Issaquah

Lush beauty and lakeside views define this historic Washington enclave

Welcome to Issaquah

 
Situated in Washington State’s King County, Issaquah blends picturesque natural splendors and historic charm with a thriving arts and culture scene to deliver an unmatched quality of life. Verdant lakefront parks flourish with wetlands, and the visitors and residents intend to enjoy time in nature. At the same time, its main drag features an impressive collection of casual and high-end establishments, from cozy and intimate coffee houses to vibrant bars and restaurants. 

Gorgeous single-family dwellings and large properties with luxuriant landscaping offer residents ultimate tranquility and comfortable living. Stunning craftsman homes, designed by the likes of Rick Burnstead, feature plush chef’s kitchens and fabulous views. With Seattle a mere 16 miles away, residents needn’t travel far to experience world-class entertainment, shopping, and cuisine.
 

What to Love

 
  • A bustling but tight-knit, small-town vibe
  • Surrounded by the Pacific Northwest’s characteristic beauty
  • A bevy of lovely public parks, trails, and gardens
  • Architecturally significant jewels
  • Proximity to Seattle and Bellevue
 

Local Lifestyle

 
Issaquah is a chic city that appeals to a wide range of residents, from urban professionals who work in Seattle to families with children. Residents here savor ample time outside, whether it’s flying a kite at one of the hamlet’s lakeside parks or perusing the shops that dot the mixed-use center at Gilman Village. Issaquah’s rich past also appeals to history buffs or anyone who loves living in a place with a wealth of immaculately-preserved homes and structures.
 

Dining, Shopping & Entertainment

 
From opulent dining rooms to summertime sun-soaked patios, Issaquah boasts a wonderful array of restaurants. At Montalcino Ristorante Italiano, you’ll find delectable dishes that celebrate the superb cuisine from the Land of Enchantment. Penne pasta with pesto and wild mushrooms, lobster ravioli crowned with tiger prawns, and homemade cannoli are just three selections on their enticing menu, which also features a formidable wine list.

Special occasions call for a quick, 15-minute drive to Novilhos Brazilian Steakhouse in Bellevue, where sumptuous meats are carved tableside, and a swank interior provides a simultaneously sultry and festive vibe. Meanwhile, Jak’s Grill has been a Pacific Northwest mainstay for over two decades, thanks to its first-rate fare and lovely ambiance. Try their bourbon brown sugar pork with honey peppercorns and porcini mushroom risotto — both are divine.

Issaquah’s lovingly-maintained historic buildings offer the optimal setting for several one-of-a-kind boutiques. The city’s quintessential Olde Town, for one, features a smattering of retailers, a posh 33-seat theater, and a host of inviting bars and restaurants, while the landmark Gilman Village redefines a rustic-hip atmosphere with its own assortment of shops, cafes, and taverns.
 

Things to Do

 
Issaquah’s prime location near Washington’s largest cities and in the center of unspoiled nature gives its residents one opportunity after the next for thrilling activities. For an unforgettable hike or mountain bike ride, Issaquah residents often head to Tiger Mountain State Forest, in what’s deemed the “Issaquah Alps”. Here, you will discover an excellent trail system and glorious flora and fauna. Lake Sammamish State Park is just as breathtaking. Spanning more than 500 acres, the verdant expanse is the perfect place for a leisurely Saturday picnic.

Issaquah’s inherent creative spirit is on full display at Village Theatre, where you can enjoy musical performances and community events. To see some of the most outstanding performers live, residents of Issaquah frequently flock to Seattle’s iconic Paramount Theatre. From comedians like Kevin James and Sarah Silverman to musicians such as John Mellencamp and Vance Joy, the Paramount Theatre consistently provides a memorable experience.
 

Schools

 
Children in Issaquah are served under the Issaquah School District. A few of the leading institutions in the city include:

 

Real Estate in Issaquah, WA

Issaquah, WA, is a rapidly growing city nestled at the base of the Cascade Mountains, offering a mix of suburban comfort and natural beauty. The real estate landscape here features everything from craftsman-style single-family homes in master-planned communities to modern townhomes and luxury hillside estates with forest and mountain views.

 

Issaquah is especially popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its excellent schools, ample green space, and access to hiking, biking, and recreation. With close proximity to I-90 and a short commute to Bellevue and Seattle, Issaquah is both scenic and convenient.

 

Why Choose Issaquah, WA

Issaquah blends small-town charm with modern amenities. Its historic downtown offers boutique shopping, restaurants, and cultural events, while newer developments like the Issaquah Highlands feature contemporary homes and urban conveniences. The surrounding natural landscape—Tiger Mountain, Cougar Mountain, and Lake Sammamish—provides endless outdoor opportunities.

 

Its strong community spirit, excellent school district, and access to tech job markets make it one of the Eastside’s most appealing places to call home.

 

FAQ’s About Issaquah, WA

What is the climate like in Issaquah?
Issaquah has a mild climate with cool, rainy winters and dry, comfortable summers. The surrounding mountains and forests thrive in this lush environment.

 

What outdoor activities are available in Issaquah?
Hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, and kayaking are popular among residents. The area is rich in parks, trails, and lakes—perfect for weekend adventure or everyday wellness.

 

Is Issaquah a good place for families?
Yes! Issaquah offers highly rated public schools, safe neighborhoods, and abundant recreational facilities. It’s a favorite among families moving to the Eastside.

 

How is the arts and culture scene in Issaquah?
Issaquah features a mix of local arts with venues like Village Theatre, community festivals, and a growing number of public art displays. It's an emerging cultural hub.

 

Is Issaquah a good place for retirees?
Definitely. With beautiful views, quiet residential areas, and easy access to healthcare, Issaquah is a peaceful and engaging place to enjoy retirement.

 

Search All Homes

 
 

Overview for Issaquah, WA

39,057 people live in Issaquah, where the median age is 36.8 and the average individual income is $78,581. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

39,057

Total Population

36.8 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$78,581

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for Issaquah, WA

Issaquah has 16,361 households, with an average household size of 2.37. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Issaquah do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 39,057 people call Issaquah home. The population density is 3,219.98 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

39,057

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

36.8

Median Age

48.61 / 51.39%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
16,361

Total Households

2.37

Average Household Size

$78,581

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Around Issaquah, WA

There's plenty to do around Issaquah, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

68
Somewhat Walkable
Walking Score
79
Very Bikeable
Bike Score
37
Some Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including The Coffee Shop On Gilman, FitBox, and Air Squared Paragliding.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 0.57 miles 7 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 0.79 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.22 miles 16 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 4.39 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Beauty 2.07 miles 71 reviews 5/5 stars

Schools in Issaquah, WA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Issaquah. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

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