For many home buyers, Seattle is one of the most attractive destinations in the United States—and for good reason. Situated in the Pacific Northwest along the shores of Puget Sound and backdropped by the Cascade and Olympic Mountain Ranges, Seattle’s natural beauty stuns many who visit. Other visitors are attracted to the Emerald City for its seamless blend of urban sophistication and joy-inducing amenities. Life in Seattle offers just about everything, from scenic hiking trails and sprawling parks to a thriving tech industry, rich culinary scene, and hundreds of coffee shops.
However, making this iconic city a permanent home isn’t always easy, especially for first-time homebuyers. Over the last few decades, real estate values in Seattle have skyrocketed, far outpacing the national average. According to Zillow, the average home value in Seattle is $848,982—nearly $500,000 higher than the national average of $359,099.
But while the Seattle housing market can be daunting, it’s important to remember that living in this unique city offers a way of life you can’t get anywhere else. With careful planning and the right resources, you can navigate this competitive market and find a home that suits your needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of buying a home in Seattle, from exploring top neighborhoods to understanding real estate trends across Washington.
Benefits of Buying a Home in Seattle
It’s no secret Seattle has a high cost of living. However, for many homeowners, the extensive list of benefits the city offers far outweighs this cost. In fact, according to WalletHub, Seattle is one of the happiest cities in the United States. Here are some of the most popular benefits you can expect to experience when putting down roots in Seattle:
- Booming job market: Home to major companies like Microsoft and Amazon, the Seattle job market is robust, offering ample opportunities for professionals in technology, healthcare, education, and other industry sectors.
- Access to nature: Near Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and several other parks and natural spaces, Seattle is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy skiing, hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, kayaking, or fishing, there are many ways to spend the day enjoying nature around the Emerald City.
- Endless attractions: From the Space Needle to Pike’s Place Market, Seattle is packed with iconic landmarks and attractions. Whether you’re a sports fanatic or art connoisseur, there’s always something new to discover or experience in Seattle.
- Diverse culture: Seattle is well known for its inclusivity and diverse culture. The city celebrates diversity year-round, hosting events like the Seattle International Film Festival and offering a range of global cuisines, ensuring everyone feels at home.
- Cozy neighborhoods: Seattle’s neighborhoods each offer their own personality and charm. Capitol Hill, Mount Baker, Fremont, and Wallingford are great places to live, each with a strong sense of community and endless amenities.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Home in Seattle
Seattle's housing market is very competitive, so it’s essential to research and understand what to expect before searching for your perfect property. Here are some factors you should keep in mind:
- Budget and affordability: Consider your down payment, mortgage options, and ongoing costs like property taxes and homeowners' insurance.
- Commute and transportation: The Seattle area is known for its traffic congestion, but neighborhoods vary in accessibility. Research commute times to work or schools and explore public transportation options like light rail and bus services.
- Climate considerations: Seattle’s reputation for rain is well-earned, but it also boasts mild temperatures year-round. Look for homes well-suited for the climate, such as those with good insulation and proper drainage systems.
- Market conditions: Understanding whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market can help you make strategic decisions. In a competitive market, be prepared to act quickly and make strong offers.
Best Neighborhoods in Seattle
Seattle residents get the pleasure of choosing between an assortment of charming, first-class neighborhoods. And while each neighborhood has its unique vibe, they all contribute to Seattle’s overall personality and sense of purpose. Whether you’re looking to experience a lifestyle focused on sustainability or simply want to ensure you can always get an incredible cup of coffee, you can’t go wrong with any of these welcoming Seattle neighborhoods.
Mount Baker
Mount Baker is one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle, offering an attractive combination of location, personality, and community. Located close to Lake Washington’s western shore, Mount Baker is southeast of downtown and just a 13-minute drive from Pike’s Place Market and the Seattle Aquarium.
- Best for: Young professionals seeking a quieter community with access to the city center
- Distance from Pike’s Place: Less than a 15-minute drive
- Walkability: 76
- Public schools: A-
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is a popular, inclusive neighborhood in the heart of Seattle. Located near Seattle University and Seattle Central College, Capitol Hill is a vibrant, high-energy neighborhood full of nightlife, live music, and endless entertainment.
- Best for: Dedicated professionals and students who enjoy a vibrant social life
- Distance from Pike’s Place: Less than a 10-minute drive
- Walkability: 96
- Public schools: A
Fremont
Known locally as “The Center of the Universe,” Fremont is quirky and creative, with a strong sense of community. Its eclectic boutiques, public art installations, and waterfront location make it a standout neighborhood in Seattle.
- Best for: Artists, entrepreneurs, and anyone who loves a mix of creativity and community
- Distance from Pike’s Place: About a 12-minute drive
- Walkability: 90
- Public schools: A
Wallingford
This neighborhood in north-central Seattle offers a mix of friendly charm and urban amenities. Its quiet streets and proximity to Green Lake make it ideal for a variety of residents.
- Best for: Those seeking a balance between suburban tranquility and city convenience
- Distance from Pike’s Place: Less than a 10-minute drive
- Walkability: 85
- Public schools: A
North Queen Anne
Offering stunning views of Lake Union and easy access to downtown, North Queen Anne blends historic architecture with modern convenience.
- Best for: Professionals and couples looking for a peaceful yet centrally located neighborhood
- Distance from Pike’s Place: Less than a 15-minute drive
- Walkability: 74
- Public schools: A
Real Estate Trends in Seattle and Across Washington
When deciding to buy a house in Seattle, it also helps to compare prices and availability across nearby cities and counties. Doing so will enable you to get a sense of real estate trends across Washington. Here’s a breakdown of median home prices and the number of homes for sale in select cities across the state (data pulled from Realtor.com in Nov 2024):
Seattle
- Median Listing Home Price: $780,000
- Number of Homes for Sale: 3,107
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Seller’s
Auburn
- Median Listing Home Price: $660,000
- Number of Homes for Sale: 429
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Seller’s
Bremerton
- Median Listing Home Price: $480,000
- Number of Homes for Sale: 516
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Seller’s
Centralia
- Median Listing Home Price: $459,900
- Number of Homes for Sale: 192
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Buyer’s
Chehalis
- Median Listing Home Price: $517,000
- Number of Homes for Sale: 193
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Balanced
Everett
- Median Listing Home Price: $675,000
- Number of Homes for Sale: 529
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Seller’s
Marysville
- Median Listing Home Price: $652,000
- Number of Homes for Sale: 396
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Seller’s
Olympia
- Median Listing Home Price: $599,900
- Number of Homes for Sale: 693
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Seller’s
Poulsbo
- Median Listing Home Price: $768,000
- Number of Homes for Sale: 206
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Balanced
Puyallup
- Median Listing Home Price: $620,000
- Number of Homes for Sale: 757
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Seller’s
Renton
- Median Listing Home Price: $750,000
- Number of Homes for Sale: 464
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Seller’s
Spanaway
- Median Listing Home Price: $534,900
- Number of Homes for Sale: 311
- Buyer’s or Seller’s Market: Seller’s
The Bottom Line on Seattle’s Housing Market
Buying a house is one of the most significant decisions you can make, especially if it’s supposed to be your forever home. And choosing the right city can make all the difference. Seattle offers a vibrant blend of urban living and natural splendor.
Ultimately, deciding if Seattle is the right location for you will depend on your lifestyle and budget. Take your time researching neighborhoods, market trends, interest rates, and potential properties, and you can make a decision that aligns with your vision for the future.
If you’re ready to start your home search in Seattle or the surrounding area, Century Communities offers a variety of new construction homes across Washington State. Use our Find Your Home feature to locate your dream property today.
Seattle Homes FAQ
Is Seattle a good place to live?
Seattle can be a great place to live, especially if you’re a nature enthusiast, foodie, artist, or coffee fanatic. The city offers a unique way of life many residents highly regard. The few downsides of life in Seattle are the city’s higher than average cost of living, housing prices, and crime rate.
How should I go about selling a house in Seattle?
Selling a house can be tricky, no matter where you are in the United States. However, in Seattle, market conditions typically favor sellers. Seattle home prices are consistently above the national average, properties are in high demand, and receiving multiple offers is common. If you’re selling a house in Seattle, start by partnering with a reputable real estate agent, deciding on a competitive listing price, and prepping the property for a home inspection and an open house or two.
How to buy a house in Seattle
Homebuying can be challenging in many places across the nation. However, in Seattle, this process often increases in intensity. If you’re a first-time homebuyer who wants to move to the Emerald City, don’t lose hope even if you don’t have much luck at first. Stay vigilant and analyze your financial situation, narrow down where you want to live, and finalize your budget so you’re prepared to act when the perfect property goes on the market.
When is the best time to buy a house in Seattle?
The perfect time to buy a house in Seattle is when you are ready. Buying a new home is a big decision; you shouldn’t rush into anything. Take your time and only start house hunting when it makes sense for you and your future goals.
