Living in Totem Lake

Kirkland’s hub for shopping, dining, healthcare, and modern development shaping a vibrant urban center.

Kirkland’s Vibrant Urban Epicenter

Formerly a traditional commercial district, it has been newly imagined as a high-density, mixed-use lifestyle center that functions as a "city within a city." Known for its unmatched convenience, Totem Lake offers a modern, high-energy environment where world-class shopping, medical care at EvergreenHealth, and rapid transit are all within walking distance.

EXPLORING THE MICRO-MARKETS

Totem Lake is a dynamic market that caters to those who want a "close to everything" feel, offering a blend of ultra-modern living and approachable residential pockets.

The Village Hub

This is the heart of the newly redeveloped Urban Center, characterized by high-end residential over retail.

Ambience: Cosmopolitan, active, and convenient.
Key Feature: Immediate doorstep access to Whole Foods, high-end cinema, and luxury spa services.
Real Estate: Primarily new-construction luxury condominiums and contemporary townhomes that appeal to the modern tech workforce.

The Residential Perimeter

Located just outside the commercial core, this area offers more traditional residential stability.

Ambience: Approachable, diverse, and transitionary.
Key Feature: Easy access to Totem Lake Park and the Cross Kirkland Corridor for outdoor recreation.
Real Estate: A mix of 1970s single-family homes and mid-sized condo complexes that offer some of the most competitive entry points in the city.

Local Lifestyle Essentials

Totem Lake is the regional "transit pivot" for North Kirkland, offering the most diverse commuting options in the city.

Motorized Transit and Highway Access

I-405 Proximity: Positioned directly at the I-405 interchange, providing effortless access to Bellevue (15 min) and Bothell.
Totem Lake Transit Center: A major regional hub with frequent service to the University District and major tech corridors.
RapidRide K Line: Future residents will benefit from "light rail frequency" bus service connecting directly to Bellevue and Eastgate.

Outdoors

The Cross Kirkland Corridor (CKC) serves as the neighborhood's non-motorized spine, with a new connector bridge that allows residents to bike or walk safely to downtown Kirkland.

Totem Lake residents are served by the high-performing Lake Washington School District.

John Muir Elementary: Known for its diverse community and supportive learning environment.
Kamiakin Middle School: A neighborhood anchor focused on academic excellence and social development.
Juanita High School: Home to the prestigious Cambridge Program, which offers an internationally recognized curriculum focused on investigative and research skills.

Totem Lake is a rapidly growing, professional enclave with a younger, highly educated demographic.

Population: Approximately 6,981 residents.
Median Age: 38 years old.
Median Household Income: Approximately $151,490 (with average annual incomes trending up to $179k).
Education: Over 56% of adult residents hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher.
Workforce: 89.5% "white-collar" professionals, primarily in technology and healthcare.

Residents enjoy a curated retail mix that combines global brands with local favorites.

Snapdoodle Toys & Games: A local favorite for families, offering specially curated toys and community-focused service.
The Village at Totem Lake: Home to boutique experiences like All The Best Pet Care, Lululemon, and Sephora.
Specialty Markets: Immediate access to Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s makes high-end grocery shopping a daily convenience.

Hanoon: A semi-upscale Levantine-inspired concept serving PNW fusion with beautiful outdoor dining options.
Aria Food and Bakery: A "hidden gem" Persian bakery famous for authentic sangak flatbread, baklava, and Mediterranean-topped pizzas.
Kati Vegan Thai: A destination for flavorful, plant-based Thai cuisine in a vibrant, modern setting.

Residents frequent 203°F Coffee Co. for a quick artisan brew or head to Kitanda for signature Brazilian cheese bread and acai bowls.5 For entertainment, the neighborhood gathers at the state-of-the-art Cinemark theatre or enjoys a casual burger at Stack 571 Burger & Whiskey Bar.

Totem Lake
Market Snapshot

Fast-moving and high-energy, driven by the complete revitalization of the Totem Lake Urban Center. Totem Lake offers modern, mixed-use living with immediate access to rapid transit and regional medical hubs. It is a primary target for first-time buyers and investors seeking modern convenience.

$1.1M

Average Home Price

Average Days on Market

1.7k sqft

Typical Home Size