Woodinville,
Washington
Where world-class wine meets Pacific Northwest charm. Your complete guide to relocating to Washington's premier wine country destination with 100+ wineries.
Woodinville by the Numbers
Living in Woodinville
Woodinville offers something truly unique in the Pacific Northwest: authentic wine country living just 30 minutes from downtown Seattle. While the Sammamish Valley was once farmland, it has transformed into Washington's premier wine destination, with over 100 wineries and tasting rooms drawing visitors from around the world.
But Woodinville is far more than a wine tourism destination. It's a genuine community where families put down roots, attracted by excellent Northshore schools, access to nature, and a slower pace of life that feels a world away from Seattle's urban bustle.
The city maintains its rural character with strict development guidelines, preserving the rolling hills, horse farms, and vineyard views that define its identity. Yet modern conveniences abound, with upscale shopping at The Village at Woodinville and easy access to tech hubs in Redmond and Bellevue.
"Where every sunset feels like a celebration"
- Local ResidentCost of Living
Wine country premium meets suburban practicality
Woodinville commands a premium for its wine country lifestyle and excellent schools. The median home price of approximately $1.1 million reflects the desirability of larger lots, vineyard-adjacent properties, and the rural-yet-connected location.
However, compared to waterfront Eastside cities like Kirkland or Bellevue, Woodinville often offers more space for your money. Many properties include acreage, outbuildings, and room for gardens or hobby vineyards that would be impossible in denser communities.
Washington's lack of state income tax provides meaningful savings, and the median household income of around $135,000 reflects the city's affluent, professional population.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | $2,200 - $2,800 |
| 3-Bedroom House Rental | $3,200 - $4,500 |
| Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water) | $175 - $250 |
| Groceries (2 people) | $550 - $750 |
| Transportation | $200 - $400 |
| Wine Country Lifestyle | $200 - $500+ |
Woodinville Neighborhoods
From vineyard estates to family-friendly subdivisions, each area offers a distinct wine country lifestyle.
Sammamish Valley
$1.2M - $3M+
The heart of wine country living. Rural estate properties with vineyard views, horse properties, and access to the valley's wineries. Many homes sit on 1-5+ acres with private wells and septic. Perfect for those seeking true wine country immersion with space for gardens, animals, or hobby vineyards.
Hollywood Hill
$1.5M - $4M+
Woodinville's most prestigious address with stunning territorial and Cascade views. Large custom homes on generous lots, many with wine cellars and outdoor entertaining spaces. The Hollywood Hill wine district is just down the road. Attracts executives and wine enthusiasts seeking elevated living.
Wellington
$850K - $1.4M
Family-friendly suburban community with newer homes, parks, and easy access to Northshore schools. More traditional neighborhood layout with sidewalks and community amenities. Popular with families who want wine country proximity without maintaining acreage. Excellent elementary schools nearby.
Cottage Lake
$900K - $2M
Charming lakeside community with a mix of waterfront properties and wooded lots. Cottage Lake Park provides beach access, fishing, and community events. Established neighborhoods with mature landscaping. Appeals to those wanting water recreation combined with wine country access.
"I moved from downtown Seattle expecting to miss the action. Instead, I found a richer life - weekend wine walks, trails out my back door, and neighbors who become family."
- Hollywood Hill Resident, 8 years
Northshore School District
Woodinville is served by Northshore School District, one of Washington's largest and highest-performing districts. The district consistently ranks among the state's top performers, with strong academics, robust arts programs, and competitive athletics.
Woodinville High School is the community's crown jewel, known for academic excellence, state championship athletic programs, and a supportive community culture. The district also offers innovative programs including STEM academies and International Baccalaureate options.
Many families specifically choose Woodinville for school quality, and local schools maintain active parent involvement and strong community connections.
Top-Rated Schools
Commute Times
Woodinville's location requires realistic commute expectations. The city sits north of the major east-west corridors, meaning Seattle-bound commuters navigate SR-522 to I-405 to SR-520. During peak hours, this can be challenging - but many residents work at Eastside tech campuses where commutes are more reasonable.
The Burke-Gilman Trail offers a scenic alternative for dedicated cyclists, connecting Woodinville to Seattle via 27 miles of paved path. Several tech workers make this their daily commute, combining exercise with transportation.
Many residents find remote/hybrid work makes wine country living practical
Outdoor Activities
Burke-Gilman Trail
27-mile paved trail connecting Woodinville to Seattle. Perfect for biking, running, and walking. The Woodinville segment passes through wine country with tasting room access.
Sammamish River Trail
11-mile scenic path following the Sammamish River through the valley. Connects to Burke-Gilman and offers peaceful water views, bird watching, and nature photography.
Cottage Lake Park
Community park with swimming beach, fishing pier, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Popular for summer swimming and year-round fishing. Annual community events.
Paradise Valley
Conservation area with hiking trails through wetlands and forest. Wildlife viewing including deer, eagles, and waterfowl. Peaceful escape just minutes from town.
100+ Wineries at Your Doorstep
Warehouse District
The largest concentration of tasting rooms, perfect for walkable wine crawls. Home to established names and emerging boutique producers. Industrial-chic atmosphere with art galleries and restaurants.
- DeLille Cellars
- Mark Ryan Winery
- Matthews Winery
Hollywood District
Smaller, more intimate tasting experiences on Hollywood Hill. Beautiful views, estate settings, and personal attention from winemakers. Less crowded than Warehouse District.
- JM Cellars
- Novelty Hill-Januik
- Patterson Cellars
West Valley
Historic wine country anchored by Chateau Ste. Michelle, Washington's founding winery. Beautiful grounds, summer concerts, and classic Napa-style tasting experiences.
- Chateau Ste. Michelle
- Columbia Winery
- Willows Lodge
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- World-class wine country at your doorstep
- Excellent Northshore School District
- Rural character with larger lots
- Strong sense of community
- Burke-Gilman Trail access
- Proximity to Eastside tech jobs
- Less traffic than Seattle/Bellevue
- No state income tax
Considerations
- Wine country premium on housing
- Longer commute to Seattle
- Limited public transit options
- Weekend wine tourist traffic
- Rural infrastructure (wells, septic)
- Fewer urban amenities/nightlife
- Gray, rainy PNW winters
- Car-dependent lifestyle
FAQs About Moving to Woodinville
Let Us Help You Relocate to Wine Country
Next Phase Moving specializes in Woodinville relocations. We understand wine country homes, from estate properties to rural acreage. Let our experienced team make your move seamless.