What to know when moving to Bellevue, WA
TL;DR: Bellevue at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated ZIP where 76.4% hold a bachelor's degree and nearly 64% of residents rent.
- The Major Draw:
- A median household income of $176,367, indicating strong economic viability.
- The Reality Check:
- Median gross rent is $2,706, which may strain budgets.
- Commute:
- 7.8% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $2,706/month in rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
In Bellevue, 63.8% of the population are renters, reflecting a community that is likely more transient and diverse. The median household income stands at a robust $176,367, underscoring a financially stable environment, while the 4.6% poverty rate points to a generally affluent area. However, with over 147 rainy days annually, residents should prepare for a wet climate.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for affordable rental options, as the median gross rent is relatively high at $2,706.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $2,706, which is high compared to many other regions.
- 76.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, indicating a highly educated population.
- The poverty rate is low at 4.6%, suggesting a community with economic stability.
- 63.8% of residents are renters, highlighting a significant proportion of the population seeking rental housing.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Washington state, property crime rates are notably higher than the national average, with a state annual rate of 1,940.4 per 100,000 residents compared to the national rate of 1,546.9. However, the property crime rate has decreased by 43.1% from 2022 to 2025. Violent crime rates are also lower than the national average, standing at 282.2 per 100,000 residents, down 26.2% over the same period.
- Violent crime: 282.2 per 100k vs. national 325.3, down 26.2% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,940.4 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9, down 43.1% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have decreased by 46.1% since 2022, with a rate of 2.8 per 100k.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Washington).
Schools & Higher Ed
Access to education is significant in the area, with 30 postsecondary institutions available in the region, including Bellevue College and various universities in nearby cities.
- Postsecondary institutions: 30
- With College Scorecard data: 29
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
King County experiences approximately 37.6 inches of precipitation annually, spread across about 147 rainy days. There are no snow days reported, making for a milder winter. For outdoor activities, nearby parks like Bellevue Downtown Park and Lake Sammamish State Park offer great recreational options.
- Bellevue Downtown Park: 4.8 stars from 9,006 reviews
- Lake Sammamish State Park: 4.7 stars from 5,208 reviews
- Woodland Park Zoo: 4.6 stars from 22,892 reviews
- Museum of Pop Culture: 4.6 stars from 18,980 reviews
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.