Snohomish County, Washington, has quickly become one of the most popular destinations for families in the Puget Sound region. With its mix of suburban communities, quality schools, and outdoor amenities, families are drawn here for both affordability and quality of life. But with so many options—from Mill Creek to Mukilteo—how do you choose the best neighborhood?
In this guide, we’ll highlight the best neighborhoods in Snohomish County for families, including insights into schools, affordability, commutes, and lifestyle benefits.
Why Families Choose Snohomish County
Families are flocking to Snohomish County for three main reasons:
- Affordability compared to Seattle and King County. Median home prices in Snohomish are 10–20% lower than in Seattle, while offering more space and family-friendly layouts.
- Strong school districts. Districts like Northshore, Mukilteo, and Everett rank among the best in Washington.
- Lifestyle amenities. From Lake Stevens’ waterfront to Mukilteo’s beaches and Mill Creek’s parks, the county offers year-round activities.
Best Neighborhoods for Families
1. Mill Creek
Mill Creek is consistently ranked as one of the best places for families in Snohomish County. The Mill Creek Town Center offers shopping, dining, and entertainment, while nearby neighborhoods are filled with walking trails and community parks.
- Schools: Served by Everett and Mill Creek schools, many of which are top-rated.
- Housing: Ranges from condos and townhomes to large single-family homes.
- Family perks: Sports fields, swim clubs, and community events year-round.
2. Bothell (North Snohomish County)
Bothell is split between King and Snohomish counties, but the Snohomish side is especially attractive to families seeking a balance of affordability and excellent schools.
- Schools: The Northshore School District is one of the best in the state.
- Housing: Suburban neighborhoods with newer construction and quiet cul-de-sacs.
- Commute: Easy access to both I-5 and I-405 for parents working in Seattle, Bellevue, or Everett.
3. Lake Stevens
Lake Stevens is one of the fastest-growing areas in Snohomish County. Families love the namesake lake for swimming, boating, and fishing.
- Schools: The Lake Stevens School District is growing and adding new facilities.
- Housing: New developments provide affordable homes with modern layouts.
- Lifestyle: Community events like Aquafest make Lake Stevens a family-centered town.
4. Mukilteo
Mukilteo is known for its coastal charm, safe neighborhoods, and excellent schools. Families are drawn to the community’s mix of suburban living and beach access.
- Schools: The Mukilteo School District is highly rated statewide.
- Housing: Homes near the water are pricier, but inland neighborhoods are more affordable.
- Lifestyle: Lighthouse Park, ferry access to Whidbey Island, and waterfront trails.
5. Everett (Silver Lake & Forest Park)
As the largest city in Snohomish County, Everett offers diverse housing options and strong family neighborhoods. Silver Lake and Forest Park stand out for families.
- Schools: Served by Everett Public Schools, which include several highly rated elementary and middle schools.
- Housing: Affordable compared to neighboring suburbs, with everything from historic homes to newer builds.
- Lifestyle: Close to Boeing, Providence Medical Center, and Everett’s arts and culture scene.
Choosing the right neighborhood often comes down to more than just schools and amenities — affordability and property values also matter. To help you explore further, here’s an interactive map from the Snohomish County Assessor that shows parcels, neighborhood boundaries, and home data across the county.
Housing Costs by Neighborhood
- Mill Creek: Median home prices ~$800,000, higher than average but offers excellent amenities.
- Bothell (Snohomish side): ~$850,000, driven by school demand.
- Lake Stevens: ~$650,000, more affordable with new construction options.
- Mukilteo: ~$900,000, higher near the coast, but strong long-term investment.
- Everett: ~$600,000, one of the most affordable options with diverse choices.
Data on median home prices was sourced from Zillow’s housing market trends.
Commute Considerations
For many families, commute times play a big role.
- Bothell & Mill Creek: Quick access to I-405 and I-5 for Seattle/Bellevue commutes.
- Everett: Ideal for Boeing employees or anyone working in Snohomish County.
- Mukilteo: Ferry to Whidbey Island and access to Sounder commuter rail.
- Lake Stevens: Longer commute into Seattle but manageable for Everett-area jobs.
Lifestyle and Family Amenities
Families don’t just look for a house—they look for a community. Snohomish County offers:
- Parks and trails in Snohomish County include over 121 parks and hundreds of miles of trails!
- Snohomish County has about 170 acres of parks, offering access to community recreation opportunities.
- Snohomish County offers year-round public events for the community.
Choosing the Right Neighborhood for Your Family
Deciding where to buy in Snohomish County comes down to your family’s needs; schools, commute times, budget, and lifestyle.
If you’re ready to explore Snohomish County neighborhoods, The Robinett Group offers service and local expertise to help you find the perfect community for your family. Contact The Robinett Group today to start your home search in Snohomish County’s most family-friendly neighborhoods!
FAQs About Neighborhoods in Snohomish County
Safety is often a top concern for families. Communities like Mill Creek, Mukilteo, and Bothell (Snohomish side) consistently rank among the safest in the county thanks to low crime rates and strong community involvement.
Everett and Lake Stevens usually offer more affordable housing compared to Mill Creek or Mukilteo, while still providing good schools and family-friendly amenities.
Yes. The Northshore School District (Bothell), Mukilteo School District, and Everett Public Schools are highly rated and attract families from across the region.
Bothell and Mill Creek are ideal for families with one or more parents commuting to Seattle or Bellevue. Both have quick freeway access while still offering suburban amenities.
