The Puget Sound real estate market in 2025 showed increased closed sales compared to previous years in many areas, with both King County and Snohomish County remaining among the most active and desirable housing markets in Washington state. (KW North Sound: Amy Wagner, Realtor) These counties have strong job markets, excellent amenities, and diverse lifestyle options, which helps drive transaction volume throughout the year.
Below are six neighborhoods and communities that stood out in 2025 — three from King County and three from Snohomish County — where a high volume of homes traded hands.
King County Neighborhoods
1. Seattle — Central & North Seattle
Why it’s popular: Seattle remains the largest and most active residential real estate hub in King County, with robust closed sales, especially in walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods. The city’s diverse job market — led by major tech employers — and access to culture, transit, and outdoor recreation continue to attract buyers. (Realtor)
- Lifestyle: Urban living with easy access to shops, restaurants, and parks
- Schools: Strong public and private options in many areas
- Transit: Light rail and bus corridors make commuting easier
What buyers like: Proximity to downtown, vibrant neighborhoods, and relatively strong resale values make Seattle a perennial hot market. Neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, Ballard, and Phinney Ridge see consistent sales and steady turnover.
2. Bellevue
Why it’s popular: Bellevue — part of the booming Eastside — is consistently among the most desirable places in King County. High median prices reflect its appeal: easy access to major employers, upscale shopping, and highly rated schools draw professionals and families alike. (Realtor)
- Lifestyle: Suburban feel with cosmopolitan amenities
- Economy: Rapid job growth, particularly in tech and corporate sectors
- Education: High-performing school districts
What buyers like: Bellevue offers a blend of luxury and convenience, from downtown high-rises to quiet single-family neighborhoods. Its strong resale market often results in frequent sales and multiple offers.
3. Bothell
Why it’s popular: Straddling the border of King County and Snohomish County, Bothell offers an appealing mix of suburban calm with city proximity. Its historic downtown, growing employment centers like Life Science facilities, and access to parks and trails attract diverse buyers including families and professionals. (Realtor)
- Lifestyle: Suburban with a touch of small-town charm
- Schools: Recognized local school districts
- Growth: Increasing jobs and commuter access to Seattle
What buyers like: Bothell is often seen as a value play — more affordable than Bellevue or Seattle proper, with strong community amenities and an active real estate market.
Snohomish County Neighborhoods
4. Everett
Why it’s popular: As Snohomish County’s largest city, Everett has been a frequent location for closed transactions in 2025. Buyers are attracted to the city’s combination of affordability, increasing local amenities, and proximity to Boeing’s major facilities and employment hubs. (Barnettassociates.net)
- Lifestyle: Urban edge with waterfront parks and community events
- Economy: Boeing and healthcare provide stable employment markets
- Housing: Options range from historic homes to new developments
What buyers like: Everett appeals to buyers seeking more space and value compared to King County’s pricier core, while remaining within commuting distance of Seattle and the Eastside.
5. Lynnwood
Why it’s popular: Lynnwood is one of Snohomish County’s busiest real estate markets. Its easy access to I-5, recent light rail extension, and the Alderwood area’s retail and dining make it especially attractive to commuters and families alike. (Barnettassociates.net)
- Lifestyle: Suburban convenience with big-box retail and amenities
- Transit: Strong highway and transit links to Seattle and beyond
- Growth: Continues to attract investment and development
What buyers like: Lynnwood combines practical living with strong resale demand — many buyers seeking convenience and value find it a well-balanced choice.
6. Mill Creek
Why it’s popular: Mill Creek is a highly desirable Snohomish County suburb known for its planned community feel, strong schools, and family-friendly amenities. Its homes often sell quickly due to consistent demand from buyers seeking space, tranquility, and community. (Barnettassociates.net)
- Lifestyle: Established suburban community with local shops and trails
- Schools: Excellent local school ratings
- Housing: Mix of mid-century homes and newer developments
What buyers like: Mill Creek’s reputation for quality living and its accessibility to major employment hubs make it a frequent choice for families and move-up buyers.
Trends That Help Explain These Market Patterns
Across both King and Snohomish counties, 2025 saw higher inventory levels year-over-year and a notable increase in active listings, reflecting buyer interest and seller participation. (Penny Kingdom Realty) Sales and closed transactions remained robust in many of the region’s core residential hubs — particularly in cities and neighborhoods that balance lifestyle, affordability, and access to services.
While median prices in King County remain among the highest in Washington, increasing over recent years, Snohomish County continues to attract buyers who want value without sacrificing access to employment and amenities. (Northwest Multiple Listing Service)
Why These Neighborhoods Attract Buyers
Whether it’s urban living in Seattle, the Eastside appeal of Bellevue, or the suburban comfort of Bothell, Everett, Lynnwood, and Mill Creek, buyers in 2025 prioritized:
- Convenient transportation and commute options
- Quality school districts and family-oriented neighborhoods
- Local amenities including parks, shopping, dining, and entertainment
- Value relative to price, especially in Snohomish County compared to King County core markets
This consistent demand helps explain why these areas often see high transaction volumes — there’s a strong match between buyer needs and what these communities offer.
Thinking About Buying or Selling in 2026?
Whether you’re interested in the bustling streets of Seattle, the suburban growth of Bothell or Lynnwood, or the established charm of Mill Creek or Bellevue, understanding local real estate activity in neighborhoods with high 2025 sales can inform your decisions.
Contact The Grant Team at RE/MAX Elite to discuss neighborhood trends, current pricing, and what’s happening right now in your specific area of interest. From King County to Snohomish County, we have the local expertise to help you buy or sell with confidence.