Are you considering moving to Seattle? Maybe you’re drawn to the beauty of the city while being surrounded by mountains and water? Or possibly the draw of no personal income tax. But no matter what reason you are headed to the Pacific Northwest, we’ve got a list of the most affordable places to live in the gorgeous city.
While it’s safe to say, living in Seattle might be a bit more expensive than living in rural Washington, there are neighborhoods in the city that are more affordable than others. Today we’d like to share some of those more cost-effective neighborhoods for you to help your search for your next place to live.
High Point
Population: 6,835
Median Household Income: $76,443
Median Rent: $1,064
Cost Of Living Index: 136 (where U.S. is at 100 and Seattle is at 158)
High Point, named from being the highest point on a railroad grade, was once the location of a significant lumber mill and railway station. This area is known as one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Seattle and has been recognized as the first dense urban development in the nation to achieve sustainable, low-impact design on a large scale. This community is made for meeting neighbors. Here you’ll enjoy stunning views, inviting sidewalks, and plenty of great parks.
Kenmore
Population: 22,546
Median Household Income: $105,007
Median Rent: $1,358
Cost Of Living Index: 167 (where U.S. is at 100 and Seattle is at 158)
The city of Kenmore is located along the northernmost shore of Lake Washington and approximately 12 miles north of Seattle. The city is the home to Kenmore Air Harbor, the largest seaplane-only passenger facility of its kind in the US. Kenmore holds several annual events, like the Kenmore Summer Concert Series and the Kenmore Art Show. With many parks in the city limits, it is easy to get out, like hiking at Burke-Gilman Trail.
Mount Baker
Population: 7,435
Median Household Income: $97,500
Median Rent: $1,501
Cost Of Living Index: 151 (where U.S. is at 100 and Seattle is at 158)
Mount Baker is named from the view of Mount Baker that is seen by looking north over Lake Washington. It is located in the southeast part of Seattle and is bound by Lake Washington to the east. This neighborhood hosts the annual Seafair, where you can see the US Navy Blue Angels and many other festivities. If you’re looking to move to Mount Baker, be sure to check out their Community Club website for more information about their neighborhood.
Pinehurst
Population: 7,845
Median Household Income: $63,283
Median Rent: $1,556
Cost Of Living Index: 149 (where U.S. is at 100 and Seattle is at 158)
Located in the Northgate area of Seattle, this area is one of the northernmost neighborhoods in the city. This growing and progressive area is surrounded by NE 145th Street on the north, NE Northgate Way to the south, I-5 to the west, and Lake City Way to the east. Pinehurst boasts two neighborhood parks, Pinehurst Playfield and Pinehurst Pocket Park. As well as Jackson Park Golf Course. If you’re looking to move to Pinehurst, be sure to check out their neighborhood blog for more information.
Kirkland
Population: 88,079
Median Household Income: $109,715
Median Rent: $1,776
Cost Of Living Index: 159 (where U.S. is at 100 and Seattle is at 158)
This suburb east of Seattle, Kirkland is the sixth-largest city in King County. The downtown waterfront has restaurants, art galleries, a performing arts center, as well as public parks and beaches for you to enjoy. During the summer months, people flock to the many waterfront parks all of which are linked in with a paved trail.
Belltown
Population: 14,143
Median Household Income: $105,251
Median Rent: $1,811
Cost Of Living Index: 139 (where U.S. is at 100 and Seattle is at 158)
Located just north of Downtown Seattle, Belltown is the most densely populated neighborhood in the city making it a walkable neighborhood with easy access to everything you need. On the southwest of the neighborhood sits Elliott Bay. And on the southeast side is Virginia Street, where just beyond that likes Pike Place Market. Trendy restaurants, boutiques, nightclubs, and residential tours fill this neighborhood.
Redmond
Population: 63,197
Median Household Income: $123,449
Median Rent: $1,855
Cost Of Living Index: 185 (where U.S. is at 100 and Seattle is at 158)
Located fifteen miles east of Seattle, this town is a great place to live. It’s recognized as the home of both Microsoft and Nintendo of America. This great neighborhood is perfect for families in the tech industry. As the “Bicycle Capital of the Northwest,” you can guarantee to have plenty of places to bike. Redmond also has the only velodrome in the state. The city has many great festivals throughout the year, like Redmond Derby Days, their annual bike race that has turned into a multi-day event. The area also boasts 47 public parks, many of which are neighborhood parks with picnic tables and sports fields or courts.
While we’ve only named a few of the more affordable places to live in the Seattle area, there are plenty of other options to choose from. With a bit of work and research, you can find the perfect place for you to live. Be sure to let us know in the comments what your favorite affordable neighborhood is in Seattle.
If you’re looking for a new place to live, or are interested in moving to the amazing state of Washington, find your next dream apartment here.
As you search for the best apartments, be sure to check out our post on the best Farmer’s Markets around the Seattle area.