If you are looking at the Greater Seattle area and trying to balance a reasonable commute with getting enough square footage for your money, Bothell has likely crossed your radar. 

It sits in a strategic "sweet spot"—straddling the King and Snohomish County lines—making it a top choice for tech professionals relocating to the Eastside and Seattle commuters looking for more space.

But with its growing popularity (and a revitalized downtown that feels less like a suburb and more like a destination), prices have shifted. Whether you’re eyeing a modern apartment near the University of Washington Bothell or a quieter complex in Canyon Park, knowing the numbers before you tour is essential. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for rent in Bothell right now.

Snapshot: The Rental Market in Bothell, WA

Let’s get straight to the bottom line. As of recently, the average rent in Bothell hovers between $2,260 and $2,280 per month. While that puts Bothell significantly above the national average—anywhere from 20% to 48% higher depending on which data set you look at—it reflects the standard premium for living within striking distance of the I-405 tech corridor.

The good news for renters is that the market has cooled slightly. We are seeing a flat to slightly downward trend, with year-over-year prices dipping by about 1.5% to 2.2%. It’s not a massive drop, but it signals that prices aren’t currently skyrocketing like they were a few years ago.

Vacancy rates are sitting around 5% to 6%, which is a healthy range. 

It means the market is active, but there is enough inventory that you likely won’t face a bidding war for a standard unit. If you are reviewing a moving to Bothell checklist, you can feel reasonably confident that you will find available options without having to sign a lease the very second you view a place.

Average Rent in Bothell by Apartment Size

A market-wide average doesn't tell you much about your specific budget. As of January 2026, the price you pay varies heavily based on how much "elbow room" you need and which neighborhood you choose.

• Studios ($1,775 – $1,950): These are the entry-level options for those flying solo or needing a crash pad near the tech corridor. While efficient in square footage, these units typically offer full access to high-end building amenities like fitness centers and rooftop decks.
• One-Bedroom Units ($1,980 – $2,100): As the benchmark for local professionals, this is the most competitive segment of the market. These units appeal to a broad demographic, from young tech workers to couples, keeping vacancy rates low and prices steady.
• Two-Bedroom Units ($2,400 – $2,480): This range is standard for those requiring a home office or sharing costs with a roommate. Given the high price of one-bedrooms, splitting a two-bedroom unit remains the most cost-effective way to live in premium areas like Downtown or Canyon Park.
• Three-Bedroom & Larger ($2,900 – $3,200+): Inventory for larger apartments is significantly tighter. At this price point, many renters transition toward single-family home rentals or townhomes, where costs can easily exceed $3,200 for newer construction or properties with private yards.

Rental Prices by Neighborhood

Bothell isn't just one uniform market; pricing changes noticeably depending on which side of the city you choose. The Bothell housing market remains highly competitive in 2026, creating a clear divide between the walkable, urban-style downtown and the more traditional suburban pockets.

• Downtown Bothell & North Creek ($2,300 – $2,500+): As of early 2026, these areas remain the most expensive due to their "lifestyle" premium. Residents pay more to be near McMenamins Anderson School, retail developments, and major tech offices. While a nice one-bedroom here often exceeds $2,300, the trade-off is a walkable environment that is rare in typical suburbs.
• Canyon Park ($1,920 – $2,480): This area serves as a mid-range hub with a mix of established complexes and newer builds. It is highly practical for commuters due to easy freeway access and proximity to massive grocery stores. While it lacks "main street" charm, it offers more competitive pricing for those who prioritize convenience.
• Maywood & Beckstrom Hill ($1,650 – $2,300): These residential hills further from the highways offer some of the city's most affordable options. While older garden-style apartments can still be found at the lower end of the spectrum, newer developments in the area have pushed the median neighborhood rent closer to $2,300. These areas are quieter and offer better parking, though a car is essential for most errands.

Bothell vs. Nearby Markets: Seattle, Kirkland, and Bellevue

When deciding where to sign a lease, it helps to compare Bothell against its neighbors. It usually serves as the "middle ground"—more affordable than the deep Eastside, but pricier than the options further north.

• vs. Kirkland: Kirkland is typically 10–15% more expensive than Bothell. You might pay $2,300 to $2,800 for similar units there. Renters often choose living in Kirkland vs Bothell based on whether they prioritize being closer to Google and the waterfront (Kirkland) or getting more square footage for their dollar (Bothell).
• vs. Bellevue: Bellevue is in a different price bracket entirely, with medians often exceeding $3,000. Bothell is a very common commuter alternative for people who work in Bellevue but don't want to pay Bellevue rents.
• vs. Seattle: The difference is value. In Bothell, your $2,200 usually gets you a newer unit, a dedicated parking spot, and in-unit laundry, whereas in Seattle that might get you an older unit with street parking. This value gap extends to purchases as well; as of January 2026, the average home cost in Bothell hovers around $1,033,000 to $1,070,000, offering significantly more square footage than what a similar investment would buy in Seattle’s core.
• vs. Lynnwood/Everett: If Bothell stretches your budget too thin, looking north to Lynnwood is the standard move. It is generally the next step down in price while keeping you on the I-5/405 corridor.

Total Cost of Living: Utilities and Fees

The rent check is the biggest number, but it isn't the only one leaving your bank account. When calculating your total monthly housing budget, you need to factor in the "hidden" costs that leasing agents don't always lead with.

Utilities 

Most apartment complexes in Bothell use "bill-back" systems for water, sewer, and garbage, meaning the building splits the total bill among residents. You should plan for $150–$250 per month in total utility costs. Electricity is usually billed directly through Puget Sound Energy (PSE) or Snohomish PUD depending on your exact location. Expect electric bills to run $80–$160 depending on if your unit has electric baseboard heat (expensive in winter) or a modern heat pump.

Parking 

This is a major differentiator between downtown and the suburbs. If you rent in Downtown Bothell, expect to pay a monthly parking fee of $50 to $150 per vehicle. In contrast, most garden-style apartments in Canyon Park or Thrasher’s Corner include one uncovered spot in the rent, charging only for carports or garages.

Pet Rent 

If you are bringing a dog or cat, standard pet rent in the area is $35 to $50 per month, usually accompanied by a refundable deposit or a non-refundable fee upfront.

HOA Fees 

While standard apartments don’t charge these, if you are looking at townhomes or condos, HOA fees in Bothell typically range from $300 to $600 per month. These fees generally cover exterior maintenance, landscaping, and sometimes shared utilities like water and garbage.

Rental Market Trends and Forecast

The Bothell rental market is heavily influenced by the regional tech and biotech economy. With the 'Life Science' corridor expanding in Canyon Park, demand for housing remains steady regardless of what is happening in downtown Seattle. Because of this long-term economic stability and consistent tenant demand, Bothell is a good place to invest.

Seasonality plays a huge role here. Rents almost always peak in the summer (May through August) when the weather is nice and people prefer to move. If you have flexibility, looking for apartments for rent in Bothell during the winter months (November through February) can often secure you a lower rate or move-in specials.

Currently, because of a wave of new construction along Bothell-Everett Highway and near the downtown core, some buildings are offering concessions. It is not uncommon to see "one month free" offers on select units, so keep an eye out for those incentives when calculating your effective monthly rent.

FAQs

Is rent cheaper in Bothell or Kirkland?

Rent is almost universally cheaper in Bothell. Kirkland commands a premium due to its waterfront location and proximity to major tech campuses like Google. You can expect to save roughly 10% to 15% on rent by choosing Bothell, while often getting a newer or larger apartment.

What is a good salary to live in Bothell?

Most landlords require a gross monthly income of 3x the monthly rent. With average rents around $2,260, a household income of roughly $81,000 to $85,000 per year is a safe baseline to qualify comfortably for a standard apartment without being "house poor."

Do apartments in Bothell include parking?

It depends heavily on the neighborhood. Suburban complexes in Canyon Park or North Creek typically include one uncovered parking space with your rent. However, newer "urban-style" buildings in Downtown Bothell almost always charge a separate monthly fee for garage parking, ranging from $50 to $150.

What is the average utility bill in Bothell?

For a standard two-person household in an apartment, you should budget between $150 and $250 per month for all utilities combined. This includes water/sewer/garbage (often around $100 combined) and electricity (variable, but averaging $80–$120 depending on the season and heating type).