Seattle, Washington is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States. As the largest city in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle offers residents a high quality of life, vibrant job market, and access to stunning natural beauty. However, before packing up and moving to the Emerald City, it’s important to dive deeper into the pros and cons of living in Seattle. This article will examine key factors like housing, economy, education, transportation, weather, recreation and culture to help determine if Seattle, WA is a good fit for you.
Housing in Seattle
The housing market is one of the biggest considerations when moving to any new city. Here’s an overview of prices, options and neighborhoods in Seattle:
Home Prices
As a highly desirable place to live, home prices in Seattle are significantly higher than the national average. According to Zillow, the current median home value in Seattle is $799,000. This is over double the national median home value of $259,906. High tech salaries contribute to the expensive housing market in Seattle.
| City | Median Home Value |
|---|---|
| Seattle | $799,000 |
| National | $259,906 |
Rental Prices
For those not ready to buy, renting in Seattle is also very expensive. As of August 2022, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Seattle is $2,131 per month according to Apartment List. This is over 30% higher than the national average of $1,571 for a 1-bedroom rental.
| City | Average 1-Bedroom Rent |
|---|---|
| Seattle | $2,131 |
| National | $1,571 |
Neighborhoods
Seattle has a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own character, demographic, and housing stock:
– **Downtown** – The city center and business hub, with condos, apartments, and some townhouses. Very walkable and close to attractions.
– **Capitol Hill** – A vibrant, artsy neighborhood adjacent to downtown. Mix of condos, apartments, older homes. Good nightlife.
– **Queen Anne** – Upscale homes and condos with excellent views. farther from downtown.
– **Ballard** – A hip, formerly industrial neighborhood. Lots of craftsman homes and condos.
– **Fremont** – Known as the Center of the Universe and home to a funky, eclectic mix of residents. Older homes, townhouses, apartments.
– **West Seattle** – A quieter residential area with beautiful water views and houses. Farther commute to downtown.
No matter what type of housing you’re looking for, be prepared to pay more in Seattle compared to other parts of the country. Make sure to factor housing costs into your moving budget.
Economy and Jobs in Seattle
In addition to housing, Seattle also boasts a thriving job market spanning tech, healthcare, biotech, aviation, and more:
Major Employers
The Seattle region is home to major corporate headquarters and employers:
– Amazon – Approximately 60,000 employees
– Microsoft – Headquarters located in nearby Redmond, WA
– Boeing – Aerospace and defense company
– Starbucks – Global coffee giant based in Seattle
– Costco – Retail warehouse chain
Leading Industries
Thanks to companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Boeing, the Greater Seattle area has a large concentration of high-paying jobs in tech, engineering and aerospace. Other top industries include:
– Information Technology
– Business Services
– Healthcare and Social Assistance
– Government
– Manufacturing
– Retail
Unemployment Rate
As of July 2022, the unemployment rate in Seattle was 3.7% according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is lower than the national average of 3.8%, indicating a strong job market. Jobs are widely available for skilled workers in Seattle.
Average Salaries
Salaries are higher on average in Seattle compared to nationwide figures. As of 2021, the median household income in Seattle is $102,501 according to Data USA. This is significantly above the national median of $70,784. High salaries, especially in tech, allow residents to better afford the high cost of living.
| City | Median Household Income |
|---|---|
| Seattle | $102,501 |
| National | $70,784 |
Overall, Seattle offers a wide variety of well-paying job opportunities. A strong economy and thriving industries make it an appealing city for ambitious professionals.
Education in Seattle
Seattle has a highly educated population, with over 60% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Educational options range from top-ranked public schools to universities.
Public Schools
The Seattle public school district serves over 49,000 students across 104 schools. Highlights include:
– Roosevelt High School – Ranked among the top 100 schools nationally according to U.S. News & World Report.
– Garfield High School – Known for strong academics and championship sports teams.
– Lakeside School – A prestigious private school that counts Bill Gates as an alum.
Higher Education
Seattle is home to major universities such as:
– University of Washington – A public flagship university ranked #59 nationally by U.S. News. Over 46,000 students across three campuses.
– Seattle University – A private Jesuit university with 7,000 students located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.
– Seattle Pacific University – A private Christian university in Queen Anne with undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
From elementary schools to universities, Seattle offers quality educational options. This enhances the city’s desirability for families and students.
Transportation in Seattle
Navigating a new city always requires understanding the transportation network. Seattle offers a variety of options for getting around:
Public Transit
Public transportation is managed by King County Metro and Sound Transit. Options include:
– Link Light Rail – Connects downtown to the airport and growing regional stops.
– Streetcars
– Buses – A network of buses covering the city and suburbs.
– Washington State Ferries – Passenger ferries to transport people around Puget Sound.
Driving
While public transit usage is high, many residents still rely on cars. Important highways include I-5 running north-south and I-90 crossing Lake Washington. However, Seattle traffic congestion ranks among the worst nationwide.
Biking
Flat terrain and moderate temperatures make biking a popular alternative. The city has over 100 miles of marked bike lanes. Bike shares like Lime and Uber bikes are also available.
Walkability
Seattle ranks high for walkability thanks to mixed-use neighborhoods and pedestrian infrastructure. Walk scores are highest in central neighborhoods like Downtown, Capitol Hill, and Ballard.
Overall, Seattle offers transportation options but congestion can be frustrating during peak times. Proximity to public transit is a key consideration in choosing where to live.
Weather in Seattle
Famous for rainy weather, Seattle lives up to its reputation. Here’s an overview of Seattle’s climate:
Rainfall
With an average annual rainfall of 39 inches, Seattle gets wet weather year-round. October through April is the rainiest period. However, much of the rain drizzles as opposed to heavy downpours.
Gray Skies
Seattle is overcast or cloudy about 220 days per year on average. Crystal clear blue skies are rare during the fall and winter months.
Mild Temperatures
Despite the cloudy skies, Seattle has relatively mild temperatures year-round. Average highs range from 46°F in January to 76°F in August.
| Month | Average High Temperature |
|---|---|
| January | 46°F |
| April | 58°F |
| July | 76°F |
| October | 63°F |
Outdoor Activities
Don’t let the rain stop you from getting outside! Seattle residents enjoy activities like hiking, cycling, kayaking, and skiing in the nearby Cascade mountains on sunny days. Layering up makes outdoor time possible year-round.
If you’re accustomed to more sunshine and mild winters, Seattle may feel dreary at times. However, residents embrace the climate by spending time outdoors when possible.
Recreation and Culture in Seattle
Despite the weather, Seattle is buzzing with fun things to see and do for culture lovers.
Dining Scene
Foodies will feel right at home in Seattle with diverse cuisine options. The city offers a mix of casual eateries and high-end destination restaurants featuring fresh Pacific Northwest ingredients. Iconic classics include:
– Pike Place Market – A giant, century-old farmer’s market with local produce, fish, and artisan foods.
– Seattle-style hot dogs – Grilled dogs topped with grilled onions, fried jalapenos, and unique cream cheese spreads.
– Wild salmon – Fresh salmon dishes served at restaurants across the city.
– Teriyaki – Seattle’s unofficial signature dish, served with rice, vegetables, and chicken.
Coffee Culture
As the birthplace of Starbucks, Seattle takes its coffee seriously. The city has countless local roasters, cafes, and baristas churning out quality brews. Coffee shops like Starbucks Reserve, Victrola, and Herkimer offer crafted cups, classes, and unique beans.
Microbreweries
Microbreweries are popular across the Pacific Northwest. Beer lovers can sample local craft beers at breweries like Fremont, Georgetown, and Red Hook. Cider houses like Schilling, Locust, and Seattle Cider Company also produce unique local ciders.
Museums
Rainy days are made for museum-hopping. Top cultural institutions include:
– Seattle Art Museum (SAM) – Exhibits include Native American art and Pacific Northwest design.
– Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) – Dedicated to contemporary popular culture with rotating exhibits on music and film.
– Burke Museum of Natural History – Artifacts and fossils including dinosaur skeletons.
Performing Arts
Performance art thrives in Seattle:
– 5th Avenue Theatre – Stages Broadway shows and musical premieres.
– Seattle Symphony – Renowned orchestra performing classical and modern works.
– Pacific Northwest Ballet – With George Balanchine works and annual performance of The Nutcracker.
From live music to theater, there is always a show to see in Seattle on the weekends. Frequently ranked among the most literate cities in America, Seattle has an engaged arts scene.
Diversity in Seattle
The diversity of Seattle contributes to its cultural fabric and desirability. Here’s an overview of Seattle’s population:
Racial Diversity
While Seattle is less racially diverse than the nation overall, the non-white population is growing. The population was 69% White, 16% Asian, 7% Black, and 6% Hispanic/Latinx according to 2020 Census data. Other groups include Native Americans and Pacific Islanders.
Foreign-Born Residents
Approximately 18% of Seattle residents are foreign-born, especially from Asian countries like China, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Seattle has large Asian and Hispanic communities blended into neighborhood hubs.
LGBTQ+ Community
Seattle has been ranked the #1 gay-friendly city in America. With liberal attitudes and anti-discrimination protections, Seattle welcomes diversity in sexual orientation. The Capitol Hill neighborhood is the historic hub of LGBTQ+ culture. Major events like Seattle PrideFest celebrate identity each summer.
While less diverse than cities like New York and Los Angeles, Seattle actively celebrates multiculturalism. Overall, the Emerald City provides a progressive and welcoming environment.
Cost of Living in Seattle
A high cost of living is the tradeoff Seattle residents make to enjoy natural beauty and high-paying jobs. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
| Expense | Cost in Seattle |
|---|---|
| Housing (monthly) | $2,131 (1 bedroom apartment) |
| Groceries (monthly) | $412 per person |
| Utilities (monthly) | $221 |
| Healthcare (monthly) | $611 for a family of 4 |
| Transportation (monthly) | $130 on public transit |
Seattle ranks as one of the most expensive cities for housing, childcare, and other costs. However, higher median incomes help compensate for pricier living expenses. Potential residents should budget accordingly and consider salaries before relocating.
Quality of Life in Seattle
Weighing all the factors, Seattle consistently ranks among the top U.S. cities for quality of life:
Health and Wellness
– Outdoor recreation promotes healthy lifestyles
– Low obesity and diabetes rates
– Access to excellent healthcare facilities
Safety
– Lower violent crime rates than peer cities
– Feels safe walking alone at night in most areas
Politics and Government
– Progressive local government and social policies
– High civic participation and voter turnout
Neighborhoods
– Unique neighborhood identities and appeal
– Great sense of community
Environment
– Easy access to nature for hiking, skiing, water sports
– Commitment to sustainability and green living
From clean air and water to an educated populace and great nightlife, Seattle offers an enviable quality of life for many residents. Tradeoffs like housing costs and congestion are manageable for Seattleites given the lifestyle benefits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Seattle clearly has immense appeal as a place to live. Job seekers can find fertile ground in the technology, healthcare, aviation and other thriving industries that call Seattle home. The natural beauty provides easy access to the outdoors with mountains and waterfront paths just minutes away from downtown. Seattle also boasts a rich arts and culture scene.
However, the high cost of living may be prohibitive or require budget adjustments, especially for housing. And the cool, wet, overcast climate isn’t for everyone. Congestion can also make getting around a challenge.
For outdoorsy types who don’t mind carrying an umbrella and value a progressive West coast vibe, Seattle is likely a great fit. Professionals who can leverage the strong job market will appreciate the salaries that enable the Seattle lifestyle. Seattle isn’t a perfect utopia, but for many people the Emerald City represents an appealing place to put down roots.