Last reviewed October 18, 2026 by Sean McConnell, Team Leader, McConnell Group
Where are the floating homes in Eastlake?
Eastlake is the east shore of Lake Union, along Fairview Ave E. It has many floating home docks. The Floating Homes Association names Eastlake among the main Lake Union floating home areas.
Docks reach out from Fairview Ave E on the east shore of Lake Union, so they face west across the water. Source: Floating Homes Association: Locations
Floating homes or houseboats? What you'll find here
Houseboats of Seattle says most Seattle floating homes are on Eastlake and Portage Bay. Source: Houseboats of Seattle FAQ You may also see houseboats in nearby marinas, so check whether a listing is a floating home or a FOWR. The plaque and the moorage documents tell you which.
Moorage types on these docks
Verify it dock by dock. Many floating home docks are co-op or condo moorage, with monthly HOA dues. Those dues vary widely from dock to dock. Ask what the dues cover and how much the last increase was.
Getting around
Eastlake is on the Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop, the walking and biking loop around the lake. Seaplanes take off and land on Lake Union, so some docks hear them. Parking and storage vary by dock and are limited on many.
A dated example
Recent dues and slip fee examples, with dates, are in the guide.
Rules that apply on every dock
Seattle code sets a few rules for every floating residence, wherever it sits. Each verified residence has a unique 3-digit City number it must display. No floating residence may be used as a short-term rental under 30 nights (SMC 23.42.060). Floating homes need direct sewer and water connections, must have been legally established or permitted by June 15, 2015, and need an SDCI permit before exterior repair, remodel, expansion or rebuild.
A FOWR is a vessel or other floating structure used mainly as a residence, with detachable utilities, and its owner must have held marina space since before July 1, 2014. Because no new floating homes are being added, supply in Eastlake stays limited, and it helps to have financing and insurance arranged before the right home is listed. Source: SDCI Tip 229 Source: RCW 90.58.270, Washington State Legislature Source: Seattle SDCI: Floating Residences Source: Lake Life Seattle: Floating Home Buying Guide (2026)
What to check before you buy here
Each dock has its own rules, budget and float condition.