Time recently released their annual collection of the best places to live in the United States and we are thrilled to share that Sammamish ranked ninth on the list! We must admit we aren’t too surprised that Sammamish garnered attention because it affords a stellar sense of community and serves as an ideal base for Eastsiders, who can easily access employment hubs in Redmond and Bellevue while enjoying top-rated schools, lush golf courses, waterfront opportunities, boutique shops, stellar restaurants, and more.
According to Time, Sammamish first caught their eye because of its close proximity to corporate campuses, which has attracted “many of the people who work for Microsoft, Amazon, Expedia and other tech giants.” The rankings also reference the area’s abundant outdoor recreation, which includes fourteen parks and preserves and “a range of activities — from hiking to cricket to ziplining to skateboarding.” The arts and cultural scene in Sammamish is also a strong point for the community, with the arts commission managing regular exhibitions, a popular art fair, and weekly summer concerts, which support local musicians within a range of genres.
Time also noted the prosperity of the community, as it boasts a median income of $165,000, roughly double that of the other cities named on the list. “Affluence within the city does not present itself in flashy cars or what one may typically think of as historical signs of wealth,” says RSIR broker Jay Kipp, a fifteen-year veteran in Sammamish real estate. “Rather, Sammamish’s standing as an affluent community reveals itself through its highly educated, well-traveled, politically astute and culturally informed population. There’s a strong ethos of ‘live who you are.’”
In celebration of Sammamish, Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty curated a brief collection of extraordinary homes available now and notable property sales by some of our local brokers.
Offered at $1,163,000 | Represented by Anne Morisseau
This Murray Franklin resale boasts numerous upgrades and a harmonious feel that begins at the foyer and extends to the wainscoting accents in the formal living/dining room. The open concept effortlessly unites the family room with a stone hearth fireplace to the kitchen with double ovens, a nook and nine-foot ceilings. The second floor features a master suite with a five-piece ensuite and dual walk-in closets, a guest suite, two additional bedrooms, a bonus room and laundry.
“Sammamish is truly one of the best places to live on the Eastside,” says Morisseau. “The city offers something for everyone with its richness in beautiful natural settings such as parks, trails and lakes, and its diverse cultural community events. It is also located within easy reach of vibrant cities featuring the amenities of an urban lifestyle.”
Offered at $1,480,000 | Represented by Mei Yang
Step into a fabulous custom rambler on an ample lot in the coveted Rock Meadow Farm community with 150 acres of open space, trails and an equestrian center. Large picturesque windows and a skylight bring in natural light while the living room showcases a hand-carved early Victorian fireplace from England. Additional features include an open and bright chef’s kitchen; formal dining; a spacious family room with a fireplace, a wet bar and cozy bay window; and fantastic sunsets from the wraparound deck.
Upon hearing the news, Yang said “I am not surprised at all that Sammamish is being recognized as one of the best cities to live in. You have the close proximity to the city, and the serenity and beauty of nature. You can also still find homes on large acreages at a reasonable price and the schools are fantastic!”
Offered at $1,495,000 | Represented by Jeff & Angela Jaeger
Come be intrigued by this fully remodeled home in Sahalee Estates complete with 5 bedrooms and 3.25 baths. A formal lounge with a fireplace brings a cozy atmosphere on special occasions. The expansive light-filled designer kitchen with gorgeous clean lines opens to a great room perfect for everyday living and entertaining. A sophisticated master suite is a sanctuary with designer molding, a grand walk-in closet and a luxurious master spa. An exceptional home is simply a frame for an exceptional life!
“We have had the privilege of living on the Plateau for 25 years and in Sammamish since its inception, and have watched it grow and thrive in many ways. We raised our family in this beautiful community. Sammamish has much to offer from the sunrise over the lake to spectacular views of the mountains,” says Angela Jaeger. “We are surrounded by nature and yet close enough to take advantage of all that the Eastside has to offer. Sammamish has been a great place to raise our family. Our feeling is that the community has always done a great job of bringing people together.”
Offered at $1,699,000 | Represented by Taunya Langley
Amazing, uninterrupted views of the Cascade Mountain Range are framed by this beautifully appointed home located at the heart of Aldarra Estates. The epitome of gracious Northwest living, enjoy a grand staircase entry with Italian marble floors, 6 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 6 fireplaces, a wet bar, 2 laundry rooms, a den and 2 great rooms. The gourmet kitchen offers quarter counters, an extended butler work station and enormous walk-in pantry. A spacious backyard even boasts established landscaping.
“I was excited to see that Sammamish was recognized by Time among the best U.S. cities to live in for 2018,” Langley adds. “There is truly nothing like a lifestyle opportunity at Aldarra Estates and the view of the Cascades is truly second-to-none.”
Sold $2,050,000 | Represented by Marie Abbruzza
Sold $1,900,000 | Represented by Jay Kipp
“Sammamish encompasses all three of our ‘lifestyle’ property profiles: view, waterfront and acreage homes, which can all be found within city limits,” says Kipp. “That’s a rare combination anywhere in the country, let alone within a 20-minute commute to the global headquarters of Microsoft, Costco, T-Mobile or Concur, and backed by the highest quality schools in the state.”
Sold $1,300,000 | Represented by Jennifer Michaels
Michaels was thrilled when she heard the news, telling RSIR “Sammamish is a place that is rich in community and feels like home. It’s where residents can choose to live a lifestyle by the waterfront or tucked away under the trees—it’s truly unique.”
Sold $1,272,950 | Represented by Jason Gibbons
“Sammamish was home to me in my childhood and I can’t think of a better place to have grown up,” reflects Gibbons. “The entire city was designed around the families that live there with large streets, ample-sized lots, tons of parks, and abundant trees and nature to explore. Not to mention the beautiful Lake Sammamish just down the hill and the Cascade mountains to the east—both frequently in view. The surroundings of course make it what it is, but it really wouldn’t be the same without the people that make up the amazing town. Sammamish will always be home to me in my heart.”