If you're relocating to Spokane and want a neighborhood with character, Manito and Kendall Yards will probably come up in your search. Both are close to downtown, both have a strong sense of community, and both are highly recognizable Spokane neighborhoods.

But living in them feels very different.

Here's what you should know.

Manito: Historic, Established & Full of Character

Manito sits on Spokane's South Hill and is known for tree-lined streets, historic homes, beautiful parks, and an established neighborhood feel.

One of the biggest draws is Manito Park. With 90 acres of green space, gardens, walking paths, playgrounds and open space, it's one of Spokane's best-known parks and a major part of everyday life in the neighborhood.

The homes are a big part of Manito's appeal. You'll find Craftsman homes, Tudors, brick homes and other early-1900s architecture mixed with properties from different eras. If you love original hardwood floors, built-ins, mature landscaping and homes that don't all look the same, you'll have plenty to appreciate here.

You may love Manito if you want:

• Historic homes and established streets

• Mature trees and larger yards

• Easy access to parks and outdoor space

• A traditional residential neighborhood

• Quick access to downtown without living downtown

• Local coffee shops, restaurants and neighborhood businesses nearby

Something to consider:

Older homes can come with older-home projects. Depending on the property, you may encounter aging electrical, plumbing, sewer lines, windows or other systems. A thorough inspection is especially important when you're buying an older Spokane home.

Kendall Yards: Modern, Walkable & Connected

Head across the Spokane River from downtown and you'll find Kendall Yards.

Kendall Yards offers a much newer style of neighborhood. It's designed around walkability, community and easy access to restaurants, businesses and recreation.

One of its biggest advantages is location. You can walk or bike along the Centennial Trail, head into downtown, grab dinner or coffee nearby, and enjoy views overlooking the Spokane River and city.

Housing looks different here, too. You'll find newer homes, townhomes, condos and apartments, often with smaller lots and less exterior maintenance than you'd typically find in Manito.

You may love Kendall Yards if you want:

• Newer construction

• Walkability

• Restaurants and businesses close to home

• Easy access to the Centennial Trail

• Downtown Spokane nearby

• Lower-maintenance living

• A more urban neighborhood experience

Something to consider:

You're generally trading yard space and the feel of a traditional residential neighborhood for walkability, newer construction and proximity to amenities. Depending on the property, you may also want to consider HOA dues and community rules.

So, Manito or Kendall Yards?

Think about how you want to live.

If your dream Spokane home has a front porch, mature trees, an established yard and plenty of historic character, start your search around Manito.

If you'd rather walk to dinner, hop on the Centennial Trail, have downtown minutes away and spend less time maintaining a big yard, Kendall Yards may be worth exploring.

Neither neighborhood is one-size-fits-all—and that's exactly why they're fun to compare.

My Question for You

You're relocating to Spokane and I give you these two choices:

Manito: Historic house + mature trees + bigger yard + neighborhood charm

Kendall Yards: Newer home + walkability + restaurants + Centennial Trail

Which one are you choosing?

I'm Abbey Parsons, a Spokane REALTOR® and the creator of the Relocate to Spokane community. I moved to Spokane myself, so I know choosing a neighborhood from another city can feel overwhelming. If you're considering a move, you're welcome to ask questions in the group or reach out to me directly. I'm happy to help you narrow down the areas that make sense for the way you actually want to live.