Living in Sammamish, Ellensburg, or Beaux Arts Village, Washington: What You Need to Know

Whether you’re seeking family-friendly communities, outdoor recreation, or affordable housing, Sammamish, Ellensburg, and Beaux Arts Village each provide distinct advantages. This guide offers an informative analysis of these three locations, detailing essential facilities, amenities, schools, and community areas. Let’s explore what makes each town unique to help you decide which aligns with your lifestyle.

Sammamish: Suburban Excellence with Natural Beauty

Sammamish, a city in King County with a population of about 67,000, sits on a plateau east of Lake Sammamish, just 20 miles from Seattle. Known for its quality schools and outdoor recreation, it’s consistently ranked among the “best places to live” in Washington for families and professionals.

Neighborhoods and Housing

Sammamish blends suburban comfort with natural splendor. Trossachs offers stunning views of Lake Sammamish and the Cascades, with homes ranging from single-family to townhomes. Klahanie features tree-lined streets and proximity to parks, ideal for active lifestyles. The median home price is around $1.5 million, reflecting its premium status, with one-bedroom rentals averaging $2,200—less about “affordable housing” and more about upscale living near tech hubs.

Schools

Sammamish is split between two top-tier districts:

• Lake Washington School District serves the north, with schools like Eastlake High School and Inglewood Middle School.
• Issaquah School District covers the south, including Skyline High School and Pine Lake Middle School. These “quality schools” consistently rank high, making Sammamish “family-friendly” and education-focused.

Amenities and Facilities

Sammamish excels in outdoor recreation. Pine Lake Park offers boating and trails, while Beaver Lake Park is perfect for fishing and picnics. The Sammamish Commons hosts events, and healthcare is accessible via Swedish Issaquah Hospital nearby. Downtown features the Sammamish Farmers Market and boutique shops.

Community and Events

Sammamish fosters a vibrant community with events like the Sammamish Arts Fair and summer concerts at the Commons. Its low crime rate and proximity to Seattle’s job opportunities in tech (Microsoft, Amazon) enhance its appeal.

Cost of Living

Sammamish’s cost of living is high, driven by housing, but its exceptional quality of life and access to employment make it a top choice for those who can afford it.

Ellensburg: Small-Town Charm with Big Opportunities

Ellensburg, in Kittitas County with a population of about 20,000, lies along the Yakima River, offering a blend of rural charm and college-town energy. Home to Central Washington University (CWU), it’s one of the “best places to live” for affordable housing and outdoor recreation, 110 miles east of Seattle.

Neighborhoods and Housing

Ellensburg’s neighborhoods are quaint and walkable. Downtown Ellensburg features historic homes near shops and CWU, while West Ellensburg offers larger lots with rural views. The median home price is around $400,000, with one-bedroom rentals at $1,100—making it a standout for “affordable housing” in Washington.

Schools

Ellensburg is served by the Ellensburg School District, including:

• Ellensburg High School
• Morgan Middle School
• Lincoln Elementary
  CWU (Central Washington University) adds educational vibrancy, appealing to families and students alike.

Amenities and Facilities

Ellensburg is rich in outdoor recreation, with the Yakima River Canyon for rafting and fishing, and Irene Rinehart Riverfront Park for picnics. Downtown hosts the Ellensburg Farmers Market and cultural spots like the Clymer Museum. Healthcare is available at Kittitas Valley Healthcare.

Community and Events

Ellensburg’s community thrives with events like the Ellensburg Rodeo, a Labor Day tradition, and CWU-driven arts scenes. Its small-town feel and 300+ sunny days add to its allure.

Cost of Living

Ellensburg’s cost of living is below the state average, offering value for housing and daily expenses. Job opportunities in education, agriculture, and remote work make it practical for diverse residents.

Beaux Arts Village: Exclusive Living with Lakeside Serenity

Beaux Arts Village, a tiny enclave in King County with about 300 residents, sits on Lake Washington’s eastern shore, just north of I-90. Known for its exclusivity and charm, it’s one of the “best places to live” for those seeking privacy and coastal living near Bellevue.

Neighborhoods and Housing

Beaux Arts Village is a single, cohesive neighborhood of eclectic homes—vintage and modern—along narrow, tree-lined streets. Median home prices exceed $1.5 million, with limited rentals, reflecting its upscale, exclusive nature rather than “affordable housing.”

Schools

Residents rely on the Bellevue School District, featuring:

• Bellevue High School
• Chinook Middle School
• Clyde Hill Elementary
  These “quality schools” rank among the state’s best, making it “family-friendly” despite its small size.

Amenities and Facilities

Beaux Arts offers limited local amenities but boasts a private beach for residents, perfect for outdoor recreation like swimming and kayaking. Nearby Bellevue provides Bellevue Square for shopping and Overlake Medical Center for healthcare. The village’s proximity to Seattle enhances its appeal.

Community and Events

Beaux Arts fosters a close-knit community with informal gatherings and beach events. Its “small-town” vibe and low crime rate create a serene, secure atmosphere. Learn more at the Town of Beaux Arts Village website.

Cost of Living

Beaux Arts Village has a high cost of living, driven by premium real estate. Job opportunities in nearby Bellevue and Seattle (tech, healthcare) cater to its affluent residents.

Which Town is Right for You?

• Sammamish: Best for quality schools, outdoor recreation, and suburban living near Seattle. Ideal for families and tech professionals.
• Ellensburg: Perfect for affordable housing, small-town charm, and a college-town vibe. Great for students, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Beaux Arts Village: Suited for coastal living, exclusivity, and proximity to urban hubs. Ideal for affluent residents seeking privacy.

Sammamish, Ellensburg, and Beaux Arts Village each offer unique lifestyles among Washington’s “best places to live.” Whether you prioritize education, affordability, or luxury, these towns provide compelling options.