Do you want to find the best neighborhoods in Seattle? Evaluating the best neighborhoods in Seattle to live requires thoughtful consideration of various factors, including safety, crime rates, cost of living, and local amenities. Before delving into which neighborhoods stand out, let’s first look at the essence of Seattle. As the largest city in Washington and the fourth-largest port in the nation, Seattle has a mild climate, a laid-back atmosphere, and a thriving economy. It is also known as the Emerald City. With a large number of students, workers, and professionals flocking to Seattle today, what is it about the city that attracts them?
Is Seattle a Good Place to Live?
As a growing number of people come to Seattle to live, study, and travel, do you wonder what charm Seattle possesses? First, Seattle lives up to its reputation as “the Emerald City” with its unparalleled beauty. Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is surrounded by evergreen forests in all seasons. There are many desirable neighborhoods in Seattle that boast delightful environments and suitable for people to live in. The desire to be close to nature is one of the main reasons many people choose this city. Second, Seattle boasts an exceptionally well-educated populace. It is statistically home to 47% of Seattleites with a bachelor’s degree – the highest percentage in the country (double the U.S. average of 24%). This data shows that Seattle is one of the best cities to study. Third, Seattle offers a healthy lifestyle. Seattle emerges as a gastronomic paradise of the United States. People here eat nutritious food with fresh ingredients and very little sugar. Lastly, Seattle’s well-developed economy is a big reason people live here. In the survey “2023 America’s BEST CITIES”, Seattle was ranked eighth in the nation. It has many career opportunities.
Considering Seattle’s abundant natural beauty, high educational standards, vibrant communities, and thriving economy, it is no surprise that many people find it an ideal place to settle down. Each neighborhoods of Seattle has its own unique charm, and determining the best neighborhoods to live in Seattle depends on four key perspectives.
How to Choose the Best Neighborhoods in Seattle?
#1 Safety
There’s no denying that safety ALWAYS comes as the top priority. Always look at local Crime statistics before choosing where to live in Seattle. The most accurate data comes from crime reports on city websites or direct reports from local law enforcement. There are also several reliable online resources for crime maps. Don’t choose a place with a high concentration of gangs or vagrants. Even if you find the best and lowest-crime neighbourhood in Seattle, try not to go out alone at night.
#2 Living Cost
For most people, managing budgets is the top thing when going abroad. Considering the cost of living in each neighborhood can significantly reduce financial stress and increase overall well-being. Researching rent, food costs, clothing costs, and transportation costs in each neighborhood can help us find the best value for money in Seattle.
#3 Services
When choosing a neighborhood, it’s crucial to consider the availability of essential services. A concentration of restaurants, convenience stores, drugstores, subway or bus stops, shopping malls, parks, etc., can significantly enhance our quality of life and overall well-being. These factors also contribute to the most desirable neighborhoods in Seattle.
#4 Transportation
Transportation is a crucial factor in determining Seattle good neighborhoods. A convenient transport system can significantly enhance life quality. Most importantly, the shorter the daily commute, the better the living experience. The best Seattle neighborhood is where the school and work place is located. Additionally, consider the proximity of bus stops, subway, and train stations to your location. It’s essential to assess whether these transportation facilities are conveniently accessible from your home.
10 Best Neighborhoods in Seattle
#1 University District
As one of the oldest middle-class neighborhoods and one of the Seattle WA best neighborhoods, University District is known for its utmost safety. This neighborhood is a significant area of Seattle, Washington. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the University District is $1,500.
The prestigious University of Washington is located in this neighbourhood. This research university was ranked 3rd in the 2023 Best Global Rankings and has the best global university ranking overall. Popular majors include medicine, life sciences, computer science, physics, mathematics, statistics, and education.
#2 Belltown
Belltown is one of the best neighborhoods to live in Seattle, with many ocean views to enjoy. Living here offers a high-quality experience and a high level of security. Located between Pike Place Market and South Lake Union, Belltown has many high-rise condominiums with easy access to public transportation. There are high-rise apartments, trendy stores, bars, restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and cafes. In Belltown, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2645.
The top university in Belltown is Argosy University. It is an up-and-coming comprehensive university in the U.S. The campus is located in an office building on the Seattle waterfront. It is a non-profit educational institution offering over 20 undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs. The campus is easily accessible by public transportation and is close to world-class museums, supermarkets, restaurants, cultural and entertainment venues.
#3 Downtown
As one of the Seattle good neighborhoods, Downtown embodies the essence of modern living that continuously draws people to its dynamic streets. Downtown’s landmarks include Belton, Pike Place Market, and Pioneer Square. It’s a paradise for those who love art and culture: the Seattle Art Museum, The Showbox, and Benaroya Hall give the ultimate visual and auditory experience. The city is well connected by public transportation, which makes a private car somewhat unnecessary. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Downtown is $2726.
Founded in 1891 in Downtown Seattle, Seattle University is a private university in a vibrant community where futures are envisioned and created. It is affiliated with the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities and ranked 163rd in the latest U.S. News National Overall Rankings for 2024.
#4 Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is the most diverse, inclusive, and one of Seattle’s best neighborhoods, with several gay bars and nightclubs. Capitol Hill is located in the northeastern part of downtown, one of Seattle’s most densely populated areas. Capitol Hill is also an excellent place for food lovers; visiting and exploring the restaurants can be enjoyable. Famous attractions include Volunteer Park and the Seattle Asian Art Museum. Is Capitol Hill Seattle safe? The answer is yes. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment at Capitol Hill is $2192. The best college in the neighborhood is Seattle University.
#5 Central District
Central District is deemed one of the best Seattle neighborhoods for its eclectic architecture, bustling markets, and cultural landmarks. It is located on the east side of Seattle, where nightlife is plentiful with quality bars and clubs. The population density is moderate. It is populous while maintaining some distance between houses. Central District is an excellent choice for those who require upscale amenities and simple life with personal spaces. It has easy access to public transportation, convenience stores, and grocery stores everywhere. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Central District is $2674.
#6 Fremont
Fremont is one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle to live in for those who search for a romantic environment. The red maple leaves on both sides of Fremont streets are breathtaking. You can experience the romance of fall by strolling through Fremont. Order a cup of coffee and stomp on the fallen leaves as if the picturesque scenery intoxicated you. Fremont is located northwest of Lake Union. It is sometimes called “The People’s Republic of Fremont” or “The Artists’ Republic of Fremont”. Events such as the Fremont Saturday Market and the Munich Oktoberfest are often held here for those who enjoy group activities. In Fremont, The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2262.
#7 Lower Queen Anne
Lower Queen Anne is a Seattle good neighborhood and one of the oldest elite neighbourhoods. There are many old luxury homes, majestic hills and expansive ocean views. Queen Anne Hill is the tallest hill in the city of Seattle. On its hillside is Kerry Park, which overlooks Downtown Seattle and Mountain Rainier. Lower Queen Anne is ideal for shoppers and artists. It is also a favourite among overseas students, thanks to the safe streets, top schools, proximity of services to downtown and architectural beauty. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment at Lower Queen Anne is $2556.
#8 South Lake Unoin
South Lake Union’s central location and easy accessibility make it a best neighborhoods to live in Seattle. South Lake Union is the epicentre of Seattle’s tech boom and home to Amazon’s headquarters. It is an ideal location for young people looking for a challenge and a promising future. With a wealth of new apartments, dining venues, and event spaces, it offers a vibrant lifestyle. What’s more, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment at South Lake Union is $2721, making it an affordable option for those looking to live in the centre of the city. The tech-centric environment of South Lake Union is sure to ignite your passion and drive for innovation.
Founded in 1898, Northeastern University-Seattle is located next to South Lake Union. It is the largest private university in the United States and is research-oriented.
#9 Greenwood
Many factors make Greenwood one of the best neighborhoods to live in Seattle, Washington. Greenwood is located north of Greenwood Lake, above the Phinney Ridge neighborhood. It is a 15-minute drive from Downtown. The pace of life here makes people living there feel comfortable. Amidst its tree-lined streets, charming streetscapes are filled with an eclectic blend of shops, restaurants, and local businesses, each adding its unique hue to its colourful mosaic. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment at Greenwood is $2071 per month.
#10 Columbia City
As one of the lowest-cost Seattle neighborhoods, Columbia City was established as an ideal destination for families and individuals seeking a quality of life. The neighborhood is located on the west side of the city. Entertainment is plentiful, with bars and cafes offering live music performances as one of their specialities. It is also one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Seattle. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Columbia City is $1,959.
Conclusion
The 10 best neighborhoods in Seattle offer their unique charm and quality of life. From the bustling streets of Capitol Hill to the family-friendly ambience of Ballard, Seattle caters to a wide range of preferences and lifestyles. You can choose one of your favourites from those Seattle’s best neighborhoods.
FAQ
What is the nicest part of Seattle to live in?
Bellevue is by far the nicest part of Seattle to live in. It is often considered a suburb of Seattle, frequently tops the list for those seeking a blend of urban convenience with natural beauty. Additionally, it is one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle for hosting some of the city’s top educational institutions. These include WA98004, Bellevue High School, International School, Clyde Hill Elementary School, Lakeside School (the alma mater of Bill Gates), and Forest Ridge School.
What is the safest area in Seattle?
Ballard is considered one of the safest and best neighborhoods in Seattle to live. Ballard is known for its known for its rich maritime heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and strong sense of community with low crime rates. It offers a blend of old-world charm and contemporary innovation.
What is the hippest neighborhood in Seattle?
Capitol Hill boasts some of the highest happiness rates and is one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle. Residents here take pride in their neighborhood and actively participate in local events and initiatives. From weekly farmers’ markets to annual street fairs, something is always happening on Capitol Hill. Other than the hippest, Capitol Hill is where the city’s creative souls gather. It is also a Seattle safe neighborhood.
