How Does Bainbridge Island Compare to Mercer Island?

Many people ask how Bainbridge compares to Mercer Island, another island close to Seattle.

Here’s some 2010 census information:

Mercer Island

  • Population: 22,699
  • Size: 6.2 square miles
  • Median Household Income: $121,948
  • Population Change from 2000 to 2010: +663
  • Number of Occupied Housing Units: 9,109
  • Public Schools – 3 elementary, 1 middle, 1 high school, 1 alternative school

As of 2011, Mercer Island had a median house sale price of $1,001,405 and average price per square foot of $317.

Bainbridge Island

  • Population: 23,380
  • Size: 27.78 square miles
  • Median Household Income: $93,556
  • Population Change from 2000 to 2010: +2,717
  • Number of Occupied Housing Units: 7,979
  • Public Schools – 3 elementary, 1 lower-middle, 1 upper-middle school, 1 high school, 1 alternative school

As of 2012, Bainbridge Island had a median house sale price of $524,650 and average price per square foot of $209.

Summary

While more convenient to Seattle (a highway, rather than ferry ride), Mercer Island is a much smaller island with a comparable population to Bainbridge. That translates into less of that “open feel” you get on Bainbridge.

Perhaps due to that closeness to the big city, Mercer’s home prices are substantially higher than Bainbridge’s, and our longstanding saying holds true: you get more bang for your buck on Bainbridge Island.

This is especially true for buyers looking for that waterfront or water view home. Compared to other Seattle suburbs, Bainbridge offers true value, open space and all the lushness found in the Northwest.