13 of the Best Neighborhoods in Seattle to Move to in 2025

Thinking of moving to Seattle? You’re not alone — with its mild weather, great job market, and laid-back vibe, millennials and others alike are flocking to the Emerald City. Washington’s largest city has a wide diversity of neighborhoods to suit your interests, whether you’re looking for a nearby craft brewery, art gallery, nightclub, or just a quiet, tree-lined neighborhood. But if you’re not sure where to start, read on for our guide to some of the best neighborhoods in Seattle.'

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Seattle at a Glance

• The population of Seattle is about 781,000.
• Seattle’s cost of living is a notable 58.1 percent higher than the national average, and almost 30 percent higher than the state average.  
• The average value of a Seattle home is just over $880,400.
• The average rent for a 698-square-foot apartment in Seattle is just over $2,250. 

13 Best Neighborhoods in Seattle

Seattle is home to seven official districts and dozens of diverse types of neighborhoods, from tranquil, historic enclaves to bustling centers of nightlife and activity. So, what are the best neighborhoods to live in Seattle? When it comes to assessing a Seattle neighborhood guide, finding the best spot for you depends on what you’re looking for. 

However, in a city like Seattle, you’re bound to find something to suit your tastes in no time. As you begin your Seattle neighborhoods search, consider factors like what amenities are important to you, how long your commute might be, and what sort of lifestyle you prefer. Here are a few of our top Seattle neighborhoods to consider.

1. Ballard

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,250
• Average home value: $885,500 
• Great for: Proximity to downtown, dining, gorgeous views

Located just a few minutes north of Downtown Seattle, Ballard has roots as a Scandinavian seafaring village, and salmon still run through the Ballard Locks to this day. Today, the waterfront Seattle neighborhood is a hip destination and home for Seattleites who enjoy the variety of trendy restaurants, with quieter parts and streets up north. Check out Brimmer & Heeltap, a brick bistro with a gorgeous outdoor patio and a dining room featuring a floor tiled entirely in shiny pennies (soon to be an even rarer sight as pennies go out of production). Head there for oyster happy hour and a draft Negroni Sbagliato for a perfect evening indoors or out.

And for a post-dinner walk, enjoy one of the things that makes Ballard one of the best places to live in Seattle: You can walk along a sandy beach while enjoying stunning mountain views.

2. Belltown

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,825
• Average home value: $534,100
• Good for: Young professionals, entertainment, nightlife, walkability, public transportation

Between Puget Sound, Pike Place Market, and South Lake Union lies Belltown, Seattle’s unofficial entertainment and nightlife capital. High-rise condos, trendy restaurants, and entertainment venues like the legendary The Crocodile (Ever heard of a little band called Nirvana? They played here.) and other bars and places are all densely packed, making this neighborhood extremely walkable (it has a WalkScore of 98, after all, ranking as the second most walkable neighborhood in the city). 

In addition, Belltown’s proximity to other areas of town means the neighborhood has excellent public transportation available. To get from Belltown to the Seattle Art Museum, for instance, it’s an easy 10-minute bus ride or just a 15-minute walk. 

Downtown Seattle is one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle, in part, because it’s home to the iconic Pike Place Market.

3. Downtown

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,600 
• Average home value: $749,500
• Good for: Culture, arts, walkability, public transportation 

Comprising Belltown, Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square, and other iconic areas of town, it’s safe to say downtown is the heart of what most people think of when they think of Seattle neighborhoods. Overlook Elliot Bay or the city hills in your high-rise condo or skyscraper office. 

In the mood for some culture? Visit the Seattle Art Museum or The Showbox for music or a show, or hear a symphony at Benaroya Hall. Should you move to this area, don’t bother bringing your car — with bike lanes and public transit options galore, a vehicle will be more of a hindrance than a help, making Downtown Seattle one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle to live without a car.

4. Capitol Hill

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,150
• Average home value: $696,400
• Good for: Diversity, dining, culture, art 

Northeast of Downtown, you’ll find Capitol Hill — one of the city’s most densely populated areas, featuring a mix of old and new homes and condos. Considered to be Seattle's LGBTQ+ capital, the neighborhood is diverse and accepting. Check out the carnival-themed hotspot Unicorn or the queer dive bar Pony among the many other gay bars in the neighborhood for a fun night out. 

Capitol Hill is also brimming with nightclubs, indie coffee shops, and some of the best restaurants in the city. In Capitol Hill, you’ll also find respite at Volunteer Park or the Seattle Asian Art Museum.

5. Central District

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,150 
• Median home sale price: $903,500
• Good for: Families, proximity to big-city amenities, true neighborhood vibe 

Located on the east side of Seattle, Central District features a nice balance of being close to many of the perks you might have moved to Seattle for (great bars and nightlife, cultural activities), while maintaining some distance and a more residential feel. The historically Black neighborhood is home to centers of culture like the Northwest African American Museum, Wa Na Wari, and the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, where you can catch exhibits, events, and performances. While it’s still very culturally diverse, in recent years Central District has become more gentrified.

With access to public transit and local beers and coffees to sip, Central District is a great option for those looking for access to big-city amenities while living in a place with a neighborhood feel.

Waterfront view of the bright blue and orange Fremont Bridge on a cloudy day in Fremont, Seattle, WA.

6. Fremont

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,425
• Average home value: $910,800
• Good for: Families, variety in entertainment/culture/dining, community events 

The self-proclaimed “Center of the Universe,” Fremont attracts eclectic Seattle residents and families looking for a quirky vibe. Need an example of its personality? Take a walk over to the Aurora Bridge, underneath which you’ll find the famous Fremont Troll — an 18-foot, 13,000-pound cement beast sculpted by a team of artists back in 1989. 

Fremont is located northwest of Lake Union, and in addition to mythical cement creatures, its streets are filled with yoga studios, bike shops, Thai restaurants, and coffee shops. If you’re looking for a unique living experience, try Fremont’s hilly, twisted streets for size. A bonus? Fremont is home to neighborhood events like the Fremont Saturday Market and Oktoberfest.

7. Lower Queen Anne

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,250
• Average home value: $551,000
• Good for: Shopping, art, public transportation 

Often thought of as more of a shopping district and destination for the arts, Lower Queen Anne has great options for multi-unit residences, condos, and other housing options nestled between busy and interesting streets. Nearby, you’ll find the Space Needle and Seattle Center — and if you’re looking to lower your carbon footprint, you’re in luck: The public transit options via monorail or bus are great.

Q: Where is the best place to live in the Seattle area? A: South Lake Union tops Niche’s list of the best places to live in Seattle area overall, and it takes second place on their lists of best neighborhoods in Seattle for young professionals, too.

8. South Lake Union 

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,750
• Average home value: $531,400
• Good for: Young professionals, community events, proximity to downtown

Ever heard of a little company called Amazon? Well, if you head to South Lake Union, you’ll see that it’s dominated by Amazon headquarters. The epicenter of Seattle’s tech boom, South Lake Union is ideal for young professionals. This fast-growing neighborhood boasts a plethora of new apartments, places to eat, and things to do. For one, pay a visit to the lakefront Museum of History & Industry to learn all about the history of the city.

Every day, you can enjoy food trucks catering to the lunch break crowd, and on the weekends, you’ll find neighborhood markets. While bustling during the day, the streets quiet in the evenings as residents retreat home. Centrally located, it’s easy to hit Downtown Seattle or other areas via public transit. 

9. Greenwood 

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,100 
• Average home value: $828,200
• Good for: Young families, proximity to downtown 

Greenwood is located north of Greenwood Lake, above the Phinney Ridge neighborhood. Laid out in a straightforward grid, Greenwood is an excellent residential area beloved by young families. With quick access to downtown (about a 15-minute drive), it really is the best of both worlds. In the neighborhood itself, you’ll find local bars and cafés that are largely family-friendly. For a family-friendly weekend activity, head to the Woodland Park Zoo or hang out in Green Lake Park.

10. Columbia City

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,200
• Average home value: $821,400
• Good for: Families, diversity, community involvement  

Columbia City once enjoyed the “hidden treasure” benefit that came with being further away from Downtown Seattle … but sadly for them, the secret’s out! It’s one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle. As one of the more affordable Seattle neighborhoods, Columbia City is a great destination for families and individuals looking to build community. Located in the Rainier Valley on the west side of the city, this neighborhood features pubs with live music and cafes. Plus, it’s one of the most diverse areas in Seattle, according to Niche.

If you love the decorative details of Victorian Queen Anne architecture, you’ll love this neighborhood — one of the nicest and best neighborhoods in Seattle.

11. Queen Anne

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,250 
• Average home value: $1.2M
• Good for: Larger lots, stunning landscape/views, peaceful living 

Queen Anne is one of the few instantly recognizable Seattle neighborhoods, thanks to its geography: The neighborhood’s homes are atop the highest hill in the city. The neighborhood is named after the architectural style of the homes, which have an esteemed air and are truly beautiful. 

A quiet, more affluent neighborhood, Queen Anne is your destination if you’re looking for a fenced front and backyard within city limits. With fantastic access to the rest of the city, Queen Anne is stately and lovely, but somehow remains low-key.

Q: What is the nicest neighborhood in Seattle? A: Seattle is home to so many wonderful neighborhoods, but Queen Anne is one of the nicest, especially if you love Victorian architecture and hilltop homes. It’s a peaceful neighborhood with unsurprisingly high home values, that average around $1.2 million.

12. Wallingford

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,350
• Average home value: $1.1M
• Good for: Families, safety, proximity to more bustling areas 

Located directly north of Lake Union, Wallingford is a centrally located Seattle neighborhood that still feels suburban. Wallingford is also one of the safest neighborhoods in Seattle, making it a popular place for families. On either side of Wallingford, you’ll find Fremont and the University District, giving you access to more bustling, hip areas. In Wallingford, you’ll find sidewalk cafes, interesting shops, and refurbished buildings. Enjoy access to two different parks and the famous Dick’s Drive-In.

Q: What is the safest part of Seattle to live in? A: Though Seattle overall is only considered safer than 1 percent of other cities, according to NeighborhoodScout, if you’re looking for the safest neighborhoods in Seattle, you’ll find there are many options. Some of the best neighborhoods in Seattle when it comes to safety include: Loyal Heights, Wedgwood, and North Queen Anne. Take a deeper dive into the safest Seattle neighborhoods here.

13. West Seattle

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,125
• Median home sale price: $812,500
• Good for: Laid-back vibe, dining, shopping, beach access 

A bit removed from the noise of downtown, West Seattle is another one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle, and a popular destination for Seattleites looking for a laid-back feel. You’ll also find year-round farmers’ markets, eclectic businesses, and unique shopping experiences. “The Junction” is where you’ll find many of the area’s dining and shopping spots and can be considered the “downtown” of West Seattle. If you’re interested in an affordable neighborhood in Seattle with beach access, West Seattle might be for you.

Some of the best neighborhoods to live in Seattle may actually lie a few miles outside of the city, from the suburb of Sammamish to Mercer Island. 

BONUS: Best Seattle Suburbs

If you’re looking to live outside the city of Seattle in a suburb, we’d recommend starting with one of these great neighboring cities. Start your research here!

1. Sammamish

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,800
• Median home sale price: $1.7M
• Good for: Families, safety, peaceful vibe 

Situated a little over 20 miles east of Seattle on Lake Sammamish, this town isn’t just fun to say — it’s one of the best suburbs to raise a family in Washington, per Niche. That’s thanks in part to its excellent public schools, which earn an A+ rating, but also due to the easy access to family-friendly activities, especially those that take place outdoors. Spend a day swimming and picnicking at Lake Sammamish State Park or biking along East Lake Sammamish Trail. Sammamish boasts high household incomes, with $227,275 being the median household income in comparison to $121,985 in Seattle. It's an incredibly peaceful place to live, has a low crime rate, and the housing stock is made up of a mix of new construction and historic homes. Just 20 miles from Seattle, Sammamish is a great option for those hunting for the best Seattle suburbs.

Q: What is the richest part of Seattle? A: Montlake is another one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle, and one of the city’s wealthiest. Located by the water just four miles north of Downtown Seattle, Montlake claims an average home value of $1.4M (81 percent of residents own their homes, too) and a median household income of $204,500.

2. Mercer Island 

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,700 
• Average home value: $2.4M
• Good for: Proximity to both Seattle and Bellevue, small-town feel 

Mercer Island lies in Lake Washington, between Seattle and Bellevue, giving it stellar access to both metropolises. With just under 25,000 residents, Mercer Island has access to the city, while remaining a great town unto itself. As it is an island, you may have to cross the water for some things, but locals tout how close-knit the community feels and how safe the town is. To top it off, you’re looking at just a 20-minute commute into the city.

3. Redmond

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,625 
• Average home value: $1.4M
• Good for: Families, affordability, schools, nightlife, proximity to Seattle 

Located about 15 miles northeast of Seattle, Redmond boasts a much lower cost of living, making it one of the most affordable suburbs near Seattle. And, per Niche rankings, it’s one of the very best: It tops the list of best suburbs to live in Washington. 

Redmond has something for everyone, with great schools, nightlife, and access to the city. In this suburb, slightly more residents rent their homes than own, but it’s a relatively even split at 55:45. Plus, if you work in tech, you may find yourself drawn to Redmond — it’s home to the Microsoft headquarters, among other tech-forward companies. 

4. Kirkland

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,575
• Average home value: $1.3M
• Good for: Entertainment, nightlife, beach-town feel

Kirkland is a small city located on the east side of Lake Washington, directly east of Seattle. Just 25 minutes or so away from Seattle, Kirkland has plenty to offer on its own, from entertainment to nightlife to a beach town feel. It’s a great spot for families to live, and it boasts A+-rated public schools. Most residents here own their homes, and the average home value hovers around a cool $1.3M. If you’re interested in the arts, Downtown Kirkland is home to several art galleries, as well as a farmers market and boutiques if you’re looking to do some window shopping.

The cherry blossoms on the University of Washington campus are one of this Seattle neighborhood’s highlights.
(Credit: Visit Seattle via Facebook)

Making Your Move to One of the Best Neighborhoods in Seattle

Now that you’ve gotten a better sense of some of the best neighborhoods in Seattle — and the best suburbs — it may be time to start thinking about the logistics of your move to the Emerald City. Whether you’re looking into local moving services from elsewhere in Washington or doing a long-distance move, PODS can help you through the Seattle moving process. Visit PODS online for a free local moving quote or call 877-350-7637 for long-distance moving.

Once you’ve made your move, be sure to take some time away from all the unpacking to enjoy your new surroundings. Use this guide to Seattle’s top outdoor activities to discover all the beauty that surrounds your new home. 

Check out the pros and cons of living in Seattle and get tips on living in Seattle on a budget, right here on the PODS Blog.

Editor’s note: Average rent prices were obtained from RentCafe; average home values were obtained from Zillow; and median home sale prices were obtained from Redfin. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100. Home values in the millions were rounded to the nearest $100,000.