Washington Seattle
Moving to Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington offers young professionals an energetic urban lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. As a thriving tech and innovation hub nestled between Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, Seattle blends career opportunity with a deep appreciation for the outdoors, sustainability, and diversity.
Housing options in Seattle are as varied as its neighborhoods—ranging from sleek downtown apartments and high-rise condos in Belltown or South Lake Union to charming craftsman homes in Ballard, Capitol Hill, or West Seattle. Many communities offer walkable access to coffee shops, parks, and public transit.
For those who love the outdoors, Seattle is a paradise. Residents hike Discovery Park’s coastal trails, paddleboard on Lake Union, or take weekend trips to Mount Rainier or Olympic National Park. Green spaces like Gas Works Park, Kerry Park, and Green Lake offer everyday escapes with iconic views and space to relax or exercise.
Seattle’s cultural scene is equally vibrant. From its legendary music roots to the art galleries of Pioneer Square, and from the Pike Place Market to the Museum of Pop Culture, the city offers something for every taste. The food scene is renowned—whether you're into locally sourced seafood, global fusion, or a perfect espresso from a neighborhood café.
With a booming economy driven by companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and numerous startups, Seattle draws ambitious professionals looking to grow their careers. Add in a strong public transit system, eco-conscious living, and a progressive community mindset, and it’s easy to see why so many young professionals are proud to call Seattle home.
Seattle by the numbers
City population
City rank of cost of living
Median home price
Planning a Long-Distance Move?
Discover Seattle: Top Attractions and Things to Do
Local Experiences
Local Experiences
Seattle is a vibrant city where urban innovation meets breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and thriving arts scene, Seattle offers locals and visitors an exciting mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and community spirit. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at a neighborhood café, exploring waterfront parks, or enjoying live music at a local venue, Seattle’s dynamic energy invites you to dive in and connect with its unique Pacific Northwest vibe.
Creative Culture & Local Flavor
Seattle’s culture is shaped by its waterfront location, rich history, and tech-driven growth. The city is renowned for its vibrant food scene, ranging from fresh seafood at Pike Place Market to innovative farm-to-table dining in neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard. Independent coffee shops, craft breweries, and artisanal markets contribute to the city’s local flavor.
Artisans and creatives thrive in Seattle, with galleries, studios, and public art installations throughout neighborhoods such as Pioneer Square and Fremont. Community spaces and libraries offer workshops, readings, and events that foster creative engagement and celebrate Seattle’s diverse population.
Arts & Entertainment
Seattle’s arts scene is eclectic and thriving. The city boasts world-class institutions like the Seattle Art Museum and the Museum of Pop Culture, alongside a lively independent theater and music scene. Outdoor concerts, film festivals, and street fairs happen year-round, reflecting the city’s love of arts and entertainment.
Live music is central to Seattle’s identity, with historic venues such as The Crocodile and Neumos regularly hosting both emerging artists and established acts. Seasonal festivals like Bumbershoot and the Seattle International Film Festival bring together locals and visitors for unforgettable cultural experiences.
Community Events & Festivals
Seattle’s community calendar is packed with events that celebrate its diversity and natural surroundings. Seasonal farmers markets, neighborhood street fairs, and outdoor yoga sessions encourage locals to gather and enjoy the city’s green spaces.
Annual events such as the Seafair Weekend Festival offer boat parades, air shows, and cultural celebrations that highlight Seattle’s maritime heritage. The Fremont Solstice Parade and the Cherry Blossom Festival showcase the city’s playful spirit and cultural roots.
Whether you’re new to the city or a longtime resident, Seattle offers endless opportunities to engage, explore, and feel connected to its rich, evolving community.
Sports and Recreation
Sports and Recreation
Seattle is a city where an active lifestyle and outdoor adventure are deeply woven into everyday life. From passionate sports fans cheering for professional teams to nature lovers exploring miles of trails, Seattle offers an abundance of recreational opportunities for all ages and interests.
Sports & Community
Seattle is home to major league sports teams that energize the city year-round: the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks, MLB’s Seattle Mariners, the NBA’s Seattle Storm (WNBA), and MLS’s Seattle Sounders FC all boast passionate fan bases and iconic home venues. Beyond professional sports, Seattle’s public and private schools support competitive athletics, with strong programs in soccer, basketball, track, and more.
Community leagues and organizations offer youth and adult sports opportunities including soccer, softball, basketball, volleyball, and emerging favorites like pickleball. Programs run by Seattle Parks and Recreation foster inclusive, affordable options for fitness and friendly competition.
Parks, Trails & Outdoor Activities
Seattle’s natural beauty makes outdoor recreation accessible and varied:
-
Discovery Park: The city’s largest green space features scenic walking trails, beach access, and stunning views of Puget Sound — ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and family outings.
-
Green Lake Park: Popular for jogging, biking, paddleboarding, and picnics, Green Lake is a hub for locals seeking year-round outdoor activity.
-
Mount Baker Park and Gas Works Park offer unique urban escapes with walking paths, sports fields, and waterfront scenery.
Beyond city limits, the nearby North Cascades and Olympic Mountains provide endless options for hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and climbing. Outdoor enthusiasts can easily access kayaking and boating on Lake Washington and Puget Sound, while golf courses and tennis centers serve those looking for leisurely sports.
Whether you’re catching a game, joining a community league, or exploring the great outdoors, Seattle makes staying active and engaged a central part of life.
Adventures
Adventures
Seattle offers an exciting blend of urban energy, breathtaking natural beauty, and rich cultural history—making it a top destination for everyday adventures and weekend explorations. Whether you’re hiking through lush forests, paddling Puget Sound’s waters, or discovering the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, Seattle invites you to explore and experience something new.
Nature & Outdoor Exploration
Outdoor enthusiasts thrive in Seattle’s diverse natural settings. Discovery Park, the city’s largest green space, features miles of forest trails, rugged coastline, and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound—perfect for hiking, birdwatching, or peaceful walks.
For water adventures, kayak or paddleboard on Lake Union or Lake Washington to soak in the skyline from the water. Guided eco-tours offer a closer look at Seattle’s waterfront ecology and wildlife. Green Lake Park is another popular spot for jogging, biking, and non-motorized boating.
Beyond the city, the nearby Cascade and Olympic Mountains provide countless options for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and winter sports. Whether it’s a day trip to Mount Rainier National Park or exploring the beaches and forests of Olympic National Park, Seattle’s outdoor playground is vast and varied.
History, Culture & Day Trips
Seattle’s rich maritime history and thriving arts scene add layers to your adventures. Explore historic neighborhoods like Pioneer Square, with its preserved architecture, art galleries, and underground tours. The waterfront offers attractions like the Seattle Aquarium and ferry rides to Bainbridge Island, where you can enjoy quaint shops, hiking, and waterfront dining.
Cultural festivals, farmers markets, and neighborhood street fairs bring the city’s diverse communities together year-round. The nearby town of Edmonds offers charming shops and beaches, while Tacoma, just a short drive south, boasts world-class museums and parks.
For a longer day trip, venture to Snoqualmie Falls to witness the stunning waterfall or explore the wine regions of Woodinville for tastings and vineyard tours.
Whether you seek urban excitement or outdoor tranquility, Seattle’s adventures are close at hand.
Seasonal Events
Seasonal Events
Seattle embraces the changing seasons with a vibrant mix of community events that showcase its unique culture, natural beauty, and Pacific Northwest spirit. From cozy winter festivities to lively summer gatherings and colorful fall traditions, Seattle offers something exciting year-round.
Winter to Spring
The winter season sparkles with holiday lights and festive markets. The famous Seattle Winterfest downtown features ice skating, art exhibits, and performances, while the Holiday Carousel at Westlake Park delights families. Neighborhoods come alive with tree lighting ceremonies, including the iconic Gingerbread Village at Seattle Center, and numerous craft fairs showcase local artisans.
As spring arrives, Seattleites celebrate the return of warmer weather with events like the Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival in the University District, and the Tulip Festival just a short drive north in nearby Skagit Valley, showcasing vibrant fields of blooms. Local parks host Earth Day cleanups, outdoor yoga sessions, and farmers markets resume bustling with fresh seasonal produce.
Summer to Fall
Summer is festival season in Seattle, with outdoor concerts at Seattle Center and Gas Works Park attracting music lovers. The Seattle Seafair is a citywide celebration featuring hydroplane races, air shows with the Blue Angels, parades, and neighborhood block parties. Waterfront festivals, food truck gatherings, and movie nights under the stars fill the long evenings.
As fall approaches, Seattle celebrates its harvest with events like the Fremont Oktoberfest and Ballard SeafoodFest, where local food, craft brews, and live music come together. Pumpkin patches, haunted houses, and fall foliage hikes in nearby parks offer seasonal fun for families. Halloween events abound, from neighborhood trick-or-treat strolls to spooky tours in historic Pioneer Square.
Seattle’s seasonal calendar brings people together to enjoy the best of the city’s culture, community, and natural surroundings—no matter the time of year.
Community Resources
Seattle provides residents with access to a robust healthcare system featuring top-tier hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and wellness resources. Whether you need routine care or specialized treatment, the city’s healthcare network supports the health and well-being of its diverse population.
Major Hospitals
University of Washington Medical Center
Located in the University District, UW Medical Center is one of the region’s leading hospitals, renowned for its advanced care in specialties such as oncology, cardiology, neurology, and transplant services. It offers 24/7 emergency care, surgery, maternity services, and a comprehensive array of outpatient clinics. UW Medicine’s academic affiliation ensures cutting-edge treatments and research-driven care.
Swedish Medical Center
With multiple campuses throughout Seattle, Swedish is a major healthcare provider offering emergency services, cancer care, orthopedic surgery, rehabilitation, and primary care. Its Cherry Hill and First Hill campuses are especially well-known for specialized programs and patient-centered care.
Mental Health & Community Wellness
Seattle supports mental health with a wide range of public and private resources. Organizations like Crisis Connections and Harborview Behavioral Health Institute provide urgent mental health care, outpatient therapy, substance use treatment, and crisis intervention. Community wellness is further promoted through support groups, workshops, and outreach programs focusing on emotional and behavioral health.
Urgent Care & Preventive Services
Seattle residents can access numerous urgent care centers such as ZoomCare, Virginia Mason Urgent Care, and Concentra Urgent Care, offering walk-in treatment for minor injuries, illnesses, vaccinations, and telehealth options. These centers provide convenient care outside of regular office hours.
Preventive health is emphasized through city-wide initiatives and programs offered by Public Health – Seattle & King County, including vaccination clinics, chronic disease prevention, smoking cessation, nutrition education, and fitness activities. Local gyms, parks, and recreational centers contribute to active, healthy lifestyles.
Seattle is a vibrant city that values education and lifelong learning, with an extensive public school system, world-class higher education institutions, and a wealth of enrichment programs for learners of all ages. The city provides families and individuals with excellent academic resources and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Public Schools
Seattle Public Schools (SPS) serves the city with a strong focus on academic excellence, equity, and preparing students for college and careers. Notable local schools include:
-
Seattle World School (serving diverse learners and newcomers)
-
Garfield High School – Known for its rigorous academics, arts programs, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
-
Ballard High School – Offers STEM-focused curriculum, athletics, and leadership programs.
The district offers specialized programs such as International Baccalaureate (IB), STEM academies, and Career and Technical Education (CTE), which help students explore fields like technology, health sciences, and the arts.
Higher Education & Lifelong Learning
Seattle is home to several prestigious institutions that serve the local community and beyond:
-
University of Washington (UW) – A top-ranked research university located in the University District, UW offers a full range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across diverse fields including engineering, medicine, business, and the arts.
-
Seattle Central College – Situated in the heart of downtown, this community college provides associate degrees, workforce training, continuing education, and adult learning programs.
-
North Seattle College and South Seattle College – These institutions offer a wide variety of academic and technical programs, including transfer pathways to four-year universities.
The Seattle Public Library system enriches lifelong learning with branches across the city offering workshops, literacy programs, tech classes, and cultural events for all ages.
Seattle provides residents with reliable public services and infrastructure designed to support safety, convenience, and a high quality of life. Whether you’re new to the city or a longtime local, Seattle’s strong municipal resources ensure access to essential services and well-managed community programs.
Government & Safety
Seattle is governed by the City of Seattle, which oversees public safety, community development, and city services with a focus on sustainability and equity.
-
The Seattle Police Department (SPD) provides law enforcement, crime prevention, and emergency response services throughout the city, emphasizing community engagement and public trust.
-
Fire protection and emergency medical services are delivered by the Seattle Fire Department (SFD), known for its rapid response capabilities, fire prevention programs, and disaster preparedness initiatives.
-
City departments manage services including waste collection and recycling, public works, parks and recreation, and emergency management to promote a safe and resilient community.
Transportation
Seattle offers excellent connectivity for commuters and travelers:
-
The city is served by several major highways, including Interstate 5 (I-5) running north-south through Seattle, and Interstate 90 (I-90) connecting to the eastside suburbs and beyond.
-
King County Metro Transit operates an extensive network of bus routes throughout Seattle and the greater metropolitan area, providing convenient public transit options.
-
The Link Light Rail system connects downtown Seattle with neighborhoods to the north and south, including the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
-
For regional rail, the Sounder commuter train offers service to outlying suburbs and neighboring cities.
-
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), located just south of the city, provides domestic and international flights, making travel accessible for residents.
Vehicle Registration and Licensing
Seattle residents manage vehicle and driver services through the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL), with local offices throughout King County. Services include:
-
Driver’s license and REAL ID issuance
-
Vehicle registration and renewals
-
Title transfers and emissions testing (in designated areas)
-
Disability parking permits and learner’s permits
Washington also offers robust online services for scheduling appointments, paying fees, and managing vehicle-related documents conveniently from home.
Your Expert in Long Distance Moves to Seattle, Washington
Contact us or get in touch with a local agent
Request a Quote & Get a Free Moving Checklist!
This city guide is provided as a service by Atlas Van Lines.