Mercer Island Rental Guide

Updated on January 16, 2024 | by Erin Sirianni

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Photo courtesy Shorewood

Finding a place to rent on Mercer Island can be overwhelming, whether you are just getting to know Mercer Island or even if you are long-time community member looking for new accommodations. We created this resource to help.

Mercer Island has an active residential market of rental houses and condos, along with a range of apartment developments. Whether you’re looking for a 4-bedroom home with a big backyard or a modern apartment walkable to shops and dining, with a little luck and good timing, you may find just the place you’re looking for on Mercer Island.

House, Condo & Townhome Rentals

To find a single-family house to rent or a rental unit in a local condo or townhome community, set up a search on at least one online real estate marketplace, such as Homes.com, Zillow, Craigslist, Trulia, and Redfin. Looking for a short-term option (less than six months)? Try VRBO or AirBNB. The best properties rent quickly, so try to schedule tours early and submit applications promptly if you find a great fit. You might also consider reaching out to a knowledgable local real estate broker. Some rental properties are listed on the Northwest Multiple Listing Service, and a real estate broker can show you these homes and facilitate securing a property, especially in competitive neighborhoods. Brokers representing renters are usually compensated through the listing office or property management company (often 25% of the first month’s rent).

Apartment Rentals

Looking for an apartment to rent? You’ll find a range of options to explore – there are 18 apartment communities on Mercer Island. The smallest two buildings, tucked into Mercer Island’s East Seattle neighborhood, have fewer than 10 units each, and the largest, Shorewood, is like a neighborhood in itself, with 41 buildings offering 645 units across 45 acres.

(Interesting fact: Barack Obama’s mother, the late Stanley Ann Dunham, lived with her family in Shorewood Unit 219 after they moved to Mercer Island in 1956.)

The rest of Mercer Island’s apartment communities are located in the vicinity of Mercer Island Town Center and generally fall into two categories – mid-century properties, built between 1958 and 1960, and more modern developments built in the last two decades, between 2005 and 2016.

Which Apartment Community is Right for You?

To determine which apartment community is right for you, we recommend perusing the property information we’ve shared in this guide below, checking out our apartment communities map, and visiting apartment property websites (when available) to learn about the community amenities, unit features, pricing, and available floor plans.

The larger, more modern apartment developments will have more amenities, like fitness centers, clubhouses, and recreational outdoor spaces. The Mercer has a year-round outdoor heated pool and spa, and 77 Central and Island Square have outdoor spas as well. The Hadley has a rooftop deck with great views, a fireplace and barbecue area, and Shorewood has three playgrounds and nature trails. That’s just to name a few highlights of these properties.

Several of the mid-century built apartment buildings, like The Clarice, Mercer Tower, and Mercer View Terrace, offer a quiet remove just west of Town Center, along with sweeping east-facing views of the Cascade Mountains, Lake Washington, and the Bellevue city skyline. As smaller buildings, units come available less frequently than in the larger buildings. Look for new rental listings on rental property platforms like Apartments.com and Zillow.

After you’ve identified which developments might be a good fit for you, there’s nothing like touring a property in person. Talk to the property manager and ask about features that are important to you; how units and floor plans vary individually; and about terms and any additional fees that may be included in the lease. For example: Does the property have a monthly pet fee? Does the property allow early lease termination? Does the property have an on-site laundry facility or do apartments have in-unit washer and dryers? Do units have air conditioning? Are there guest accommodations? Are any community improvement or renovation projects scheduled? For some additional considerations, here are “20 Revealing Questions Every Renter Should Ask” from Apartments.com.

Mercer Island Apartment Communities Map

Click on the icons below to learn more about each Mercer Island apartment community, including size, bedroom floor-plan options, and starting 2-bedroom pricing information (when available).

(Link to Full Screen Map)

Mercer Island’s Large Apartment Communities

Photo courtesy 77 Central

77 Central

2630 77th Ave SE
Mercer Island, WA 98040
(206) 488-1633
www.77Central.com

Description: 
Style, substance and sustainability are the pillars of quality living at 77 Central. Our unparalleled location in Mercer Island, our lavish collection of amenities, and our caliber of resident service offer you much more than an apartment community 77 Central offers a lifestyle from the inside, out. Each resident enjoys such home features as a private patio or deck, loads of closet space, upgraded appliances, designer interior selections, and a full-sized washer and dryer in select homes. Our pet-friendly Mercer Island apartments feature a resort-inspired spa, modernized fitness center and lavish clubhouse. And let’s not be bashful about our beautiful, city, home to the nation’s most successful businesses and industrial leaders, multiple prize-winning parks, high quality schools, and cultural abundance. Not to mention, 77 Central is minutes from downtown Seattle or downtown Bellevue. Stop by today for a tour!

Community size:  171 homes
Floorplans:  Studio, 1-Bedroom, 2-Bedrooms, 3-Bedrooms (only 4 units in community)
Shortest-term lease:  3 months

Community Amenities:

  • 24-Hour On-Call Maintenance
  • 24-Hour State-of-the-Art Fitness Club
  • Barbecue Terrace
  • Beautifully Landscaped Outdoor Spa
  • Billiards Parlor
  • Conference and Banquet Facility
  • Controlled-Access Entries
  • Controlled-Access Underground Parking
  • Courtyard
  • On-Site Management
  • Professional Business Center
  • Residents Club with Catering Kitchen
  • Rooftop Sky Terrace
  • Wi-Fi Technology

Apartment Amenities

  • Air Conditioning in Many Units *
  • Ample Storage and Closets
  • Art Glass Pendant Lighting
  • Art Glass Sconces
  • Builtgreen Construction
  • Built-in Storage Cabinets and Shelves *
  • Cherry Laminate Cabinets with Linen Storage *
  • Convenient A/C Hookups
  • Designer Paddle Fans *
  • Double Bank of Drawers in Vanities
  • Energy Star Stainless Steel Appliances
  • Glass Enclosed Showers *
  • Granite Slab Countertops
  • Large Patios and Balconies *
  • Marble Slab Countertops
  • Natural Cherry Hardwood Cabinets
  • On-Site Resident Storage
  • Oversized Soaking Tubs *
  • Plush Carpeting
  • Refrigerators with Icemakers
  • Smartbox Technology for All Wiring
  • Solar Shade Window Coverings
  • State-of-The-Art Wiring
  • Tile Floors
  • Turn/Tilt Energy Efficient Windows
  • Under Mount Stainless Steel Sinks
  • Upgraded Fixtures Throughout
  • Wood Inspired Vinyl

* May not be available in every apartment.

Pet Policy: 

Dogs and cats welcome! Max 2 Allowed | Max weight 65 lb each | Breed restrictions apply, please contact our one of our leasing professionals for details.


Photo courtesy Aviara / Essex

Aviara

2441 76th Avenue SE
Mercer Island, WA 98040
206-203-5680
Aviara website

Description:

Positioned in a sought-after residential enclave halfway between Bellevue and Seattle, Aviara apartments on Mercer Island, WA combine chic urban style with peaceful living at a central locale. Set amid lush greenery surrounded by Lake Washington, our modern community offers studio, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartment homes, including lofts with soaring 22-foot ceilings. Each apartment home for rent features an open layout with contemporary quartz and stainless steel finishes, plus a high-efficiency full-size washer and dryer for your convenience. Select homes also showcase hardwood-style vinyl flooring, oversized windows, walk-in closets, and a private patio or balcony. Within our pet-friendly community, enjoy an array of community amenities including a fitness center with Technogym equipment. We also offer an outdoor lounge and BBQ area, a covered bike storage and repair area, and a clubroom with full kitchen, media center, and games. Enjoy a variety of conveniences at your doorstep, in our ground-level retail space or head a short distance down the road for coffee shops, restaurants, and grocery stores. When it’s time to venture farther from the neighborhood, our location provides easy access to I-90 to head to Seattle, Bellevue, or beyond.

Community size: 166 homes
Floorplans:  Studio, 1-Bedroom, 1.5-Bedrooms, 2-Bedrooms, 2.5-Bedrooms, 3-Bedrooms, 3.5-Bedrooms  (28 different floor plans)
Shortest Term Lease:  Month-to-month

Community Amenities: 

  • 24/7 emergency maintenance
  • ADA features
  • BBQ area
  • Bike maintenance station
  • Bike storage
  • Conference room
  • Controlled access
  • Community courtyard
  • Eco-friendly community
  • Elevator
  • Extra storage space available
  • Fitness center
  • LEED certified
  • Online resident portal
  • On-site retail
  • Outdoor fireplace
  • Parking
  • Pet friendly
  • Resident lounge
  • Shared workspace
  • Smoke-free community
  • WiFi in common areas

Apartment Amenities:

  • Breakfast bar
  • Ceiling fan
  • Dishwasher
  • Double-pane windows
  • Great views
  • Hardwood-style vinyl flooring
  • Heating unit
  • High ceilings
  • Keyless entry
  • Kitchen pantry
  • Large closets
  • Modern bathroom
  • Open layout
  • Oversized windows
  • Patio/balcony
  • Quartz countertops
  • Smart home technology
  • Smart thermostats
  • Solar shades
  • Stainless steel appliances
  • Walk-in closet
  • Washer and dryer

Pet Policy: We love pets! We welcome up to two furry friends in each of our apartment homes. Contact our leasing office for full pet policy information.


Photo courtesy Hadley Mercer Island

Hadley

2601 76th Avenue SE
Mercer Island, WA 98040
(206) 565-1125
www.hadleymercerisland.com

Description:
Located in the scenic west side of Downtown Mercer Island, The Hadley offers a unique blend of chic urban style with all the delightfully modern touches. Featuring unique contemporary architecture, first-class amenities, stunning interiors with high-end designer finishes, plus a convenient location near both Downtown Seattle and Bellevue. The Hadley – Mercer Island is the perfect place to live, relax, and play.

Community size:  209 homes 
Floorplans:  Studios, 1-Bedrooms, 2-Bedrooms
Shortest Term Lease: Usually 12 months (ask about short-term lease options)

Community Amenities:

  • Rooftop Deck with Outdoor Fireplace, Barbecue & Views
  • Fitness Center – Professional PreCor Equipment, Television & WIFI
  • Resident Gourmet Kitchen & Dining Area
  • Resident Clubhouse with Entertaining Suite
  • Theater Room
  • Private Courtyard & Gas Barbecue Centers
  • Resident Conference Room with WIFI
  • Coffee Lounge & WIFI Area
  • Social Connection Lounges
  • Access Controlled Bicycle Storage
  • Bicycle Repair Station
  • Electric Car Charging Stations
  • Retail Access to Mioposto Pizzeria, Orange Theory & Club Pilates

Apartment Amenities:

  • Studio, One & Two Bedroom Floor Plans
  • Stainless Steel Appliances – Refrigerator, Microwave, Range, Stove, Dishwasher & Garbage Disposal
  • Quartz Speckled Counters – Kitchen & Bathrooms
  • Glass Tile Kitchen Backsplash
  • Goose-neck Stainless Steel Faucets & Farm Sinks
  • Two Designer Interior Color Options
  • Washer & Dryer in Each Apartment
  • Modern Lighting & Designer Hardware
  • Wall-to-Ceiling Windows
  • Wood-Style Plank Flooring
  • Adjustable Built-in Shelving
  • Air Conditioning Ports

Pet Policy:  Pets welcome; call for details


Photo courtesy Island Square Apartments

Island Square Apartments

2758 78th Ave SE
Mercer Island, WA, 98040
(206) 317-8974
Island Square website

Description:
Island Square offers vibrant studio, 1-and 2-bedroom apartments for rent in a desirable Mercer Island location. Residents enjoy essential amenities, including a 24-hour fitness center, business center, and two-tier waterfall spa that’s open year-round. Each uniquely designed floor plan features modern, energy-efficient appliances and large windows. You don’t have to go far to take advantage of Mercer Island’s best restaurants, shops, and outdoor recreation areas. Discover your next apartment home at Island Square.

Community size:  5 buildings; 235 homes
Floorplans:  Studio; 1-Bedroom, 2-Bedrooms
Shortest-term lease:  3 months

Community Amenities:

  • 24-hour fitness center
  • 24-hour package lockers
  • Controlled-access building
  • Elevators
  • Furnished apartments available
  • Game room
  • Lounge with gourmet kitchen
  • On-site retail
  • Parking garage
  • Pet friendly
  • Resident app
  • Sauna
  • Terrace with fire pit and grilling area
  • Two-tier waterfall spa

Apartment Amenities:

  • Air conditioning (Building E only)
  • Balcony
  • Closet built-ins
  • Fireplace
  • Quartz countertops
  • Roller shades
  • Smart Home + GiGstreem Internet (Coming Soon)
  • Soaking tub
  • Stainless steel appliances
  • Undermount sinks
  • Washer and dryer
  • Wood plank flooring

Pet Policy: Pets welcome; call or visit website for details.


Photo courtesy: The Mercer Apartments

The Mercer Apartment Homes

7650 SE 27th Street
Mercer Island, WA 98040 
844-804-4496
themercer.com

Description:
These private and secluded havens are minutes from the vibrant nightlife of Seattle, and around the corner from the shopping and dining of Bellevue. The Mercer is ideally located on the north end of the island, offering quick access to Seattle or Bellevue, with first-class amenities twelve months of the year. Compare with any other community and you will see that The Mercer is first class living at its finest. Stroll down the avenues of Mercer Island Town Center, or visit one of the many parks with your pet and you will notice what makes this community incomparable: the friendly people; clean park trails; swimming beaches; and many other activities available to residents. 

Community Size:  235 homes
Floorplans:  Studio, 1-Bedroom & 2-Bedrooms
Shortest-term lease:  2 to 6-months, depending on floor plan

Community Amenities:

  • 2 outdoor BBQ areas
  • Lounge with full kitchen
  • Controlled access entry
  • Guest suite available for residents
  • On-site storage
  • Bike storage
  • Pets welcome
  • Fitness center
  • Smoke free community
  • Year-round outdoor heated pool & spa
  • Dry heat sauna
  • Rental furniture available from CORT
  • 24-hour emergency maintenance response

Apartment Amenities

  • 9′ to 16′ ceilings with crown molding
  • All-concrete for enhanced sound insulation
  • Carpeting
  • Balconies on select homes
  • Dishwasher
  • Built-in microwaves
  • Central heat and air
  • Cherry wood cabinetry
  • Granite or quartz countertops
  • Hardwood inspired flooring
  • Soaking tubs*
  • Pre-wired for internet speeds up to 1000 Mbps
  • Stainless steel appliances
  • Walk-in closets*

*May not be available in every apartment.

Pet Policy:  Pets welcome; call for details


Photo courtesy Shorewood

Shorewood Mercer Island

3209 Shorewood Drive
Mercer Island, WA 98040
(206) 971-2106
shorewoodmercerisland.com

Description: 
Located on Mercer Island just outside of Seattle, Washington, you’ll find comfort and convenience in this historic apartment community. Shorewood offers classic and restored, spacious one, two, and three bedroom apartment homes that feature hardwood floors, crown molding, a washer and dryer in every home and fully equipped kitchens. Residents can also enjoy our community room, 24-hour fitness center, outdoor sports pavilion. Top-ranked Mercer Island schools nearby and easy access to I-90 puts you in a great location where residents enjoy numerous shopping and dining venues nearby.

Community size:  40 buildings; 645 homes
Floorplans:  Studio (1-unit), 1-Bedroom, 2-Bedrooms, 3-Bedrooms, 4-Bedrooms (1 unit)
Shortest-term lease:  4 months

Community Amenities:

  • Expansive sun deck with grilling stations 
  • Three playgrounds 
  • Views of Lake Washington (select homes) 
  • Guest Suite available
  • Sports Pavilion Gazebo
  • Fitness center 
  • Surrounded by nature and walking trails 
  • Billiards and shuffleboard 
  • Renovated clubhouse with flat screen TVs, lounge, and Wi-Fi
  • Indoor/outdoor demo kitchen with bar

Apartment Amenities:

  • Expansive walk-in closets
  • Stainless steel appliances
  • Washer/dryer
  • Granite Countertops* 
  • Balcony*
  • Fireplace*
  • Dishwasher
  • Hardwood Floors* 
  • Luxe baths with oversized mirrors 
  • Lush treehouse-style views
  • Spacious kitchens with charming garden windows 
  • Shaker-style white or soft grey cabinetry 
  • Large picture windows 
  • Neutral-toned carpeting in bedrooms
  • Built-in microwaves

*May not be available in every apartment.

Pet Policy: Shorewood is a pet-friendly community. No weight-limit. Restrictions: Breed restrictions apply

Questions?

Please feel free to reach out, and we would be happy to help!