Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Poineer Square, WA
Considering Pioneer Square, WA for your next move? This historic, urban neighborhood of 3,900 residents offers lively culture, excellent transit access, and proximity to downtown Seattle. Expect median home values around $590,000 and rents averaging $2,050, with a higher cost of living but access to top-tier healthcare and major employers. Commute times average 27 minutes, and public transit is widely used. Crime rates are above the city average, but you'll find an energetic atmosphere, diverse dining, and nearby schools and universities. Mild, rainy winters and cool summers round out the neighborhood’s unique Seattle experience.
Demographics - Pioneer Square, WA
Demographics - Pioneer Square, WA
Pioneer Square is a vibrant urban neighborhood with a population of about 3,900, characterized by high density and a median age of 39.2. The area is diverse, with significant White, Asian, and Black communities, and nearly one in five residents speak a language other than English at home. The gender ratio slightly favors males, adding to its dynamic city feel.
Population:
3,900
Density:
6,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.2
Gender Ratio:
112 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
65.0%
Black:
10.5%
Asian:
13.0%
Others:
11.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Poineer Square, WA?
Living in Pioneer Square comes with a higher cost of living index at 153.2, with median home values around $590,000 and average rents of $2,050 per month. Utilities and groceries are moderately priced, but housing costs are notably above the national average. State income tax rates range from 0% to 9.9%, reflecting Washington's tax structure.
Median House Value:
$590,000
Gross Rent:
$2,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,380
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$820
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
153.2
Grocery:
128.5
Housing:
205.6
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
120.0
Health Care:
113.3
Miscellaneous:
109.8
Crime
Is Poineer Square, WA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Pioneer Square are higher than average, with a violent crime rate of 705 incidents per 100,000 residents and property crime being more common. The chance of experiencing property crime is about 1 in 13, making awareness and local safety resources important for new residents. Despite this, the neighborhood remains popular for its lively atmosphere and urban amenities.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
705
Property Crimes Per 100k:
7,500
Crime Index:
8,205
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 142
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 13
Weather
What is the weather like in Poineer Square, WA year-round?
Pioneer Square enjoys a temperate climate with mild, rainy winters averaging lows of 37°F and cool summers with highs reaching 77°F. The area receives about 38 inches of rainfall annually, and sunny days make up roughly 47% of the year. Residents can expect comfortable outdoor conditions most months, ideal for urban living.
Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
47°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
77°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
47%
Neighbors
The neighborhood's median household income is $58,000, with a notable poverty rate of 21%, reflecting a mix of economic backgrounds. Public transportation is heavily used, with over 31% of residents relying on it for their average 27-minute commute. Education levels are high, as nearly 43% hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
Median Income:
$40,000
Household Income:
$58,000
Family Income:
$71,000
Per Capita Income:
$38,000
Income Male:
$44,000
Income Female:
$40,000
Poverty Rate:
21.0%
Non English Speakers:
18.0%
Rent:
$2,050
Unemployment Rate:
6.7%
Public Transport Usage:
31.2%
Commute Time:
26.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.1%
Bachelors or More:
42.8%
Education
How are the schools in Poineer Square, WA?
Pioneer Square is close to both public and private schools, including Beacon Hill International School and Garfield High School, offering diverse educational opportunities. The neighborhood is also near higher education institutions like Seattle Central College and the University of Washington, making it convenient for families and students. Local schools are known for their accessibility and urban connections.
Public Schools
Name:
Beacon Hill International School
Street:
2025 14th Ave S
Phone:
206-252-2700
Students:
510
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Garfield High School
Street:
400 23rd Ave
Phone:
206-252-2270
Students:
1,700
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.0
Private Schools
Name:
O'Dea High School
Street:
802 Terry Ave
Phone:
206-622-6596
Students:
480
Colleges
Name:
Seattle Central College
City:
Seattle
State:
WA
Distance:
1 mile
Students:
6,500
Name:
University of Washington
City:
Seattle
State:
WA
Distance:
3 miles
Students:
48,000
Healthcare
Pioneer Square offers access to top-rated healthcare, including major hospitals like Swedish First Hill Campus and Harborview Medical Center, both providing emergency services. The area has an above-average rate of physicians at 2.4 per 1,000 residents, and over 91% of the population has health insurance. Healthcare quality and availability are strong advantages for those living in the neighborhood.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Swedish First Hill Campus
Address:
747 Broadway, Seattle, WA 98122
Phone:
(206) 386-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Harborview Medical Center
Address:
325 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
Phone:
(206) 744-3000
Type:
Level I Trauma Center
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Poineer Square, WA?
The housing market in Pioneer Square is primarily rental-focused, with only 18.5% of homes owner-occupied and a median home price of $590,000. Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $2,050, and the area experiences steady home appreciation and a relatively low foreclosure rate. New construction remains limited, contributing to competitive housing demand.
Median Home Price:
$590,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
18.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver and vehicle services through the Washington State Department of Licensing, headquartered in Olympia. For information, licensing, and renewals, visit their official website or contact their main office. The DMV provides resources and support for all state vehicle and identification needs.
State:
Washington
Department:
Washington State Department of Licensing
Address:
1125 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA 98501
Phone:
360-902-3900
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.