Mill Creek East, WA Apartment Renter's Guide

"I used to go down to the Mill Creek / When I was only nine or ten / I'd run trot lines in the muddy water / I'd watch the leaves riding the wind." -- From "Mill Creek" by Darden Smith

Mill Creek East is a city in Snohomish County, Washington. It was originally designed as a showcase community with the golf and country club at its center. How quaint, right? This is a relatively new city, having only been incorporated in 1983, but the population has steadily grown in the past few decades. At the southeastern end of the city, you'll find a big part of the Green Belt -- so yes, this is kind of a granola, bike trail place to live.

Have you found an apartment or rental home in Mill Creek East that you just can't pass up? Congratulations! Now it's time to set up the utilities so you aren't left out in the cold without an Internet connection during your first week in town. Contact the City of Mill Creek for advice on utility companies. The City has a list of favored providers, whether it is for water services, cable television or trash collection.

Be sure to have all your paperwork and deposits ready to go when you do find your favorite place. You will likely need the first month's rent and a security deposit.

Also, as a new resident, you should keep in mind that Mill Creek East is not much of a pedestrian city. Only about 5% of workers use public transportation to and from work, simply because the bus runs from town to town, not neighborhood to neighborhood.

There are three basic neighborhoods in Mill Creek East: Murphy's Corner, City Center, and South Mill Creek.

Murphy's Corner lies to the north of the city, and sure, it kind of takes up a bit of the northwestern corner of town. Home values in Washington are pretty steep already, and Murphy's corner is no exception. Places to rent include mostly large and medium sized houses, as well as accommodation in high rise apartments. This neighborhood is about 58% walkable.

City Center includes Mill Creek and the Mill Creek Nature Reserve, as well as Nickel Creek Park to the south. Think it sounds lovely? You're right. Due to the natural landscape, home prices are higher here than to the north, although rental costs are markedly lower. From 3 bedroom houses for rent to studios for rent, the City Center really has it all. Ironically, this neighborhood doesn't score particularly high on the walkable chart, with a mere 45%.

South Mill Creek is just -- you guessed it -- south of the City Center. It includes the Pine Meadow Park and the Highlands Park, as well as a few dense residential areas. As far as home values go, this is the most expensive neighborhood in Mill Creek East -- and that includes rental fees. Here, you'll find medium-sized and large houses, as well as town homes. The area is considered about 55% walkable.

First off, there is the massive Mill Creek Nature Reserve to check out. Hike, bike, picnic and just enjoy the great outdoors. Despite a lack of pedestrian-friendly trails downtown, there are plenty to choose from out there. Just outside of town, you'll find the lovely Martha Lake, and a bowling alley. Score!

The restaurants in Mill Creek East are pretty much all lined up down Highway 527, so cruise down this street if you've got a craving you can't quite name. There is quite a range of ethnic choices including Azteca Mexican, the Tablas Woodstone Taverna, Sushi Spott, and the Claypit Cuisine of India. There's a veritable bevy of things to eat. Pack some take-out and head to the park!