I'm Sharon, your ApartmentHomeLiving.com Local Expert for Seattle, Washington. My husband, two children, and I moved to West Seattle in 1995. The area has grown so much since the kids were little, but it still has its creative flair, liberal attitude, and lots of green spaces. Seattle has always been and still is a creative hub for technology and entertainment. Technology companies like Google, Adobe, and Dropbox have headquarters in Fremont and Pioneer Square.
Jobs are plentiful, but the city can be expensive by some standards because of all it offers. If you're like me, deciding where to live depends on a balance of neighborhood amenities and the cost of living—especially if you rent your home. Moving to Seattle is exciting because you have many fine options. I've lived and worked in different parts of Seattle for many years and know our neighborhoods well.
In this guide, I share my top 10 neighborhoods where the best value for your dollar and quality of life go hand-in-hand.
1. West Seattle
I raised my family in West Seattle, so it holds a special place in my heart. This neighborhood has a strong community vibe and a laid-back atmosphere. We love our coffee here, so you'll easily find your favorite coffee shop. One of my favorite spots is Easy Street Records, a retro music store/restaurant. Another favorite place is the West Seattle Farmers Market. It runs year-round every Sunday. Lincoln Park is an old-growth forest with miles of walking trails that lead down to the waterfront, where you'll find a salt-water swimming pool. Alki Beach is yet another highlight, and a walk-on water taxi takes you across Elliot Bay to downtown Seattle. Additionally, depending on traffic, you can get downtown in about half an hour via the West Seattle Bridge.
2. Auburn
Auburn is only 20 miles from downtown Seattle. I recently learned that it's one of Washington's first cities. It's known locally as the gateway to Mt. Rainier. There are bike trails galore, golf courses, and even places to go fishing. The neighborhood has grown a lot since I moved here. Even though it continues to grow, it still has a hometown feel. Most of the people I know who live in Auburn have families. Still, this neighborhood has something for everyone, including singles. It's always buzzing with life. The Emerald Downs racetrack and Muckleshoot casino are in Auburn, not to mention that it's where you'll find some of the biggest and best shopping centers, like the Outlet Collection. There's also the Soos Creek Botanical Gardens, Mary Olson Farm, Neely Mansion, the White River Valley Museum, and plenty of parks and playgrounds. Plus, you can use Metro Transit, Pierce Transit, and Sound Transit if you'd rather not deal with the traffic
3. Bitter Lake
Image: Maple Leaf Apartments
Bitter Lake is a beautiful area. This neighborhood is one of my favorites, mostly because of the scenery. I love Carkeek Park and Bitter Lake Playground. There's also a community P-Patch, providing plenty of opportunities to use your green thumb and participate in your community. Bitter Lake feels like home. You'll find many stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and schools within walking distance. Not only that, but Bitter Lake is a lovely place to ride your bike. Finding a Metro bus stop is also fairly easy if you want to avoid driving. Seattle believes in public transit. Additionally, it's convenient to get to the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport via I-5. Bitter Lake also boasts top-notch schools, including Cascadia Elementary and Ingraham High School.
4. Burien
Burien is another neighborhood bordering Puget Sound. It has a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere. I enjoy Burien's diversity and the delicious options for authentic Mexican and Asian cuisine. Burien is a thriving community and a welcoming place for families. It has a small-town feel in many parts, where people enjoy gardening and can even raise chickens. There's also a variety of rentals, including apartments and single-family homes. Burien is Washington's third most walkable city. It's close to Sea-Tac Airport, with excellent public transit connections. I like visiting downtown Burien and its unique shops where local artists and craftspeople sell original work.
5. First Hill
First Hill is another charming (and cheaper) Seattle neighborhood. You'll find a diverse mix of modern apartment complexes and vintage buildings. Known as 'Pill Hill' due to its concentration of healthcare facilities, First Hill offers easy access to major hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. It's an excellent place for seniors who want convenient medical care. I enjoy the Mini Museum of Street Art and the Frye Art Museum. With highly-rated public schools and proximity to Seattle's eclectic dining, nightlife, and shopping options, First Hill is an excellent option for young and older adults.
6. Lake City
Image: Northbrook Place Apartments
Lake City is located between Interstate 5 and Lake Washington. Before becoming a writer, I worked as a waitress in several local restaurants on Lake City Way. My daughter also lived there while she attended the University of Washington (U Dub). This affordable neighborhood is popular with blue-collar workers and university students. You'll find living spaces from single-family homes to large apartment complexes. Like most of Seattle, there are beautiful parks in the area. The Thornton Creek watershed and Matthews Beach are close by.
7. Pinehurst
Pinehurst is a peaceful residential neighborhood in North Seattle's Northgate area. I lived there for a few years when I worked in Lake City. This neighborhood has a certain suburban charm and is close to plenty of dining and big-name department stores. The Thornton Creek Natural Area runs through Northgate's neighborhoods, making it a beautiful place to walk or ride your bike. And many public transit options, including the ever-expanding light rail, make getting around without a car easy. Families and university students are the primary population because of the abundance of housing options, from condos and townhouses to single-family homes.
8. The University District
You'll find the biggest population of college students in The University District, also known as the U District. I visited this lively neighborhood often when my daughter was in college. As you might expect, the U District has plentiful shopping, dining, and nightlife. It's divided into unique areas, including 45th Street, Brooklyn/Roosevelt, and North Ave, each having a distinct personality. I enjoy the vibrant atmosphere around 45th Street and the quieter vibe of Brooklyn/Roosevelt. You'll likely find most students somewhere on 'the Ave' when they're not in class. The Burke Museum (located on N.E. 45th Street and 17th Ave. N.E.) is just a block from the university's campus.
9. Federal Way
Federal Way is one of the most affordable places to live in Seattle. It got its name in 1929 after the completion of Federal Highway 99. I'm familiar with Federal Way because of Washington's largest theme park, Wild Waves and Enchanted Village. We spent many summer days there when the kids were young. The King County Aquatic Center, where residents can swim in the same pool where Olympians trained and competed, is also there. Over the years, I've had many friends who've lived in and loved this neighborhood.
10. Shoreline
Shoreline is further outside of Seattle, but I must add it to this list because it is a classic Puget Sound neighborhood. And it's one of the less expensive places to live in Seattle. I also went to film school at Shoreline Community College and lived in the area for several years. The college offers one of the few hands-on film programs in Seattle. Many U Dub film students start their journey on this small, close-knit campus. Shoreline is predominantly a residential area, with over 70% single-family homes. I enjoyed the balance between city and suburban life. The neighborhood's trails, beach access, and skate parks only add to its appeal. Getting around in this area without a car is a bit more challenging, but the peaceful atmosphere and easy access to Seattle make it worth the drive.
