Where Are Homebuyers Moving in Washington State?

If you’re planning to buy a home in Washington State, you’re not alone — and you’re probably using a mortgage between $300,000 and $1,000,000.

That loan range now represents the largest share of homebuyers across Washington, from first-time buyers to relocations and move-up homeowners. But where people are buying has shifted significantly in the past few years.

Below are the top Washington cities attracting homebuyers and what mortgage financing typically looks like in each market.

Top Washington Cities Homebuyers Are Moving To

Seattle

• Typical Home Prices: $750K–$850K
• Common Loan Amounts: $500K–$900K
• Who’s Buying: Tech professionals, relocations, condo buyers, downsizers

Seattle remains a top destination despite affordability challenges. Buyers often focus on condos, townhomes, or smaller single-family homes and rely on strong income qualification, conventional loans, and strategic rate options.

Bellevue

• Typical Home Prices: $1.2M+
• Common Loan Amounts: $700K–$1M+
• Who’s Buying: High-income tech, executives, dual-income households

Bellevue attracts buyers who prioritize schools, proximity to major employers, and long-term value. Many buyers here compare jumbo vs. high-balance conventional loans carefully.

Redmond

• Typical Home Prices: $950K–$1.1M
• Common Loan Amounts: $650K–$950K
• Who’s Buying: Tech relocations, move-up buyers

Redmond continues to benefit from tech employment and relocation activity. Buyers often want help optimizing down payment strategy, equity rollover, and financing with a departing residence.

Tacoma

• Typical Home Prices: $475K–$575K
• Common Loan Amounts: $350K–$500K
• Who’s Buying: First-time buyers, Seattle transplants, military

Tacoma remains one of the strongest value markets in the Puget Sound region. Many buyers here use 5–10% down conventional loans and ask about payment buydowns.

Vancouver

• Typical Home Prices: $450K–$550K
• Common Loan Amounts: $350K–$500K
• Who’s Buying: Portland commuters, tax-conscious buyers

Vancouver continues to grow as buyers seek Washington residency while working in Oregon. Mortgage planning here often includes income structure, commuting considerations, and affordability planning.

Bothell

• Typical Home Prices: $750K–$900K
• Common Loan Amounts: $500K–$750K
• Who’s Buying: Eastside spillover, growing families

Bothell appeals to buyers priced out of Bellevue or Redmond but who still want access to Eastside employment and schools.

Maple Valley

• Typical Home Prices: $650K–$800K
• Common Loan Amounts: $450K–$650K
• Who’s Buying: Move-up buyers, remote workers

Buyers moving to Maple Valley often want space, newer construction, and predictable payments.

Gig Harbor

• Typical Home Prices: $700K–$850K
• Common Loan Amounts: $500K–$700K
• Who’s Buying: Lifestyle buyers, retirees, Tacoma commuters

Gig Harbor attracts buyers focused on lifestyle and long-term ownership, often with larger down payments or equity from prior homes.

Lacey (Olympia Area)

• Typical Home Prices: $425K–$500K
• Common Loan Amounts: $300K–$450K
• Who’s Buying: State employees, military, first-time buyers

This market is ideal for buyers using entry-level conventional loans or first-time buyer programs.

Spokane & Spokane Valley

• Typical Home Prices: $375K–$475K
• Common Loan Amounts: $300K–$400K
• Who’s Buying: Western WA relocations, affordability seekers

Spokane continues to draw buyers who want lower payments and long-term value, often relocating from higher-cost markets.

What This Means for Homebuyers

If you’re using a $300K–$1M mortgage, the most important factors aren’t just the rate — they’re:

• Mortgage programs
• Loan structure (conventional, high-balance, jumbo)
• Down payment strategy
• Monthly payment planning
• Speed, communication, and underwriting reliability

Working with a mortgage advisor who understands local markets and buyer trends can make a meaningful difference.

If you’re planning to buy anywhere in Washington State, I’m happy to help you compare options and create a mortgage strategy that fits your goals. Let’s talk!