As a life long resident of Spokane WA, I have lived in nearly every area of this city. When relocating to Spokane WA I can only imagine what it would be like to try and decide which neighborhoods in Spokane would be best for you.
First of all, believe it ot not, as Realtor's we are unable to offer " opinions" about neighborhoods, or appear to be suggesting one area over another. This is a clear violation of our code of ethics. It would appear that we are saying one part of town is " better" than the other. So, I am attempting to describe some basic characteristics about Spokane neighborhoods, or the area's in Spokane, rather.
First of All, Spokane WA is separated by North and South by our breathtaking Spokane River. It literally rages right through the center of downtown Spokane.
The Spokane River has immense falls, and that is actually why our city was initially named " Spokane Falls".
Yes, this stunning river is the heart of beautiful Spokane WA!
Let's talk now about general " areas" of Spokane.
Downtown Spokane has many historic buildings, great shopping, theaters, and you can purchase urban condo's if you like downtown living. Recently, the addition of Kendall Yards ( A Greenstone Homes development) has added a whole new lifestyle to living downtown Spokane. see:http://www.kendallyards.com/
Just West of downtown is historic Brownes Addition. Many large, nearly mansion sized homes are used as apartment buildings, and the culture and community is really fun. Great restaurants.
North Spokane is a vast area geographically. Close to downtown, you get the Gonzaga University District. There are several neighborhoods mid- north such as the Garland District ( named after Garland Street and Garland Theater area ) which is a fun walkable community of shops, and older homes ranging in price from about 130-199,000.
Northwest area has both the delightful Shadle and Downriver/ Audobon neighborhoods. Very charming with a beautiful park (Audobon Park) and many bungalow style homes, aged from about 1910-1940. Many people chose this area for being close to town and affordable.
The farther north you go, the newer the homes get. Many people lpve the MEAD school district area which spans several miles in the (far) north end of Spokane WA. There is a large variety of home values in this area due to it's size. North Spokane is rich with shopping, Northtown Mall and has several types of neighborhoods from old to new. There are new construction areas, custom home neighborhoods, view homes and homes on acreage- depending on how far north you go.
South of the River, is referred as "The South Hill". The closer you get to the river, the older the homes are, as the city was developed initially because of the river. The south hill is known for the spectacular "Manito Park" (see http://www.manitopark.org/) which was designed by the same people as Central park in NY), Cannon Hill Park and the charming older homes which grace those areas. Beacuse of the proximity of the gorgeous parks, the prices in this neighborhood are a bit higher than others, but if yuou have lived there, and I have- it is worth it.
The Perry District is an up and coming artistic community with charming older homes, 2 story homes and some really great places to eat!
Farther south, yards become larger and homes become newer. The Hamblen school neighborhood has classic ranchers, ramblers 3 and 4 level homes typically built in about the 1960's on average. Moran, Comstock and many wonderful areas.
There are alot of pine trees on the south hill. It's much smaller than the overall north side, but it is home to the only Trader Joe's in the city.
(East) The Spokane Valley was initially a suburb and is now it's own " town".Developed mainly from about 1960-80, the Spokane Valley is not only where I graduated from high school, but is only a 15 minute drive to downtown Spokane, and the Spokane Valley Mall is a great place to shop! There are some beautiful new housing developments in all areas of Spokane, including the Spokane Valley. You can find a place more " rural" in the valley and outlying areas such as Greenacres and Veradale.
Nearly every area of Spokane has places where you can find view homes, older homes, and newer homes. Lot's of choices!
Liberty Lake WA is a thriving community that has seen fast growth the past 20 years, and is home to several technology companies. It lies between Spokane and Couer D' Alene, Idaho and is a beautiful area.
I could go on and on about many area's I love in our great area. There are dozens of neighborhoods bursting with personality and character. I guess I feel lucky to live and work in the great Northwest.
If you have any questions about home prices in Spokane WA, Homes for sale in Spokane WA or Relocation to Spokane WA I would love to hear from you!
BethAnn in Spokane
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