Snohomish vs. King County: Where’s the Better Value Right Now?

Market Snapshot

If you’re house hunting in the greater Seattle area, you’ve probably wondered: is it smarter to buy in Snohomish County or King County right now? Here’s how the markets compare:

• Median Home Prices

  • King County: ~$885,000

  • Snohomish County: ~$760,000

  • That’s about a $125,000 savings for the median home in Snohomish.

• Price Per Square Foot

  • King County: ~$517/ft²

  • Snohomish County: ~$430–431/ft²

  • Snohomish stretches your dollar further, especially if space is a priority.

• Inventory & Days on Market

  • King County median DOM: ~23 days

  • Snohomish County median DOM: ~24 days

  • Both have seen listings rise in 2025, with Snohomish offering slightly more breathing room.

Affordability Check

Affordability isn’t just about sticker price—it’s about how far your income goes.

• Median household income in the Seattle metro: ~$110,700

• Snohomish’s lower home prices mean monthly mortgage payments are often several hundred dollars less than in King for the same down payment.

• The income-to-home-price ratio is more forgiving in Snohomish, making it a common entry point for first-time buyers.

Lifestyle & Value Trade-Offs

• Commute & Transportation

  • King County: Shorter commutes, more robust light-rail and bus systems.

  • Snohomish: Commutes can be longer, but you often trade traffic for greener scenery.

• Lot Sizes & New Construction

  • Snohomish: Larger lots, more new-builds available.

  • King: Denser neighborhoods, more walkability, more established communities.

• Neighborhood Feel

  • King County: Bustling, diverse, full of nightlife and cultural options.

  • Snohomish: Quieter, small-town vibe, community-driven events.

Investment & Future Growth

• Past 5-Year Appreciation

  • Both counties: Strong double-digit appreciation.

  • King: Higher raw dollar gains.

  • Snohomish: Stronger percentage growth at times due to affordability.

• Looking Ahead

  • King: Continued demand near tech corridors and urban job centers.

  • Snohomish: Growth near new transit lines and suburban expansion areas.

Rent vs. Buy Comparison

• Rental Yields

  • Snohomish: Lower acquisition costs improve cash flow.

  • King: Higher rents but tighter yields due to purchase prices.

• Investor Considerations

  • Snohomish: Friendly for first-time landlords, yield-focused investors.

  • King: Strong long-term value, renter demand near urban cores.

Who Each County Fits Best

• First-Time Buyers → Snohomish (lower prices, more entry-level options).

• Commuters → King (shorter transit times to Seattle/Bellevue).

• Families → Both, but Snohomish’s larger lots and parks stand out.

• Investors → Snohomish for cash flow, King for long-term urban appreciation.

Bottom Line

The “better value” depends on your priorities:

• Stretch your budget → Snohomish

• Cut commute times → King

• Space for family & growth → Snohomish

• Urban amenities & job access → King

Both counties are strong options in today’s market. If you’re ready to explore which one best fits your lifestyle and goals, reach out for personalized advice and the latest listings.