PACCAR, the parent of Kenworth and Peterbilt, is headquartered in downtown Bellevue. A downtown Bellevue office opens up the widest range of commute options on the Eastside, from walkable condos to larger homes 25 minutes out. Updated September 2026.
The short version
- Downtown Bellevue is reachable from nearly every Eastside city in 15 to 40 minutes.
- Bellevue, Kirkland and Redmond offer the best balance of commute and schools.
- Light rail and frequent buses serve downtown Bellevue, which widens your options if you prefer transit.
Why a downtown Bellevue office helps
Downtown Bellevue is the hub of the Eastside freeway and transit network. That gives you more good choices than almost any other office location, so the decision usually comes down to schools, lot size and budget rather than commute alone.
Where PACCAR employees live
Times below are typical weekday ranges to downtown Bellevue.
| Area | Typical drive to downtown Bellevue | Why people choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Bellevue | Walk to 20 min | Shortest commute, condos downtown, top-rated Bellevue schools. |
| Kirkland | 15 to 30 min | Waterfront downtown, strong schools. |
| Redmond | 15 to 30 min | Newer housing, Lake Washington schools, light rail. |
| Issaquah | 15 to 30 min | I-90 access, more space for the money. |
| Sammamish | 25 to 40 min | Larger lots, highly rated schools. |
A 90-day relocation timeline
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 90 days out | Confirm start date and any relocation benefit, shortlist two or three areas. |
| 60 days out | Tour neighborhoods at commute hours, talk to a lender, decide rent versus buy. |
| 30 days out | Lock movers, confirm school enrollment steps, set up utilities. |
| First 60 days on the job | Test your real commute, then buy or sign a longer lease with real data. |
Frequently asked questions
Should I rent or buy when I start at PACCAR?
If you already know your office location and school priorities, buying early can work. If not, a six- to twelve-month lease near the office lets you test the commute before committing.
How far ahead should I start looking?
Start 60 to 90 days before your start date. That leaves time to tour at commute hours and get fully pre-approved.
Do I need a local agent if my employer offers relocation help?
Relocation companies handle logistics, not neighborhood judgment. Check whether your benefit requires a partner network; if you are free to choose, pick someone who knows the specific Eastside areas you are considering.
Talk it through before you choose
A 30-minute call is usually enough to match your commute, budget and school priorities to two or three neighborhoods. Book a 30-minute call with Justin Cicero, Managing Broker, or send your details. You can also compare every Eastside city side by side on the city comparisons page.
Commute times are typical weekday ranges and vary with traffic and exact address. Employer policies change; confirm office expectations and any relocation benefits with your employer. This is general information, not legal, tax or employment advice.