Number 24
Fire Station
min.
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North Precinct
Police
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Education Service Centers
1330 N 90 St, Seattle, WA
High School 6 - 12 School Score
Northgate Elementary School
11725 1 Av Ne, Seattle, WA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Broadview-Thomson K-8 School
13052 Greenwood Av N, Seattle, WA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Shoreline-Monroe High School
16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline, WA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Dartmoor School
9618 Roosevelt Way Ne, Seattle, WA
High School 7 - 12 School Score
Viewlands Elementary School
10525 3 Av Nw, Seattle, WA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
The Evergreen School
15201 Meridian Ave N, Shoreline, WA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Bitter Lake. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Bitter Lake can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.

Economy

? /10
Income Per Capita $58,531
Household Income $89,533
Unemployment 4.0%

Income Breakdown

Bitter Lake Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors help define the character and opportunities within a neighborhood, shaping everything from lifestyle to overall accessibility. Household incomes in Bitter Lake average around $89,533, which is about on par with many surrounding neighborhoods. This balanced income level supports a diverse community and offers a stable, well-rounded environment for residents.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In Bitter Lake, the unemployment rate sits at around 4%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

Bitter Lake features a diverse mix of housing options including single-family homes, townhouses, and low-rise apartments. Many of the single-family homes are mid-century bungalows and craftsman-style houses, reflecting the neighborhood's development during the mid-20th century. There are also newer townhome developments catering to families and young professionals looking for more modern layouts.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, Bitter Lake is conveniently located near Aurora Avenue North (State Route 99), providing easy access to both Downtown Seattle and northern suburbs. In terms of public transit, the neighborhood is served by several King County Metro bus routes, including routes that connect to the Link Light Rail stations at Northgate and University District, making commuting straightforward for residents.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Bitter Lake has an active community calendar featuring events such as the annual Bitter Lake Community Festival held at Bitter Lake Playfield. This event typically includes local vendors, food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities. Additionally, the Bitter Lake Community Center hosts seasonal classes, workshops, and neighborhood meetings that foster a strong sense of connection among residents.

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