Kirkland, Washington, is a picturesque city located on the eastern shores of Lake Washington, just a short drive from Seattle. Known for its vibrant waterfront, arts scene, and strong community spirit, Kirkland offers a range of neighborhoods that cater to diverse lifestyles. Whether you're seeking a peaceful suburban retreat or a lively urban environment, Kirkland neighborhoods provide a unique blend of both. The city’s balance of natural beauty and modern convenience makes it a highly desirable place to live.
For those looking to explore the area, a detailed Kirkland neighborhood map is an invaluable resource. The map highlights neighborhoods like Houghton, Juanita, and Totem Lake, each with its own unique character and amenities. Whether you're drawn to the tranquility of a lakeside community or the vibrancy of a more urban area, the Kirkland neighborhood map helps you navigate the city and find the perfect spot to call home.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Norkirk | 3,459 | 2.14 | 83 |
| 2 | Everest | 1,423 | 0.88 | 82 |
| 3 | Totem Lake | 6,109 | 3.96 | 82 |
| 4 | Juanita | 12,795 | 4.59 | 80 |
| 5 | South Rose Hill | 3,485 | 2.04 | 80 |
When considering the best Kirkland neighborhoods, livability scores play a crucial role in determining the most desirable areas. These neighborhoods are chosen based on factors like access to local amenities, cost of living, crime rates, and school quality. The best Kirkland neighborhoods offer residents a high quality of life, with excellent schools, safe streets, and a wealth of recreational opportunities, making them ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Market-Downtown | 796 | 0.45 | 69 |
| 2 | Bridle Trails | 2,303 | 2.29 | 72 |
| 3 | Lake View | 2,099 | 1.01 | 74 |
| 4 | Highlands | 3,194 | 1.56 | 74 |
| 5 | North Rose Hill | 6,369 | 3.38 | 75 |
Some Kirkland neighborhoods may not score as highly on livability metrics due to issues like higher crime rates, fewer amenities, or limited access to quality schools. These areas might be considered the worst Kirkland neighborhoods, but they still offer unique benefits that could be appealing to certain residents. It's important to carefully consider these factors when choosing a neighborhood, as the worst Kirkland neighborhoods may still have advantages depending on your specific needs.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Juanita | 12,795 | 4.59 | 80 |
| 2 | North Rose Hill | 6,369 | 3.38 | 75 |
| 3 | Totem Lake | 6,109 | 3.96 | 82 |
| 4 | Houghton | 4,016 | 2.47 | 78 |
| 5 | South Rose Hill | 3,485 | 2.04 | 80 |
| 6 | Norkirk | 3,459 | 2.14 | 83 |
| 7 | Highlands | 3,194 | 1.56 | 74 |
| 8 | Moss Bay | 3,057 | 1.16 | 78 |
| 9 | Bridle Trails | 2,303 | 2.29 | 72 |
| 10 | Lake View | 2,099 | 1.01 | 74 |
Kirkland is a nature filled and exceptionally convenient place to call home. Just outside Seattle, Kirkland is filled with restaurants, pubs, the arts, parks, hiking trails, swimming, fishing and even beaches making this a great way to escape the hectic pace of city life. Commuting is easy to Seattle. Ample public transportation, and quick easy highway access with get you to Seattle in about 20 minutes. A great place to raise a family, Kirkland also has a great reputation for its excellent schools, low crime rate, pleasant weather and a great housing market. You’ll love Kirkland for all it has to offer and three neighborhoods in particular earned our nomination for areas we feel will make a great location to call home.
Norkirk, located on the West side of town located closest to Interstate 405 is an amenity filled dream. You wouldn’t be near Seattle without an ample supply of coffee shops, of which Kirkland has many. Restaurants and shopping are within easy reach and plentiful. The parks and recreation available are amazing. Spend a day at Waverly Park Beach, Tot Lock Park or Mini-Park all close to home. If you enjoy the arts, Kirkland Artist Studio Tour is a great way to keep abreast of the newest trends and local artists. Libraries and book stores are plentiful, and your kids will get a great education with top rated schools. A very low crime rate, great housing market and employment opportunities galore make the Norkirk neighborhood a great place to call home for families and anyone else who values convenience and endless amenities.
If you want to be close to it all and appreciate myriad activities, a strong sense of community and being close to it all, the Highlands neighborhood is where you’ll want to call home. Located right off Interstate 405, you’ll have quick and easy access to highways and public transit. Not only does Highlands offer you more shopping and dining options than imaginable such as Bottle Your Brand, where you can make your own wine labels among other tasty concoctions. Local breweries and coffee shops will give you the Seattle vibe, while remaining close to nature. Not only will you be close to the beach, but also to golf and tons of parks right within your own neighborhood. This is a great area for both singles and families due to its diversity, great housing market and schools. This neighborhood also has a lower population density than most of Kirkland, so you’ll be able to enjoy more open space, while still being close to the action. So many folks love to call Highlands their home and you will too!
Very appropriately named Moss Bay, you’ll be right on the water in this upscale Seattle suburb. A short trip across the bay and you have quick access to Seattle in about a half an hour commute. The 405 interstate and public transit are right within the neighborhood for convenience. Moss Bay gives you spectacular views and more parks and recreation than you can even imagine. Have a picnic at Marina Park Pavilion right on the water or perhaps dine in at Anthony’s Home Port, also right on Moss Bay. The area is well balanced with grocery stores and retail shopping for all your needs right at your fingertips. It’s no wonder Google has an office here, as this neighborhood caters to professionals who want the best, but still get a great value for their money with great home prices that are a great investment. Good schools and a comfortable climate add to the already astonishing place so many professionals love to call home.