Best Places to Live in Spokane 

What are the best neighborhoods in Spokane, WA? Here are the best places to live in Spokane! 

Located on the riverfront, Spokane is a beautiful place to live in Eastern Washington that is best known for its outdoor activities, above-average schools, and welcoming atmosphere. Attracting many families, singles, young professionals, and retirees to the area, Spokane is a desirable place to call home in the northwest, with plenty of opportunities to grow and flourish. 

As one of the best places to live in Washington, Spokane is genuinely unique to call home. If you are moving to Washington, then living in Spokane might be the best option for you. Sought after for its affordable homes, beautiful architecture, family-friendly way of life, and safe neighborhoods, Spokane has many beautiful communities with a lot to offer its residents. 

Before deciding to call Spokane home, you may wonder where you should live. Whether you are searching for a community close to local amenities or a neighborhood with beautiful single-family homes that meet your budget, there is bound to be a neighborhood in Spokane that meets all your needs. 

Even though house-hunting may seem stressful and overwhelming, finding the right neighborhood can make all the difference. You can read on to learn more about the seven best neighborhoods in Spokane, with information about local favorites in each area. 

Here are the seven best places to live in Spokane 

Lincoln Heights 

Located in the southeastern part of the city, atop the South Hill area, lies the neighborhood of Lincoln Heights. Considered a great place to live with plenty of amenities, Lincoln Heights is quiet and very safe. Not only is this neighborhood a great place to raise a family, but its proximity to Downtown and the interstate means that young professionals want to live here, specifically for its ideal location. 

With less expensive housing than 67% of other Washington neighborhoods, living in Lincoln Heights is an affordable option. This suburban neighborhood is made up primarily of small to medium single-family homes and apartment complexes. Most residences are considered to be established and were built between 1970 and 1999. Check out homes for sale in Lincoln Heights. 

Local Favorites 

Two Seven Public House: This favorite neighborhood restaurant serves delicious pub grub, including cheeseburgers, quesadillas, and salads, in a laid-back atmosphere. Located in the Lincoln Heights Shopping Center, order one of the many microbrews on tap. 

Timber Creek Coffee Company: Hang out with friends and catch up on work at this locally owned, cozy coffee shop. 

SteamPlant: Located in a former steam-generating facility, this venue is now a popular restaurant serving American classics, including steaks and cheeseburgers. 

Peaceful Valley 

Peaceful Valley is a beautiful suburban neighborhood near Downtown Spokane. Located at the bottom of the Spokane river gorge, Peaceful Valley is truly a serene place to live surrounded by nature. Ranked as one of the best places to live in Spokane, this is one of the most distinct communities in the city for its geography and proximity to Downtown. 

Known for having a rich history, this land was originally the site of the Spokane Tribes' most important fishing camps. In recent decades, this area has attracted many new developments. Often described as a quirky neighborhood frequented by the working class, it is easy to see why Peaceful Valley is a top choice for residents to call home. 

For those moving to the neighborhood with school-aged children, families will have access to highly rated public schools. Some of the top schools in the area include Roosevelt Elementary School, Sacajawea Middle School, and Lewis and Clark High School. 

Local Favorites 

Dry Fly Distilling Bar, Restaurant, and Gift Shop: Offering excellent service and great food and drinks, this beloved distillery, bar, and restaurant is best known for its hand-crafted award-winning spirits. Bottles of bourbon, whiskey, gin, and vodka are available for purchase as well as a variety of canned cocktails. 

Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar: Offering dine-in, take-out, and delivery options, this local spot offers New American menu items and craft cocktails. Make sure to order this restaurant's signature lemon drop martini. 

The Elk Public House: Order burgers, gumbo, and other pub favorites at this local hangout with microbrews on tap and a diverse drink menu. 

Downtown Spokane 

Recognized as the central business district of Spokane, Downtown Spokane is a lively city center full of delicious restaurants, local shops, cozy coffee shops, trendy bars, and craft breweries. Located near the river gorge, Downtown Spokane is where Riverfront Park is found, one of the best urban parks in the country with the largest urban waterfall. 

A great place to live for young professionals and singles for its proximity to attractions, nightlife, and popular businesses, Downtown Spokane is the place to be in Spokane after work and on the weekends for its plethora of activities and events. There is always something new to do and see in this popular neighborhood. Plus, as one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Spokane, residents can forgo the car and opt for public transportation through the Spokane Transit Authority instead. 

Local Favorites 

Riverfront Park: Recognized as a significant attraction in Spokane, this public, urban downtown park is best known for its open green spaces, carousel, rides, and bridge over the rushing Spokane river. 

Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox: This 1931 Art Deco movie theater is now a famous performing arts venue that hosts performances by the Spokane Symphony. 

Barrister Winery: This award-winning winery in Downtown Spokane is in a historic brick warehouse. A must-visit; check out the tasting bar and art gallery on site. 

North Indian Trail 

The neighborhood of North Indian Trail is one of the best places to live in Spokane for its beautiful homes and high safety rating. This neighborhood extends along the northwest and is built above the Spokane River. Home to over 10,000 residents with an average age of 54, North Indian Trail comprises primarily families. Most, if not all, residents in this community are homeowners. 

Best known as a dog-friendly community, many families enjoy afternoons walking their furry friends. Not only is North Indian Trail quiet and walkable, but most yards are well-maintained. Some of the best schools that serve this area include Woodridge Elementary School, Northwood Middle School, and North Central High School. 

Local Favorites 

JJ's Tap and Smokehouse: Serving some of the best-smoked meat and BBQ in town and over 16 taps, this family-friendly eatery has excellent food and fantastic drinks. 

Happy Trails to Brews: This popular local spot is best known for its friendly service, local brews, and laid-back atmosphere with craft beer, wine, and cider options. 

The Flying Goat: Opened in 2010 as a craft beer bar and eatery, this neighborhood favorite is known for its artisan pizza made using fresh, local ingredients. 

Brownes Addition 

Brownes Addition is the oldest neighborhood in Spokane and the state of Washington. Often referred to as just Brownes, most homes in this neighborhood are Victorian mansions, Craftsman Bungalows, and apartment complexes. As one of Spokanes best neighborhoods, this vibrant place to live has tree-lined streets, local eateries, beautiful parks, playgrounds, and museums. 

Since this is a historic community, many homes and buildings have been restored but kept their character. The neighborhood conducts historical walking tours to tell the stories of early wealthy families in the area. Many businesses are located close together, making this neighborhood walkable and bikeable. 

Brownes Addition has affordable housing and diverse architecture directly west of Downtown Spokane. Encompassing 176 acres, this neighborhood is home to many residents interested in history but still want an urban lifestyle. Considered one of the most culturally diverse places to live in Spokane, the strong sense of community that Brownes Addition provides allows residents to meet new friends and form genuine connections. 

Check out homes for sale in Brownes Addition. 

Local Favorites 

Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture: Founded in 1916, this is the largest cultural organization in the Inland Midwest and is home to more than one million objects in the Plateau Indian art and artifacts collection. This museum sees more than 100,000 visitors annually. 

Wild Sage Bistro: This locally owned and operated bistro serves creative comfort food in an intimate atmosphere. You can make reservations in advance online if you like. 

Italia Trattoria: Visit this Italian restaurant for authentic dishes and creative cocktails. Every dish is made from scratch with fresh ingredients. 

East Central 

As the name suggests, East Central is a neighborhood on the city's east side that is centrally located. As one of Spokane's oldest cities, East Central was established as a working-class suburb before the turn of the century. Now as one of Spokane's most historical and diverse neighborhoods, the city is taking extra care in protecting and restoring this wonderful neighborhood. 

A frequented destination for its many things to do; there are many cool hangouts, laid-back bars, family-friendly restaurants, and parks with splash pads and playgrounds. Home to a great mixture of families, singles, and retirees, East Central is a great place to live for all ages. For those moving with school-aged children, some of the best schools in the area include Grant Elementary School, Chase Middle School, and Ferris High School. 

Local Favorites 

Gonzaga University: This private Jesuit university is an accredited university home to the Gonzaga Bulldog Men's Basketball team that plays in the NCAA. The current undergraduate enrollment is just under 5,000 students. 

The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist: Opened in 1954, this beautiful sandstone cathedral is a center for worship, study, prayer, music, and community. 

Manito Park: A perfect spot to bring the family, this public park is home to botanical gardens, an arboretum, a conservatory, and duck ponds. 

West Central 

Found on the city's west side, the neighborhood of West Central is a great place to live in Spokane, near Downtown Spokane. Overlooking the Spokane River, West Central is undergoing massive growth and expansion as more and more people decide to move here. 

Not only is this an excellent area to raise children, but it is also a great neighborhood to have a dog. With a higher walkability score than in other communities, residents can walk to a nearby dog park or school. Some of the best schools in the area are Audubon Elementary School, Glover Middle School, and North Central High School. 

Local Favorites

Indaba Coffee: Visit this local coffee shop for delicious espresso drinks from home-roasted coffee beans, tasty baked goods, and live music on the weekends. 

Vieux Carre NOLA Kitchen: Located in a historic building over 100 years old, this New Orleans-inspired restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner and is the number one place in town to get authentic Cajun food. 

The Mango Tree: Specializing in curries and biryani, this local Indian kitchen and taphouse incorporate a variety of herbs and spices to create authentic traditional dishes. 

FAQs  

What are the safest areas in Spokane? 

Spokane is home to many safe neighborhoods. Spokane's safest areas are North Indian Trail, Duncan, Five Mile Prairie, Latah Valley, and Gonzaga University. 

What is the richest area of Spokane? 

The wealthiest place to live in Spokane is Manito-Cannon Hill since it is the location of some of the most expensive homes in Spokane. 

What is the best walkable neighborhood in Spokane? 

Many neighborhoods in Spokane are accessible without a car, but specific communities are more walkable than others, including Downtown Spokane and Cliff-Cannon. 

Is it safe to walk in Downtown Spokane? 

Downtown Spokane is known to be generally safe to walk around. While Downtown has its fair share of crime, walking is a convenient way to get around as long as you stay alert. 

The Best Neighborhoods in Spokane, WA - Final Thoughts 

There is no denying that Spokane is a great place to live, with even better housing options. No matter where you choose to live in Spokane, finding your dream home is possible with the help of our team at UpHomes. Contact us today to kickstart your home search and learn more about the home-buying process. 

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