“Inside Bellevue”, the Bellevue neighborhood spotlight series, is a unique collaboration between The Brazen’s at Windermere Real Estate/Bellevue Commons and Downtown Bellevue Network. Drawing upon their over 30 years of experience living, working, and selling in Bellevue, the esteemed Brazen family provides an exclusive insider’s perspective on living in Bellevue and the real estate market.
We are delving into the Bellevue neighborhood of Hunts Point. Situated between Evergreen Point and Yarrow Point, with Cozy Cove to the east and Fairweather Bay to the west, Hunts Point is a notable community. Originally a lake retreat in the early 1900s, accessible only by ferry from Cozy Cove, it has evolved into an exclusive residential area. Covering just 0.3 square miles and home to fewer than 400 residents, Hunts Point is known for its privacy and well-preserved charm.
Ranked #1 in per capita income in Washington State, the Hunts Point community is renowned as one of the most prestigious real estate locations globally. Its strategic location near the 520 Floating Bridge offers easy access to downtown Seattle and a reverse commute to downtown Bellevue. Hunts Point boasts a strong tradition of community involvement, with events such as the Spring Town Clean-Up and the Fourth of July celebration on Yarrow Point, which contribute to the neighborhood’s vibrant character. The community is also noted for its generosity, with substantial contributions to local charities and organizations.
While primarily residential, Hunts Point features several parks and natural areas, including Hunts Point Park, which offers scenic walking trails and access to nature. Known for its wealth and exclusivity, Hunts Point frequently ranks among the wealthiest communities in both Washington State and the United States based on per capita income.
Hunts Point Real Estate by the Numbers
| Average Price of Home Sold* | Average Price Per Sq Ft* | Average Days on the Market* | Number of Homes Sold in the Last 12 Months | Highest Priced Home Sold in the Last 12 Months | Lowest Priced Home Sold in the Last 12 Months |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,683,444 | $1,380 | 64 | 9 | $14,500,000 | $2,700,000 |
** NWMLS Data from September 1, 2022 – August 31, 2024
Hunts Point Amenities
Hunts Point is a small, exclusive residential area located on a peninsula, surrounded by water on three sides. The community is served by the Bellevue School District, which includes Clyde Hill Elementary, Chinook Middle School, and Bellevue High School.
Residents have access to recreational opportunities centered around Lake Washington, such as boating, fishing, and water sports. While Hunts Point itself lacks extensive commercial amenities, its proximity to Bellevue and Kirkland provides access to shopping, dining, and other services.
Notable amenities within Hunts Point include Hunts Point Park, which offers green space, walking trails, and waterfront views, and many homes with private docks for lake access. The area’s quiet, tree-lined streets are suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling.
History of Hunts Point
Before European settlers arrived, the Hunts Point area was inhabited by the Duwamish people, who utilized the land along Lake Washington for fishing and hunting. In the late 1800s, European settlers began to arrive, and the region was primarily used for logging and farming. Hunts Point was named after Leigh S. J. Hunt, a Seattle businessman who purchased a significant portion of the land in the early 1900s.
Although Hunt had ambitious plans for the area, financial constraints prevented their full realization. By the 1910s and 1920s, Hunts Point attracted wealthy individuals seeking secluded summer homes, despite its rural and inaccessible nature. Post-World War II, development increased on the Eastside, including Hunts Point, but the town remained relatively small and was officially incorporated in 1955 to control land use and development.
During the latter half of the 20th century, Hunts Point became known for luxury real estate, with many waterfront properties developed into grand estates. The rise of the tech industry in the 1990s further elevated the town’s prestige. Despite rapid regional growth, Hunts Point has preserved its small-town character through strict zoning laws and community efforts, maintaining its reputation as a highly exclusive residential area. The town operates under a mayor-council system focused on preserving its quiet environment.
Style of Homes in Hunts Point
Hunts Point is known for its large estates and waterfront properties, with many homes offering direct access to Lake Washington and views of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains. Properties often feature street-to-water lots with over an acre of land.
The homes in Hunts Point are among the most expensive in the Seattle area, typically high-end and custom-built. Many residences include amenities such as pools, pool houses, and sports courts. With a population of fewer than 500 residents, Hunts Point is a quiet and exclusive community.
The limited access points and gated homes contribute to its privacy and security, making it a desirable location for those seeking upscale and secluded living.
Noteworthy Events in Hunts Point
Noteworthy events in Hunts Point include the Annual Hunts Point Clean Up Day, which encourages community involvement and allows residents to connect with each other. The event features various work parties, lunch at the town hall, kids’ games, face painting, and a casual cocktail party. Another significant event is the Seafair on Lake Washington.
Although Hunts Point does not host Seafair events, residents can view the annual Blue Angels airshow from their waterfront properties or take their boats across Lake Washington to view the annual hydroplane races. Seafair is a major summer tradition in Seattle, and Hunts Point’s location offers prime opportunities to experience this fun event.
Additional Facts about Hunts Point
Hunts Point is a short drive from downtown Bellevue, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and business centers. It is also close to Redmond, Kirkland, and other Eastside communities. The neighborhood is situated near major highways such as SR 520, which facilitates quick commutes to downtown Seattle and other Eastside locations.
