One of the first questions when relocating to Spokane isn't always which neighborhood?

Sometimes it's which part of the Spokane area?

Two places buyers often consider are Spokane Valley and North Spokane. Both offer a wide variety of housing and convenient everyday amenities, but location can dramatically change your Spokane experience.

Spokane Valley: Central, Convenient & Close to Idaho

Spokane Valley is its own city east of Spokane.

Housing varies widely, from older neighborhoods and established properties to newer construction. Depending on where you look, you can also find properties with larger lots, shops and additional space.

You're positioned between Spokane and Idaho, with I-90 providing the primary east-west connection.

You may love Spokane Valley if you want:

• Easy I-90 access

• Shopping and everyday amenities nearby

• Access toward Liberty Lake and North Idaho

• A wide range of housing styles

• Larger lots in certain areas

• A location between Spokane and Coeur d'Alene

Something to consider:

Spokane Valley covers a large area. Saying you want to "live in the Valley" isn't specific enough. Your experience near Millwood can be very different from living farther east or south.

North Spokane: Variety & Convenience

North Spokane is also huge, and that's part of its appeal.

Depending on where you look, you'll find older neighborhoods, mid-century homes, newer developments, condos, acreage and everything in between.

Major commercial areas make shopping and services convenient, while neighborhoods farther north can provide more space.

You may love North Spokane if you want:

• A large selection of homes

• Shopping and services nearby

• Access to North Spokane recreation

• Older and newer housing options

• Opportunities for more space farther north

• Convenient access to communities north of Spokane

Something to consider:

Traffic patterns matter. If you'll be working downtown, in Spokane Valley or on the South Hill, test your commute before falling in love with a house.

Which One Would You Choose?

Spokane Valley: I-90 + Idaho access + housing variety + convenience

North Spokane: Housing variety + shopping + recreation + options for more space

Here's the question I'd ask before choosing either:

Where will you spend most of your time?

Your job, family, hobbies and weekend routine can tell us much more about where you should start looking than a list of "best neighborhoods."

I'm Abbey Parsons, a Spokane REALTOR® and creator of Relocate to Spokane. Tell me what you're looking for in your move, and I'll help you understand which areas are worth exploring.