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Economic Development in Kirkland

Kirkland is acknowledged to be one of the most livable cities in the Puget Sound region. Its picturesque waterfront setting on Lake Washington and central location immediate to Seattle, Redmond and Bellevue, make it a desirable community for living and for working. In 2014, Money Magazine ranked Kirkland as number five in its Best Places to Live in America issue, and in 2020 Kirkland was ranked as one of the best small cities in America, based on a study by WalletHub.

Kirkland City government supports a strong, diverse economy with quality services and infrastructure. Prudent financial management has earned the City Standard & Poor’s AAA credit rating year after year. The future needs of businesses are anticipated and addressed through research and careful planning, and technical assistance is provided to help businesses thrive.

2023-Economic-Development-Action-Plan.pdf

(PDF, 170KB)

Business Pollution Prevention

The City works with businesses to prevent pollution to our creeks, wetlands, and lakes.

Kirkland 2044 Comprehensive Plan Update

Kirkland's Comprehensive Plan is a statement of the kind of community Kirkland wants to become, envisioned by those who live, work, recreate and visit here. This statement is set forth in a guiding policy document that describes how Kirkland will manage job and population growth and provide necessary services and facilities to support that growth over a 20-year planning horizon.

Inclusive & Welcoming Economy

The resources on this page are intended to serve as a ‘toolkit’ for businesses and organizations in the spirit of this commitment.

Tourism Program

The City Manager’s Office oversees the Tourism Program (in conjunction with the Economic Development Program) with the primary goal of attracting visitors to Kirkland in order to sustain a vibrant and healthy economy.

Shop Local Kirkland Initiative

The Shop Local Kirkland initiative is a celebration of Kirkland's vibrant business community, designed to uplift and empower our local businesses to not just survive, but truly thrive.

Visionary Development Opportunities in Kirkland's Station Area

In 2022, Kirkland’s City Council adopted a framework and policies for the NE 85th Street Station Area Plan to help realize a bold vision for this Regional Growth Center. The NE 85th Street Station Area is a primary focus for future housing and employment growth in Kirkland, and offers a robust set of opportunities for future development.