Is the Pacific Northwest calling your name? Whether you’ve been binge-watching Grey’s Anatomy, blasting Death Cab For Cutie, or just looking for a change in scenery, you’re wondering: Should I move to Seattle? This Seattle moving guide will help explain what makes Seattle a great place to live, factors you should consider before moving (including how much it rains), and more.
Reasons to Move to Seattle
If you’re curious about moving to Seattle or wondering where to move next, one of the big questions you might have is: What is Seattle known for? Here are just a few things that make Seattle a unique place to visit and live.
Coffee!
Seattle is synonymous with coffee culture. As the birthplace of Starbucks and home to countless independent coffee shops, it’s a haven for coffee lovers. Whether you enjoy a cozy café atmosphere or experimenting with artisanal brews, Seattle’s coffee scene has something for everyone.
A Thriving Tech Industry
Seattle is a hub for tech giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google. With a booming tech scene, the city offers ample career opportunities in technology, innovation, and startups. If you work in tech, there are plenty of opportunities with these companies and more.
Natural Beauty
Did you know that Seattle’s nickname is “The Emerald City”? No, it’s not because of The Wizard of Oz – thanks to the city’s seemingly endless greenspaces and evergreen trees! Seattle is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and skiing, all within a short drive.
A Booming Food Scene
Seattle is known for its incredible food culture, especially fresh seafood like salmon, oysters, and crabs. The world-famous Pike Place Market is a must-visit destination for food lovers, and the surrounding neighborhoods are home to many of the city’s top restaurants.
Music and Arts
With a history rooted in grunge music and a thriving arts culture, Seattle offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy live performances, museums, and art galleries. Iconic spots like The Crocodile and the Seattle Art Museum keep the city buzzing with creativity.
Is Seattle a Good Place to Live?
So, you’re sold on great coffee and spectacular views of Mt. Rainier on sunny days. But beyond these perks, is Seattle a good place to live? There are a few factors to consider before packing up and moving.
Weather
Almost every pop culture depiction of Seattle involves rain. However, Seattle doesn’t even break the top ten of the rainiest cities in the United States! Seattle gets about 37 inches of rain per year, compared to New Orleans, which gets about 63 inches yearly.
Cloudy and misty days are common in Seattle. According to the Seattle Times, Seattle is the cloudiest city in the Lower 48, with 226 days per year with at least 75% cloud coverage. In other words, it doesn’t actually rain that much. It just looks like it should be raining pretty often!
What about the colder stuff – does it snow in Seattle? Yes, but not as much as somewhere like Denver. Seattle averages about six inches of snow yearly, so about one good storm every year. The Pacific Ocean is to thank for those more moderate winters.
Cost of Living: Is Seattle Expensive?
Seattle is generally one of the most expensive cities in the United States. According to Apartments.com, rent in Seattle is, on average, 32% higher than the national average. The cost of living in Seattle is closely aligned with that of other large cities, such as New York City.
One place you will get a financial break, though, is in income tax. The state of Washington is one of very few with no income tax, and the city of Seattle does not have a local income tax.
How to Move to Seattle
Like any other city, it can be helpful to visit Seattle before moving. By visiting, you can explore the different neighborhoods and suburbs of the city, make local connections, and decide if it’s a good fit for you and your family. However, job relocations sometimes mean you don’t get to visit first. Online research and local groups (like the Seattle subreddit or local Facebook groups) can be beneficial if that’s the case.
Before the Move
Thanks to the city’s higher cost of living, it may be helpful to secure a job locally before moving. Seattle’s coffee shop culture and plentiful coworking spaces also make it an excellent location for remote workers! Suburbs like Bellevue and Kirkland may offer quieter, less traffic-heavy housing options. If you plan to utilize Seattle’s public transit, be sure to look for housing near bus and light rail stops.
During the Move
Many neighborhoods, especially Capitol Hill and downtown, have limited parking. Check for loading zones or reserved spots near your new home to avoid parking headaches. And keep in mind that many Seattle neighborhoods, like Queen Anne and Fremont, have steep hills and narrow streets. If you’re driving a moving truck, practice cautious navigation and check truck height restrictions.
After the Move
Visiting your local coffee shop is a great way to start learning about the neighborhood and possibly even meet other locals. Once you grab a cup of coffee, start exploring! If it’s your first time in Seattle, hit classic tourist spots like Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and Discovery Park. If you’re more of an outdoor enthusiast, visit Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, or the San Juan Islands for a weekend. You could even grab your passport and make a weekend trip to nearby Vancouver, Canada!
Turn to CORT Furniture Rental for Your New Seattle Home!
Relocating to Seattle can feel like a leap into the unknown, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At CORT, we understand that setting up a new home can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer practical solutions to make your transition smoother.
Imagine walking into your new space and finding it already furnished with pieces that fit your style and needs. Whether you’re staying short-term or settling in for the long haul, CORT provides flexibility and convenience—so you can focus on building your new life, not stressing over logistics. Visit our website to explore furniture packages, chat with our team, or find your nearest CORT showroom.
With CORT by your side, you’re not just moving—you’re building a home that works for you. Let’s get started today.
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