THE VIBE
A residential area perched above Moss Bay. Many homes have beautiful elevated views of Lake Washington and the Olympics. The Kirkland Corridor Trail is nearby — easily hop on or off at different points, and it's an easy walk down to the lake. Watershed Park offers a natural forested park with trails and a scenic overlook. The main grocery store here is Metropolitan Market (more natural/upscale). While the main Google campus is not technically in Kirkland, it's very close and the Kirkland Corridor Trail actually walks through the campus.
NEIGHBORHOOD HIGHLIGHTS
Houghton is a highly desirable waterfront-adjacent neighborhood located just south of Downtown Kirkland along Lake Washington. Known for its beautiful lake views, walkable amenities, and convenient location, Houghton offers a mix of residential charm and everyday convenience. The neighborhood centers around the small but lively Houghton business district, where residents can walk to local coffee shops, restaurants, and neighborhood services. With easy access to the waterfront, Downtown Kirkland, and major commuting routes, Houghton is one of the most sought-after places to live on the Eastside.
- Beautiful Lake Washington views and waterfront access
- A walkable neighborhood business district with cafés and restaurants
- Close proximity to Downtown Kirkland and the waterfront
- Scenic parks and waterfront recreation nearby
- Convenient access to Highway 520, Bellevue, and Redmond
For many buyers, Houghton offers a lifestyle that combines waterfront beauty, neighborhood charm, and everyday convenience.
PARKS & OUTDOOR SPACES
Houghton residents enjoy easy access to several parks and waterfront areas along Lake Washington. Notable parks include:
- Houghton Beach Park – A large beach with a dock, swimming area, beach volleyball, and stunning lake views
- Marsh Park – A small but scenic waterfront park with walking paths and open green space
- Yarrow Bay Wetlands – A peaceful natural area with walking trails and wildlife viewing
These nearby parks make it easy for residents to enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, or relaxing along the lake.
LOCATION & EVERYDAY CONVENIENCE
One of the biggest advantages of living in Houghton is its central Eastside location and easy access to everyday amenities. Nearby destinations include:
- Houghton Village – A small neighborhood center with coffee shops, restaurants, and local services
- Downtown Kirkland – Waterfront parks, restaurants, boutiques, and the marina
- Bellevue Square – A major shopping destination with retail, dining, and entertainment
Houghton also offers quick access to Highway 520 and I-405, making commuting to Bellevue, Redmond, and Seattle convenient.
HOMES & NEIGHBORHOOD CHARACTER
Houghton features a diverse mix of homes, many of which take advantage of the neighborhood's elevated position overlooking Lake Washington. You'll find:
- Mid-century homes with large windows and lake views
- Updated and remodeled houses throughout the neighborhood
- Modern new construction homes
- Townhomes and condominiums near the neighborhood center
- Cottages — typically DADUs (Detached Accessory Dwelling Units) built on a property with an existing home and sold separately, often listed as a condo or single-family home
Many properties offer views of Lake Washington, the Seattle skyline, or the Olympic Mountains, making the area especially attractive to buyers looking for scenic surroundings. The neighborhood has a friendly residential feel while still being close to shops and waterfront parks.
WHY BUYERS LOVE HOUGHTON
Buyers are drawn to Houghton for several reasons:
- Beautiful lake views and waterfront recreation nearby
- Walkable access to coffee shops and neighborhood restaurants
- Close proximity to Downtown Kirkland and Bellevue
- Convenient access to Highway 520 and major employment centers
For many residents, Houghton offers a lifestyle that feels connected to both the lake and the surrounding Eastside cities.
WHO THIS NEIGHBORHOOD IS PERFECT FOR
Houghton is especially appealing for:
- Buyers who want lake views or easy access to Lake Washington
- People who enjoy walkable coffee shops and neighborhood amenities
- Buyers looking for a central location between Kirkland and Bellevue
- Professionals commuting to Bellevue, Redmond, or Seattle
It's a great fit for people who want a scenic, waterfront-adjacent neighborhood with convenient access to everything the Eastside has to offer.
RESIDENTIAL HOMES
SALE PRICE RANGE
$1.3M – $6.5M+
HOME SIZE RANGE
1,300 – 6,000+ sq ft
CONDOS
SALE PRICE RANGE
$220K – $3M+
CONDO SIZE RANGE
600 sq ft – 2,500+ sq ft
Some cottages but also some waterfront homes/condos.
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