Seattle’s breathtaking scenery, bustling technology center, and diverse culture earns it the title of “Emerald City.” If you have made the decision to move to this majestic part of the Pacific Northwest, then get ready for an amazing experience. But before you pack your bags and head home to Seattle, there are some important things to consider.
Let’s explore what makes this Washington city special and what you should know before relocating.
The Weather: It’s Not What You Think
First, let’s address the elephant in the room: Seattle’s reputation for rain. The Seattle city receives a good load of precipitation, but truth be told, it rains less than both New York or Boston.
What makes Seattle unique is the consistent drizzle and overcast skies from October through May. However, the summer is much more forgiving with cooler temperatures, lower humidity and much longer days where the sun sets at 10:00 PM.
Pack layers, get a good rain jacket (locals rarely use umbrellas), and embrace the cozy coffee shop culture that thrives in this climate.
Housing Market: Competitive But Rewarding
Seattle’s housing market remains competitive, despite some cooling in recent years. Even though the median home price in Seattle is around $800,000, more affordable options are available in Renton, Everett, and Kent.
Neighborhoods vary dramatically in feel and price point:
- Capitol Hill offers vibrant nightlife and walkability
- Ballard is more relaxed and has a maritime feel
- West Seattle feels like a small town with impressive city views
- Bellevue, located across Lake Washington, has the perfect blend of suburban and urban
If you own property elsewhere and need to sell quickly before making your home to Seattle, We Buy Houses As Is can help streamline your transition by purchasing your current property in cash, allowing you to focus on finding your perfect Seattle home.
Transportation: Plan Accordingly
Seattle’s geography of hills, water, and bridges creates unique transportation challenges. While public transit is improving with expanding light rail service, many neighborhoods still rely heavily on bus service or cars. Traffic congestion can be significant, especially during rush hour.
Consider your commute carefully when choosing where to live. Living close to work or near a direct transit line can dramatically improve your quality of life. Many Seattle companies also offer flexible work arrangements, which helps ease transportation headaches.
The Culture: Coffee, Tech, and the Outdoors
Seattle’s culture is a fascinating blend of tech innovation, environmental consciousness, and artistic expression. Home to major companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Starbucks, the city attracts ambitious professionals from around the world.
Yet alongside this professional drive is a deep appreciation for nature and work-life balance. Weekends often find Seattleites hiking in the Cascade Mountains, kayaking on Lake Washington, or ferrying to nearby islands. The city’s proximity to outdoor recreation is unmatched—you can ski, hike, sail, and mountain bike all within an hour’s drive.
Cost of Living: Budget Accordingly
While housing costs get the most attention, remember that Washington state has no income tax, which can offset some expenses if you’re moving from a high-tax state. However, sales tax is relatively high at about 10.25% in Seattle.
Groceries, dining out, and entertainment also tend to be more expensive than the national average, so budget accordingly for your lifestyle.
Ready to Make the Move?
Seattle offers a unique quality of life that combines career opportunities with natural beauty and cultural richness. While the transition might come with challenges, many residents find the Pacific Northwest lifestyle well worth it.
If you’re ready to begin your Seattle journey but need to sell your current home quickly, visit webuyhouseasis.com to learn how we can help make your transition smoother with a cash offer on your existing property.