U.S. News & World Report has officially named Sammamish, Washington, the #6 Best Small City in America for 2025, according to its latest rankings released June 4. This prestigious recognition follows closely on the heels of Sammamish’s impressive #11 ranking in the publication’s overall list of Best Places to Live in the U.S., published just one week earlier.
For a city that continues to grow in reputation, this national acknowledgment validates what residents have long known: Sammamish offers a remarkable combination of natural beauty, economic opportunity, and an exceptional quality of life.
A Pacific Northwest Standout
Located in King County, just east of Bellevue, Sammamish is the only West Coast city to crack the top 10 on the list of small cities. The rest of the top five includes cities like Johns Creek, GA (#1), Apex, NC (#2), and Leander, TX (#3)—making Sammamish a true outlier and point of pride for the Pacific Northwest.
Lake Sammamish borders the city and features breathtaking natural vistas, with access to trails, forests, and recreational areas that attract nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and young families alike.
Strong Job Market + High Incomes
Sammamish also ranked #3 in the nation for job market strength, a category fueled by its proximity to major Seattle-area employers in the tech and biotech industries. This contributes to the city’s remarkable median household income of $235,000—nearly three times the national average of about $80,000.
This economic vitality has made Sammamish a magnet for professionals seeking career growth while maintaining a high quality of life for their families. U.S. News noted that access to high-paying jobs, strong schools, and infrastructure gave Sammamish a competitive edge over many of its peers.
Why Sammamish Scored So High
U.S. News used a detailed methodology to rank small cities based on five key categories:
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Quality of Life (26%)
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Value & Affordability
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Desirability
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Job Market
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Net Migration (2%)
Sammamish scored particularly well in quality of life and desirability, thanks to its well-rated schools, abundant parks, safety, and community amenities. Even with the challenge of high housing costs—with median home prices over $1.18 million—the city’s benefits still outweigh affordability concerns for many families.
Sammamish Leads Washington’s Rankings
Other Washington cities also made appearances on the overall “Best Places to Live” list, but Sammamish led the pack:
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Redmond – #83
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Bellevue – #126
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Kirkland – #133
This Eastside cluster reaffirms the Seattle metro area’s reputation as one of the best regions in the country for professionals, families, and retirees alike.
The city’s placement on this prestigious list confirms what residents already know—Sammamish isn’t just a place to live, it’s a place to thrive. With a harmonious blend of economic opportunity, community spirit, and access to the outdoors, Sammamish consistently sets the bar for suburban living in America.
