The Snohomish County housing market is one of the most dynamic in Washington state. With its proximity to Seattle, strong job market, and a mix of suburban and urban lifestyles, Snohomish has become a hotspot for buyers. But in 2025, rising interest rates, shifting inventory, and changing buyer demand are creating new trends that every homebuyer should understand.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer in Everett or looking for a family home, knowing the current housing trends in Snohomish County will help you make smarter decisions and position yourself for success in this competitive market.
Home Prices Remain High, Growth Slows
After several years of rapid increases, price growth in Snohomish County has begun to moderate.
According to Zillow data, the average home value is around $750,000 as of 2025. Median home prices vary widely by city:
- Everett: ~$600,000
- Lake Stevens: ~$650,000
- Mukilteo and Bothell (Snohomish side): $850,000–$950,000
- Marysville: ~$625,000
These numbers suggest that while affordability remains a concern, buyers are no longer experiencing the double-digit annual price increases that characterized the 2020–2022 surge.
Mortgage Rates Tighten Affordability
Interest rates continue to weigh heavily on purchasing power. 30-year fixed mortgage rates currently range between 6.5% and 7%, according to national averages.
This shift has altered buyer behavior:
- More households rely on dual incomes to qualify.
- Demand for smaller homes, townhouses, and condos has increased.
- Buyers are expanding searches to northern areas like Arlington and Granite Falls where homes are priced lower.
Inventory Sees Gradual Improvement
One of the most significant changes in 2025 is the gradual increase in housing inventory.
Data from The Madrona Group shows 2.1 months of supply as of mid-2025—still below the six months that typically defines a balanced market, but an improvement compared to the record-low conditions of 2021.
Builders are also contributing to supply. With 178 new construction listings and an average new construction price of $996,154, new developments in Lake Stevens, Marysville, and Arlington are reshaping local housing options.
Competition Remains, but Less Intense
While the pace of bidding wars has slowed, competition has not disappeared. Desirable neighborhoods in Mukilteo, Mill Creek, and Everett’s Silver Lake area continue to attract strong interest.
The way buyers compete, however, is shifting. Offers increasingly include concessions such as flexible closing dates rather than waived inspections or appraisal contingencies. This signals a more balanced market where buyers have regained some leverage.
New Construction Expands in Growth Areas
New construction plays a growing role in Snohomish County’s housing landscape. Communities in Lake Stevens, Arlington, and Marysville are seeing substantial development activity.
Advantages of new homes include:
- Modern layouts and open floor plans.
- Energy-efficient design and appliances.
- Builder warranties that reduce maintenance risk.
However, new construction typically comes at a premium compared to existing homes and is often located farther from employment hubs, adding commute times for many households.
Lifestyle and Commute Factors Influence Demand
Lifestyle considerations remain central for buyers. Families are increasingly drawn to neighborhoods with larger yards, walkable amenities, and proximity to recreation areas.
Examples include:
- Mill Creek Town Center for retail and community amenities.
- Lake Stevens for waterfront recreation.
- Everett’s Forest Park and Mukilteo beaches for outdoor activities.
Transportation is another factor shaping demand. The ongoing Sound Transit light rail expansion toward Lynnwood and Everett is expected to influence long-term property values near transit hubs, even if full service is still years away.
Property Taxes Add to Costs
Property taxes remain an important component of affordability. According to Ownwell, Snohomish County’s median effective property tax rate is 0.79%, resulting in annual costs of roughly $6,000–$7,000 on a median-priced home.
Rates vary by city:
- Bothell (Snohomish side): ~0.79%
- Mukilteo: ~0.72%
Buyers should review both property tax rates and HOA fees when comparing affordability across neighborhoods.
What Buyers Should Expect in 2025
For those entering the market this year, several themes stand out:
- Home prices are still elevated but increasing at a slower pace.
- Mortgage rates above 6% continue to constrain affordability.
- Inventory is improving, giving buyers more options.
- New construction is expanding supply but at premium prices.
- Lifestyle and commute considerations remain top priorities for families.
Final Takeaway
The Snohomish County real estate market in 2025 is transitioning from a period of extreme competition toward greater balance. Buyers still face high prices and elevated borrowing costs, but they also benefit from improving inventory and more negotiating opportunities.
For buyers ready to enter the market, preparation is key: understanding local trends, securing financing, and working with a realtor who knows Snohomish County’s neighborhoods can make the difference between frustration and success. That’s where The Robinett Group comes in. With personalized service and local expertise, our team helps buyers identify the right homes, craft competitive offers, and navigate every stage of the process.
Contact us today and let us turn your dream home into a reality!
FAQs About Snohomish County Housing Trends
Home values in Snohomish County have risen significantly since 2020, with Zillow reporting an average home value of around $760,000 in 2025, compared to closer to $500,000 five years ago. Growth has slowed recently, but affordability remains a concern for many buyers.
Homes are still moving faster than the national average, but not at the frenzied pace of 2021–2022. Desirable neighborhoods like Mukilteo, Mill Creek, and Silver Lake in Everett often sell within a few weeks, while homes in northern areas may take longer.
Competition has cooled compared to the pandemic boom. Bidding wars are less common, though well-priced homes in family-friendly neighborhoods still attract multiple offers. Buyers today have more room to negotiate repairs, closing costs, and contingencies.
Buyers are prioritizing move-in ready homes, properties with home office space, and those close to schools and parks. There is also steady demand for townhouses and condos that offer affordability in high-cost markets.
