West Hill

Welcome to West Hill, an unincorporated area tucked between Seattle and Renton. Just minutes from Lake Washington, you'll find a diverse community with locally owned restaurants, good schools and convenience to Seattle and Renton's amenities. "This area is the perfect mix of Seattle and Renton, known for having gorgeous views of Lake Washington and being close to a ton of international dining and great retail at The Landing Shopping Center," says Realtor Lorraine Parker with eXp Realty.

West Hill is quickly becoming a favorite for buying starter homes, offering relative affordability compared to Seattle. Homes in the area range from $425,000 for a cottage up to $900,000 for a newer contemporary home. As prices in Seattle continue to rise, home buyers are looking to communities in the area to comfortably be able to purchase a home.

Cottages and ramblers are a notable feature in the neighborhood, and many come with renovated interiors or new additions. You'll notice that while many of the homes here are petite, they're set on larger lots lined with black walnut trees and wild blackberries. With more outdoor space, you have the opportunity to expand your home or turn your backyard into a personal oasis. In addition, you'll find some newer contemporary homes in West Hill that are close to Lake Washington. These homes typically have more extensive square footage, amazing views and luxury amenities like gourmet kitchens, floor-to-ceiling windows and covered balconies.

Schools in the area include Bryn Mawr Elementary School, where students have above-average test scores and progress due to their project-based workshop model. The learning model encourages students to engage deeply and think critically about their work. At Dimmitt Middle School, students are offered a variety of athletics and after-school programs, including a reading program, math club, flag football, and track. At Renton High School, students can get assistance with college applications, financial aid and internships at the Career Center. The school also has a mental health center with counseling, resources and a virtual calming space.

With its proximity to Lake Washington, the community is just minutes from relaxing beach days on the lake. On a summer day, head over to Gene Coulon Beach Park to sunbathe, cool off in the designated swimming area, or launch a kayak onto the water. When you want to get into nature, you're close to the scenic mountain trails of Mount Rainier, but you can easily go for a hike close to home at Lakeridge Park. This beautiful urban green space has acres of evergreen woodland, unpaved trails and plank bridges that cross over bubbling Taylor Creek. The park also has an open area with playfields, a playground and pickleball courts that are popular with residents.

While the area could be more walkable, you're an easy drive to dining, retail and entertainment. You're also close to I-5, making a commute to Seattle or Tacoma easy. When you want to stick closer to home, start your day at Winnie's Cafe. This family-owned coffee shop using house-roasted Ethiopian coffee beans and serving pastries made by Winnie herself. For lunch, visit My's Vietnamese sandwiches. A go-to spot for banh mi and other delicacies, My's is a neighborhood favorite.

Another go-to for locals is Skyway Outdoor Cinema. Sponsored by the West Hill Community Association, this community event screens family-friendly movies across from the Skyway Library all summer long. At the Skyway Library, families and children will enjoy art and poetry workshops, free tutoring sessions and weekly story time. When running errands, head south into Renton for grocery stores, shopping at The Landing town center and entertainment like TopGolf. You'll also find global cuisine options, where you can sample Hawaiian, Japanese, Mexican, Thai and soul food, to name a few.

Offering budget-friendly homes, beautiful neighborhood parks and locally loved restaurants and community spaces, West Hill is a great place to call home.

Written By

Micaela Green

Photography Contributed By

Perry Cucinotta

Video By

Becky Gaskill