Mukilteo,
Washington
Where historic lighthouse charm meets waterfront elegance. Your complete guide to relocating to Snohomish County's premier ferry town and Boeing neighbor.
Mukilteo by the Numbers
Historic Waterfront Living
Living in Mukilteo
Mukilteo represents the quintessential Pacific Northwest coastal town experience. This charming community of approximately 21,000 residents combines historic waterfront character with modern amenities, excellent schools, and direct access to both Whidbey Island adventures and Boeing employment opportunities.
The city's iconic centerpiece is the Mukilteo Lighthouse, built in 1906 and still operational today. Standing sentinel over the Mukilteo-Clinton ferry terminal, the lighthouse represents the town's deep maritime heritage. The 20-minute ferry crossing to Whidbey Island opens up weekend possibilities from Deception Pass hiking to Langley wine tasting.
Beyond its waterfront appeal, Mukilteo attracts families specifically for the Mukilteo School District, consistently rated among the top districts in Washington State. Combined with Boeing's massive Everett facility just minutes away, Mukilteo offers that rare combination of career opportunity, educational excellence, and genuine small-town character.
Cost of Living
Mukilteo commands premium prices reflective of its exceptional schools, waterfront access, and Boeing proximity. The median home price of approximately $1.1 million places it among the more expensive communities in Snohomish County, though still more accessible than many comparable waterfront cities on the Eastside.
Washington's absence of state income tax provides meaningful savings, particularly for Boeing engineers and tech professionals. Many families find the investment worthwhile given the school district quality and lifestyle benefits.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | $2,400 - $3,000 |
| Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water) | $150 - $200 |
| Groceries (2 people) | $500 - $700 |
| Transportation | $150 - $300 |
| Ferry Commute (if applicable) | $120 - $220 |
| Entertainment & Dining | $200 - $450 |
Mukilteo Neighborhoods
From master-planned communities to historic Old Town, each Mukilteo neighborhood offers a distinct lifestyle and character.
Harbour Pointe
$900K - $1.8M
Mukilteo's premier master-planned community featuring the Harbour Pointe Golf Course, highly-rated schools, and modern family homes. Excellent amenities, community pools, and well-maintained common areas. Popular with Boeing families and professionals seeking a turnkey lifestyle.
Japanese Gulch
$800K - $1.4M
Named for the beautiful Japanese Gulch nature preserve, this neighborhood offers forested tranquility with excellent hiking and mountain biking trails at your doorstep. Larger lots, mature trees, and a more secluded suburban feel while remaining minutes from Boeing and the waterfront.
Old Town Mukilteo
$700K - $2M+
Historic heart of Mukilteo surrounding the lighthouse and ferry terminal. Charming older homes, waterfront access, and the most walkable area of the city. Walk to Ivar's, Diamond Knot Brewing, and the beach. Wide price range reflects lot size and water proximity.
"The lighthouse beam sweeping over Possession Sound at night, the ferry horn announcing another departure to Whidbey, Boeing 787s rolling off the line just up the road. This is the rhythm of Mukilteo life."
- Harbour Pointe Resident, 8 Years
Mukilteo Schools
Mukilteo School District is consistently ranked among the top school districts in Washington State, making it a primary reason families choose this community. The district serves approximately 15,000 students across 25 schools, offering rigorous academics, strong STEM programs, and excellent extracurricular options.
Kamiak High School regularly appears on national rankings for public schools, while elementary and middle schools throughout the district maintain high achievement scores. The community's strong support for education is evident in modern facilities and engaged parent involvement.
Notable Schools
Mukilteo Lifestyle
Ferry Access
The Mukilteo-Clinton ferry provides 20-minute crossings to Whidbey Island throughout the day. Perfect for weekend adventures to Deception Pass, Coupeville, or Langley wineries.
Boeing Proximity
Boeing's massive Everett facility is just minutes away, making Mukilteo the preferred home for thousands of Boeing employees. Short commute, excellent schools, waterfront living.
Historic Lighthouse
The 1906 Mukilteo Lighthouse remains operational and open for tours. The surrounding Lighthouse Park offers beachfront picnicking, ferry watching, and stunning sunset views.
Beach Access
Mukilteo Beach offers sandy shores, calm waters perfect for paddleboarding, and some of the best sunset views in the region. The waterfront park hosts community events year-round.
Japanese Gulch Trails
The Japanese Gulch nature preserve offers miles of forested trails for hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching. A hidden gem connecting neighborhoods to nature.
Harbour Pointe Golf
The Harbour Pointe Golf Course provides an 18-hole championship layout with mountain and water views. A centerpiece of the master-planned community lifestyle.
Pros & Cons of Mukilteo
Advantages
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Exceptional Mukilteo School District - among Washington's best
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Direct ferry access to Whidbey Island for weekend adventures
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Short commute to Boeing Everett - major employment hub
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Historic lighthouse and waterfront beach access
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Strong small-town community feel with city amenities
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Japanese Gulch nature preserve for outdoor recreation
Considerations
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Premium housing prices - median home around $1.1M
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Limited nightlife and entertainment options
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Ferry traffic can congest waterfront area during peak times
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Seattle commute can be lengthy during rush hour (60-80 min)
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Smaller restaurant and retail selection than larger cities
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Boeing layoffs can impact local economy and housing market
Frequently Asked
Planning Your Move to Mukilteo?
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