Bellevue is one of the densest game development hubs in the country, with Valve and Bungie among the best-known studios downtown and many others across the Eastside. Studio jobs change more often than most, so flexibility deserves extra weight when you choose where to live. Updated September 2026.
The short version
- Most Bellevue studios are downtown, so commute options match any downtown Bellevue job.
- Studio roles can change quickly; renting first or buying something easy to resell is worth considering.
- Bellevue, Kirkland and Redmond keep you close to the largest cluster of game employers.
Why flexibility matters for studio jobs
Game studios hire and restructure in cycles. Living somewhere central to Bellevue, Kirkland and Redmond keeps many employers within an easy commute, which protects you if you change studios later.
Where game industry 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 | Closest to the studio cluster, condos and townhomes downtown. |
| Kirkland | 15 to 30 min | Walkable waterfront downtown, also home to several studios. |
| Redmond | 15 to 30 min | Close to Microsoft and other Redmond studios. |
| Bothell | 25 to 40 min | More approachable prices, fast-growing north end. |
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 a Bellevue studio?
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.