Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Seattle, WA
Considering a move to Seattle, WA? With a vibrant population of 749,256, Seattle combines big-city amenities with access to nature and top-notch education, including the University of Washington. The median home price is $850,000, and average rent runs about $2,200, reflecting a higher cost of living. Commutes average 28 minutes, with strong public transit options. Seattle boasts a high rate of bachelor's degree holders (63.7%) and a mild climate, though it’s known for rainy weather and lower rates of sunny days. While property crime rates are higher than national averages, the city offers excellent healthcare, diverse neighborhoods, and a dynamic tech-driven economy.
Demographics - Seattle, WA
Demographics - Seattle, WA
Seattle is home to about 749,000 residents, with a relatively young median age of 35 and a diverse community where 22.5% speak a language other than English at home. The city’s population density offers an urban feel, and its ethnic makeup includes significant White, Asian, and Black communities, contributing to a vibrant cultural scene.
Population:
749,256
Density:
9,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.2
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
22.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
62.5%
Black:
7.1%
Asian:
16.8%
Others:
13.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Seattle, WA?
Living in Seattle comes with a higher price tag, as the median home value is around $850,000 and the cost of living index is significantly above the national average. Renters can expect to pay roughly $2,200 per month, and while there is no state income tax, sales tax reaches up to 9%.
Median House Value:
$850,000
Gross Rent:
$2,200
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$95
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$950
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
9.0% (sales tax)
Cost Of Living Index:
172.3
Grocery:
116.5
Housing:
243.0
Utilities:
87.1
Transportation:
137.2
Health Care:
120.4
Miscellaneous:
111.8
Crime
Is Seattle, WA a safe place to live?
Seattle experiences higher crime rates than many U.S. cities, with a property crime rate of 5,421 per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 18 chance of being affected annually. Violent crime is less common but still present, making it important for newcomers to research neighborhoods carefully.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
673
Property Crimes Per 100k:
5,421
Crime Index:
6,094
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 149
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 18
Weather
What is the weather like in Seattle, WA year-round?
Seattle’s climate is mild year-round, with summer highs averaging 76°F and winter lows rarely dipping below 37°F. The city is famous for its rain, receiving about 38 inches annually, and only enjoys sunny skies around 43% of the year.
Winter
Min:
37°F
Max:
48°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
76°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
43%
Neighbors
Seattle neighborhoods are characterized by a strong sense of community and high educational attainment, with nearly 64% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median household income is $110,800, and public transportation is widely used, helping keep the average commute under 28 minutes.
Median Income:
$61,000
Household Income:
$110,800
Family Income:
$141,200
Per Capita Income:
$67,700
Income Male:
$75,300
Income Female:
$62,900
Poverty Rate:
10.0%
Non English Speakers:
22.5%
Rent:
$2,200
Unemployment Rate:
3.3%
Public Transport Usage:
20.2%
Commute Time:
27.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.7%
Bachelors or More:
63.7%
Education
How are the schools in Seattle, WA?
Education in Seattle is a strong suit, with public schools like Garfield High and acclaimed universities such as the University of Washington offering excellent opportunities. The city’s residents are highly educated, and families can choose from a variety of public and private school options.
Public Schools
Name:
Garfield High School
Street:
400 23rd Ave
Phone:
206-252-2270
Students:
1,900
Student Teacher Ratio:
21.5
Name:
Hamilton International Middle School
Street:
1610 N 41st St
Phone:
206-252-5810
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Private Schools
Name:
Seattle Preparatory School
Street:
2400 11th Ave E
Phone:
206-324-0400
Students:
750
Colleges
Name:
University of Washington
City:
Seattle
State:
WA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
48,000
Name:
Seattle University
City:
Seattle
State:
WA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
7,200
Healthcare
Seattle residents have access to top-tier medical care, including renowned facilities like UW Medical Center and Harborview Medical Center. With a high rate of insured residents (95.8%) and about 3.7 physicians per 1,000 people, healthcare services are both comprehensive and accessible.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UW Medical Center
Address:
1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195
Phone:
(206) 598-3300
Type:
Teaching, General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Harborview Medical Center
Address:
325 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
Phone:
(206) 744-3000
Type:
General & Trauma Center
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.8%
Health Care Index:
79.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Seattle, WA?
The Seattle housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $850,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom around $2,200. Homeownership rates are below half, and the market has seen steady appreciation, making it attractive but challenging for buyers.
Median Home Price:
$850,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
45.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
The Washington State Department of Licensing manages vehicle registration and driver services, with the main office located in Olympia. Residents can access most services online or visit one of several local branches for in-person assistance.
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.