Living in Martha Lake: Why This Quiet Community Is Gaining Popularity
Living in Martha Lake: Why This Quiet Community Is Gaining Popularity
If you’re exploring peaceful yet convenient places to live in Snohomish County, you’ll want to take a closer look at Living in Martha Lake. Tucked between Mill Creek and Lynnwood, this unincorporated community offers the perfect balance of suburban calm and urban access. While it may not have the name recognition of larger neighboring cities, Martha Lake has been quietly attracting more homebuyers thanks to its natural beauty, affordable housing options, and easy commuter routes.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, growing family, or someone looking to settle down in a neighborhood with strong local appeal, living in Martha Lake might be exactly what you’re looking for. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from real estate trends and schools to lifestyle amenities and who this community is best suited for—so you can decide if Martha Lake should be your next move.
Location & Accessibility
One of the biggest advantages of living in Martha Lake is its prime central location in South Snohomish County. Nestled just west of Mill Creek and northeast of Lynnwood, Martha Lake offers quick access to major highways like I-5 and I-405, making it an ideal spot for commuters headed to Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, or the Eastside tech corridor.
This unincorporated community is part of the greater Lynnwood/Mill Creek area, meaning residents enjoy access to city-style conveniences without being in the middle of the bustle. Most homes are within a 5- to 10-minute drive of shopping centers, grocery stores, restaurants, and essential services. Park & Ride lots, including Ash Way and Mariner Park & Ride, are just around the corner, offering express bus service for those commuting to downtown Seattle or the University District.
You’ll also find Martha Lake Park, a local favorite with a dock, swimming area, and walking trails—making it easy to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the neighborhood. For travelers, Paine Field Airport is less than 20 minutes away, offering quick flights to West Coast destinations.
Housing & Real Estate
If you’re considering living in Martha Lake, it’s important to understand the area’s real estate landscape, which has experienced notable shifts over the past year. Martha Lake offers a wide range of housing options, from mid-century ramblers and split-level homes to modern new construction on larger suburban lots. Many homes feature two-car garages, yards with mature landscaping, and proximity to quiet residential streets. The area also includes a modest selection of townhomes, condominiums, and well-maintained apartment communities, appealing to both homeowners and renters alike.
As of May 2025, home values in Martha Lake reflect both high demand and market fluctuations. Zillow estimates the average home value in Martha Lake at approximately $887,910, showing a 3.4% increase over the past year. Realtor.com reports a median listing price of $1.1 million, up 25% from the previous year, while Redfin shows a median sale price of $775,000—representing a 31.4% drop year-over-year. These contrasting figures suggest a split between aspirational listing prices and buyer negotiation power in the current market. Rocket Homes adds that the median list price in the Martha Lake East sub-area is around $890,000, up nearly 8% year-over-year.
Homes in Martha Lake typically sell quickly, with Redfin reporting an average of 13 days on the market and Rocket Homes noting 18 days in the East Martha Lake sub-area. While this is slightly longer than last year, it still reflects strong buyer interest and limited inventory. In fact, Rocket Homes recorded just six active listings in May 2025, a slight increase from the previous month but still indicative of a competitive environment.
For renters, living in Martha Lake remains relatively affordable compared to nearby urban centers. According to Zillow, average rent is about $2,049 per month, while Niche estimates median rent at $2,014. Apartment communities such as Martha Lake Apartments offer one- to three-bedroom units ranging from approximately $1,589 to $2,717 per month, many with desirable amenities like fitness centers, pools, and in-unit laundry.
Overall, the Martha Lake real estate market presents a compelling option for buyers seeking suburban comfort without sacrificing access to amenities and major employers. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, move-up purchaser, or investor, the area offers a mix of affordability, value appreciation, and lifestyle benefits that make living in Martha Lake an increasingly attractive choice.
Comparison to Seattle: Key Lifestyle Indicators
Here’s a targeted comparison for clients exploring Living in Martha Lake versus moving to Seattle. These data points highlight affordability, housing, and commute differences clearly:
| Metric | Martha Lake (CDP) | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | ~90 (≈16% cheaper than Seattle) | ~105–110 (~45% above U.S. avg) |
| Median Home Price | ~$887,910 average value; ~$775K sold; $890K list price | ~$849K–898K median sold; King County median ~$1.03M |
| Average Rent | ~$2,049/month | ~$2,119–2,258/month |
| Days on Market | 13–18 days | ~10 days |
| Commute & Accessibility | Close to I‑5/I‑405, Paine Field, local Park & Rides | City-wide transit; longer internal commute but robust options |
| Overall Affordability | Generally more budget-friendly, especially in housing | Higher cost in housing, rent, groceries, and transport across the board |
Insights for Clients Considering Living in Martha Lake vs. Seattle:
- Housing costs are similar in scale, but Seattle’s median sold price and list prices tend to be slightly higher, especially in desirable neighborhoods. Martha Lake offers comparable value with fewer frills.
- Rent in Martha Lake is slightly lower than in Seattle, offering good value for families or remote workers.
- Temps on the market are short in both areas—10 days in Seattle, 13–18 in Martha Lake—meaning both markets are active, but Seattle moves fastest.
- Cost of living is meaningfully lower in Martha Lake—~16% cheaper overall—helping clients stretch their budgets for housing, day-to-day expenses, and lifestyle.
- Commuting from Martha Lake gives quick highway access and Park & Ride options without the dense urban traffic – a strong plus for suburban lifestyles with Seattle access.
Lifestyle & Amenities
When you think about Living in Martha Lake, the lifestyle benefits go far beyond the homes themselves. This community offers abundant green space, local attractions, and everyday conveniences that make suburban living both practical and enjoyable.
Martha Lake features two signature Snohomish County parks. Martha Lake Park is a 6-acre waterfront space that includes a dock, swimming area, picnic shelters, ADA-accessible pathways, and boardwalks over native wetland habitat. It’s ideal for summertime relaxation, fishing, or enjoying lake views year-round. Just a few blocks away, Martha Lake Airport Park offers nearly 29 acres of open space with soccer fields, a skate park, wooded walking trails, a bouldering area, and one of the county’s most popular off-leash dog parks. These parks are well-maintained by Snohomish County and are undergoing phased improvements, including upgraded playgrounds and restrooms.
Outdoor lovers will also appreciate access to nearby greenbelts and trails. The Interurban Trail, just a short drive away, connects Martha Lake with Everett, Lynnwood, and Shoreline, providing a car-free route for biking, jogging, or leisurely walks.
In terms of entertainment and recreation, Arena Sports in Mill Creek is a local favorite for indoor soccer, laser tag, arcade games, and family-friendly zip-line play zones. This facility draws families from all over South Snohomish County and adds to the area’s strong reputation for kid-friendly activities.
For daily convenience, residents of Martha Lake are just minutes from grocery stores, big-box retailers, and dining options. Everyday errands are easily handled with nearby Safeway, Walmart, and neighborhood centers. For a broader retail experience, Mill Creek Town Center and Alderwood Mall are close by. Mill Creek Town Center blends walkable charm with over 80 shops and restaurants, while Alderwood Mall features major department stores, luxury brands, and a movie theater.
Whether you’re spending the afternoon at the lake, walking the dog in a wooded park, or meeting friends for dinner nearby, Living in Martha Lake offers the kind of low-stress, high-convenience lifestyle that more buyers are beginning to prioritize.
Schools & Education
For many families considering living in Martha Lake, access to quality public schools is a key factor. The community is primarily served by the Edmonds School District, with some portions extending into the Mukilteo and Everett school districts depending on location. These districts offer a variety of elementary, middle, and high schools, along with specialized programs and language support services.
The main elementary school within the Martha Lake neighborhood is Martha Lake Elementary, part of the Edmonds School District. The school serves students from kindergarten through sixth grade and has a total enrollment of approximately 479 students. According to GreatSchools, Martha Lake Elementary currently holds an overall rating of 4 out of 10, with about 42% of students meeting math proficiency and 47% meeting reading proficiency standards. State performance rankings place the school in the bottom 50% of all public schools in Washington. Niche gives the school a “B” grade overall, ranking it #580 among Washington public elementary schools.
Although test scores are average, Martha Lake Elementary stands out for its diverse and inclusive environment. Over 39 different languages are spoken in the school, and it provides English language learning (ELL) support and Title I programs. The student-teacher ratio is approximately 16:1, which is consistent with district averages.
For middle and high school, most students continue to schools such as Alderwood Middle School and Lynnwood High School, though zoning may vary. Lynnwood High School has a strong reputation for its college and career readiness programs, including pathways in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and computer science.
Overall, the Edmonds School District is rated B+ on Niche, reflecting solid performance in academics, diversity, college prep, and extracurriculars. While Martha Lake Elementary may not have the highest test scores in the region, the broader district provides access to higher-performing schools within a short drive, and school choice options allow families to explore alternatives based on their preferences.
School Ratings Overview: GreatSchools & Niche
| School / District | GreatSchools Rating | Niche Grade | Enrollment | Student‑Teacher Ratio | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martha Lake Elementary (K–6) | 4 / 10 | B overall | ~522 | 15 : 1 | 42% math, 47% reading proficiency; highly diverse (%128/1,303 in diversity) |
| Edmonds School District (20,000+ stu.) | — | B+ overall | 21,700 | ~19 : 1 | Large district (34 schools); strong in diversity, college prep, inclusive learning |
| Mukilteo School District (1,500–15,000) | — | — | 15,270 | 17.3 : 1 | Covers parts of Martha Lake; similar district profile |
Data Summary
- GreatSchools rates Martha Lake Elementary at 4/10, below the state average. It scored 3 in test scores and 4 in student progress.
- Niche gives the school a “B” grade (#580/1,303 in Washington) and highlights exceptional diversity with an A+ diversity grade.
- The Edmonds School District holds a B+ from Niche, praised for diversity, college prep, and inclusivity.
- A portion of Martha Lake falls into the Mukilteo School District, which serves over 15,000 students and showcases a similar demographic profile.
Community Vibe
Understanding the character of a neighborhood is just as important as schools or housing when you’re considering living in Martha Lake. Here’s a look at the community ambiance, demographic makeup, and the overall feel that make Martha Lake attractive to a growing range of residents.
Neighborhood Character
Martha Lake offers a peaceful, suburban feel with mature trees, well-maintained yards, and quiet streets. The community is built around lakefront and park spaces, giving residents easy access to kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying nature—all without the need for a lengthy commute. Housing ranges from older, established homes to newer developments, providing a mix of character, charm, and modern conveniences.
Demographics & Diversity
One of Martha Lake’s strongest assets is its diversity. The neighborhood reflects a mix of long-term residents and newcomers, with a wide range of cultural backgrounds represented. This diversity is reflected in local schools, community gatherings, and day-to-day life. It contributes to an inclusive and welcoming neighborhood culture.
Family-Friendly Culture
The area is popular with families—kids playing at the park, multiple generations walking or biking together, and neighbors chatting over fences or at community events. With playgrounds, concert series in nearby Mill Creek, and family-focused events at the Town Center and Arena Sports, there’s a strong sense of togetherness. It feels like a place where people truly know each other.
Safety & Maintenance
Snohomish County maintains parks and public spaces, and crime rates in Martha Lake are generally lower than average for South Snohomish County. Streets and public areas are clean and well-lit, contributing to a sense of security and comfort.
Resident Engagement
Residents often engage in neighborhood groups—online forums, HOA-style check-ins, and volunteer activities tied to park cleanups or local school fundraisers. While there is no formal city council, the community voices—through county meetings and local associations—play a key role in planning and redevelopment efforts.
Why the Community Atmosphere Matters for Buyers
- Suburban peace: Less traffic, more space, and a slower pace than urban centers.
- Inclusive environment: A community that welcomes diverse cultures, ages, and household types.
- Family-oriented: Designed for growing families with a clear focus on parks, community events, and safety.
- Quiet momentum: This is an area on the rise—quiet now, with growing recognition as more people discover its benefits.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great commuter location | Traffic near 164th/I-5 |
| Proximity to parks and trails | Not walkable everywhere |
| Good value vs. nearby cities | No official city services (not incorporated) |
| Quiet residential vibe | Some areas still developing |
Cost of Living
Here’s a clear comparison of key cost‑of‑living metrics for Living in Martha Lake compared to the broader Seattle area, giving clients a concise view of where their money goes:
| Metric | Martha Lake, WA | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living index | 120 – 136 (20 – 36 % above US average) numbeo.com+15city-data.com+15apartments.com+15axios.com+1investopedia.com+1 | ~158 (58 % above US avg; 45 % by Payscale) |
| Housing (buy) | Median home ~$628K – $670K | Seattle median ~$1.08M – $1.09M |
| Rent (2‑bedroom) | ~$2,062 – $2,210/month | ~$3,200/month on average |
| Utilities | ~69 index (30 % below US avg) | ~1–2 % above US avg |
| Transportation | Slightly above US avg (gas/car ins.) | ~30 % above US avg |
| Groceries | ~5–11 % above US avg | ~10–11 % above US avg |
| Healthcare & misc. services | Utilities low, healthcare typical | Healthcare ~28 % above US avg; goods/services ~22 % higher |
Key Takeaways
- Overall cost of living is significantly lower in Martha Lake compared to Seattle—estimates range from 20 % to 36 % above national average vs. ~58 % for Seattle.
- Housing is the main driver: Martha Lake home and rent prices are substantially more affordable—median home around $630K vs. $1.08M; rent ~$2.1K vs. ~$3.2K per month.
- Utilities in Martha Lake are notably cheaper—about 30% below U.S. average compared to Seattle’s slightly above.
- Transportation and groceries run consistently higher than U.S. averages in both locations, though Seattle is more expensive by 20–30%.
- Healthcare and goods/services are costly in both areas, but Seattle again comes out higher overall.
For clients evaluating living in Martha Lake, the savings on housing and utilities are clear advantages—without sacrificing access to suburban and urban advantages. Let me know if you’d like a breakdown of income requirements, property tax comparisons, or cost projections tied to lifestyle levels.
Who Is Martha Lake For?
Living in Martha Lake appeals to a variety of homebuyers who want suburban comfort with convenient access to shopping, schools, and transportation. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a growing family, a downsizing retiree, or a commuter priced out of Seattle, Martha Lake offers a balanced lifestyle with excellent long-term value.
Ideal Residents
- Families with children looking for safe neighborhoods, parks, and community.
- Commuters working in Everett, Lynnwood, Seattle, or the Eastside.
- Remote workers who want more space at a lower cost than Seattle proper.
- Retirees and downsizers who value quiet streets and low-maintenance living.
- First-time homebuyers seeking affordability and long-term growth potential.
Pros and Cons of Living in Martha Lake
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| More affordable home prices than Seattle and Mill Creek | Car-dependent; limited walkability in most areas |
| Peaceful, suburban atmosphere with natural surroundings | Average academic ratings for some local public schools |
| Convenient access to I-5, I-405, and Paine Field | Fewer dining, arts, and nightlife options than Seattle |
| Well-maintained parks and family-friendly recreation options | No incorporated city government; relies on Snohomish County services |
| Lower cost of living and utilities compared to urban King County | Limited housing inventory can lead to competition for listings |
| High diversity and a welcoming, inclusive community culture | Some neighborhoods still undergoing infrastructure improvements |
If you’re looking for a quiet place to call home, with room to breathe and strong long-term potential, living in Martha Lake offers a lifestyle that’s both grounded and full of opportunity.
Is Living in Martha Lake Right for You?
If you’re looking for a place that offers suburban peace without cutting you off from the essentials—commute routes, shopping, schools, and nature—living in Martha Lake might be the perfect fit. This quiet, unincorporated community in Snohomish County is gaining popularity for good reason: it delivers affordability, access, and a strong sense of neighborhood pride.
While it may not have the trendiness or walkability of Seattle’s inner neighborhoods, Martha Lake shines in what it offers: space, convenience, and a balanced lifestyle that’s ideal for families, retirees, and professionals alike.
Ready to Explore Homes in Martha Lake?
If you’re considering living in Martha Lake and want expert guidance on finding the right home—or just want to compare this area with others like Mill Creek or Lynnwood—I’m here to help.
Call me at (206) 245-8813 to schedule a consultation and get a professional analysis of your options and next steps.
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