Seattle

Downtown is the epicenter of Seattle’s culture and commerce. Not only is Seattle the third-largest port in North America, but this city is also known to be the birthplace of national companies like Amazon, Starbucks, Microsoft, Expedia, and Costco. Downtown’s urban core is ever so thriving due to its booming economy, growing residential population, and rich retail and art scene. With 11 different distinct neighborhoods specifically downtown, there’s a place for everyone. Sports fans unite, as Seattle has five pro sports teams including the Seattle Seahawks, Seattle Mariners, and Sounders Soccer. Living in downtown Seattle means you’re in the center of activity, where you can walk or bus to work in minutes, relax at hip coffee houses, and explore the many activities offered.

North Seattle’s many diverse neighborhoods possess an incredible sense of community, each with different characteristics and charm. Located north of Lake Union and the Montlake Cut, this area includes the University of Washington campus. The Burke Gilman Trail also runs 27 miles up through to the North through Seattle, Lake Shore, and the Eastern Railway corridor. Interstate-5 runs North-South through Seattle where the future light rail will also be running through to Northgate in 2021. Some of the neighborhoods in North Seattle include Ballard, Blueridge, Freemont, Green lake, Lake City, Northgate, Ravenna, Roosevelt, Shilshole, University District, and the prestigious Laurelhurst and Broadview enclaves.

South Seattle is known for its diverse neighborhoods, plethora of parks, great access to mass transit, and is located on the west side of Lake Washington and directly south of Downtown Seattle. South Seattle’s neighborhoods have also seen a lot of accelerated change over the past few years including the huge benefit of the Seattle Link Light Rail, which currently runs from SeaTac Airport through South Seattle into Downtown Seattle. This light rail has boosted the neighborhood’s renaissance as the neighborhoods around the area continue to grow and evolve. South Seattle is also located next to Boeing Field, which employs thousands of employees. These neighborhoods include Beacon Hill, Columbia City, Burien, Rainier Beach, Mt. Baker, South Park, and Skyway.