What is downtown like in in Seattle, Washington?

Nestled in the beautiful and picturesque Pacific Northwest, living in Seattle means you are only 20 minutes in any direction from extravagant forests, mountains, coastlines, and other scenic outdoor activities. First inhabited over 15,000 years ago by indigenous tribes of Native Americans, Seattle is an iconic center of culture, enjoying lovely waterways, ocean views, and endless activities. However, be aware that this is one of the most expensive places to live in the entire United States. Housing, education, childcare, among others, are generally higher than the national average. Corporate behemoths like Amazon essentially control the city, to the extent that many of the hip areas formerly dominated by young people and bohemians are slowly (read quickly) being taken over and transformed. Despite the rising costs, the city is absolutely breathtaking, boasting many popular entertainment activities including theaters, festivals, world-class shopping, restaurants, as well as a bustling nightlife. The downside is the exponential growth of income inequality that has become quite visible, especially in the downtown areas. The city is very diverse and has some of the best Indian food on the West Coast of the U.S. The University of Washington is also headquartered here (considered the Ivy League of the West Coast), so there is an abundance of youth as it is a preeminent college town.

It’s beautiful. Seriously, it really is. It’s clean (due to ocean air and rain). It’s lush. You’re surrounded by mountains (including volcanoes that you can see form the city). The sunsets are gorgeous. It’s very hilly, so you have good viewpoints from all over the city.

Great food (There is a serious ‘foodie’ scene here, though not a ton of variety. Most of our food is fancy comfort food or locally sourced fish/veggies. We do have a little Asian food scene, but, I’ve been told my multiple sources that it’s not the best Asian food. Good news though, you’re 2. five hours from Vancouver BC! They know how to do sushi/pho/ramen very well.)

Lots of outdoor activities and close to the city (you can work up a sweat hiking around Discovery Park 10 min from Downtown, kayak in the city, swim in Lake Washington 10 min outside the downtown core (clean water too!), bike the Lake Washington loop (100 miles or so) or the Burke Gilman trail (40 miles from Fremont to wineries RT) etc) or outside the city (too many options to list! Ski, backpack, hike, hang-glide, you name it basically).