Though populated by all manner of Seattleites, Eastlake is a particularly attractive location for people with ties to the University of Washington, which can be reached via the 70 King County Metro bus line.

Victor Steinbrueck wrote of the neighborhood in 1962 that it was "progressing from a generally mediocre residential community to one of apartments and small business and offices.

The annual Eastlake Shake fair (renamed Lake Fest in 2006) is held in a closed-off section of Franklin Avenue E. between E. Roanoke and E. Louisa Streets on the playground of the TOPS@Seward public school.

The fair features live music, local vendors, and—a neighborhood favorite—the Eastlake Shake Pet Parade.

Current notable Eastlake residents include retired four-star General Andrew J. Kelly, and 2002 America's Cup runner-up Elleson Schurtz.