R edmond, Washington is a thriving community that balances the rugged outdoors with high technology centers. It sits in the northwest part of the state, just miles from the bustling downtown of Seattle and east of Puget Sound. Redmond enjoys a magnificent location on Lake Sammamish with rolling green hills as far as the eye can see. It has been called the Bicycle Capital of the Northwest for the popularity of this alternative transportation. Additionally, it was the filming location for the 1996 movie "From Dusk Til Dawn" and the popular television comedy "Northern Exposure".

Redmond is home to nearly 50,000 residents, whose median age is 34 years old. The average household income here is above the national average at approximately $67,000 per year. There are housing options here to suit every taste and budget. With the advent of Redmond as a technology center, several computer moguls such as Bill and Melinda Gates have built sprawling mansions around town. The presence of these homes could skew the median home value in the area, which is $685,000.

Redmond's economy is evenly divided between four major sectors. As the headquarters location for computer giant Microsoft, professional services, science and technology have a slight lead. Retail trade takes second place, while information technologies and manufacturing vie for third. A significant number of residents work in finance, insurance and real estate. Redmond was historically a logging town, but this industry has been replaced by manufacturing and high tech business parks sitting amongst the old growth evergreen trees. These industries have contributed to a 61% growth in personal income between 1990 and 1997, leading the state in per capita income.

In their free time, Redmond residents take advantage of the breathtaking natural beauty around them. Outdoor activities are incredibly popular, and there is seemingly no end to the options. Temperatures in the area remain mild throughout the year, and while it rains just enough to keep the scenery an otherworldly green, it rarely snows. The Cascade Mountain range is less than an hour away and provides perfect skiing and snowboarding.

The city's parks department maintains 34 public spaces that encompass nearly 1,400 acres and 25 miles of trails for hiking and biking. Lake Sammamish is a popular summer destination for boating and swimming. Idylwood Park, located on the waterfront of the lake, is a great spot for picnics and a day in the sun.

Redmond's love affair with the bicycle dates back to the early 1900's when the city asked residents to participate in Derby Days. This was a fundraiser to buy Christmas decorations for the town and sports equipment for the local high school teams. The tradition still exists, but is now held in summer and has grown to a nationally sanctioned bike race. Within Redmond, it is one of the most popular festivals of the year, and is officially the oldest annual bicycle event in North America.

Redmond has one of the strongest economies in the country and is set against a breathtaking backdrop of natural beauty. Residents here are educated, environmentally sensitive, and maintain a relaxed and friendly demeanor. They take a great deal of pride in their community, and if you ask, they'll tell you it's the finest town in America. If you are thinking of moving to Redmond, Washington, our relocation packet is yours for the asking!