By:  Michelle Feder

9 communities to consider calling ‘home’

Yes, Microsoft’s main campus is in Redmond, WA. Yes, there are a lot of office buildings here. But the Puget Sound area (Seattle and what we call “the Eastside”) offers many great neighborhoods, each with its own feel, its own vibe. It’s all about fit. There’s something for everyone.

Where would you want to live? Consider the possibilities:

Queen Anne: This neighborhood sits on Seattle’s highest hill, has the charm of 19^th century architecture, and offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline. It’s a popular choice because it’s close to downtown Seattle, has a great mix of urban and residential areas, and arts venues at Seattle Center.

Ballard: This one-time Scandinavian fishing village is one of Seattle’s oldest neighborhoods. But now it houses some of Seattle’s best pubs, cafes, and shopping.

Fremont: Fly your freak flag in quirky-artsy Fremont. Not only is it the Capital of the Known Universe, but it offers a mysterious troll under a bridge. A fun and funky pick for geeks and free spirits.

Green Lake: If you’re a going-out-for-a-run kind of geek, you’ll gravitate toward this North End neighborhood. Dog-lovers, latte-drinkers, and triathletes meet up here to enjoy the 3-mile route around the lake. (Nearby Wallingford is also a popular spot, with restaurants and retail along 45^th St.) 

Capitol Hill: If you like a diverse and urban environment, Capitol Hill is your place. People with ink; people with strollers. Places to read and of course, drink coffee. Bars and pubs galore. 

And on what we call “the Eastside,” you can choose from communities such as Bellevue, Kirkland and Issaquah.

Bellevue: Downtown Bellevue has sprouted masses of condos and apartments around Bellevue Square mall and Lincoln Square, which together offer shopping, a movie theatre, and a bar scene.  The area has a corporate cityscape and leafy residential areas. We hear it’s a top U.S. place to live.

Kirkland: A waterfront neighborhood on the Eastside. Fun for a stroll, and it’s a good choice for suburbanites. Very pretty, and has some commuting advantages to get to Redmond.

Issaquah: This Eastside area with major natural beauty in its backyard has grown from a historic logging town into a booming residential area. The Issaquah Highlands development is home to geeks galore. Eco-geeks will love the LEED-certified buildings. Microsofties love the easy commute. And there’s Wi-Fi everywhere. Geek out!

Surprise! Redmond ranks #5 as the best place to live (on a list of the best small cities).

Now imagine: You’ve got a great job, a great lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest, and you’re living it in a neighborhood that feels like you.

What are you waiting for? Grab a latte and visit careers at Microsoft.