With a population of just under 26,000, Mercer Island is a small yet highly affluent community located in the heart of the Seattle metro area, situated between Seattle and Bellevue on Lake Washington. Often described as a “lake island suburb,” Mercer Island blends quiet residential living with easy access to major urban centers. The name Mercer Island honors Asa Mercer, a 19th-century territorial official, and today the island is widely regarded as one of the most desirable — and most expensive — places to live in Washington State.
First settled in the late 1800s and officially incorporated in 1960, Mercer Island is known for its top-rated public school system, waterfront parks, and strong sense of community. The island features a mix of upscale neighborhoods, wooded open space, and miles of shoreline. Cultural and community traditions include the annual Summer Celebration, Fourth of July festivities, and a variety of arts, youth sports, and civic programs. With its combination of natural beauty, excellent schools, and proximity to major employment centers, Mercer Island continues to rank among the premier residential communities in the Pacific Northwest.
