Thinking about living in Seattle? Emerald City is one of the best places to live on the West Coast thanks to its eco-friendly culture, outdoor recreation, and strong job market. With all this and more to offer, it’s no wonder Washington’s largest city is popular among everyone, from singles and young professionals to families and retired military. Here are 15 things to know about living in Seattle!
Seattle at a Glance
- Seattle’s population is 780,995, making it the 18th most-populated U.S. city!
- Seattle is known for its rich coffee culture and is home to Starbucks’ headquarters and original location.
- Located in the northwest corner of Washington State on the Puget Sound, Seattle is the largest city in the state. It’s about a three-hour drive from Vancouver, BC, and about 45 minutes from Tacoma.
- Seattle boasts multiple iconic landmarks, including the Space Needle and Pike Place Market.
- Seattle is a major tech hub, with Amazon headquartered in the city, and Microsoft and Nintendo of America located just 15 miles away.
Live & Work at Seattle Companies
Emerald City’s diverse employment opportunities are a major draw for many people moving to Seattle. This West Coast city is one of the best in the nation for jobs and is home to several Fortune 500 company headquarters—like Amazon, Starbucks, Nordstrom, Alaska Air Group, and Weyerhaeuser. Meanwhile, Providence, Access to Advanced Health Institute (AAHI), and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center employ thousands of local healthcare workers. Seattle also has the fastest-growing tech industry in the country, so job-seekers in this field will have a wealth of options. As remote work opportunities in Seattle’s expanding job market continue to grow, Jet City becomes a more popular city for telecommuters. Access to big-city opportunities often comes with a price, so though Seattle has a high cost of living, the median household income is 35% higher than the U.S. average. There is also no state income tax in Washington, which further establishes Seattle as a good place to live and work.
Q: What jobs are in demand in Seattle?
A: The most in-demand jobs in Seattle are in the tech sector, influenced by advances in AI, data collection, and cybersecurity—as well as the popularity of online video content. Some of the most in-demand jobs include film and video editors, data scientists, and cybersecurity analysts.
Study at Seattle Colleges & Universities
Many of Washington state’s best colleges are located in the Seattle metro area, so Emerald City is a great place to live for students. Pursue a degree in Business Economics, Nursing, or any of the other 63 undergraduate programs available at Seattle University. Learn about green technology, medical innovations, and other ways to shape the future at the University of Washington. Prepare yourself for a career in the arts, whether in dance, design, or film, at Cornish College of the Arts. Enroll in a two-year program for affordable, hands-on education at Seattle Central College. Get your graduate or undergraduate degree at one of America’s top research universities, Washington State University, which has esteemed programs in everything from Veterinary Medicine to Biotechnology. Or pursue one of the 72 available undergraduate degrees and dozens of graduate programs available at the faith-centered Seattle Pacific University, which has ranked as one of the nation’s top institutions for several years in a row.
Q: What is the best college in Washington?
A: The top-ranked college in Washington is the University of Washington—in fact, it’s considered one of the best universities in the world! UW is a public research university known for its strong computer science and healthcare programs.
Thrive in the Mild Seattle Climate
Though Seattle has a reputation for rainy weather, the reality is that Emerald City only receives an average of 39 inches of rain per year, mostly from October to March. This is barely above the national average and is significantly less than many other major U.S. cities like Miami, New York, and Houston. Instead of heavy downpours, Seattle usually sees a light drizzle or mist. Then, during the summer months, this West Coast city remains mostly warm and dry, with an average daily temperature of 72 degrees. So if you prefer living somewhere with mild summers and winters, the Seattle climate may be perfect for you!
Q: Why does it rain in Seattle so much?
A: Seattle’s reputation for rain comes from its coastal location and jet stream patterns over the Pacific Northwest, which bring frequent moisture to the region. However, the city’s annual rainfall is only slightly above the national average and is comparable to—or even less than—that of many other U.S. cities. This is largely due to Seattle’s position between the Olympic Mountains and the Cascade Mountains, which creates a rain shadow effect.
Enjoy Emerald City’s Green Space
Living in Seattle means having easy access to all of its natural amenities and outdoor recreation. There are over 489 public parks in Emerald City, where Seattleites can ride their bikes, enjoy a picnic, or take in Pacific Northwest views. Go kite-flying on the hill, jog along the Burke-Gilman trail, or let your kids explore the play barn at Gas Works Park, one of the filming locations for 10 Things I Hate About You. Spend a day walking the sea cliffs, kayaking, or lounging on the beach at the 534-acre Discovery Park. Roast s’mores over a beach bonfire, go fishing off the pier, or boat along the coastline at Golden Gardens. And don’t forget to visit Mount Rainier National Park, a major Seattle attraction, for breathtaking views and amazing hiking opportunities.
Q: Which national park is in Seattle?
A: There aren’t any national parks in Seattle, but Mount Rainier National Park is visible from within the city limits. Additionally, Olympic National Park and North Cascades National Park are accessible within a few hours’ drive of Seattle.
Contribute to Seattle Sustainability
Sustainability is woven into Seattle culture. Seattle City Light, a major local energy provider, receives 86% of its power from hydroelectric energy. Another way Seattle promotes green living is by mandating homes within city limits recycle and compost. The state of Washington has also banned single-use plastic bags to encourage retailers and shoppers to adopt more sustainable practices. In 2018, Emerald City became the first in the nation to ban plastic utensils and straws in an effort to protect marine wildlife. In addition to these measures, eco-conscious Seattleites can join local groups like Sustainable Seattle or Got Green to help save the planet.
Q: What plastics are recyclable in Seattle?
A: Most plastics are recyclable in Seattle, including bottles, jugs, tubs, lids, and cups. However, plastic bags, film wrap, and styrofoam are not accepted. Other materials that can be recycled in Seattle include paper, cardboard, glass, and metal.
Get Around Easily as a Seattle Cyclist or Pedestrian
Like most large metros, Seattle traffic is denser than what you’d experience in a smaller city. Thankfully, this doesn’t mean getting around Emerald City is difficult—Seattle is highly walkable, and with so many bike paths throughout the city, Seattle’s bike culture continues to thrive. For longer commutes in the Seattle metro, public transportation is also available! The Sound Transit Link Light Rail or the Seattle Center Monorail can get you around Seattle and beyond, as can the city’s bus system. Or for a more sustainable public transportation option, try the Water Taxi, a unique twist to your typical commute.
Q: Is Seattle bike-friendly?
A: Seattle is a very bike-friendly city, with plenty of convenient bike paths and bike rentals through companies like Cascade Bicycle Club and Wheel Fun Rentals, as well as scooter and bike share programs throughout the city.
Shop at Local Seattle Boutiques
Seattle is full of unique retailers and boutiques for clothes, home goods, beauty products, and more. Grab your reusable shopping bags and browse sustainable clothing, featuring comfortable, eco-friendly basics and trendy accessories from Pipe and Row. Get into the Mod aesthetic and find everything from outerwear to kitchen utensils at Prism. Shop fun and fresh Emerald City styles, including whimsical jewelry pieces and bold house-label clothing, at Sway and Cake. Find the perfect gift, locally-made art, or artisanal home goods at The Handmade Showroom. Or invest in one-of-a-kind furniture pieces from the curated, vintage collection at Space Oddity Vintage Furniture.
Q: Where is the best shopping in Seattle?
A: Some of the best shopping in Seattle is found in the famous Pike Place Market, Seattle shopping centers like Pacific Place and University Village, or at neighborhood boutiques in Ballard and Capitol Hill.
Rock Out to Live Music in Seattle
From jazz to punk rock and everything in between, Seattle has a thriving music scene. Grunge rock, in particular, is known as the “Seattle Sound.” This genre was popularized by acts like Nirvana, Alice in Chains, and Pearl Jam in the ’80s and ’90s and can still be heard today at Central Saloon, the so-called “birthplace of grunge.” Hip-hop is another major genre that shaped Seattle’s music culture. Sir Mix-a-Lot’s hit song “Baby Got Back” was produced in the city and helped pave the way for other Emerald City hip-hop musicians like Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. Head to The Showbox to see other on-the-rise musicians, as well as major acts like Wallows and Tyler, the Creator. Experience local Seattle punk bands and big-name alternative acts like Carnifex at El Corazon. Watch jazz musicians take the main stage at The Triple Door. Or jam out to indie rock and rap at Neumos.
Q: What music is Seattle known for?
A: Seattle is known as the birthplace of grunge music—which was originally called the “Seattle Sound.” Artists like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Alice in Chains popularized grunge music in Seattle in the late ’80s and early ’90s.
Marvel at the Amazing Seattle Art Scene
Seattle has a ton of things to do for art lovers. Attend the Seattle International Film Festival for genres ranging from horror and Western to animation and buddy films. See blooming flower displays and colorful blown glass sculptures at Chihuly Garden and Glass. Explore traveling exhibits like “Our Blue Planet” or browse permanent collections of international art at the Seattle Art Museum. Check out exhibits featuring movie props, costumes, and other pieces of pop culture history at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP). Experience classical music and moving theatrical scores from the incredible Seattle Symphony at Benaroya Hall. Or watch the Pacific Northwest Ballet company perform at McCaw Hall.
Q: When are museums free in Seattle?
A: Seattle museums offer a couple options for free admission. Many participating museums, including the Seattle Art Museum, provide free entry on the first Thursday of each month through the Museum Free First Thursday program. Additionally, The Seattle Public Library offers a Museum Pass that grants free access to select museums on designated days.
Get Tickets to Emerald City Comic-Con
Celebrate your favorite franchises, meet up with fellow fans, cosplay, attend panels or events, and so much more at Emerald City Comic-Con. Inspired by the original San Diego Comic-Con, this annual Seattle event brings all the same fun to the heart of Emerald City. Pop culture lovers flock to this event each summer dressed as superheroes, video game or anime characters, and stars of all fandoms. Join in on tabletop gaming tournaments or buy original fanart from a vendor in the Artist Alley. Whether you’re a regular convention-goer or a first-time attendee, this all-ages event is a must-do while living in Seattle!
Q: Where is Comic-Con in Seattle?
A: The annual Emerald City Comic-Con event takes place in the Seattle Convention Center, in the Arch Building and the Summit Building. The four-day event has a variety of attractions and vendors split between both buildings.
Cheer On Seattle Sports Teams
Love sports? Emerald City has multiple professional sports teams! Cheer on the Sounders FC (MLS) and OL Reign FC (NWSL) as they score goals at Lumen Field. Or attend a Seattle Seahawks (NFL) game instead and see where fans once set a Guinness World Record for the loudest crowd at a sporting event! Fill up on ballpark franks and ice-cold beer while watching the Seattle Mariners (MLB) hit home runs at T-Mobile Park. Watch the Seattle Storm (WNBA) dribble their way to victory at the sustainable Climate Pledge Arena. Wear your proudest white-and-blue fan merch and head to Kraken Community Ice Plex to see one of Seattle’s newest sports teams, the Seattle Kraken (NHL). To further boost Seattle’s sports scene, Mayor Harrell has shown interest in continuing the city’s years-long efforts to bring the Sonics back home.
Q: What are the best places to watch sports in Seattle?
A: The best places to watch sports in Seattle include Lumen Field and T-Mobile Park for live soccer and baseball games, or in some of the best sports bars in Seattle—like Buckley’s Pubs, Hatback Bar & Grille, The Dock Sport Bar & Grill, and more!
Immerse Yourself in Seattle’s Coffee Culture
The Coffee Capital of the World is the home base for major companies like Starbucks, Seattle’s Best Coffee, and Tully’s, so it’s safe to say coffee culture is a big deal in Seattle. Along with nationwide companies, Seattle also has countless small and independently-owned coffee houses where you can get your caffeine fix. Wake up with a drink from Fulcrum Coffee Roasters at Preserve and Gather. Try the Deconstructed Espresso and Milk, served in three flight glasses, or warm up with a flavorful cup of house-roasted coffee from Slate Coffee. Cozy up next to the fireplace on a rainy day with a hot Mocha in hand at Storyville Coffee. Go to Pioneer Square for unique roasts, private cupping taste tests, or brewing classes from Elm Coffee Roasters. Or sip house blends like the Streamline Espresso Blend or Empire Blend from Victrola Coffee Roasters, one of the best coffee shops in Seattle.
Q: What coffee is Seattle known for?
A: Seattle puts a strong emphasis on high-quality, artisanal coffee with unique roasts and expert baristas. The city is also well-known as the origin of Starbucks, as well as many renowned local roasters like Caffè Vita, Anchorhead Coffee, and Espresso Vivace.
Explore Pike Place Market
Considered the heart and soul of the city, Pike Place Market is one of the top things to do in Seattle. As Seattle’s original farmers market and the oldest operating public market in the country, Pike Place brings in millions of people every year. There are more than 450 shops, produce stands, restaurants, bars, and pop-up vendors for visitors to stop at and peruse 363 days a year. Though the market’s main hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m, some places are open past midnight. Visit the famous Pike Place Fish Market and try to “catch” fresh fish that vendors toss to you. Pick up the latest edition of your favorite comic book or buy a figurine from Golden Age Collectibles. Purchase a beautiful bouquet of wildflowers from Pike Place Flowers. Peer into the Giant Shoe Museum, a literal hole-in-the-wall display featuring a whimsical collection of oversized shoes. Or take a photo in front of the famous Seattle Gum Wall.
Q: How big is Pike Place Market?
A: Pike Place Market covers nine acres and multiple levels in Downtown Seattle, with more than 450 stalls and shops where you can explore, shop, sample, and dine. Thanks to its variety of vendors and food options, the market attracts around 10 million visitors each year.
Experience Unique Seattle Restaurants
Seattle is full of great places to eat, including beautiful waterfront restaurants, intimate cafes, and hidden dives. Enjoy dinner and a show at The Pink Door, a Pike Place Market restaurant known for burlesque performances and Italian-American dishes like Linguine Alle Vongole and Penne al Fumo. Fill up on fresh Salmon Roe, Yellowtail Sashimi, or a Rainbow Roll from Shiro’s Sushi Restaurant. Visit one of the best places to eat in Seattle for Mediterranean food and order Haloumi Cheese-Fig Kebabs, Anderson Valley Lamb Burger, or Greek Spaghetti at Lola. Indulge in delicious Caribbean plates like a Palomilla Steak sandwich, Sauteed Prawns, Seared Scallops, or Smokin’ Thighs at Un Bien. Or get authentic Seattle seafood like the Crabhouse Sampler and drink a Blood, Sweat & Tears cocktail while enjoying waterfront views of Elliot Bay at Cutters Crabhouse.
Q: What food is Seattle known for?
A: Seattle is known for its fresh seafood, Asian-influenced dishes like pho and teriyaki, and iconic treats like Dutch babies and the Seattle dog, which is a hot dog with cream cheese.
Socialize in the Thriving Seattle Bar Scene
Day or night, the bars in Seattle are diverse, vibrant, and offer plenty of things to do for any mood. Have cocktails like Absinthe Fairy or Big Richard Energy during a brunch cabaret show at Can Can. Enjoy a beer, wine, or cider on the patio with your pup at Dogwood Play Park. Sample a variety of rotating whiskeys on tap or signature cocktails like the Market Mule and Diablo’s Flamenco at Radiator Whiskey. Or play pinball, snatch a prize from the claw machine, attend events like Gayme Night, and enjoy whimsical cocktails like The Mystical Mermaid or Sassy Belladonna at carnival-themed, LGBTQ-friendly Unicorn & Narwhal.
Q: What drink is Seattle known for?
A: Seattle is known for a wide range of iconic drinks, from craft beer to inventive cocktails like the “Khoa Was Here” pho-infused cocktail served at Phocific Standard Time. Coffee also plays a central role in the city’s culture, making it one of Seattle’s most recognizable beverages.
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