living in seattle, wa
Relocating to a new city can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. With so many elements to consider, such as neighborhoods, demographics, and cost of living, it can take time to know where to begin.
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weather & climate
Seattle, Washington is known for its mild, temperate marine climate characterized by cool, wet winters and mild, dry summers. The city experiences relatively consistent rainfall throughout the year, with winters being the rainiest season and summers offering pleasant temperatures and long daylight hours.
living in
seattle, wa
If you’re considering moving to Seattle, Washington, CEND is here to help. Whether you’re a young professional, a family with children, or a retiree, our comprehensive guide can help you decide where to live and what to expect when moving to Seattle.
seattle at a glance
According to the calculator on Payscale.com for Seattle, Washington, the cost of living in Seattle is approximately 49% higher than the national average. However, it’s worth noting that Seattle’s median household income is higher than the national median income. This makes the high cost of living more manageable for many residents.
Seattle has several major employers, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Boeing. The city has a strong job market, with steady growth in various industries such as technology, healthcare, and education.
Seattle’s traffic can be challenging during rush hour, but the city has an extensive public transportation system which includes buses, light rail, and ferries. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is just 20 minutes south of downtown Seattle, making air travel convenient for residents.
Seattle is known for its rainy climate, with an average of 152 rainy days per year. However, the city also experiences mild temperatures throughout the year, with an average high of 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer and 47 degrees in the winter.
Seattle has several excellent K-12 schools, including the highly regarded Seattle Public Schools. The city also has several prestigious colleges and universities, including the University of Washington and Seattle.
Living in Seattle, Washington, is a unique and vibrant city offering residents a range of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities. However, there’s a lot to be aware of before making the move.
where to live, have fun, and explore
seattle
Each of Seattle’s neighborhoods has its own unique personality and vibe. When deciding on where you want to live, consider factors such as traffic, age, income, and marital status.
According to the World Population Review, Seattle has over 769,000 people, with a median age of 35.6 years and a median household income of $102,486. Additionally, data from Neighborhood Scout shows Seattle has a diverse population, with 68.6% married residents, 27.4% single, and 4% divorced.
things to do in seattle, wa
You could be into culinary delights, an art lover, or the outdoorsy type, and Seattle will have something to offer. We highlight some of the best things to do in Seattle, from exploring its diverse neighborhoods to experiencing its unique culture and history. So, whether you’re planning a temporary relocation or looking to become a longtime resident, read on to explore the top things to know about Seattle.
Seattle Boat Show: Held every January, this event features over 1,000 boats and watercraft for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Northwest Flower & Garden Show: A favorite event for gardening enthusiasts, visitors can wander through beautiful gardens and learn about sustainable gardening practices.
Seattle Improvised Music Festival: Music lovers will enjoy this festival, which showcases local and international musicians creating unique and spontaneous compositions.
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival: Held in April, this festival places the stunning tulip fields of nearby Mount Vernon at the forefront, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
University District Street Fair: A beloved community event that takes place annually and brings together artists, vendors, and performers for a weekend of fun and festivities.
Seattle Seahawks Football: A professional football team in the NFL, playing at Lumen Field in downtown Seattle. They have a large and passionate fan base.
OL Reign & Seattle Sounders FC: These two professional soccer teams are based in Seattle, with OL Reign playing in the National Women’s Soccer League and the Seattle Sounders in the MLS.
Seattle Kraken Hockey: A relatively new professional hockey team in the NHL, with their inaugural season in 2021.
Capitol Hill: Known for its vibrant nightlife scene, Capitol Hill is a neighborhood with various bars, clubs, and music venues catering to different tastes.
Belltown: This neighborhood is another popular spot for nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, live music, and comedy venues. Check out the famous Crocodile Club for live music and comedy or visit Tula’s for some jazz.
Downtown Seattle: From upscale cocktail lounges to casual sports bars, downtown Seattle has diverse nightlife options. Stop by the iconic Pike Place Market for local beer or head to the speakeasy-style Bathtub Gin & Co. for a unique experience.
Ballard: This neighborhood has several bars, breweries, and restaurants, as well as music venues and theaters. Try the Tractor Tavern for live music or visit the Ballard Beer Company for local brews.
Space Needle: An iconic landmark of Seattle, the Space Needle offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding area from its observation deck.
Seattle Children’s Museum: This interactive museum is designed specifically for kids, with hands-on exhibits and exploring activities.
Pacific Science Center: A science museum with interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and IMAX movies. Perfect for older kids interested in science and technology.
Museum of Pop Culture: MoPOP celebrates popular culture with music, film, and other exhibits. It’s an excellent destination for families with teenagers interested in current trends.
Museum of Flight: A museum dedicated to aviation history, with planes, spacecraft, and other aircraft on display.
Golden Age Collectibles: A comic bookstore in Pike Place Market with a wide selection of comics and collectibles.
Woodland Park Zoo: A large zoo with various animals and displays, including a popular gorilla exhibition. Your kids will love seeing all the different animals and learning about them.
Seattle Aquarium: A waterfront aquarium with local marine life and ecosystems. Kids can learn about the ocean and its occupants through interactive exhibits and touch pools.
Theo Chocolate Factory Tour: A local chocolate factory tour with tastings and a chance to see the chocolate-making process. It’s a fun and delicious activity for families with kids of all ages.
The Seattle Great Wheel: A giant Ferris wheel on the waterfront offers incredible views of the city and Elliott Bay. It’s a must-visit for families who want to take in the stunning views of Seattle.
Olympic Sculpture Park: A public park with outdoor sculptures and art installations. It’s an excellent destination for families who appreciate art and the outdoors.
Stone Gardens Seattle: An indoor climbing gym with programs for kids and adults. It’s a great place for families who love adventure and physical activity.
Seattle Pinball Museum: A pinball museum with dozens of vintage and modern machines to play and sample. It’s a fun and nostalgic experience for families who love classic arcade games.
Discovery Park: A large park with trails, beaches, and views of Puget Sound. It’s a fabulous destination for families who want to enjoy the outdoors and the stunning scenery.
Shug’s Soda Fountain & Ice Cream: A classic soda fountain and ice cream shop in Pike Place Market. It’s the picture-perfect spot for families to cool off and enjoy a sweet treat.
Washington Park Arboretum: A beautiful park with various gardens and trails, popular with dog owners who can explore the natural beauty of Seattle with their furry friends.
Seward Park: A stunning waterfront park with a 2.5-mile walking loop, beaches, and picnic areas, all of which can be enjoyed with your pet.
Ballard Sunday Farmers Market: This farmers market in Ballard is pet-friendly and offers a wide range of local produce, baked goods, and crafts. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon with your pet.
seattle restaurants & breweries
Seattle is known for its thriving food and drinks scene, with many local favorites among its restaurants and breweries. Some notable award-winning and highly recommended places include Canlis, Salare, The Walrus and the Carpenter, and the Fremont Brewing Company.
Seattle is also dedicated to environmentally conscious practices, with many businesses offering car charging stations and recycling programs. As for real estate, Seattle has an abundance of temporary lodgings and short-term rentals to accommodate you when visiting the city. If you need to buy or sell, the housing market is always dynamic, but plenty of real estate professionals are available to assist.
seattle moving & storage
CEND can make your relocation to Seattle easier by providing various services, including packing, moving, and storage solutions. Our climate-controlled storage units are the perfect solution if you need a secure place to store your belongings before, during, and after moving. Let CEND help you take the hassle out of moving to Seattle. Contact us today to learn more about our services, get a quote and learn how CEND can make your transition to Emerald City as easy as possible.