The drive from Seattle to Kirkland takes approximately 20 min, covering 12 miles via I-5. Under normal conditions, expect to spend around $1 on gas.
Travel time can vary — during rush hour or bad weather, the journey may take 30–35 minutes. For the fastest trip, avoid peak commute hours.
Traffic Estimate
🟢 Light traffic
17 min
🔵 Typical
20 min
🔴 Heavy traffic
29 min
Traffic is usually worst during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and holiday weekends.
Trip Details
Distance12 miles (19 km)
Drive Time20 min
RouteI-5
Best TimeLate evening (8-10 PM)
Fuel Costs
Gas (30 mpg)~0.4 gallons
Est. Cost$1
Best Time to Drive from Seattle to Kirkland
For this shorter drive, the best time to go is late evening (8-10 pm). Rush hour (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM) can add significant time on this route. Weekends are generally smoother unless it's a holiday.
🟢 Best:Late evening (8-10 PM)
🔴 Avoid:Rush hour (4-7 PM)
Route Tips: I-5
The main West Coast highway. Heavy traffic near LA, San Francisco, and Seattle. Scenic stretches through Oregon and Northern California.
This trip can typically be done on a single tank of gas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Seattle to Kirkland?
The drive from Seattle to Kirkland takes approximately 20 min covering 12 miles via I-5. Actual time may vary based on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
How much does gas cost for Seattle to Kirkland?
At 30 MPG and $3.50/gallon, expect to spend approximately $1 on gas for this 12-mile trip. You'll need about 0.4 gallons of fuel.
What is the best time to drive from Seattle to Kirkland?
Late evening (8-10 PM) to avoid heavy traffic. Weekday mornings before 7 AM or evenings after 7 PM typically have less congestion.
Are there tolls on the Seattle to Kirkland route?
This route is primarily toll-free, though some bridges or tunnels may have small fees.
