This Is The Most Hospitable Town In Washington
Sammamish, Washington, takes the gold for warmth and hospitality among Seattle suburbs. With its reliable infrastructure, economic stability, excellent schools, and proximity to both indoor and outdoor recreation, it's no surprise that Sammamish was ranked one of America's Best Small Cities by WalletHub in 2020.
Sammamish is a beautiful town located a half-hour drive east of Seattle. Nestled beside the natural beauty of Lake Sammamish, this Seattle suburb is an excellent place for outdoor enthusiasts. But its breathtaking scenery is just part of the package. Sammamish is a thriving community of professionals, families, and retirees.
Top-rated public and private schools in the area attract families, while its laid-back vibe appeals to retirees and working professionals looking to unwind on weekends. Let's take a deeper look at the qualities that make Sammamish such a great place to live.
Big City Convenience With Small Town Vibes
With a population of over 65,000 residents, Sammamish isn't exactly a small town. However, the sense of community, proximity to outdoor recreation and adventure, and exceptional quality of life provide locals with the convenience of a big city while maintaining small-town hospitality.
The population has a comfortable mix of children, middle-aged professionals, and retirees. While most residents are families with children under 18, Sammamish also appeals to retirees.
Professionals in Seattle have a comfortable 30-minute one-way commute to the city. This makes it a perfect option for those who work in Seattle but prefer a slower pace and a neighborly vibe (which, let's be honest, is difficult to get in such a big city).
Ranked Among The Best Washington Towns For Families
If you have children, you're likely looking for a safe town with good schools and plenty of opportunities. This is no problem for Sammamish. The city has a median age of 39 years old, according to Liveability.com. Families with children under 18 account for about 62% of the population, making it a strong draw for families seeking an environment tailored to children.
In addition to its outdoor recreation opportunities, Sammamish offers a variety of museums that appeal to all ages. The Cougar Mountain Zoo is just a few minutes away in nearby Issaquah and provides a daily schedule of educational programs about the animals.
Sammamish Is A Paradise For Outdoor Recreation
Those living in Sammamish don't have to sacrifice being close to home for outdoor adventure. Sammamish is just a short drive from several state parks, including but not limited to Cougar Mountain Regional Wildlife Park, Lake Sammamish State Park, and Tiger Mountain State Forest.
Bicyclists can enjoy scenic trails at Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park, offering options for both beginners and experienced cyclists. Marymoor Park, Evans Creek Preserve, and Ames Lake also provide opportunities for outdoor fun. For locals and travelers seeking adventure and community in the great outdoors, Sammamish is the ideal home base.
With its numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, Sammamish is a city dedicated to promoting healthy, active living. With hiking, biking, and camping opportunities, it's hard not to stay in shape! Sammamish is a beautiful city where residents of all ages can stay fit and active.
But Sammamish isn't the only city in the state prioritizing health and wellness. In 2025, Washington state ranked 10th in the nation for health. The ranking was derived by assessing healthcare quality, physical environment, social and economic factors, health outcomes, educational quality, and other relevant factors.
A Safe, Scenic Community For Retirees
Its proximity to high-quality medical offices, hospitals, and amenities makes Sammamish a strong choice for retirees. Quality retirement communities, such as the top-rated Aeon Senior Living, Revel Issaquah, and Sammamish Senior Living AFH, provide retirees with comfortable settings tailored to their specific needs. Independent living is strongly encouraged in Sammamish, with a variety of independent retirement communities dedicated to helping retirees live their best lives.
In 2023, SafeWise ranked Sammamish America's safest small city, giving families, professionals, and retirees peace of mind. In another poll conducted in 2025, Sammamish was named the 6th-safest small town in the country.
Other Seattle Suburbs In The Area To Check Out
Sammamish is a quiet Seattle suburb in an area bursting with life, culture, scenic beauty, and fun. Issaquah, Bellevue, and Redmond are each just a few minutes' drive from Sammamish, offering similar levels of outdoor recreation and quality of life.
Issaquah is a fun hotspot for all ages, especially for outdoor recreation. After all, Issaquah isn't nicknamed "Trailhead City" for nothing! Enjoy the scenery on one of the many nearby hiking trails, or visit historical landmarks such as the 1930s Auto Freight Building or the city's Train Depot, built in 1889. Learn more about the region with a trip to the Issaquah History Museum.
Bellevue is another popular Seattle suburb, known for the Bellevue Botanical Gardens. Admission is free, making it an affordable and fun attraction for all ages. Explore the region's artistic flair with a self-guided Art Walk through Bellevue.
Redmond has a slower pace and beautiful scenery, showcased by its popular parks, including Marymoor Park and Idylwood Park. But if you prefer something a little more fast-paced, Redmond is more than accommodating. Liven up your trip with a visit to Conundrum Escape Rooms or Gripwerx Simulation Racing.
Whether you're a local looking to learn more about your area or a soon-to-be resident searching for a great community in which to raise a family, you're not alone. Sammamish is a thriving community that's safe, health-oriented, and filled with programs for all ages.
If you're in the region around the holidays, there are several holiday events you can't miss: the annual parade down Snowflake Lane, the unforgettable Christmas Shop at Timber Creek, the Garden of Lights at Bellevue Botanical Gardens, and more. These events bring the community together during the most magical time of the year, delighting visitors and locals alike. Don't forget to check out Sammamish and the surrounding Seattle suburbs for your next road trip!
