Overview
Seattle offers tech careers, stunning Pacific Northwest scenery, and no state income tax. Home to Amazon, Microsoft, and a thriving startup scene, Seattle attracts professionals seeking outdoor lifestyle combined with urban amenities. Rain is real but so is the quality of life.
Why People Move to Seattle
- No state income tax
- Tech job opportunities (Amazon, Microsoft)
- Stunning natural beauty - mountains, water, forests
- Strong coffee and food culture
- Outdoor recreation paradise
Average Moving Costs to Seattle
| From | Studio/1BR | 2BR |
|---|---|---|
| Portland (175 mi) | $900-$1,600 | $1,600-$2,800 |
| San Francisco (810 mi) | $2,600-$4,200 | $4,200-$6,800 |
| Denver (1,320 mi) | $3,400-$5,400 | $5,400-$8,800 |
| Chicago (2,060 mi) | $4,200-$6,600 | $6,600-$10,500 |
* Estimates for professional full-service moves. DIY moves with rental trucks typically cost 40-60% less.
Best Neighborhoods for Newcomers
Capitol Hill
Avg Rent: $1,800-$2,600 (1BR)
LGBTQ+ friendly, nightlife, arts scene, walkable.
Ballard
Avg Rent: $1,900-$2,700 (1BR)
Breweries, Scandinavian heritage, young professionals.
Fremont
Avg Rent: $1,800-$2,500 (1BR)
Quirky, artsy, near Lake Union.
West Seattle
Avg Rent: $1,700-$2,400 (1BR)
Beach access, neighborhood feel, views.
Cost of Living in Seattle
- Rent (1BR)$1,900-$2,700/month average
- GroceriesAbout 15% above national average
- Dining out$15-$25 casual, $50-$100 upscale
- State income taxNone (0%)
Utilities & Services
Electric
Seattle City Light
$60-$120/month
Internet
Comcast, CenturyLink
$60-$90/month
Water/Sewer
SPU
$60-$100/month
Gas
PSE
$30-$70/month
Job Market in Seattle
- Tech: Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, Google offices
- Aerospace: Boeing
- Healthcare: UW Medicine, Swedish
- Startups and venture capital
- Retail: Starbucks, Nordstrom HQ
Transportation in Seattle
Public Transit
Link light rail, Metro buses. Monthly ORCA pass $99. Good and expanding.
Car
Not essential in urban core. Helpful for outdoor trips.
Biking
Excellent bike culture and trails. Rain is a factor.
Moving Tips for Seattle
Best Time to Move
June-September for driest weather. Be prepared for gray October-May.
Things to Know Before Moving
- Rain is mostly drizzle - good rain jacket matters more than umbrella
- Vitamin D supplements are common for winter months
- Seattle Freeze is real - making friends takes effort
- Traffic is bad - live near work if possible
Pros and Cons of Living in Seattle
Pros
- +No state income tax
- +Tech jobs
- +Natural beauty
- +Outdoor access
- +Food and coffee culture
Cons
- -Gray rainy winters
- -High cost of living
- -Traffic congestion
- -Seattle Freeze
- -Homelessness visible