Welcome to Lake Hills

Nestled in East Bellevue, Lake Hills is a beautiful, warm, and welcoming neighborhood that strikes a balance between suburban comfort, nature, and access to urban life. Its family-friendly streets, incredible food options, green trails, and nearby lake make it a desirable spot in the region where all the locals find something to love, cherish, and appreciate.

Lake Hills is mainly situated South of Crossroads and North of Eastgate in Bellevue. Due to its location, cultural vibe, and tremendous growth, Lake Hills has become a wonderful and one of the most populous neighborhoods of Bellevue, Washington. The place offers peace, calm, and suburban charm that everyone craves. Moreover, Lake Hills offers quick access to Downtown Bellevue, Redmond, and other Eastside employers.

So, whether you are a young professional, a growing family, or just visiting the place for some fun and entertainment without losing city convenience, Lake Hills feels like home the moment you arrive.

Lake Hills History

Lake Hills is not a cookie-cutter suburb. It’s a neighborhood that has evolved beautifully over the decades. In the early 1900s, Japanese immigrants farmed some part of this neighborhood between Larsen Lake and Phantom Lake. But this activity was abruptly rejected by the Japanese American Internment in 1942 and then eventually replaced by suburban housing.

After that, Lake Hills was added as a territory in Bellevue in 1969. However, Lake Hills has changed today. It has parks, restaurants, housing options, and much more to attract people all across the country.

Lake Hills History

Community & Demographics

Lake Hills features a diverse population that speaks many languages and has multiple origins. For example, 49% of kids in the neighborhood speak English as a second language.

Based on the research of Neighborhood Scout, Lake Hills now ranks among the top 15 highest-income neighborhoods in the US, where more than 69% of adults are in executive, management, or professional roles. Almost 43% of people speak English in the region, and other households speak Chinese, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Indian languages. The good thing is, Lake Hills has a pretty low crime rate. The region is regarded as safe, peaceful, quiet, and family-friendly.

Top Restaurants in Lake Hills

You can find lots of top restaurants, cafes, and other small eateries in Lake Hills that are purely focused on delicious full meals, brunch, international, casual, and small sit-down spots.

For example, many people choose Tasty House, which offers Chinese / Asian cuisine, located near Main Street in Bellevue, close to Lake Hills Blvd. Other than that, Carmine’s Bellevue is also quite famous for serving Italian / upscale options for a nice dinner.

Seastar Restaurant & Raw Bar is also a favorite choice of locals that has Seafood and fine dining, and is quite well-regarded in Bellevue. Fogo de Chão – Bellevue is one of the top Brazilian steakhouses in the region, which is good for celebrations or family dinners.

If you visit Lake Hills, do not forget to try The Lakehouse (Lincoln Square, Bellevue) — that features a Northwest / farm-inspired menu and has fresh, & regional items.

There are lots of top options in the neighborhood that are reachable and appealing. In fact, there are eateries that are located in shopping malls and offer visitors scrumptious options to enjoy their day.

Top Restaurants in Lake Hills

Things to Do in Lake Hills

There are lots of places and nearby attractions to explore in Lake Hills, as this neighborhood is packed with plenty of outdoor activities, parks, and local flavors. Whether you love hiking, picnicking, gardening, or cycling, there is something here for everyone.

Walk the Lake Hills Green Belt Trail

Walk the Lake Hills Green Belt Trail

Enjoy walking or cycling on this scenic route that connects Larsen Lake to Phantom Lake, and have plenty of amazing wetlands, forests, and wooden bridges.

Visit Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm

Visit Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm

You can enjoy picking fresh blueberries in summer, walking on the beautiful paths, or stopping by the farm stand for local produce.

Stroll Around Phantom Lake

Stroll Around Phantom Lake

Get stunned by the beauty of Phantom Lake, which is a peaceful spot for walking, jogging, or simply soaking up the lake views.

Go Birdwatching

Go Birdwatching

The wetlands around the Greenbelt attract herons, ducks, and songbirds year-round.

Shop from Kelsey Creek Center

Shop from Kelsey Creek Center

Kelsey Creek Center is a wonderful place that offers groceries, dining, and essential shops for easy daily errands.

Enjoy a Picnic by a Lake

Enjoy a Picnic by a Lake

Enjoy some quality time around Larsen Lake, which has shaded areas and benches for an afternoon outdoors.

Housing, Architecture, and Real Estate

It’s definitely a joy to hear that Lake Hills is filled with a lot of amazing housing options. From single-family homes to newer homes and townhomes to multifamily pockets, there is a range of housing options available for every need and demand.

The price range for these houses is market-competitive. However, median home values are high due to Bellevue’s market. As of 2025, Lake Hills homes list in the millions; e.g., several listings above $1.4M–$3.5M in Redfin data.

The authorities have renovated and updated many homes in Lake Hills to suit modern standards. These houses have open floors, modern kitchens, and the latest accessory structures. Multiple older homes are replaced entirely, especially in areas closer to shopping centers, restaurants, and main roads.

Education and Learning

When it comes to education and learning, Lake Hills is a great choice. The neighborhood features some top schools and colleges that help students grow in every aspect of life.

For example, the Bellevue School District is one of the top school districts in Washington. Other elementary, middle, and high schools are accessible within or near the neighborhood.

Bellevue College is also a good option that lies on the southern edge of the Lake Hills area — a major draw and anchor.

Shopping and Retail

Lake Hills hosts small and big shopping centers, small eateries, and multiple restaurants that are good enough to meet every day’s needs without traveling far.

Lakehills Village and Kelsey Creek Center are two major options that are currently in redevelopment zones and serve everything.

Transportation and Connectivity

Transportation is also not a big problem at Lake Hills as local roads connect the neighborhood to main arterials leading to the core of Bellevue – Redmond and the I-405 corridors. However, many residents still prefer car travel for ease & flexibility.

Walkability is moderate. You can walk to some nearby areas located within the neighborhood, like walking to shops, malls, and trails.

Employment & Economy

Did you know Lake Hills is located in one of the most economically dynamic regions in the Pacific Northwest? The reason is, there are lots of major employers located nearby. For example, Amazon, T-Mobile, Meta, Microsoft, and other startups.

The neighborhood supports multiple small enterprises, and you can also gain easy access to Bellevue’s tech corridor and business parks.

Safety and Quality of Life

No doubt, there is great safety and quality of life in Lake Hills.

Healthcare in Lake Hills

From urgent care to senior care homes, you can find plenty of amazing healthcare opportunities in Lake Hills. Residents can easily access both routine care and specialized medical services from expert doctors without even a long travel.

Overlake Lake Hills Clinic is one of the best clinics that offers primary and urgent care. Walk-in appointments and on-schedule checkups are welcome.

Lake Hills Village is a popular choice among locals that offers both medical and dental professional services.

Healthcare in Lake Hills

Strengths & Challenges

There are some strengths and challenges of this neighborhood in Bellevue, WA:

Strengths

Beautiful natural setting

Lakes, trails, and greenbelts right in the neighborhood.

Strong community feel

Active neighbors, local events, and a family-friendly vibe.

Excellent schools

Served by the top-rated Bellevue School District.

Convenient location

Close to Bellevue College, shopping, and major Eastside employers.

Safe and peaceful

Low crime and quiet residential streets.

Challenges

High housing prices

Like most of Bellevue, affordability can be an issue.

Limited transit options

Most residents rely on cars for commuting.

Ongoing redevelopment

Some areas are changing, which may affect traffic and neighborhood character.

Future Outlook

The future outlook for Lake Hills is bright, with ongoing redevelopment, improved infrastructure, and a growing focus on sustainability. Upcoming mixed-use projects, new public spaces, and enhanced walkability are set to make the area even more convenient and community-oriented. 

While growth may bring higher housing demand and more traffic, Lake Hills is expected to retain its green, family-friendly charm for years to come.