To keep or not keep a car in the city?

I think that if you are single and living in the city then there really isn't any reason to have a car. All you really need is one friend who has a car that you can take day trips with. An, depending on how often you go, you could always rent a car to go up the lake. It would probably be less expensive in the long run--though I don't know if insurance would make that more difficult.

If you have kids, like I do however, it gets much harder to get things done without a car.

Also, just as a side note, I grew up in the LA area and I never met anyone who didn't have a car--LA is so spread out and the transportation system such a mess that I can't imagine anyone trying to live there without a car. SF and the East Bay however, you could totally live comfortably without ever learning to drive. I've had several friend here who just used the BART and MUNI (rail and bus respectively) to get around and had few complaints.

With all the rain you guys get up there, wouldn't not having a car be a little inconvenient. I don't know Seattle all the well, but wouldn't it put a crimp in your social life?

I completely agree with NightOwl! If you have kids, having a car is a must. I can't see taking them to school and activities without one.

@FlowerGirl, the rain definitely can put a damper on things. From a girl's perspective, imagine doing your hair and make-up ready for a night out, then standing in the rain waiting for the bus. Probably not! I see your point!