Are you planning on moving to Seattle anytime soon? That is great news! What is more, you are not the only one moving to the so-called Emerald City. And, why is that? Simply because this city has plenty to offer to its residents – thriving economy, plenty of job openings, top-notch education and health systems, culturally-enriching places of all sorts, and a landscape that leaves everybody breathless. What more can you ask for? So, if you like what you hear, start packing your bags. Seattle does not wait for anybody! Find movers and a real estate agent first! And, for everything else, we will help you out. That is, we will provide you with all the important information. Keep on reading for more about Seattle.
Job Possibilities
Before you start packing your bags and calling Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage to help you with relocating to Seattle, you must first find a job there. As previously mentioned, Seattle has a strong economy, but that does not mean that simply anybody can find any job he or she likes, no. First, you should do some research and then send your CV and cover letter to all potential employers you found interesting. Only when you land a job should you relocate to Seattle! However, we will give you a hand. Seattle does have a strong economy, but some industries there are simply more thriving than others. For instance, it is very likely that you will find a job sooner if it is one connected to the following industries:
- biotechnology
- bioinformatics
- environmental engineering
- genomics
- lumber and wood-product processing
- food processing.
So, if you have the knowledge, experience, and skills for doing a job in any of the above-mentioned industries, you will find a job in Seattle in no time.
Research the job market before moving to Seattle first!
Cost of Living
The reason why we said that you should find a job in Seattle before you actually move there for good is because moving to Seattle and living there comes with a big price tag. Well, it was expected – metropolitan cities come with metropolitan prices! So, again, before you start looking for a moving agency, their services and ways to get a discount when moving, find a job, and then calculate whether or not can you live in Seattle with that. Here is what you need to know when it comes to prices:
- The median home value is around $741,843, or $510 per square foot. This is the current situation, but be sure that prices are on the rise.
- The median rent price is around $1,800 for a one-bedroom apartment and $2,390 for a two-bedroom apartment. However, the prices may vary depending on the location and the square footage.
- The price of monthly utilities (without the Internet) is $158.
Housing Options to consider prior to moving to Seattle
When it comes to housing options, moving to Seattle will not let you down. Here, you will have plenty of options to choose form. Yes, anything from suburbian family homes with big yards all the way to urban studios downtown. You can find anything here. But, of course, as mentioned earlier, it all depends on your budget. So, if you are moving to Seattle with your family, better look for some properties that are further away from the city center. Look for suburbian places as properties there tend to be cheaper. And, if you are moving to Seattle in order to study or work, again, consider moving to some cheaper residential areas, located further away from the downtown area. Do not let this scare you. If you have difficulties finding a home after moving to Seattle, ask a local real estate agent to help you out. Once you find what suits you best, you can opt for using all the help you can get when moving in order to experience a smooth move.
A real estate agent can help you find your dream home in Seattle that suits your needs and your budget.
Best Neighborhoods for Settling in
And, now, let us talk about some of the best neighborhoods Seattle has to offer. Luckily, there are many of them. Each of which is unique in its own way. Moreover, one thing is for sure, you will not be the only expat there. People are constantly moving in and out of Seattle, thus, locals here are used to new neighbors coming. So, where should you move in Seattle? Here are some options:
- Belltown – great for young people and those who feel young at heart. It is close to many parks, waterfronts, and all those things that make metropolitan city metropolitan – malls, bars, clubs, restaurants, etc. However, buying and renting here is on the expensive side!
- Eastlake – a neighborhood created for nature lovers. It is located on the shores of the Lake Union. And, if you have a four-legged friend, the two of you will have a blast in one of many dog parks here.
- University District – As the name suggests, this neighborhood is full of students, recent graduates, and businessmen in the making. Rents here are usually cheaper, so if you were wondering where to move after graduating college, look no more.
- Capitol Hill – This neighborhood is loved by families and businessmen who either have families or are planning to start one soon.
Properties in Seattle will make you fall in love with them! No doubt about that!
Tips on Moving to Seattle
Until now, we talked about different things that make Seattle so great. But, let us give you some advice about moving there. So, first, to summarize, before moving to Seattle, make sure you find a job. You will need it as living there is expensive. Moreover, it would be a good idea to find a home before you relocate too if you want to handle moving stress in a better way! Living in hotels and paying for storage for your stuff will cost a fortune. Thus, hire a real estate agent, and look for your dream home together. Once you have your job and home waiting for you, it is time to prepare for moving. Do not over-pack. Bring only what is absolutely necessary. And, after you have settled in, make an effort to meet your neighbors. Be sure that they will appreciate it. The rest is up to you! Good luck with moving to Seattle!
