Lake Stevens: Recognized in the past for the “World’s largest sawmill,” but known these days as “The Lake Cuomo of Washington.”
Are you ready to escape the hustle and bustle of Seattle and live in a beautiful spot known for outdoor recreation? Lake Stevens has all of this and more, which is why droves of people are ditching their urban lifestyle for a more laid-back atmosphere
Lake Stevens: Recognized in the past for the “World’s largest sawmill,” but known these days as “The Lake Cuomo of Washington.”
Are you ready to escape the hustle and bustle of Seattle and live in a beautiful spot known for outdoor recreation? Lake Stevens has all of this and more, which is why droves of people are ditching their urban lifestyle for a more laid-back atmosphere. The best part is that this up-and-coming town is an easy drive to the big city. It might seem rural, but you aren’t exactly in the boondocks.
Rental Costs
Living in Lake Stevens can be surprisingly affordable, especially when compared to popular Seattle neighborhoods.
Finding a Place to Live
Looking for property rentals in Lake Stevens is actually pretty easy. While the population has increased dramatically, the number of houses have followed suit. The best thing to do is start your search online to
get a feel for some of the houses that appeal to you. Remember that a higher price does not necessarily mean you will get a better rental. You most likely will need to look at multiple places to find something you like.
Moving Costs
Let’s face it--moving costs money, no matter where you are going. The good news is that Lake Stevens is fairly close to Seattle, and the majority of newcomers arrive from this area. If you are going to U-Haul it, you can probably get away with moving for a couple hundred bucks. Hiring professionals will run you at least $500, and the cost could be greater if moving from further away.
When to Look for Your New Home
The competition for rental apartments in Lake Stevens isn’t too fierce, which means you can find a place pretty quickly if need be. Having said that, starting your search a month in advance is a good bet, since the best houses usually get new tenants before the old ones move out.
What You Need to Move Here
No need to line up at four in the morning with your pockets stuffed with bills here. Moving into a place that is professionally managed usually requires you to show things like proof of income and a list of previous addresses for a background check. Renting from an easygoing landlord usually only requires a good vibe, decent references and a safety deposit.
Moving with Pets?
While taking your pooch or kitty with you will definitely make the search for your new home a bit harder, the good news is that there are plenty of pet friendly apartments in Lake Stevens, as well as homes with yards that will let dogs and cats move in as well.
The orientation of Lake Stevens is pretty easy. The city surrounds the lake of the same name. Officially, it is separated into two parts, with Lake Stevens being the developed area on the Northeast side of the lake and West Lake Stevens occupying the area to the West, as you may have guessed. With the lake being the focus of this town, it is easy to see why being closer to it is more desirable. The choicest spots are those closest to the lake.
Lakefront Property: The most coveted spots in town are on Lakeshore Drive, with houses that back right up to the lake. Many of these digs have backyards right on the lakeshore, with private docks. Living on the water means that you won’t have to walk or drive across town to swim in the summer. You can take your kayak or boat out whenever you want, and the view is unbeatable.
The Northeast Shore:This part of town is the official center of town. If you want to live in a convenient place where you can get around on bike or even on foot, look for a rental in this area. Many residents like this part of town because it still has the small town feel to it, which is a plus.
West Lake Stevens: This part of town is where much of the new development has taken place. Some people prefer to live here because it is closer to Everett and provides quicker access to Seattle. Homes in this area tend to be a bit more suburban, whereas the Northeast shore has an older feel to it.
Foot Traffic
While you can easily get around the Lake Stevens area by bike or even running shoes, having a car is pretty much a necessity. Unless you plan on finding a job right in town, you will most likely need to commute at least 15 minutes away. Another good reason for having a car is that the weather can be pretty difficult for most of the winter, which can make a bicycle commute miserable!
Recreation
Lake Stevens is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, and there are plenty of parks around to do so. Most of the people who call this place home like the rural feel to the area with outdoor adventure. Numerous golf courses are close by if that is your thing, and for those looking for something more extreme, an Ironman Triathlon comes to town every year.
