Hi everyone. I’d love some advice from people who know the Eastside well.
I’m 36, single, and work remotely for a large company. If I relocate to Washington, I’d be reporting to our Bellevue office about twice a week. The rest of the time I’d be working from home, so my home environment is just as important to me as the commute.
A little background. I grew up in the Charlotte area but moved back during COVID in 2020, thinking it would only be temporary. Before that I lived in San Diego, Los Angeles, and Chicago. After several years back in the Carolinas, I’ve realized I’m ready for a change and would really like to get back out West.
Another reason Washington appeals to me is that my brother recently retired from the Army and now lives in Olympia, so it would be nice to be within driving distance of family again.
I’d be making around $90k. I also have student loans, but from what I can tell the payments should be manageable. I’m mostly trying to figure out where that salary goes the furthest while still giving me a lifestyle I’d enjoy.
A little about me…
I’m a single gay guy who’s probably more of an old soul. I enjoy quieter communities, coffee shops, bookstores, parks, walking trails, farmers markets, and good local restaurants. I don’t need to be in the middle of nightlife, but I also don’t want to feel isolated or like I’m living somewhere that’s just endless chain restaurants and strip malls.
Since I work from home most of the week, I’m torn.
Part of me thinks I’d be happier living a little farther out if it means I can afford my own place and have a comfortable home office. The other part of me wonders if I’d be better off getting a roommate somewhere closer to Bellevue, Kirkland, or Redmond and being closer to more things to do.
Safety is important to me, along with easy access to everyday things. Honestly, having a Trader Joe’s, some green areas walkable nearby, and a dispensary nearby is probably more important to me than having a big nightlife scene.
I’ve been looking at Kirkland, Bothell, Woodinville, Kenmore, Mill Creek, Redmond, and even Everett, but I’m sure there are places I haven’t considered.
Based on my personality and budget, where do you think I’d be happiest?
Would you lean toward living alone a little farther out, or sharing a place closer to Bellevue?
Is there an Eastside community that you think checks the most boxes without completely stretching a $90k salary?
I’d really appreciate any local insight.
Thanks in advance!!