2025 RSIR Waterfront Report: Northwest Waterfront – Rare by Nature, Desired by Many
Waterfront Report
THE MOST COVETED PROPERTY LIFESTYLE | 2025
No two waterfront properties are alike—and neither are the pathways to owning one. From dock access and permitting timelines to shoreline character and long-term value, the journey is nuanced.
This report provides a comprehensive analysis of 16 distinct waterfront communities across multiple counties in the region, offering valuable insights into market trends and performance throughout 2024. By leveraging our global real estate expertise and local knowledge, Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty ensures that you receive the best possible guidance and support in navigating the waterfront market.
Join us on this waterfront odyssey and let our expert brokers help you find your dream waterfront home or achieve the best value for your current property. Embrace the iconic Pacific Northwest vistas, boundless recreational opportunities, and the unique lifestyle that comes with living on the water's edge.
A Rare Opportunity Defined by Nature, Lifestyle, and Regulation
Andrea J. Savage | Chief Marketing Officer Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty
Waterfront real estate has long been viewed as a luxury, but in Washington State, it has evolved into something even more distinctive: a lifestyle investment shaped by access, scarcity, and stewardship.
In 2024, only 3.6% of single-family homes sold across the counties we serve were classified as waterfront properties. This consistent figure, down slightly from the year prior, reinforces what we’ve long observed. True waterfront real estate is inherently limited. Within that limitation, however, lies significant opportunity. In King County, the median sales price for a waterfront home rose to $1.78 million, which is 46% higher than the median for all homes. Kitsap and Island counties saw waterfront premiums that exceeded 50%.1
Bainbridge Island
Freeland
These are not one-off examples. They reflect a broader trend in how buyers value proximity to water, privacy, and most importantly, access. A permitted dock, private beach, or moorage rights are no longer just desirable features. They are legally protected assets. With only 5,500 docks in Washington’s marine waters and more than 3,000 miles of shoreline,² access is limited by more than just availability—it’s also shaped by regulation.
Access Meets Lifestyle: Why Infrastructure Is the Ultimate Luxury
The Pacific Northwest’s boating culture is as iconic as its shoreline. Washington remains one of the most boatingactive states in the country, with approximately 210,000 registered vessels as of 2023—more than 70% of them are for recreational use.3 In the first quarter of 2024, buyers spent $339.7 million on new and brokerage boats,4 despite a drop in unit sales. This trend tells a clear story: people are investing in quality, not quantity.
But quality boats require access—and in Washington, that access is tightly regulated.
Building or modifying a dock, boat lift, or shoreline path isn't as simple as drawing up plans. Projects often require permits from multiple agencies and must comply with shoreline protection laws that prioritize ecological health. The permitting timeline can stretch from six months to a year or more, depending on the location, environmental impact, and local regulations. Areas containing eelgrass beds, salmon spawning grounds, or forage fish habitat receive heightened scrutiny, and in many cases, limitations or outright restrictions.
This is why existing, legally permitted infrastructure is such a premium feature. A home with a dock or lift already in place offers more than convenience— it offers certainty. Buyers can bypass complex permitting timelines and move directly into the waterfront lifestyle they’re pursuing.
As counties across the state continue to update their Shoreline Master Programs to address climate resilience and habitat recovery, the opportunity to develop new water access will only become more limited. In today’s market, infrastructure isn’t just an amenity—it’s a legacy feature, securing both lifestyle and long-term value.
REFERENCES
¹ Realogics Sotheby’s International Realty, NWMLS and Trendgraphix data compiled for the 2025 Waterfront Report. Includes 2024 single-family home sales, median prices, days on market, and waterfront sales percentages.
² Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Marine Structures Inventory, 2009.
Understanding Your Shoreline: A Guide for Waterfront Owners
Owning a waterfront property means more than enjoying the view. In Washington, it comes with responsibilities and regulations designed to protect sensitive habitats like eelgrass beds, forage fish spawning areas, and salmon migration corridors.
The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) has published an official guide to help homeowners understand what can and cannot be done along the shoreline. From dock repairs and vegetation removal to installing boat lifts or mooring structures, most modifications require permits and ecological review.
Knowing the rules not only saves time but protects property value and the natural environment.
The Top Waterfront Highlights From 2024
Bainbridge Island stood out this year, posting a 4% increase in median waterfront price to $2.6 million and maintaining strong buyer demand. In contrast, Bellevue saw an 11.8% decline year-over-year, but remained among the state’s most valuable waterfront markets, with a top sale exceeding $21 million.
West Seattle continued its upward trend, rising 10% and boasting one of the shortest days on market averages in the region at just 23 days. Meanwhile, the floating-home market in Seattle remained active with 30 transactions closed despite a price correction of 18%.
Mercer Island, while quieter in terms of overall sales volume, continues to exemplify exclusivity. Waterfront inventory is exceptionally limited here, and most transactions occur off-market or with limited exposure. When a shoreline property does hit the NWMLS, it often commands eight-figure offers thanks to estate quality lots, dock infrastructure, and proximity to the Eastside's economic core.
San Juan County closed the year with the second highest median waterfront price of all the counties in the state at $1.67 million. The region’s natural beauty, expansive parcels, and remote access continue to attract buyers seeking privacy, panoramic views, and long-term legacy ownership. Waterfront homes here are as much about lifestyle as they are about land— often passed between generations or held for decades.
These local stories reflect the range and resilience of the waterfront market. Even where prices adjusted, demand for access and lifestyle remains strong. And in the most tightly held enclaves, that demand continues to outpace availability.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
For buyers, the message is clear. Inventory is scarce, and the properties that offer both water frontage and infrastructure are even rarer. With increased scrutiny around shoreline development and limited opportunity for new access points, existing homes with permitted docks or moorage represent long-term value and lifestyle freedom.
For sellers, the data offers clarity. The waterfront segment continues to outperform the broader market, driven by long-term demand, constrained supply, and the uniqueness of the asset. Proper positioning, storytelling, and a strong grasp of what makes each home special will define success in this market.
Waterfront homes aren’t just about the view. They are about what few others can have—and what fewer still will ever be able to build again.
From
hidden harbors to iconic enclaves,
the right community defines the
and we’re here
to help you find it.
lifestyle,
Analyzing Waterfront Trends 2024
From the waterways of the Puget Sound teeming with wildlife to the serene shores of freshwater lakes, the region boasts some of the most diverse opportunities for waterfront properties in the country. The Puget Sound area represents the quintessential lifestyle along the shore, despite the scarcity of these unique properties, or perhaps indeed because of their rarity. Accounting for merely 2,134 of the total singlefamily listings sold throughout 2024 in the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (NWMLS), these addresses represent a special opportunity for remarkable living, tranquil moments, singular adventures, and, of course, appreciation.
The county with the highest percentage of waterfront listings is the county with the highest number of sales in general: King County. With its iconic floating homes in Seattle and lakefront estates on Mercer Island, King County represents the extreme variety within this special market. It also boasts the highest median sales price, with San Juan County not far behind. Like the range in styles of waterfront homes, the range in pricing also opens the door of opportunity to ownership for those interested in becoming stewards of their own piece of shoreline.
From $1,785,000 in King County to $547,500 in Grays Harbor, the 2024 median sales prices across the counties analyzed are indicative of the vast possibilities across these markets. Compared to other market types, these listings typically take longer to sell, with the lowest 2024 days on market average at 40 days (Snohomish County) and the highest at 118 days (San Juan County). The market moves more slowly, the sales prices are generally higher, and the opportunity is rarer.
295 Lake Avenue W | Kirkland
3 Beds | 2.75 Baths | 3,020 Square Feet
Sold for $9,135,000
By County
2,134
59,098
Kitsap County
The following charts illustrate the median sales price range across all counties analyzed in the report and in King and Kitsap counties, which had the highest number of waterfront sales. Kitsap County’s price range breakdown is more closely aligned with the overall chart, whereas King County represents a more even divide between each category due to the higher volume of waterfront sales of $2 million and above.
4%
to $4M 19%
to $2M 37%
40%
Only 3.6% of homes sold across the counties examined were waterfront properties.
Exploring Our Featured Waterfronts
LAKE WASHINGTON
Located in the heart of Washington, Lake Washington covers 21,933 acres with a maximum depth of 214 feet. Bordered by Seattle, Bellevue, and Renton, it is a hub for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Fed by the Sammamish and Cedar rivers, Lake Washington spans 34 miles and is the largest lake in King County.
The lake supports diverse wildlife, including salmon and bald eagles. Iconic structures like the SR 520 and I-90 floating bridges connect communities, enhancing accessibility. More than a million people in the region use its amenities annually. This coveted waterfront area features diverse real estate, including Craftsman homes, beach bungalows, and modern constructions, often with beach access and docks.
SEATTLE
Seattle offers a variety of waterfront properties, from houseboats and custom floating homes to luxurious estates and shoreline condominiums. Elliott Bay, Lake Washington, and Lake Union provide ample opportunities for waterfront living, with private docks making boating excursions convenient. For those who crave in-city conveniences but yearn for a stunning setting, a waterfront property in bustling Emerald City is ideal.
Seattle's floating homes, a unique niche in the market, range from cozy and rustic to luxurious and sprawling. Residents enjoy peaceful sunrises and up-close wildlife sightings in the mornings, with colorful sunsets and sparkling city skylines reflecting off the water in the evenings. Whether on Lake Union, Lake Washington, or Elliott Bay, Seattle’s waterfront properties offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban excitement.
407 408 5th Avenue W | Kirkland
4 Beds | 3.25 Baths | 5,539 Square Feet
Sold for $10,400,000
LAKE UNION
Lake Union spans 580 acres with a six-mile shoreline and is one of two freshwater lakes in the city. Connected to Puget Sound via the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Ballard Locks, it is famous for houseboats and floating homes, including the iconic “Sleepless in Seattle” houseboat. The surrounding South Lake Union neighborhood features vibrant communities, tech hubs, and parks. Residents enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and unique experiences like hot tub boats, with seaplanes frequently taking off and landing.
8068 NE Hidden Cove Road | Bainbridge Island
3 Beds | 3.75 Baths | 6,204 Square Feet | Sold for $5,768,000
LAKE SAMMAMISH
Lake Sammamish is an eastside gem spanning 4,897 acres stretching from Redmond to Issaquah. The freshwater lake is popular for boating, fishing, and swimming. Lake Sammamish State Park offers beaches, picnic areas, and boat launches. The lake’s ecosystem includes the native kokanee salmon. Established in 1950, the park transformed from dairy farms to a public space used by over a million people annually, showcasing the community’s dedication to preserving natural beauty.
SAN JUAN ISLANDS
The San Juan Islands, an archipelago of 175 named islands, are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and vibrant wildlife. San Juan Island features the charming town of Friday Harbor and Lime Kiln Point State Park, one of the best spots for whale watching, where visitors can often see orcas from the shore. Orcas Island, the largest, offers excellent hiking trails and breathtaking panoramic views from Mt. Constitution, the highest point in the islands.
The nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islands support diverse ecosystems, including orcas, seals, and a variety of seabirds. The San Juan Island National Historical Park, established in 1966, spans 1,752 acres and commemorates the Pig War, a border dispute between the United States and Great Britain.
The islands provide a perfect getaway with opportunities for boating, kayaking, and exploring serene beaches and lush forests, making them a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
145 E Lake Sammamish Shorelane NE | Sammamish 3 Beds | 2.25 Baths | 3,829 Square Feet | Sold for $3,600,000
Stretching from Admiralty Inlet to Olympia, Puget Sound offers 1,330 miles of shoreline and a unique lifestyle blending natural beauty with urban convenience. Home to 4 million residents, it features diverse wildlife, including orcas, salmon, and seabirds. Residents enjoy a lifestyle enriched by outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, and kayaking, supported by numerous public piers and access points.
In 2023, nearly 225,000 vessels were registered in Washington, highlighting the community's passion for maritime adventures. Conservation efforts ensure the region's beauty and resources are preserved, enhancing the quality of life. This area, beloved by residents and visitors, offers opportunities to explore sea creatures, try clam digging on public beaches, and witness majestic orcas from West Seattle and the Sound’s 35 islands, including Vashon, Whidbey, and Bainbridge. MILES
Treasures of the Tide
REFERENCES
All
the
recreational harvest weights for crab, clams, oysters, salmon, geoduck, halibut, and shrimp reflect estimates from Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) and NOAA Fisheries reports for
2023–2024 season. Additional insight on oyster farming and geoduck exports provided by Taylor Shellfish Farms.
Dungeness Crab (7.5 million lbs harvested)
That’s roughly 3.75 million crabs caught across Washington’s waters in 2024. Dungeness remains the state’s most valuable shellfish—accessible to both commercial fleets and casual crabbers dropping pots from their dock.
Clams (5.2 million lbs harvested)
Clamming is one of Washington’s most accessible and popular shoreline activities. Families and foragers head out each season in search of Manila, littleneck, butter, and razor clams on public beaches from Hood Canal to Totten Inlet.
Oysters (1.4 million lbs harvested)
Washington’s oysters are renowned across the globe. The state is home to the largest shellfish producer in the U.S.—Taylor Shellfish, with farms in Totten Inlet, Willapa Bay, and Samish Bay. Their Totten Inlet Virginicas are especially prized for their deep, mineral-rich flavor.
Salmon (5.7 million lbs harvested)
Salmon fishing in Washington is a tradition, sport, and livelihood. Species like Coho and Chinook return yearly to river systems across the state, anchoring culture and economy.
Geoduck (520,000 lbs harvested)
Pronounced “gooey-duck,” this native clam is Washington’s most iconic shellfish export. Harvested by divers from deep tidal beds, geoduck is one of the most valuable shellfish commodities in the U.S., with Washington leading the nation in exports to Asia, where it’s considered a delicacy and cultural status symbol.
Halibut (160,000 lbs harvested)
Washington’s halibut fishery is short, strictly managed, and highly prized by sport anglers in coastal waters and parts of Puget Sound. Most fish range from 20 to 50 pounds—but the state record is a 288-pound halibut, landed near La Push in 2011.
Spot
Shrimp (600,000 lbs harvested)
A springtime favorite, spot prawn season draws thousands of boaters to Puget Sound. The daily limit is typically 80 shrimp per person, with a short, often one-day opener in many areas. They’re considered the “lobster” of the Pacific Northwest—a seasonal delicacy.
The Bounty of the Shoreline
WHERE LIFESTYLE MEETS LEGACY
FOR SOME, WATERFRONT LIVING IS DEFINED BY THE VIEW. But for many in Washington, it’s the shoreline itself—and the life it supports—that draws them in. This is where lifestyle and legacy converge, where the water offers both serenity and sustenance.
Recreational harvest is part of the rhythm here. In 2023, Washingtonians and visitors alike harvested more than 7.5 million pounds of Dungeness crab, over 5.2 million pounds of clams, 1.4 million pounds of oysters, and 5.7 million pounds of salmon. These aren’t commercial hauls—weekend traditions, low-tide rituals, and memories made with boots in the sand. From first-time diggers to seasoned foragers, the experience of gathering
your bounty connects you to the water in a way that goes far beyond aesthetics. It’s setting traps, digging at dawn, and grilling the day’s catch with neighbors. It’s volleyball in the sand while clams steam nearby. It’s the feeling that you’re not just looking at the water—you’re part of it.
Washington’s status as one of the top seafood regions in the country is no accident. The proximity to Alaskan waters, the richness of Puget Sound, and the health of our intertidal zones make this coastline uniquely abundant. At the center of it all is Taylor Shellfish, the largest shellfish producer in the U.S., cultivating oysters in Totten Inlet, Samish Bay, and Willapa Bay. Their Totten Inlet Virginicas are a delicacy born of pristine
habitat and generations of shellfish farming tradition. But it’s not just the bounty—it’s where you find it.
In Des Moines, locals know the tucked-away sandy beaches perfect for a day’s dig or a sunset paddle. Gig Harbor offers sheltered coves where kayakers and crabbers share the water with seabirds and seals. And in Port Ludlow, nestled at the intersection of Hood Canal and the Olympic foothills, the marina lifestyle meets mountain views. Residents here enjoy a quieter shoreline pace—where paddleboards launch from backyards and dinner might be caught just steps from your door.
This connection to the coast isn’t something you visit—it’s something you live. And for those fortunate enough to own along these waters, it becomes a way of life that blends tradition, recreation, and privilege in equal measure.
Waterfront living in Washington isn’t one-size-fits-all—but it is always rare. In a region defined by its shoreline, the opportunity to own part of it is not just valuable, it’s vanishing. Whether it’s the call of the sea, the culture of harvest, or the calm of a sheltered bay, the shoreline offers more than a home—it offers a legacy.
343 Keystone Avenue | Coupeville
Waterfront Market Report 2025
Bainbridge Island
Residential Waterfront Homes
With higher sales prices than the rest of Kitsap County and close access to Seattle, allowing for daily ferry commuting, Bainbridge Island is a unique market. For reporting purposes, we analyze the city separately and exclude it from our Kitsap County analysis. Due to the nature of it being an island, the waterfront market accounts for a significant portion of total sales, making up 18% (61) of 2024’s closed sales (333). Homebuyers on Bainbridge Island also have more opportunities to own more shoreline. The average days on market was 126 last year. There was slight price growth in the market, with the median sales price increasing 4% from $2,500,000 in 2023 to $2,600,000 in 2024. The average price per square foot increased by the same amount, growing from $903 to $938 per square foot.
AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET
Showing Waterfront Data Over The Last Three Years
1 2 3
11078 Country Club Road NE, Bainbridge Island
$6,400,000
10512 NE Country Club Road, Bainbridge Island*
$6,100,000 | *Sold Off-Market
13175 Manzanita Road NE, Bainbridge Island
$5,900,000
Waterfront Market Report 2025
Bellevue
Residential Waterfront Homes
For homebuyers searching for their ideal estate along Lake Washington, plus the career opportunities, entertainment, dining, and seamless access to Seattle and the rest of the Eastside, Bellevue proves highly desirable. Plus, with lower prices than the homes in its southern neighboring markets, like Four Points and Kirkland, these properties offer more options at a lower price point. However, with the highest sale coming in at $21,250,000 in 2024, it certainly is still considered a luxury market. The median sales price for Bellevue waterfront listings in 2024 decreased by 12%, compared to 2023, to $3,862,500, while the average price per square foot increased by 14%, compared to 2023. Homes sold more slowly in 2024 than they did in the previous two years, with an average days on market of 72 days.
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
1 2 3
905 Shoreland Drive
Waterfront Market Report 2025
Camano Island
Residential Waterfront Homes
For those looking for more shoreline for their dollar, Camano Island serves as the ideal choice, with an average price per square foot of $538 (down 6% from 2023’s average of $574). Sprawling nearly 40 square miles, the island is one of the largest in the state, presenting ample opportunity for a waterfront home on the scenic shores of this Puget Sound jewel. The average linear feet of waterfront properties in 2024 was 108 feet. Accounting for 44 out of the island’s 275 total sales (or 16%), waterfront homes make up a sizable portion of 2024’s total closings. Although the median sales price is not the lowest of the communities analyzed in the report, it is more affordable than the majority. In 2024, the median sales price increased just 2% from $1,115,000 to $1,140,000. Listings tend to move more slowly in this market, with an average of 67 days on market.
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
1 2 3
2124 Otter Lane, Camano Island
$2,600,000 341 Arrowhead Beach Road, Camano Island
$2,275,000
709 Tillicum Way, Camano Island
$1,875,000
Waterfront Market Report
MEDINA | CLYDE HILL | YARROW POINT | HUNTS POINT
Four Points
Residential Waterfront Homes
Comprised of Clyde Hill, Medina, Hunts Point, and Yarrow Point, the Four Points area is renowned for its sprawling Lake Washington estates, coveted Eastside location, and high sales prices. With just seven waterfront sales in 2024, owning a home in these highly desired neighborhoods along the water is rare, which only adds to its appeal. The most expensive sales price last year was in the Four Points area, with a stunning unlisted Medina estate selling for $38,900,000. In 2024, the average price per square foot was up 5% to $2,680, but the median sales price was down by 33% to $8,000,000. Given the small pool of data analyzed in this area—with only seven sales—it’s not unusual to see market conditions widely vary from year to year.
1 2 3
Waterfront Market Report
PIERCE COUNTY
Gig Harbor & Fox Island
Residential Waterfront Homes
Connected by the Fox Island bridge, Fox Island and Gig Harbor are Pierce County neighbors with idyllic waterfront property options. Combined in our reporting, these two areas maintain access to Tacoma within less densely populated neighborhoods, offering quaint, small-town charm. The median sales price of this community is higher than that of Pierce County’s overall waterfront median. There was price growth in 2024, with the median increasing 16% from $1,408,094 to $1,629,000. Buyers in this market receive more property for their dollar compared to many of the other areas analyzed, with an average price per square foot of $611 in 2024. The average linear waterfront footage was down from 115 in 2023 to 106 in 2024. With 81 closed waterfront sales in 2024, it is a more sizable market than the majority of the communities examined in this report.
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
1 2 3
Waterfront Market Report
Kirkland
Residential Waterfront Homes
Sited along Lake Washington, Kirkland offers stunning Eastside waterfront properties. With the third highest median sales price of all the communities analyzed in the report, Kirkland is representative of a luxury waterfront market with seamless access to a bustling urban core. The median sales price increased by 12% from $5,650,000 in 2023 to $6,300,000 in 2024. The average price per square foot also saw an increase, up 11% to $1,653 per square foot (which is indicative of the desirability of this market). Accounting for just 2% of Kirkland’s total sales, waterfront properties make up a small portion of the city’s market, making them incredibly coveted. Despite the low inventory, buyers still took their time in their searches, and the average days on market in 2024 was 63 days (up from 2023’s average of 48 days).
AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET Showing Waterfront Data Over The Last Three Years
63
20 48
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
1 2 3
323 Lake Street S, Kirkland
$13,500,000
$10,750,000
$9,135,000
Waterfront Market Report
Kitsap County
Residential Waterfront Homes
In our Kitsap County reporting, Bainbridge Island is excluded—due to its unique market with higher price tags than the rest of Kitsap County—bringing the median sales price from $1,200,000 to $956,000. The median sales price saw less than a 1% change from its 2023 figure. There was an 11% increase in the average price per square foot, indicating that although buyers saw similar prices to the previous year, they may have also received less square footage for their dollar in 2024. They did generally receive the same amount of shoreline, with the average linear feet at 116 in 2023 and 115 in 2024. Homes have increasingly spent longer on the market over the past three years, climbing from 33 to 41 to 47 days on average from 2022 to 2024.
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
EXCLUDING BAINBRIDGE ISLAND 27441 Anchor Place NW, Poulsbo
1
2 3
$3,351,000
$2,850,000
Waterfront Market Report 2025
Mercer Island
Residential Waterfront Homes
With all of the access and opportunities of Seattle just minutes to the west and Bellevue and Kirkland to the east, Mercer Island maintains urban convenience while boasting a charming yet luxury real estate market. Homes on this elegant island enjoy the stunning views and dynamic waters of surrounding Lake Washington, offering boat moorage opportunities, private docks, and beautiful shorelines. In 2023, Mercer Island ranked in the top three most expensive waterfront markets analyzed in the report. However, with a 57% increase in median sales price in 2024, it surpassed Kirkland and the Four Points area (which outpriced it the previous year) with its $8,112,000 median sales price. It had the second highest waterfront sale of 2024, with a price tag of $28,500,000 for the 1.2-acre sprawling estate in the island’s North End neighborhood. The average for days on market was 159 days, as homes with higher listing prices tend to sell more slowly.
159
25
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
1
2 3
7002 N Mercer Way, Mercer Island
$28,500,000
1841 W Mercer Way, Mercer Island
$17,300,000
5045 Forest Avenue SE, Mercer Island*
$15,150,000 | *Sold Off-Market
Waterfront Market Report
Residential Waterfront Homes
Accounting for less than 1% of the total Northwest Lake Washington sales in 2024, the waterfront properties in this neighborhood are certainly rare. There were 15 closed waterfront sales in this community last year, and they spent an average of 52 days on market. As witnessed in the other communities analyzed in the report, homes sold at a slower pace. Besides West Seattle, all communities had an average days on market figure of over 40 days, indicating that the 52-day average is not unusual for a waterfront market in the Puget Sound region. The market experienced price growth, with a 17% increase in median sales price, up from $2,300,000 to in 2023 to $2,700,000 in 2024. Buyers in this market receive less linear square footage than some of the other markets in the report, which are in less densely populated areas that allow for larger lots and more waterfrontage.
52
23
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
Undisclosed, Seattle
$10,450,000
1 2 3 SEATTLE Northwest Lake Washington
3001 Webster Point Road NE, Seattle*
$7,185,000 | *Sold Off-Market 4223 NE 33rd Street, Seattle
$5,910,000
15
1,762
Waterfront Market Report
These Clallam County cities saw major price growth between 2023 and 2024, with a 35% increase in the median sales price, up from $693,350 to $937,500. However, besides Kitsap County, this area has the lowest average price per square foot at $527, meaning buyers still received plenty of property for their dollar. They also received ample shoreline, with the average linear square footage of waterfront sales at 139 feet (up from 124 feet in 2023). Despite its location along the Salish Sea, this area’s waterfront homes still proved rare, accounting for just 3% of the total sales in 2024, with 28 out of 813 sales. Homes spent 41 days on average on the market before selling, which, after West Seattle, is the lowest average days on market witnessed in our reporting.
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
1 2 3 Undisclosed, Port Angeles
$2,525,000
3397
$1,950,000
Waterfront Market Report 2025
Poulsbo
Residential Waterfront Homes
Poulsbo’s waterfront market remained steady despite challenging market conditions in 2024. The median sales price saw no change, as it was $1,400,000 in both 2023 and 2024. The average linear square feet remained nearly the same as well, at 106 feet in 2023 and 107 feet in 2024, indicating that overall, 2024’s buyers received a similar amount of waterfrontage in their purchases as buyers who made their purchases in 2023 did. The average price per square foot decreased by 12% from $565 to $499. Properties sold more slowly than they did in 2023, with an average of 56 days on market, but this number does not differ greatly from the average across all 16 counties examined in this report. With generally higher prices and more responsibilities than non-waterfront listings—as owning a waterfront home can present both additional opportunities and additional upkeep—a slower market is to be expected.
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
1 2 3
27441 Anchor Place NW, Poulsbo
$3,351,000
14200 Sandy Hook Road NE, Poulsbo
$2,460,000
6875 NE Eisenhardt Lane, Poulsbo
$2,275,000
Waterfront Market Report 2025
LAKE SAMMAMISH
Sammamish & Issaquah
Residential Waterfront Homes
Combined in our reporting due to the fact that they share Lake Sammamish, Sammamish and Issaquah are King County cities with access to Seattle, while offering more open space and suburban benefits than many urban markets. This community is ideal for those looking for longer stretches of their own shoreline, with the third highest linear feet average out of all the communities analyzed. In 2024, the average was 130 feet, which is significantly higher than 2023’s average of 86 feet. In addition to offering buyers more waterfrontage than the previous year, this market also benefited sellers with a lower average for days on market, down from 110 days in 2023 to 55 days in 2024. In tracking the past three years’ numbers for this data point, it’s notable that the average greatly varies from year to year. As for price growth, the median sales price increased by 5% from $3,187,000 in 2023 to $3,337,500 in 2024.
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
1
2
3
18744 SE 42nd Street, Issaquah
$7,000,000
407 East Lake Sammamish Parkway SE, Sammamish
$6,800,000
1531 E Lake Sammamish Parkway NE, Sammamish
55
18 110
Waterfront Market Report
San Juan County
Residential Waterfront Homes
Boasting diverse wildlife, a robust boating community, and forests along stunning stretches of shoreline, San Juan County is comprised of some of the most coveted island addresses in the state. Homes in this county are rare, with just 207 closed single-family sales in 2024; 18% (38 homes) of those sales were waterfront properties. This market saw a decrease in price overall. The median sales price decreased 24% from $2,190,000 in 2023 to $1,670,000 in 2024. The average price per square foot similarly decreased by 18% from $1,037 in 2023 to $850 in 2024. The county still saw several high sales prices, with the most expensive selling for $6,500,000. Homes sold slowly in 2024, with the average days on market at 118, only surpassed by Mercer Island for the highest average. In 2023, the average was 94 days on market, indicating that although the figure was high in 2024, it was not necessarily an anomaly for the county.
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
1
2
3
770 Double Cove Road, Orcas Island
$6,500,000
74 Pattis Place, Friday Harbor
$4,870,000
232 Hummingbird Lane, Orcas Island
$4,400,000
Waterfront Market Report
Seattle Floating Homes
Lakefront estates and charming cottages along the sound certainly capture the essence of quintessential Pacific Northwest waterfront living, but Seattle’s floating home market may win the title for most distinctive. For those who want more than waterfront living, living on the water— more specifically, the waters of Lake Union—is possible with these unique homes. Accounting for less than 1% of Seattle’s total sales, the 30 waterfront sales in 2024 represented coveted opportunities. Despite the rarity and limited supply, buyers in this submarket typically take their time in their floating-home searches. The average days on market last year was 53 days—the same average as 2023. The market’s sales prices decreased, with the median sales price decreasing 18% from $1,195,000 in 2023 to $977,500 in 2024.
TOP THREE WATERFRONT SALES IN 2024
1 2 3 LAKE UNION
Residential Waterfront Homes 2369 Fairview Avenue E #7, Seattle
$4,000,000
30
6,363
Waterfront Market Report 2025
West Seattle
Residential Waterfront Homes
West Seattle’s waterfront market moved at a faster pace than the other communities analyzed in our reporting, with an average days on market of 23 days (down from 2023’s average of 35 days). It should be noted that this is a much smaller market than most of the other markets in the report, with a mere eight total waterfront sales last year, accounting for less than 1 percent of West Seattle’s total sales. There was a yearly increase in the median sales price, up 10% from $2,200,000 to $2,477,000, but a 2% decrease in the average price per square foot. Owning shoreline in West Seattle is exceedingly rare, and for those who do purchase waterfront homes in this desirable locale, they receive less square footage along the water than in most of the other communities highlighted in the report. The average linear square feet in 2024 was 56 feet, which was up from 2023’s average of 45 feet.
1 2 3
Waterfront Market Report 2025
Whidbey Island
Residential Waterfront Homes
Quaint towns and forested beaches make Whidbey Island a popular destination and an ideal place to own your own piece of shoreline. The options to purchase sprawling shorelines are certainly available on the island, with a linear square feet average of 117 in 2024. Although the price per square foot decreased by 3% from $677 to $658, the median sales price increased by 8% from $1,065,000 to $1,145,000. Whidbey Island is a desirable community to purchase property, but buyers were not rushed to make their decisions, as the average days on market was 61 days, indicating that the market wasn’t as fast-paced or competitive as we’ve witnessed in past years (including in 2022 when the average was a mere 22 days). Out of the 910 total sales on the island, 10% (90 sales) of those were waterfront homes.
2 3
720 Windmill Drive, Freeland*
$5,000,000 | *Sold Off-Market
6496 Bay Road, Freeland*
$3,700,000 | *Sold Off-Market
914 Mutiny Shore Drive, Freeland
$3,000,000
Waterfront Portfolio
Realogics Sotheby's International Realty's trusted advisors have the waterfront market expertise and top tier service to guide you through your journey within these remarkable markets.
15254 & 15260 Broom Street NE, Bainbridge Island | NWMLS# 2260248
$6,750,000 | 5 Beds | 5 Baths | 6,844 Square Feet
Explore Every Shoreline.
Scan to view all waterfront homes available across Washington, from coastal estates to hidden lakefront gems.
5438 E Mercer Way, Mercer Island | NWMLS# 2393404
4486
$4,250,000
$3,998,000
2466 Westlake Avenue N #5, Seattle | NWMLS# 2380346
$2,750,000
5837 Ambleside Loop, Anacortes | NWMLS# 2345518
$4,995,000
13 White Rock Lane, Port Ludlow | NWMLS# 2260007
$4,888,000
343 Keystone Avenue, Coupeville | NWMLS# 2392614
$3,188,000
9882 Manitou Beach Drive NE, Bainbridge Island | NWMLS# 2391649
$1,748,000
Waterfront Luxury, Redefined: Why Downsizers Are Choosing Infinity Shore Club Residences
As lifestyle preferences continue to evolve across the Seattle metropolitan area, a growing number of homeowners are making a strategic shift and trading large single-family homes for a more refined, low-maintenance way of life, courtesy of a condominium. For many, that means embracing the freedom of an amenity-rich condominium lifestyle, just moments from dining, shopping, and outdoor recreation, in one of the region’s most iconic waterfront locations: Alki Beach
Enter Infinity Shore Club Residences, a collection of modern, luxury condominiums that offer the rarest of opportunities: true waterfront living with lock-and-leave convenience. For discerning buyers looking to simplify without compromising on space, design, or location, this boutique 37-unit building represents an unparalleled alternative to traditional homeownership.
With sweeping views of the Puget Sound, thoughtfully designed floor plans, and resort-inspired amenities, Infinity Shore Club Residences is uniquely positioned to meet the needs of today’s downsizers, many of whom split time between multiple homes. For this lifestyle, lock-and-leave ease is essential. The ability to come and go without the responsibilities of yard work, ongoing maintenance, or managing a sprawling estate is increasingly valued among those who prioritize flexibility and freedom.
Infinity Shore Club Residences’ homes are also remarkably spacious, with some residences offering over 3,500 square feet of interior and private exterior living — designed to feel more like single-family homes than typical urban condominiums. Expansive great rooms, generous outdoor terraces, and secure garages contribute to a sense of privacy and scale.
“It’s like living a permanent vacation.”
– Dehlan Gwo, VP of New Developments
Waterfront residences in Seattle are extraordinarily limited, especially newly constructed condominiums. With shoreline development constrained by geography, environmental protections, local zoning regulations, and limited availability of prime waterfront sites, opportunities like Infinity Shore Club Residences are becoming increasingly rare. In fact, this project is the only new, luxury condominium offering on Alki Beach — made possible by an extraordinary 23-year effort between developer Vibrant Cities and a previous property owner to assemble five contiguous waterfront parcels along Alki Avenue. That kind of vision and patience is virtually unheard of today, making Infinity Shore Club Residences’ “condominium estates” a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
As demand for thoughtfully designed, full-service condominium living continues to grow, so does the appetite for elegant, lifestyle-driven investments in premier locations. For those seeking effortless waterfront living on Seattle’s most cherished shorefront, Infinity Shore Club Residences delivers something truly exceptional.
Infinity Shore Club Residences is now 70% sold out. Remaining one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences and penthouses are available from $999,000 to $3,500,000.
Waterfront Defined
These local definitions will not only familiarize you with waterfront terminology but also provide quick access tools to research waterfront properties in depth. Here is a helpful resource for commonly used terms related to waterfront real estate.
BAY
A broad inlet of the sea where the land curves inward.
BOATHOUSE
A structure at the edge of the water used to house boats.
BULKHEAD
A wall that separates a property from the water; in some cases, property owners are responsible for maintaining the bulkheads.
BUOY
An anchored float serving as a navigation mark to show reefs or other hazards, or for mooring.
COASTAL
Of or located near a coast.
COVE
A small, sheltered bay.
DEADHEAD
Logs lost from towed rafts or other wood debris which becomes lodged in the seafloor.
DOCK
A usually wooden pier used as a landing place or moorage for boats.
FLOATING HOME
A floating residence constructed according to city code and connected to city sewer, water, and electricity; usually located in a co-op-owned or condominium slip.
FORESHORE
The part of a shore between high and low water marks or between the water and cultivated or developed land.
FRONTAGE
A strip or extent of land abutting water; the boundary between the water and land fronting on and providing access to a watercourse, bay or lake.
HARBOR
A place on the coast where vessels may find shelter, especially one protected from rough water by piers, jetties, and other artificial structures.
HIGH BANK
No access to the water and located on a cliff or steep slope, deep water below with dramatic views.
HOUSEBOAT
A barge designed and equipped for use as a dwelling.
JETTY
A landing stage or small pier at which boats can dock or be moored.
LAKEFRONT
The land along the edge of a lake.
LITTORAL
Zone or nearshore, the part of a sea, lake, or river that is close to the shore, extending from the high water mark, which is rarely inundated, to shoreline areas that are permanently submerged; often refers to the rights and privileges that are incidental to owning property on the shore of sea or a lake.
LOWBANK
Easy access by a small flight of stairs or an easy climb, many low banks have pocket beaches with docks.
MEDIUM BANK
Access to the water with option of watching from above, sometimes access is tide dependent.
MOORING
Any permanent structure to which a vessel may be secured; a place where a boat or ship is moored.
NO BANK
Smooth transition to the beach and directly into the water; often referred to as beach front.
NON-TIDAL
Not affected by tides.
OCEANFRONT
The land that borders the ocean.
PIER
A platform supported on pillars or girders leading out from the shore into a body of water, used as a landing stage for boats.
PILING
Heavy stakes or posts installed to support a structure, often found in waterfront properties.
PRIVATE BEACH
A beach that is owned by a person, a group of people, or a company; the beach is not accessible to the general public.
PRIVATE MOORING
Private dock or slip to moor a boat.
PROTECTED
Shoreline protection is intended to decrease or eliminate coastal erosion; protection involves the construction of engineered structures or techniques that slow erosion.
RIPARIAN
Relating or situated on the banks of a river; often refers to rights and privileges that are incidental to the ownership fronting on a body of water.
SALTWATER
Seawater and things found in saltwater, living in the sea.
SHARED BEACH
Shared beach access from multiple properties.
SHARED MOORING
Shared dock where more than one property can moor their boats.
SHORELINE
The line alongside a large body of water where it meets the land.
SLIP
A designated docking boat space that is protected on three sides.
SOUND
An inlet linked to the ocean by a strait; the Puget Sound is linked to the ocean by the Strait of Juan De Fuca, Seattle is situated on its eastern shore.
STRAIT
A narrow passage of water connecting two seas or two other large areas of water.
TIDAL
Relating or affected by tides.
TIDELAND
Land submerged during high tide.
TIDE FLAT
Land above water at a normal low tide.
TIDE POOL
An isolated pocket of seawater found where the ocean meets the land and is usually packed with sea life.
UPLAND
Waterfront lands located above the highwater mark.
VISTA
A pleasing view, especially one seen through a long, narrow opening.
WATER ACCESS
Accessible from property by small beach or stairs.
WATER VIEW
Water is viewable from the property.
WHARF
A level quayside area to which a ship may be moored to load and unload.
