Southwest 143rd St, Burien

SW 143rd St runs between two major thoroughfares: Ambaum Blvd. to the west and 1st Street South to the east. This curvy little road sees more traffic than you would expect for a mainly residential street, though there is a church in the middle, restaurants on one end and Fred Meyer on the other.

Although there are some big, old trees along this street, it still feels a bit dry and desolate. Neighbors don't usually interact with one another, but that's not really that uncommon for a big city or its suburbs. Residents in the area have a few local shops and businesses close by, as well as some nearby fast food and family dining establishments. The biggest attraction would be Seahurst Park, just a few blocks west of the street. Offering walking and hiking trails and acres of leafy and evergreen trees, the main draw is the beach access at the end of Seahurst Park Road.

There are a few good schools and other parks in the area for kids, though none within walking distance (or even bike-riding). There are other neighborhoods in the area that may be more conducive to families with smaller children.

A few big pluses for this neighborhood is the proximity of Highway 509, which takes commuters downtown in about 15 minutes, Highway 518, leading to SeaTac Airport and I-5, and the general quiet that makes up this up-and-coming community. Home prices are generally pretty affordable and traffic on the south end of the county are no comparison to the congestion you'll find on the north end.