10 Things to Know Before Moving to Lynnwood, WA

Lynnwood, located only 16 miles north of Seattle, offers easy access to the city’s attractions while still maintaining a homey atmosphere perfect for raising a family. With its abundance of parks, thirteen or more adjacent hiking trails, farmer’s markets, and the historical Heritage Park that takes you back to the city’s origins, Lynnwood is a wonderful blend of urban and neighborhood life. 

Everyone who lives in Lynnwood can find what they’re searching for, whether it’s a getaway to the mountains or a way to satisfy their shopping addiction at the Alderwood Mall. Here are ten things to know before moving to this city.

1. The Edmonds Public School District serves the city

The Edmonds Public School District, of which Lynnwood is a part, is one of the best in Washington state. It features 35 public schools serving a total of over 20,000 kids, with an average class size of roughly 19 students. As a school district, it ranks pretty well in academics, student life, and athletics, and it has the eleventh-highest diversity rate in Washington.

Beyond that, Central Washington University and Edmonds Community College are both located in Lynnwood.

2. The government puts effort into building a thriving city

A YouTube channel, community guides, and electronic news have all been put in place by the mayor and council members of Lynnwood in an effort to gain a deeper understanding of the community and its inhabitants.

The City organizes a plethora of events, from teen event programs and art gallery exhibits to an adult softball league and the supervision of building and company developments, among many other things.

This is the kind of thing that makes people appreciate the city’s tradition of brotherhood and brings everyone together.

3.  Seattle is 28 minutes away

Lynnwood has many great attributes, but its proximity to the rest of Seattle is a major selling point.

Highway 99 and Interstate 5 are two options for people going to and from work or going out on the town in Seattle. There are a number of public transportation alternatives available to get you to Downtown Lynnwood from the Lynnwood Transit Center, so you can skip the stress of driving.

The majority of Lynnwood’s residents are students or commuters who work in the Seattle area, thanks to the city’s closeness to transit stations and the fact that it’s only a 30-minute drive away. 

Although a sizable portion of the population in this Settle suburb works in industry, retail commerce accounts for the bulk of the workforce.

4. The cost of living is 36% higher than the national average

Lynnwood has a cost of living index of 136, which is 36% higher than the national average. While utilities cost lower than the national average, transportation, groceries, health, and housing all cost more than the national average. The median home price is $722,845.

Annually, a single adult in Lynnwood spends $43,380 on housing, food, child care, transportation, healthcare, taxes, and other needs. This is higher than both the state of Washington’s cost of living (38,410) and the national average (38,433).

5. Eat at Blue Olive Mediterranean Bistro or Kona Kitchen

Whether you’re in the Seattle region or Lynnwood, seafood is definitely a mainstay. The fresh seafood provided at the city’s numerous eateries is a favorite among locals. 

Blue Olive Mediterranean Bistro is a beloved spot among the neighborhood residents. Be prepared to savor kebabs, spicy filets, and other delicacies influenced by Italian, Greek, and Middle Eastern flavors. 

Visit Kona Kitchen if you’re in the mood for something out of the ordinary. Hawaiian fried chicken, morning fare, and fusion cuisine are just a few of the things that the cooks here can whip up. 

People wait in line for fresh Banh Mi bread and other Vietnamese-baked goodies at Rise & Shine Bakery, a local favorite.

6. Go shopping at Alderwood Mall

Many residents of Snohomish County flock to Lynnwood for shopping excursions. The major draw is the massive Alderwood Mall located on the eastern side of Lynnwood near the intersection of Interstate 5 and Highway 405. 

The Alderwood Mall houses over 200 stores, anchored by major retailers like Macy’s, Apple, and H&M. Shoppers can find the latest fashions, electronics, and more at this premier mall. On rainy days typical of the Pacific Northwest, the AMC movie theater with 16 screens provides entertainment.

Across Interstate 5 from the mall shoppers can also access a Nordstrom Rack and Trader Joe’s for discount clothing and groceries. Another popular corridor is the Pacific Highway near Edmund’s College, offering car dealerships, arts and crafts stores, and additional grocery options. With major malls, national retailers, specialty shops, and supermarkets, Lynnwood serves as a go-to destination for retail therapy for many Snohomish County residents.

7. Attend festivals like Celebrate Lynnwood Festival or the Fair on Fourth 

It will be difficult to rationalize a weekend trip to Seattle when there are a lot of entertaining events in Lynnwood. 

Every summer, the nearby Downtown Edmonds plays host to a farmers’ market where there is a wide variety of goods, including honey, cheese, and other fresh fruit from local farms. At the Celebrate Lynnwood festival, held at the beginning of July, residents can watch and listen to local performers while sampling wines and beers and dining on food from neighborhood restaurants and chefs. 

The Lynndale Park Amphitheater hosts the Shakespeare in the Park Summer Series, which theatergoers are sure to adore. When August arrives at Lynndale Park, the Sandlot Cinemas event is a popular spot for people to relax at the ballfield. Every month, there are often two films: one for children and one for adults. 

The annual street party known as the Fair on Fourth is the highlight of Lynnwood’s calendar. As residents enjoy the pleasant September weather, they examine the events, which include food stalls, game tents, and vendors.

8. Lynndale Park and Southwest County Park are some of the many parks in the city

Lynnwood consistently provides the breathtaking scenery that the Pacific Northwest is famous for. 

The 22-acre Lynndale Park serves as the community’s focal point. The outdoor Lynndale Park Amphitheater and baseball diamond are popular gathering spots for locals and visitors alike. The park offers a variety of amenities, such as picnic areas, woodland hiking trails, and a small pond perfect for birdwatching. 

Go to Southwest County Park if you’re looking for a place to hike that will take you deep into the woods, where you can discover peaks that offer views of the Olympic Mountains. You can get a taste of the area’s many wonderful walks just by driving along Olympic View Drive. 

9. Lynnwood is close to many major tech companies

Whatever your field of expertise, you’ll find plenty of job openings in the Lynnwood area and beyond.

The north is becoming more attractive to tech workers looking for cheaper accommodation. Lynnwood’s proximity to prominent tech giants such as Amazon, Google, Facebook, and Microsoft is one of its selling points. Microsoft has an office in nearby Redmond, while Google is in Kirkland Campus.

Prominent industries in and around the city include healthcare, tech, education, manufacturing and aerospace, and retail. 

10. Live in neighborhoods like Meadowdale, Alderwood Manor, or Martha Lake

Lynnwood is home to a wide variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique set of amenities, from peaceful parks and lakes to bustling art scenes and retail meccas. 

Situated in Lynnwood’s southern half, Meadowdale is known for its peaceful environment and beautiful scenery. Meadowdale Beach Park is a great place where locals can relax on the sand and take in breathtaking views of Puget Sound. Meadowdale is home to a variety of housing options, including roomy townhomes and attractive single-family homes.

Located in the city’s northwest, Alderwood Manor is a popular destination for those seeking world-class retail therapy and exciting nightlife. Fans of all things trendy often flock to the Alderwood Mall, which is home to a wide variety of shops and eateries. Here you can find a variety of dwelling types, from apartments and condos to single-family homes.

Martha Lake is a beautiful community known for its tranquil lake and appealing homes. Townhomes, quaint single-family residences, and lakefront properties are all available in the region. Martha Lake Park is a great place for locals to go fishing, boating, or just have a picnic.

Lynndale is a long-standing area in the city’s core that is known for its close-knit community. Lynndale Park is a great place to go for a day of fun because it has a skate park, sports fields, and playgrounds. It is primarily home to single-family houses, many of which include spacious yards and streets lined with trees.

In Summary

Lynnwood, just 16 miles north of Seattle, offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and a cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal place for families. With top-notch schools and a thriving city government, Lynnwood provides a vibrant community. 

Despite a higher cost of living, the city boasts diverse dining options, extensive shopping, and a rich cultural calendar. Abundant parks, proximity to major tech companies, and various neighborhoods catering to different lifestyles make Lynnwood a well-rounded choice for those considering a move.