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Mercer IslandLuxury

First Hill

First Hill is one of Mercer Island's established mid-island residential enclaves, characterized by gracious lots, mature tree canopy, and a quiet exclusivity befitting the island's reputation.

38
Walk Score
42
Transit Score
35
Bike Score

Living in First Hill

First Hill is one of Mercer Island's established mid-island residential enclaves, characterized by gracious lots, mature tree canopy, and a quiet exclusivity befitting the island's reputation. At a median of $1,575,000 and $703 per square foot, it occupies the accessible tier of Mercer Island's luxury market while still far exceeding mainland Eastside pricing. The extended 135-day median DOM reflects the selective buyer pool that island properties attract.

First Hill residents enjoy the island's signature blend of serene suburban living and surprising urban access โ€” Mercer Island's Link light rail station puts downtown Seattle and Bellevue within 20โ€“25 minutes without a car. The neighborhood is walking distance to Luther Burbank Park's trails and Lake Washington shoreline, and a short drive to Mercer Island's boutique town center. The overall vibe is understated affluence: large homes on wooded lots, excellent schools, and a tight-knit community.

School-driven family buyer โ€” Mercer Island's schools are a primary draw, and First Hill's price point is the most accessible entry into the district relative to waterfront or south island properties. Dual-income tech couple โ€” Light rail and I-90 access put both Seattle and Bellevue/Redmond tech employers within easy reach, while the island offers a peaceful retreat from urban intensity. Equity-rich move-up buyer โ€” Buyers upgrading from Bellevue or Kirkland find comparable or better schools, more privacy, and a prestigious island address at a competitive price per square foot.

Real Estate Market

$1,575,000
SFH Median
$703
Per Sqft
135
Days on Market

5-Year Price Trends

Q4 2025. Quarterly data from Redfin. Low sales volume can cause quarter-to-quarter volatility.

Getting Around

First Hill occupies the northern interior of Mercer Island, situated roughly between the island's main commercial spine on SE 40th Street and the shoreline neighborhoods. It is bounded by Luther Burbank Park to the north and Island Crest Way to the east.

Key commute times:

  • Microsoft Redmond: 25 min by car via I-90 and SR-520
  • Amazon Bellevue: 15 min by car via I-90
  • Downtown Seattle: 20 min by car via I-90 or 25 min by Sound Transit Link light rail from Mercer Island Station
  • Amazon Seattle: 20 min by car

Highlights

  • Top-ranked Mercer Island School District โ€” among the best in Washington State
  • Light rail access to Seattle and Bellevue from Mercer Island Station
  • Walkable to Luther Burbank Park and Lake Washington waterfront
  • Relative affordability within Mercer Island's luxury market
  • Strong long-term appreciation and demand due to supply constraints
  • Island exclusivity with freeway-speed access to both job centers

Schools

West Mercer Elementary School

Elementary
9/10

Islander Middle School

Middle
8/10

Mercer Island High School

High School
9/10

Thinking about First Hill?

I'd love to show you around and help you find the right home. Let's talk about what First Hill has to offer.

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