Living in Olympic Hills, Seattle – A Quiet and Convenient Seattle Neighborhood

Living in Olympic Hills, Seattle – A Quiet and Convenient Seattle Neighborhood

Living in Olympic Hills, WA offers residents a unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Nestled in the northern part of Seattle, Olympic Hills real estate is known for its quiet residential streets, tree-lined avenues, and a strong sense of community. Located within the Lake City area, Living in Olympic Hills provides access to a variety of homes for sale in Olympic Hills, ranging from mid-century properties to newer developments, making it an attractive option for homebuyers seeking affordability and accessibility.

With access to parks, schools, and shopping centers, Olympic Hills real estate trends show a steady demand among families, professionals, and retirees. The Olympic Hills housing market offers competitive prices compared to central Seattle neighborhoods, making it an excellent choice for those looking to settle in a well-connected, friendly community. Whether you’re interested in buying a home in Olympic Hills or learning about Olympic Hills neighborhood amenities, this area has plenty to offer.

Getting to Olympic Hills

Olympic Hills is conveniently located about 12 miles north of downtown Seattle, making it easily accessible for commuters. The neighborhood is well-connected by major roads such as I-5, Lake City Way (SR 522), and 15th Ave NE, which provide direct routes to various parts of the city. A typical drive from downtown Seattle to Olympic Hills takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Public transit options are also available, with multiple King County Metro bus routes, including Routes 65, 75, and 372, serving the area and providing direct access to the University of Washington and Northgate. For those who prefer rail transit, the Northgate Link Light Rail Station is just a short drive or bus ride away, offering fast and convenient connections to downtown Seattle and beyond.

What Will You See and Things to Do in Olympic Hills

Living in Olympic Hills provides a picturesque and peaceful environment, making it a highly desirable place to call home. The neighborhood is primarily residential, featuring a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and duplexes, many of which showcase mid-century and modern architectural designs. Homes in Olympic Hills often have spacious lots, mature trees, and well-maintained landscaping, adding to the area’s charm.

In addition to residential properties, Olympic Hills real estate is complemented by abundant greenery. The neighborhood is dotted with parks, walking trails, and open spaces, making it ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Thornton Creek runs through parts of the neighborhood, enhancing the area’s natural beauty and attracting local wildlife.

The community itself is family-friendly and diverse, with a mix of long-time residents and newcomers. Olympic Hills fosters a tight-knit, welcoming atmosphere, with local events, neighborhood clean-ups, and social gatherings contributing to the sense of belonging.

Nearby commercial hubs, such as Lake City and Northgate, offer convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, ensuring that residents have everything they need within a short drive. Whether you’re looking for a scenic environment, a strong sense of community, or a well-located neighborhood with access to urban amenities, living in Olympic Hills delivers on all fronts.

For outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for fun activities, Olympic Hills is close to several attractions, including:

• Jackson Park Golf Course: A beautiful public golf course with walking trails.
• Lake City Farmers Market: A seasonal market featuring fresh produce, local crafts, and food vendors.
• Northgate Mall & Ice Rink: A shopping and entertainment destination, home to Seattle’s NHL practice facility.
• Thornton Creek Natural Area: A scenic urban green space perfect for nature walks.
• Meadowbrook Pond: A hidden gem for birdwatching and relaxing strolls.

Olympic Hills vs. Seattle: Real Estate Market and Home Prices

The Olympic Hills real estate market has demonstrated notable activity and growth over the past year. As of December 2024, the median sale price in Olympic Hills was $750,000, reflecting a 5.6% increase compared to the previous year. Homes in this neighborhood typically sell after an average of 7 days on the market, indicating a brisk market pace.

In comparison, the broader Seattle housing market had a median listing home price of $750,000 in December 2024, which represents a 3.8% decrease year-over-year. The median home sold price citywide was $825,000 during the same period.

These figures suggest that while Seattle experienced a slight decline in listing prices, Olympic Hills continued to see appreciation, highlighting its resilience and desirability within the city’s real estate landscape.

Olympic Hills is a great alternative to Seattle for homebuyers looking for more affordable housing, a quieter residential setting, and access to green spaces while still being within a reasonable commute to downtown Seattle and major employment centers.

Metric	Olympic Hills, WA	Seattle, WA
Median Home Price (2024)	$750K	$860K
Typical Lot Size	5,000 – 7,000 sq. ft.	3,000 – 5,000 sq. ft.
Average Home Size	1,800 – 2,800 sq. ft.	1,500 – 2,500 sq. ft.
School Ratings	7/10 – 9/10	5/10 – 8/10
Crime Rate	Lower than Seattle average	Higher than national avg.
Commute to Downtown Seattle	25-35 minutes via I-5 or Lake City Way	Varies (live within city limits)

Community Overview

As of the latest data, Olympic Hills has a population of approximately 8,160 residents, with a median age of 38.6 years. The neighborhood is characterized by its tree-lined streets and well-maintained parks, offering a peaceful residential atmosphere. The community comprises a mix of long-time residents and newcomers, fostering a strong sense of community.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

Living in Olympic Hills provides residents with a wealth of outdoor and recreational opportunities. The neighborhood is known for its access to parks, trails, and entertainment options that cater to a variety of interests.

• Jackson Park Golf Course – A scenic public golf course with an 18-hole course, a 9-hole executive course, and walking trails for non-golfers. The course spans over 160 acres, making it one of Seattle’s largest golf destinations.
• Lake City Farmers Market – A seasonal market operating from June to September, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local food vendors. It serves as a gathering place for the community and promotes sustainable shopping.
• Northgate Mall & Ice Rink – Recently redeveloped into Northgate Station, this shopping and entertainment hub is home to the Seattle Kraken’s NHL practice facility. It features retail stores, dining options, and an ice rink open to the public.
• Thornton Creek Natural Area – A serene green space spanning over 15 acres, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and connecting with nature. The park helps protect Seattle’s urban watershed and is home to various native plants and wildlife.
• Matthews Beach Park – Located just a short drive from Olympic Hills, this park features sandy beaches, picnic areas, and a popular swimming area along Lake Washington.
• Meadowbrook Pond – A hidden gem for nature enthusiasts, this man-made pond serves as a stormwater retention area while providing a peaceful environment for walking and wildlife observation.

With these attractions, living in Olympic Hills offers a blend of outdoor activities, community engagement, and convenient access to nearby shopping and entertainment hubs.

Top Schools and Educational Options in Olympic Hills

Families living in Olympic Hills benefit from access to quality educational institutions, both public and private, contributing to the neighborhood’s appeal for those seeking strong academic opportunities.

Public Schools

Olympic Hills is served by the Seattle Public Schools district, with several notable schools in the vicinity:

• Olympic Hills Elementary School: Serving grades PK-5, this school has a GreatSchools rating of 7 out of 10, reflecting its above-average performance in state assessments.
• Jane Addams Middle School: Catering to grades 6-8, Jane Addams offers a comprehensive curriculum with various extracurricular activities.
• Nathan Hale High School: Serving grades 9-12, Nathan Hale is recognized for its strong arts and environmental programs, providing students with diverse learning opportunities.

Private and Alternative Schools

In addition to public schools, Olympic Hills residents have access to reputable private educational institutions:

• St. Mark Catholic Classical School: Located within the neighborhood, this private school serves students from PK through 8th grade, emphasizing classical education principles.
• Lakeside School: Approximately 2 miles from Olympic Hills, Lakeside is a prestigious private school for grades 5-12, known for its rigorous academic programs and notable alumni.
• University Prep: About 3 miles away, University Prep offers a college preparatory curriculum for students in grades 6-12, focusing on fostering a lifelong love of learning.

Higher Education and Additional Learning Resources

While Olympic Hills is primarily a residential neighborhood, its proximity to Seattle provides access to several higher education institutions:

• University of Washington – Seattle: Located approximately 8 miles south, this top-tier research university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
• North Seattle College: About 5 miles away, North Seattle College provides associate degrees, certificate programs, and continuing education opportunities.

Additionally, the Seattle Public Library system operates branches near Olympic Hills, offering resources and programs that support lifelong learning for residents of all ages.

Overall, living in Olympic Hills provides families with access to a variety of educational options, contributing to the neighborhood’s reputation as a desirable place to raise children.

Pros and Cons of Living in Olympic Hills

Pros	Cons
Affordable Housing – Compared to other Seattle neighborhoods, living in Olympic Hills offers more affordable home prices with larger lot sizes.	Limited Nightlife & Entertainment – Olympic Hills is primarily residential, so residents often travel to nearby areas like Northgate or downtown Seattle for entertainment.
Quiet Residential Area – Olympic Hills is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for families and individuals who prefer a suburban feel.	Traffic Congestion – During peak hours, Lake City Way and I-5 can experience heavy traffic, impacting commute times.
Strong Sense of Community – With an engaged group of long-time residents and newcomers, the neighborhood fosters a welcoming environment.	Limited Retail Options – While there are some local shops and businesses, major retail hubs require a short drive.
Access to Green Spaces – Several parks, including Thornton Creek Natural Area and Jackson Park Golf Course, provide great recreational opportunities.	Older Housing Stock – Many homes in Olympic Hills were built in the mid-20th century, meaning buyers may need to consider renovation costs.
Convenient Commute – Easy access to I-5 and Lake City Way allows for a reasonable 25-35 minute commute to downtown Seattle.

Your Trusted Olympic Hills Real Estate Partner

Your trusted Realtor, Emily Cressey, leader of the HomePro Associates team, is your go-to partner in the Olympic Hills real estate market. Whether you’re searching for your first home, planning to invest, or relocating to this growing and sought-after neighborhood, our team provides personalized support and expert market knowledge to guide you through every step of the home-buying process.

With years of experience in the Greater Seattle area and a client-focused approach, HomePro Associates is committed to helping you make well-informed decisions when buying or selling a home in Olympic Hills. We understand the nuances of the local housing market, school districts, and neighborhood trends, ensuring you find the perfect home that fits your lifestyle.