Living in Brier, Washington – a Suburban City North of Seattle

Living in Brier, Washington – a Suburban City North of Seattle

If you’re planning to relocate to Seattle and seeking a quiet, suburban community, Brier, WA might be the perfect place for you. Located just 15 miles north of Seattle, living in Brier, WA offers a serene retreat from the city’s hustle, yet provides easy commuting options. This peaceful town boasts a variety of housing choices, appealing to both home buyers and renters alike. In this guide, we’ll explore the housing market in Brier, compare it to nearby urban neighborhoods like the Central District, Leschi, and Capitol Hill, and discuss why living in Brier, WA stands out for those considering a move to the Seattle area.

Housing Options in Brier: Houses, Condos, and Apartments

Houses: Brier is predominantly known for its spacious, single-family homes, often set on large lots with a suburban, small-town feel. Prices for homes in Brier generally range from $700,000 to $1.1 million, with plenty of space for families, pets, and gardens. It’s a great option for buyers seeking privacy and tranquility without sacrificing proximity to the city.

Condos: While Brier is more of a single-family home community, there are some condo developments in nearby areas like Mountlake Terrace or Lynnwood. Condos tend to be more affordable, with prices ranging from $350,000 to $500,000, offering a lower-maintenance lifestyle for professionals and young families.

Apartments: Rental options are somewhat limited within in Brier itself, but you’ll find more apartment complexes just outside the city in neighboring towns like Lynnwood and Bothell. Prices for 2-bedroom apartments in these areas typically range from $1,800 to $2,800 per month.

Comparison to Central District, Leschi, and Capitol Hill

Central District: Located closer to downtown Seattle, the Central District offers a more urban environment with smaller homes, condos, and townhouses. Housing prices are higher, with single-family homes starting around $900,000. The area is ideal for those seeking a diverse, culturally rich neighborhood with quick access to downtown amenities, but you’ll trade off the larger lots and quiet atmosphere of Brier for a more fast-paced urban setting.

Leschi: Leschi sits on the shores of Lake Washington and offers a mix of waterfront homes and urban living. Like the Central District, housing in Leschi comes at a premium, especially for waterfront properties. While Leschi is closer to the city, Brier provides a more suburban feel with much larger properties and less traffic congestion.

Capitol Hill: Known for its nightlife, restaurants, and arts scene, Capitol Hill offers an energetic lifestyle. Homes and condos in Capitol Hill come with higher price tags, often exceeding $1 million. While Brier lacks the vibrancy of Capitol Hill, it compensates with a family-oriented, peaceful environment and larger homes.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Brier

Advantages:

• Tranquility and Space: Brier’s suburban layout means larger homes, spacious lots, and quiet streets, perfect for those seeking peace and privacy.
• Family-Friendly: With parks, schools, and family-centric activities, Brier is ideal for families looking to settle down in a safe, suburban environment.
• Access to Nature: Brier’s proximity to parks and natural spaces makes it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Lynnwood and Mountlake Terrace areas offer hiking trails and recreational parks.

Disadvantages:

• Longer Commute: While it’s relatively close to Seattle, commuting during rush hour can still take 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Limited Public Transportation: Brier doesn’t offer extensive public transit options. You’ll likely need a car to get around, making it less walkable compared to neighborhoods like Capitol Hill or the Central District.
• Fewer Urban Amenities: The quieter, residential nature of Brier means fewer entertainment and dining options nearby, so residents often travel to Seattle or nearby suburbs for shopping and nightlife.

Public Transportation and Walkability in Brier

While Brier is close to Seattle, it isn’t a walkable neighborhood. Most errands will require a car, and public transportation is limited to bus routes in surrounding areas like Lynnwood or Mountlake Terrace. However, for commuters, Brier’s proximity to major highways like I-5 and I-405 provides relatively easy access to downtown Seattle, Bellevue, and other employment hubs.

Grocery shopping is accessible with several stores like Safeway and QFC located a short drive away, but there are fewer options within walking distance.

Crime Levels and Schools

Crime: Brier is known for being a safe, family-friendly community. Crime levels are lower than in urban neighborhoods like the Central District or Capitol Hill, making it an attractive option for families and professionals.

Schools: The Edmonds School District serves Brier and is well-regarded for its academic performance. Schools like Brier Elementary and Brier Terrace Middle School are highly rated, which is another reason why families gravitate towards this neighborhood.

Things to Do in Brier

Though Brier itself is quiet, there are plenty of nearby attractions and activities:

• Brier Park: A local favorite, offering playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.
• Lynnwood Recreation Center: Located just a short drive away, this facility has a pool, gym, and other family-friendly amenities.
• Shopping in Alderwood Mall: For more extensive shopping, Alderwood Mall in Lynnwood is just 10 minutes away and features a wide variety of retail stores and restaurants.

However, if you’re looking for more nightlife or cultural activities, you’ll likely need to venture into Seattle or surrounding suburbs like Lynnwood or Everett.

Other Neighborhood Options

If Brier doesn’t meet your needs, here are a few other neighborhoods to consider:

• Mountlake Terrace: Just south of Brier, Mountlake Terrace offers more affordable homes and a quicker commute to Seattle.
• Bothell: A bit further east, Bothell provides a balance of suburban charm with easy access to employment centers like Bellevue and Redmond.
• Shoreline: Located closer to downtown Seattle, Shoreline offers more urban amenities while still maintaining a suburban feel. Homes here are priced similarly to Brier but offer quicker commutes and more public transportation options.

Is Brier the Right Fit for You?

For employees relocating to Seattle, Brier offers the peace and space of suburban living while keeping you within commuting distance of downtown. With affordable housing options, great schools, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Brier is an appealing choice for homebuyers. If you’re looking for a slower pace of life without sacrificing access to urban conveniences, this neighborhood in Seattle might be just what you’re looking for. However, if proximity to the city or public transportation is more important, neighborhoods like Mountlake Terrace or Shoreline may be better options.