JamesD1

If living in a mall has been a dream of yours, then Northgate might just be what the doctor ordered. Northgate which lies just north of Seattle is most know for the Northgate Mall. Since the mall’s remodel in 2009 the neighborhood has been going through a transformation, most notably the completion of Thornton Place complex, a mix use complex of retail, condos, and apartments. At the time the largest complex in the hood. Thornton Place is home to a cinema, IMAX, and several restaurants. Beyond the shopping and eating convenience a bus transit transfer station and commuter parking lot are adjacent, making the location prime real estate for a commuter. There is also a Link Light Rail station scheduled to be completed in 2021, which will connect UW, Downtown, and reach all the way to Seatac Airport.

According to Zillow the average home in Northgate is around $263,000, much, much cheaper than that of Seattle proper. My guess is most are condos and smaller single family homes. Rent is also much more affordable, I’ve seen studios under $1,000 and 2 bedrooms for $1,600 – which is $200 cheaper than the 1 bedroom I rent in Seattle.

What’s in Northgate? Bedsides the mall there is North Seattle Community College and Thornton Creek, a 12 square mile watershed for nature and wildlife. Shopping is the neighborhood’s biggest draw, and all the big chain stores are in the mall or around it. Most of the restaurants in the neighborhood are of the chain variety. In fact the highest rated restaurant for Northgate on Yelp is Chipotle. Who doesn’t love Chipotle? The good news is Northgate is close to Greenlake and downtown is an easy bus ride or drive down I-5.

Who should live here? Anyone who wants an affordable housing and an easy commute to downtown, with super easy access to shopping. Northgate is probably one of the cheapest place to get a two bedroom apartment close to the city. Affordable and convenience are the two things that come to mind with thinking about living in Northgate. I think Northgate could be the perfect place for working college students.

Who should NOT live here? If you’re looking for a neighborhood with character and charm, Northgate is probably not for you. Since Northgate is next to I-5 it can be noisy because of all the freeway traffic. It also isn’t the greenest neighborhood, again right next to I-5 and a mall.

Redmond is located 16 miles east of Seattle, it’s a quiet suburb with the reputation of being the bicycle capital of the Northwest. The city of Redmond is best known for being home to Microsoft. The Microsoft Campus, located at One Microsoft Way, is over 8 million square feet of office space and is so large it has its own shopping mall called The Redmond Commons. Microsoft employs over 40,000 people in the area, many of which work on the Redmond campus.

Chances are if you’re considering moving to Redmond you’re working at Microsoft or one of the many other tech companies. The city of Redmond is made up of several suburbs and developments, and has a traditional downtown. Because the city caters to tech workers moving in from out of town there are plenty of rental options in large buildings, most with great amenities.

Renting in Redmond is much cheaper than Seattle or Bellevue and offers more square footage for the price. 1 bedrooms start as low $1,173, which is very affordable, and that is for more than 600+ square feet. Buying a home in Redmond is a different story. Residents here have above average income and that reflects in home prices. According to Zillow the average home in Redmond is 611,700, up 8.8% and that trend will continue to rise, the housing market is very hot here. People put a high value in living close to work, as they should considering the terrible traffic in the area, 5th worst in the nation.

Here are a few things to do in Redmond:

Marymore Park – It’s HUGE! 640 acres. They have awesome outdoor concerts here in the summer.

Cycling – The Sammamish Trail connects with the Burke Gilman, which you can ride all the way to Ballard. I recommend pedaling to Woodinville for wine tasting.

More cycling – Velodrome racing at Marymore Park bring in 1,500-2,000 spectators on Friday nights.

Redmond Town Center – An outdoor mall in the Pacific Northwest!

While there aren’t many attractions in Redmond proper, it’s very close to Kirkland, Bellevue, and Seattle.


Who should live in Redmond? Anyone working at Microsoft with a family should consider living here. Family time is very important and living in Redmond avoids the long commute, saving time and stress.

Anyone who is young and single might get bored here. There is a mall and a downtown, but both lack any sort of action at night. Kirkland and Bellevue offer more and are a short commute. On the plus side renting is really affordable compared to Seattle/Bellevue.

What are the downsides to Redmond? If you’re buying it would be the cost of living. Homes in Redmond are even more expensive than some Seattle neighborhoods.

Mercer Island sits right between Seattle and Bellevue and is home to some of the wealthiest residents in the Puget Sound.

There are about 24,000 folks that live on the 13 mile island. Over 75% of those residents are college graduates. The average home value is $1,126,800, and that rose 12.8% over 2015. Mercer Island’s most famous resident is Paul Allen, who just happens to be one of the riches people in the world, 51st to be exact. To summarize, Mercer Island is filled with very smart and very affluent residents.

The island itself is filled with mostly single family homes. It has a main retail center with just about everything you’d need to be self-contained, such as restaurants, grocery stores, and cafes. There are several apartment complexes of varying age and amenities on the island. The surprising fact is you can rent an apartment for less on Mercer Island than in Seattle and Bellevue.

If you’re a renter would you want to live there? I actually had a friend move to Mercer Island when he first arrived to the area. The apartment itself wasn’t bad; affordable rent, average amenities for the price. The real downside was that the entire Island shuts around 10pm. Chances are if you’re a renter, you’re younger and more social, and there just aren’t any options to grab a late bite or drink on the island.

Mercer Island is perfect for families. It's filled with beautiful, large, single family homes. It has some of the best schools in the area, and it even has a French school; how fancy is that? The island has several great parks and is very bicycle friendly. As an avid cyclist I can say riding around Mercer Island is one of the most popular routes around Seattle. The Island is very peaceful and quiet.

Great schools and even better views make Mercer Island so popular. The real estate market is fairly cool here, just because there is such little inventory. People who buy here tend to stay for a long time, lots of homeowners are retirees.

What are the downsides to Mercer Island living? There is only one: the cost of living. It is simply too expensive for most folks to buy here. Mercer Island is one of the most expensive zip codes in Washington State. If you want to live close to the city, but in the peace and quiet an island offers (without taking a ferry) Mercer Island has it all – just be ready to pay for it.

South Lake Union, or SLU for short, is going through the biggest transformation on any Seattle neighborhood. Which is crazy to think about because the city of Seattle is going through a construction boom right now. SLU is home to Amazon and more new buildings than I can count, some are apartments with a few condos here and there; but the majority is for Amazon. Living in SLU in a matter of convenience for most, and those residents are prioritizing convenience over price.

Let me share some number to really highlight the ‘construction boom’ happening in South Lake Union right now. As of Fall 2015 there are 13 new buildings in various construction and planning stages, each over 20 stories tall, six of which are 40 stories tall. Currently there are no buildings over 12 stories in height in the neighborhood. Those new buildings, if they are all approved will bring 5,000 new housing units, currently there are 3,500 housing units, and five years ago there was half of that.

When I first moved to Seattle 6 years ago, my apartment was on Dexter Ave on the outskirts of SLU. I moved here because it was cheap, in fact the building was giving a free month’s to new tenants. Fast forward to today and that street is filled with several new apartments and offices; including Seattle’s Facebook office.
So ‘boom’ is an understatement.

Chances are if you’re interested in living in SLU today you’re in the tech or biotech industry, you’re making an above average salary, and are moving to Seattle from outside of the state. These new residents want easy access to work, a few good restaurants, and everything else is just an Uber ride away. According to Zillow.com, studio apartments start as low as $1,650, but realistically the average for a studio is closer to $1,800. 1 bedrooms are around $2,000 on up.

These higher than average prices do have a few advantages. The South Lake Union Trolley cuts through the neighborhood and makes access to Downtown and Eastlake a breeze. There are lots of new eating and shopping options. Some of my favorite places in SLU are:

Portage Bay – They only do breakfast and brunch but they do it well. They use fresh local ingredients and have a fresh fruit topping bar. Yum!
Espresso Vivace – One of the best cups of coffee in Seattle.

Cactus – Texmex restaurant, it could be a chain but I think it’s pretty good.

Re: Public – Upscale pub vibe. Great for drinks.

Brave Horse – This is a Tom Douglas restaurant, which means it’s delicious and slightly overpriced, but man the burgers are good.

Nollie’s Café – This actually was here before Amazon. It’s a wonderful simple café for good breakfast.

REI – The outdoor sporting good’s flagship store is shopping destination.

The Lake – It’s great even if you don’t have a boat or sea plane! Running is great here. It’s also home to MOHAI and the Center for Wooden Boats.


The bottom line about South Lake Union is that almost everything is brand new, even the name is new. There are still old signs that say Cascade Neighborhood. Many of the restaurants, shops, and attractions that are new are not worth the trip, except for a few. The rent in SLU expensive and is only desirable for those working in the neighborhood.

Eastlake is a small sliver of land between I-5 and the eastern side of Lake Union, hence the name Eastlake. Most of the neighborhood is built on a hill, which makes for some amazing views. Many residents are blessed with downtown and water views, along with spectacular sunsets.

Residents have easy access to the University of Washington and downtown. Because of the close proximity to UW there are several low frills, low budget rental options that attract students. 1 bedrooms are available for just over $1,000, which is well below the Seattle average – just don’t expect much. On the other end of the spectrum and just a 7 minute walk from that budget apartment is a listing for a $2.5 million dollar home, with amazing water and city views. Zillow states that the average home price is $488,900, but that would only afford a 1 bedroom condo. Townhomes list for $800,000, and single family homes can easily surpass the millions, so expect high prices - if there are any available.

Beyond the breathtaking views Eastlake offers a main drag with lots of neighborhood restaurants, several pocket parks, one of the most unique parks in the country; I-5 Colonnade Park. Some of my favorite places in Eastlake are:

The Eastlake Zoo – A dive bar with lots of games. This place only serves beer and only takes cash. It can become a student hangout on the weekends.

Serafina – A classic Italian restaurant and a Seattle staple. This romantic restaurant books early for Valentine’s Day.

Little Water Cantina – One of the best patios in Seattle! The chips and guac are great and so are the drinks, but overall the food is okay at best.

Mammoth – Cool, modern sandwich and beer spot.

Blind Pig Bistro – Upscale fare, my favorite is their tasting menus which allow sampling many different things from their menu.

I-5 Colonnade Bike Park – This park is 100% geared toward mountain bikers, and what makes it so unique is that it is located under the I-5 freeway. The park is currently going through planning to expand and remodel some of its bike features.

Living here comes with many of the same gripes as other Seattle neighborhoods. Which are high prices and no parking. Also, because Eastlake is right against I-5 expect the noise and traffic that comes with living next to a freeway. There are some housing gems in Eastlake. Especially in older, charming buildings. With easy bus access and the South Lake Union Trolley commuting downtown is a snap, so I can see the charm in Eastlake.

Who should avoid Eastlake? Anyone who desires more space, along with peace and quite. Eastlake has a little bit of everything, for every budget, so if the timing is right Eastlake would make a great neighborhood to call home.

Seattle’s oldest and most historic neighborhood is evolving into a hub for sports, food & drink, and historic attractions. The completion of CenturyLink Field in 2002 ushered in an era of growth and change to the neighborhood. In the last few years new apartments, restaurants, and bars have changed the atmosphere for the better. Pioneer Square isn’t the seedy neighborhood it once was, but it still hasn’t completely lost its character; especially at night.

Not very many people live in Pioneer Square, even after the completion two new multistory apartment buildings in the last year; The Nolo and The Wave buildings. Rent starts around $1,500 for a studio and that does not include parking. Garage rates are probably close to $200 a month for renters. There are condos and lofts in the area. Most of those are in historic buildings, and those rarely hit the market, when they do the units move fast.

Living in Pioneer Square would be great for young professionals who enjoy watching sports, an active nightlife, and don’t mind urban inconveniences; such as lack of parking, homelessness, and gritty streets. The area is on the upswing, and with the soon to be completed Light Rail connection to Capitol Hill and the University District it will only become more desirable.

Besides watching a game some of my favorite places are:

Tat’s Delicatessen – the most popular of the pioneer sandwich shops. Try the Tatstrami.

Delicatus – a classic deli with a modern twist. Get the Mudhoney.

Rain Shadow Meats – butcher shops and deli. Amazing butcher counter and sandwich selection.

The London Plane – head here for brunch! Great ambiance and delicious food.

Intermezzo Carmine – beautiful space, serving Italian food.

The neighborhood is evolving and with it so many new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars are opening. It is a great place to visit, but I’m certain I would not want to live here.

I can think of several downsides to living in Pioneer Square. For me it would have to be the homeless, the uncleanliness, and the crowds. Pioneer Square has one of the largest homeless populations in the city, which makes the neighborhood feel less safe at night. During sporting events 80,000+ people make their way into the neighborhood, bringing noise and trash with them. Some people might love the action in the neighborhood during game day, but I don't think I would like it.

On non game days the neighborhood has a totally different personality. My girlfriend and I wanted to try a new place for dinner and drinks and wound up in Pioneer Square. We discovered that many of the popular spots on the weekends close early on weekdays because there just aren't crowds to keep them busy. The area was eerily quiet.

In closing, Pioneer Square is great to visit. It's rapidly changing with new restaurants, bars, and more opening each month. Living options are limited and not for the faint of heart.

Phinney Ridge and Greenwood are actually two separate neighborhoods connected by the same street that bears the name of each neighborhood. That street changes from Phinney Ave N around 67th to Greenwood Ave N. The two are so intertwined they’re often combined into PhinneyWood, there is even a website called phinneywood.com.

Both neighborhoods have a main business district along their main drag, with Greenwood having slightly more shopping options, including chain grocery and drug stores. Each neighborhood is mostly single family homes with some smaller apartment buildings and condos.

Being closer to downtown, the zoo, and offering some spectacular sunset views, the homes in Phinney Ridge command a much higher price than those in Greenwood. According to Zillow.com the median home value in Phinney Ridge is $672,600 compared to $481,900 in Greenwood. Since Phinney is actually built on a ridge and is an older neighborhood these homes have more charm and prettier views. Greenwood is a terrific neighborhood for someone looking to purchase their first home.

Some of my favorite places in PhinneyWood are:

Mr. Gyros – The best Gyros and Greek food in Seattle!

Red Mill Burgers – The burger battle is highly debated around the city and Red Mill is one of the first and best. They only take cash and are closed on Mondays.

Pete’s Egg Nest – A little hole in the wall breakfast spot, no frills, just good food at a fair price.

Gorditos – Massive burritos full of flavor, a Seattle favorite.

Herkimer Coffee – There are a lot of coffee options in PhinneyWood and Herkimer is my favorite. They roast their own beans in the Greenwood location.

Alamode Pie – Who doesn’t like pie? Classic and seasonal varieties by the slice or whole pie.

Naked City Taphouse – A great neighborhood pub in Greenwood.

Chucks’s Hop Shop – Think beer garden meets beer store and throw in rotating food trucks. An awesome place to sit outside in the summer.

Greenwood Classic Car Show – Takes place on the last Saturday in June, if you like cars this event is a must.

I lived in neighboring Wallingford for several years, my first time walking along Phinney Ave I was taken back by the sheer number of strollers on the sidewalk. Phinney is very much a family neighborhood, and one of the best Seattle has to offer with great parks and the Zoo so close. Greenwood currently has a slightly younger, newly wed/first home buyer vibe in my opinion. I know two couples that are recently married and both have bought their first home in Greenwood and a coworker just purchased a condo in the neighborhood.

I think anyone interested in buying a home in a classic neighborhood would enjoy living in either Phinney Ridge or Greenwood. Who should avoid PhinneyWood area? Anyone who wants the urban high-rise feel of Seattle should look elsewhere. Anybody trying to live without a car might have a hard time getting around the city being based in PhinneyWood.

The bottom line is that PhinneyWood is a great neighborhood with a classic neighborhood feel, combining homes and local shopping. The area is prefect for families and those looking to buy their first home.

Interbay is nestled between the Magnolia Bridge and Salmon Bay/Ballard Locks, it is a fairly small neighborhood, with limited access. Originally an industrial neighborhood with lots of warehouses, the main draw to the area was the BNSF rail yard, fisherman’s terminal, and the National Guard base; all three are still in use. Developers have bought up old warehouses and lots, and new apartments are being built in their place. With two new buildings already in use and new retail such a Whole Foods open, Interbay is growing fast. Now the main draw to Interbay is the easy commute and rental value.

After pricing out Ballard, my girlfriend and I decided on Interbay, and have lived here for 6 months. The reason my girlfriend and I chose this neighborhood was because of the easy commute to downtown, the close proximity to Ballard, and rent was a few hundred dollars cheaper than living in Ballard. Originally I was concerned about the rail yard noise, but it has been a nonissue. When we’re inside our apartment I never hear it, even with the window open. I actually hear the cheers from the soccer field on the weekends more then I hear the train.

The price for a 1 bedroom, in a new modern building with amenities and a parking garage was $250 cheaper per month, plus my girlfriend can park on the street, saving more money. For most Ballard apartments we would have had to pay for parking for both of our vehicles. We did lose the walk-ability to all the bars and restaurants Ballard has to offer. But Ballard is a short drive, or in the summer a very easy bike ride with a walk across the locks.

Some of my favorite places in Interbay are:

Red Mill Burger – One of the best burgers in Seattle. Cash only and closed on Mondays, be prepared!

Interbay Golf – Walk over to the driving range during happy hour for a pitcher of beer and a large bucket of balls for under $20.

Whole Foods – I have a love/hate relationship with this high end grocery store. Yes, it’s expensive, but the food is top notch and the deli is great.

Pagliacci – Slices of pizza till 11pm

Mulleady’s Irish Pub – Nice upscale pub atmosphere.

Box Car Ale House – Dive bar, I love this place and their bar food.

Commuting to downtown is super easy living in Interbay. The D Line stops every 15 minutes and if you’re on the bus before 8am I guarantee finding a seat. There is also a bike/walking path that makes its way downtown along the water. It is just over 4 miles, a very easy bike ride.

Interbay is going through a major change. Currently there are only 2 large apartment buildings and practically zero single family homes (I consider the homes on 20th and those close to the water as part of Magnolia). According to the city there are 5 mixed use buildings with 523 rental units and over 75,000 sq ft of retail space approved for construction. So MAJOR CHANGE is an understatement – Google the “The Whole Foods effect” and you’ll understand the change that's about to happen.

So what are the downsides to living in Interbay? The things and places I can walk to are very limited, but there is much more near me than my old place in Wallingford. If you don’t own a car Interbay can be challenging if you want to venture outside of the D Line. Parking in Interbay isn’t terrible, but it’s not good. Street spots around the current buildings are filled after 5pm, but there is always parking around the QFC grocery store, until those new apartment buildings are built.

Who should live in Interbay? Renters who commute to downtown, who want to save a little money for someday buying, and still want to be close to what Ballard and Downtown have to offer.

Who should avoid Interbay? Anyone looking to buy a house. Interbay should be avoided if you desire a big social scene or a very walkable neighborhood.

Belltown is just north of downtown and since no one really lives in downtown Seattle, you’ll find many young professionals living in Belltown. The neighborhood is very walkable and has plenty of restaurants and bars, and is very close to major Seattle Attractions. If you’re the type of person that dreams of walking everywhere and living in a high rise condo with amazing water views is your dream home; Belltown could be a perfect place to call home.

Most people who are considering living in Belltown are young professionals that work downtown. The biggest perk of living in Belltown is how walkable it is. According to WalkScore.com it’s the 3rd most walkable neighborhood. Everything is a short walk away, places like Pike Place Market, downtown shopping, a plethora of restaurants, and great nightlife are all nearby. Plus the buses and light rail are all close it’s easy to get out of the neighborhood or get to the airport.

Living in Belltown is a complete urban affair. There are zero house here, but there are plenty of high rise modern condos. The good news is that condo prices are cheaper than the rest of Seattle. According to Zillow, the median home value is $404,500. That actually sounds pretty low to me, but that doesn’t include parking and HOA fees which are not cheap. Renting is on par with other Seattle neighborhoods, starting at $1,200 and up. The average 1 bedroom will probably be $1,800 plus parking if you need it; I’ve seen parking cost up to $250 per month in the neighborhood. Most condos and apartments in Belltown have full amenities with outdoor spaces. Since Belltown is so close to the water the views and sunsets are amazing.

Some of my favorite places in Belltown are:

Rocco’s Pizza: Awesome pizza by the slice and a great bar.

Some Random Bar: Modern twist on pub food.

Local 360: PNW diner with a cool atmosphere and good classic food.

Bathtub Gin: Tiny cocktail bar. A great date spot. Local tip: the entrance is in the alley

Dahlia Bakery: Amazing pastries, operated by Seattle’s favorite chef, Tom Douglass. Try the donuts they fry them to order.

Olympic Sculpture Park: Modern park that hosts events right on the water with the Olympic Mountains set as a stunning backdrop. Watch a sunset here.

Cinerama: Probably the best movie theater in Seattle. You can buy tickets online and reserve your exact seat!

With great views and lot’s to see and do Belltown is pretty good, but it does come with some downsides. The biggest downside is crime. Drugs and violent crimes are regularly on the local news. The nightlife is really geared toward the younger 20 to early 30s crowd (read clubs) so it can get loud into the late hours. Traffic is only bad during rush hours, but finding street parking is very challenging boarding on nonexistent.

Belltown is perfect for singles and young couples who work downtown. Anyone that dreams of living in a 50 story loft condo with Puget Sound sunset views will enjoy living here too. The neighborhood is one of the best for walkability and is so close to all the action Seattle offers.

According to U.S. News and World Report the University of Washington is tied for the 52nd best school in the entire nation. More than 30,000 students are enrolled in the school, many of which call the University District home. The U Dist is as diverse as its student body, the core of the neighborhood is University Avenue, nicknamed “the Ave”, which is filled with shops and restaurants. Like most of Seattle the neighborhood is growing vertically. The area was once dominated by low budget student housing and small shops, but now new mixed use multi story building are the new norm.

The University of Washington campus is gorgeous. Forbes named it as one of the most beautiful campuses in the county. While UDub is set in an urban environment, it is surrounded by distant mountain peaks and is on the water. The cherry tree lined quad is the highlight of the 703 acre campus, a must see when in bloom.

Chances are if you’re considering living in the University District you’re either a student or school staff, and you’re a renter. Many old homes in the area have been converted to apartments and new large scale multi story apartment buildings are popping up each year. The average apartment in the U Dist starts at $1,000, but expect to pay $1,500-$1,700 for a 1 bedroom, which does not include parking.

If you’re thinking about buying a home in the U Dist I hope you have deep pockets. According to Zillow the median home in 2015 sells for $611,500, a +18.5% change, and that trend continues to grow. Plenty of home are listed over 1 million dollars.

There is a lot to see and do in the University District, while most of restaurants, shops, and bars are geared toward the student body there are plenty of must see places, a few of my favorites are:

Morsel: This small (read tiny) breakfast spot specializes in homemade country biscuit breakfast sandwiches. They’re affordable and yummy. There is always a line and they close when they sell out, which is usually before lunch time.

Agua Verde Café & Paddle Club: The UW campus is right on the water and this spot is the perfect place to rent a kayak and explore the surrounding waters of Portage Bay and Montlake Cut. Plus they have excellent Mexican food!

Farmers Market: This is Seattle largest outdoor farmers market and it takes place on Saturday, unlike every other neighborhood which does theirs on Sundays.

Husky Stadium: Construction was completed in 2015 for this state of the art football facility. It sits over 72,000, making for one of the best collegiate football experiences. Do not attempt driving through the neighborhood on game day!

The Ave: University Avenue is filled with dive bars and cheap eats and doubles as the location of the Saturday Farmers market. Great people watching and definitely a good time.

University Village: Right down the hill from the campus sits U Village a modern outdoor shopping mall filled with of mostly higher end stores. I recommend eating at Din Tai Fung – amazing dumplings.

Burke Gilman: This trial is a 27 mile bike and foot path that cuts right through the U Dist. In the summer it’s filled with joggers and cyclists and is the perfect way to pedal to other Seattle neighborhoods.

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Are there any downsides to the U Dist? Yes. Everything is geared toward the student body so if you're not in college you probably don't want to live here. Street parking is terrible, if you have a car and don't have your own designated parking spot you're going to have a hard time finding a spot. Ultimately the University District is perfect for students who want to live close to campus. There are some great spots to visit and soak up the collegiate culture.

Capitol Hill/Broadway is the most diverse, urban neighborhood in Seattle. It is home to many great restaurants, bars, and cafés. There is so much to see and do. I would say it’s a must visit neighborhood and could make a great place to call home; especially if you enjoy the hustle and bustle of an active urban neighborhood.

The combination of the Seattle University campus, an abundant number of bars, plus the center of the LGBT community, have shaped Capitol Hill into a fun, youthful, and energetic neighborhood. The nightlife is alive 7 days a week, making Capitol Hill the neighborhood Seattle celebrates in.

Besides delicious food and creative cocktails Capitol Hill is also known for a few other things that aren’t so great: Hipsters, homelessness, and drug use. A big city like Seattle is going to have these types of problems, and all the activities to draw them into the neighborhood.

The gentrification of Capitol Hill is a hot topic among Seattleites. The area around Broadway has gone through a dramatic transformation in the last 5 years. The neighborhood has been in a constant state of construction. Gone are many of the old 1 and 2 story mixed use buildings and in their place are expensive high rise condos. This is driving out the residents that gave Capitol Hill its personality and bringing in the upper class. Personally my biggest gripe with the explosion of Capitol Hill is the complete lack of parking around the neighborhood.

According to the real estate website, Zillow, the median home price in the neighborhood is $465,000, which seems really low. Off of Broadway there is a mix of old craftsman houses and new modern Seattle box homes, most of which regularly sell in the $800k range. Musician and Seattle native, Macklemore, purchased a 3 bedroom home in Capitol Hill for $2.1 million in 2015. Renting an apartment usually starts around $1,500 for a studio and can easily pass $2,000 if you have a car. There are still old, affordable apartment building in the neighborhood, but they are quickly being replaced.

Who should live in Capitol Hill? I would say singles, young couples, or anyone who enjoys the fast paced urban lifestyle and doesn’t mind construction noise. I think the rising prices are driving some folks away, which could ultimately change the personality of the neighborhood in the long run. Who should avoid Capitol Hill? Anyone who values peace and quiet and the ease of convenient parking.

Even if you Capitol Hill isn’t the neighborhood you call home it should be place to visit, some of my favorite places are:

Canon: Amazing speakeasy style bar serving craft cocktails. Some of the best drinks in the city!

Honey Hole: Late night sandwich shop/bar.

Bakery Nouveau: Delicious pastries and cafe

Dicks Drive In: Cheap burgers and an iconic Seattle location. Listen to Sir Mix-a-Lot’s “Posse on Broadway” while pulling up.

Vivace Espresso: It’s tiny, with no room to sit, but this has some of the best coffee in Seattle.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery: After you get a real coffee from Vivace visit this Starbucks where they roast their beans for their “reserve” line in house.
The space is amazing.

Ferrari of Seattle: I absolutely love looking at the cars through the window.

Thread & Needle: Right across the street from Ferrari is another cocktail lounge, but this one has a secret, pick up the phone on the wall next to the giant safe and you'll be invited to a secret speakeasy.

Columbia City sits just south of Seattle and was labeled as one of the 10 Hottest Neighborhoods according to Seattle Met magazine; in fact it was branded as “the next hot ticket”. What makes Columbia such a hot ticket? Well its mix of old and new a melting pot of culture. Columbia City has a great walkable main drag that has a host of restaurants and bars. There is a Light Rail station which lets riders go south to the airport and commute easily to downtown; and soon the U-District. According to the last census the Columbia City zip code of 98118 was one of the most diverse zip codes, with 59 different languages spoken throughout the neighborhood.

With the convenience of the light rail, noteworthy restaurants, and cute craftsman homes Columbia City has been hot for a few years and like most trending Seattle neighborhoods home prices and rent is (quickly) on the rise. In fact home prices in 2015 rose 15% from the previous year and inventory is low according to Zillow, the real estate website. The current average home price is $440,000. The neighborhood is split nearly down the middle with slightly more renters than homeowners. Columbia City has a bit of everything housing wise, from little bungalows to high-rise apartments and million dollar modern homes.

Outside the home there is a lot to see and do around Columbia City. Seward Park and Lake Washington are right down the hill. Genesee Park stretches through the neighborhood down to the lake. The Jefferson Park Golf Course is nearby and downtown is 10 minute ride on the light rail. Some of my favorite things in Columbia City are:

Geraldine’s Counter – come here for brunch or eat breakfast anytime of the day
Island Soul – yummy Caribbean restaurant
Tagla Café – Ethiopian fair
La Teranga – The only Senegalese food in the city, its West African style dishes
Tacos El Asadero – I love a good taco truck

Who should live in Columbia City? Anyone who is looking for a small neighborhood feel with easy access to the city. Columbia City is a great area for those looking to buy their first home, but like many hot Seattle neighborhoods inventory is low and homes often sell for above asking price. As each year passes prices rise and finding a home to buy or rent become more and more competitive. In my opinion the neighborhood is best for couples and families, or singles looking to live away from the congestion of the city. If living in a neighborhood with a cozy walkable core, diverse residents and food, and easy access to public transportation, Columbia City would make a wonderful home.

Bellevue, Seattle’s neighbor across Lake Washington is consistently ranked as one the top cities in America and is known for its affluent residents, good schools, and low crime.

Bellevue is perfect for families, overall the schools are better than Seattle, which can be hit or miss. There are plenty of parks and crime is almost nonexistent.

If you’re young and single Bellevue has its areas that are fun, but it is an entirely different animal compared to Seattle. If you prefer clubs over pubs and valet parking is your ideal method to park, then Bellevue might be exactly what the doctor ordered. Currently there is a boom for high rise apartments and condos.

If you’re working in Seattle and need to commute from Bellevue I would highly recommend riding the bus. Many companies offer a subsidized bus pass and commuting to a park and ride station for most is quick and the bus will be so much faster (and cheaper) than commuting by car.

My favorite places:

John Howie Steak – I can’t afford a steak here, but the burger is amazing. It’s only served during lunch so plan accordingly.

Din Tia Fung – The go to place for dumplings.

Seastar Restaurant and Bar – Their Seattle location closed, making this the only location for this favorite PNW style seafood.

Bellevue Square – A huge mall with everything and plenty of choices to eat.

Lincoln Square – Another mall but this one has a bowling alley, a pool hall, and a gigantic movie theater.

The Bravern – More shopping, but only this mall has stores like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, so don’t forget your wallet.

Who should live in Bellevue? Anyone that can afford it! Bellevue was named the 2nd best city to live in according to a 2014 USA Today survey. Resident’s value space, safety, convenience, peace and quiet, along with the finer things life has to offer.

Comparing two equally priced homes in Seattle and Bellevue the Seattle home will be smaller in square footage and lot size. The home in Bellevue will have a large yard, while the one in Seattle might not even have a yard. Also it is very common for Seattle home to only have a single car garage, and require a parking pass from the city for street parking. While a Bellevue home would have a full drive way and parking to 2 or more cars.

The downsides to Bellevue? The cost of living is the only downside. The city has one of the highest income per capita rates in the state of Washington, which makes the housing market just out of reach for many folks, pushing them further north or south.

Who knew there was a beach in Seattle! As the name suggests, Sunset Hill has amazing Seattle sunsets. The neighborhood just west of Ballard is home to a variety of homes, a few cozy areas for restaurants, and one great beach. The homes in Sunset Hill are a mix of a few apartments, but mostly single family homes.

The biggest draw to Sunset Hill is Golden Gardens park, home to one of the best beaches in Seattle and the only (public) sandy beach that I’m aware of. The park is pretty large, but in the summer months draws a crowd every day and fills up fast. Finding a parking spot can require a long walk. Be sure to get there extra early if you want to have your own fire pit. It goes without saying that the sunset from Golden Gardens is top notch. Technically the Locks are in Sunset Hill, but since they’re unofficially named the “Ballard Locks” I’ll skip talking about that park in this review.

As far as restaurants goes, you’ll find more of a selection in Ballard, but Sunset Hill has some real gems. Most of the eateries are along the water, including Ray’s Boathouse, a Seattle seafood staple. There used to be a Paseo, the famous sandwich shop, but that location has closed during the change in ownership and no date has been set for a reopening. There are also a few restaurants and cafes on 32nd Ave near 65th Ave.

Here are some great Sunset Hill eateries that I enjoy:

Ray’s Boathouse Café – Be sure to sit outside in the summer months and take in the sea and mountain views.

Portage Bay – A Seattle breakfast staple, with a wonderful fresh fruit toppings bar.

Red Mill Totem House – Great burgers and milk shakes. Try the onion rings!

Ristorante Picolinos – A cute little Italian restaurant. I recommend sitting outside in the patio.


If you’re a renter, living in Sunset Hill has its limitations, there are only a few apartment buildings and most are dated units without modern amenities. Ballard is a better choice for renters and is very close. If you are looking to buy a home in Sunset Hill, it is a wonderful neighborhood, but inventory is scarce and prices are high. According to Zillow data the average home in Sunset Hill sells for close to $700,000, and those with views are easily double that.

Who is Sunset Hill great for? Families with deep pockets looking for a quiet neighborhood with amazing views and close to all that Ballard has to offer.

Everyone should visit Sunset Hill to check out Golden Gardens.

WHAT I LOVE – There is SO much to do here. I love the outdoors and Seattle allows me to have a great job and play outside. In fact during the winter I can work an 8 hour day and go snowboarding at Snoqualmie Pass and be home by 11pm. Cycling is great here, the city and surrounding area is very bicycle friendly.

My next favorite thing is the food and the amazing options we have. There is too much to list, but a few of my favorites are: Paseo, Tats, La Carta De Oaxaca, Ma’ono Fried Chicken and Whisky, and Marination.

The people are friendly, I’ve met so many great people living here. I do believe in the ‘Seattle Freeze’ though, Seattleites are very passive and people will be very polite, hold the door open, smile and such, but many don’t like to dive into conversations with strangers.

All and all, after living here for 8 years Seattle feels smaller than it is, and I would recommend living here to anyone. Some of my favorites are:

My favorite neighborhood: Ballard – away from downtown with lots of food and options.
My favorite getaway: Bainbridge Island for a bicycle ride and Stevens Pass to snowboard.
My favorite team: The Seahawks – Seattle has a devoted fan base for the Seahawks and the Sounders, out MLS team.
My favorite park: Golden Gardens – amazing sunsets with mountain views and sandy beaches.
My favorite secret spot: The Russel Investment Center – this high rise has an outdoor patio on the 17th floor open to the public, which has amazing downtown and water views. When a Seahawk game is televised at night the building lights up a giant ‘12’ facing the water.


WHAT I DON’T LOVE – Real estate and rent is quickly approaching San Francisco levels of prices. The average apartment rents for $1,834 as of October 2015. According to Zillow, the average home is $521,000 and that’s for an old fixer upper. My girlfriend and I pay $2,100 for a 720 sqft apartment with parking for one car and a storage unit.

The reason it’s on the rise is because tech companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Expedia, and Zillow call Seattle home. There is also a thriving start-up culture that draws a lot of talent; not to mention companies like Google, Facebook, Twitter, eBay, Apple and more have satellite offices in the city.

Besides affordable housing Seattle suffers from the same problems as any other fast growing city, such as homelessness and crime. But traffic and parking are at the forefront of Seattle’s problems. The city is working on its bus program and will soon add a subway system to connect several neighborhoods.

HOW ABOUT THE RAIN? – Yes it rains here, but come in the summer months and you’ll be blown away. We even have our own beaches! The rain here is more of a drizzle than a downpour so most locals will forgo an umbrella. Even with the rain it’s common to see droves of cyclists commuting downtown.

Fremont is affectionately called the “center of the universe” and for good reason, it’s centrally located in Seattle and close to everything.

The neighborhood is eclectic and has a mix of modern styling and hippy culture. Fremont has some of the best restaurants in the city and is home to tech giants like Google, Tableau, Impinj and more. Rather than being a hub for tech, Fremont is known for being home to hippie culture and most notably the Summer Solstice parade, which includes a naked bike ride, and the Fremont Troll, a giant statue of a troll under the Aurora Bridge.

Fremont has a fun personality all its own and that is reflected in its residents. You’ll find college students in rentals, professionals in new modern apartment complexes, young families in a mix of both old and new homes, and older folks in classic Seattle houses.

As a single professional, living in Fremont was awesome. My commute to downtown was a really quick bike ride or bus trip. The nightlife is fun, but not as immense as Capitol Hill and the crowd is a bit younger than Ballard – you’ll find a lot of college aged and/or just out of college people.

There is so much to do and see in Fremont and it feels like something is always going on. The Burke Gilman trails follows the water and is a great trail to run or bike. Gas Works Park has an amazing view of South Lake Union and Downtown, it’s a great place to have a picnic and watch the boats and seaplanes.


Some of my favorite places in Fremont are:

Paseo – The #1 restaurant in Yelp, they serve up Cuban sandwiches and there is always a line.

Rue – Southern comfort food, try the fired chicken and waffles for brunch.

Uneeda Burger – Burgers, fries, and milkshakes.

Revel – Korean fusion set in a modern atmosphere.

Brouwer’s Café – Belgian Pub with a huge beer selection.

Jai Thai – Thai food at its best.

Theo Chocolate – Local fair trade chocolate factory; take a tour!

Fremont Brewery – Excellent beer selection but bring your own snacks, they don’t serve food. Awesome spot in the summer months.

Miir – Part bike shop, coffee shop, and brewery. A great place to chill.

Cascade Bike Works – Boutique bicycle shop.

Evo – Action sport shop. Amazing selection of ski, snowboard, wake, skate, surf, and bike gear. They even have a skate park in the basement.

Recycled Cycles – New and used bike shop.

Freemont sounds like a perfect place to live. What are the downsides? The cost of living is high; rent is higher than most Seattle neighborhoods and will only go up as more tech companies move into the neighborhood. Street parking can be a pain, so if you plan on moving here with a vehicle opt for a place with off street parking. The neighborhood is full of events and activities, which bring in people and noise, so if peace and quiet is your ideal atmosphere Freemont might not be the best choice.

Green Lake is one of Seattle’s local gems. It is home to Seattle’s best park, which carries the same name as the neighborhood; Green Lake.
The park is a major attraction for Seattle locals. The lake has two swimming areas, a boat rental and grandstands for rowing races. In the summer the lake is filled with paddle boats, stand up and paddle boards, canoes, kayaks, and lots of swimmers. Beyond water activities the park has a 3 mile shared paved path for runners and walkers, which is extremely popular. The park also has baseball fields, tennis courts, a skate park, bmx jumps, BBQ areas, and much more.

The Green Lake neighborhood has several great restaurants, cafés, and stores, which mostly caters to the active neighborhood. In fact there are no less than 3 running stores.

The neighborhood is mostly single family homes, but there are many apartments including the newly finished Green Lake village complex. Green Lake is a perfect place to live for singles who prioritize the activities the lake has to offer over downtown living. The neighborhood has plenty of restaurants but it doesn’t have much of a diverse night life. The University of Washington is nearby making Green Lake a good choice for students.

For families, Green Lake is amazing – it’s quiet, close to I-5, and near downtown. For kids the park had tons of activities, and the Woodland Park Zoo is 5 minutes away. Its only drawback is the prices for new homes, which tend to sell fast and for above asking price.

Some of my favorite places in Green Lake are:

Gregg's Cycles - consistently voted best bike shop in Seattle.
Super Jock n Jill - local running store, join their group run on Monday nights.
Shelter Lounge - contemporary lounge
The Butcher & the Baker - go here for brunch

55th is a gateway to some of the best Seattle has to offer. The street runs east to west, from I-5 to Green Lake/Woodland Park, and right in the middle is the Tangletown neighborhood.

55th Street has easy access to I-5, making commuting a breeze for those working north or south of Seattle. If you work downtown the Seattle Metro Bus runs right through Tangletown.

The neighborhood around 55th is quiet and has wonderful homes. Many are older with character, but new construction is scattered among the neighborhood. The area is called Tangletown because of the maze of streets; they twist and turn rather than being laid out in a grid. Homes around 55th are very desirable, making for a very competitive real estate market. There are few apartments in the area.

55th is home to many great restaurants, a few of my favorites are:

Elysian Brewing Company - Local Seattle brewery with pub fare
Leny's Tavern - Dive bar with lot's of tv's and bar food
Burgundian - Modern tavern with comfort food and cocktails
Mighty-O Donuts - Delicious cake style donuts
Zoka Coffee - Local coffee house
Kisaku - Classic sushi

To the west of 55th lies Green Lake and Woodland park, two of Seattle's largest and most popular parks with something for everyone. These two parks have tennis courts, hiking trails, picnic areas, a skate park, bmx dirt jumps, a soccer field, multiple baseball fields, and a track. The lake itself has boat rentals, two swimming areas, a 3.5 mile path around the late, a rowing center, and more.

Who should live around 55th street? Anyone who wants a quiet neighborhood with easy access to outdoor activities with local neighborhood eateries. I would avoid the area if you're on a budget or if you are looking for interesting nightlife.

The Magnolia Bridge and West Dravus Street are the only two roads that drivers can use to access Magnolia, which makes for a very quiet neighborhood.
Magnolia is built on a hilly peninsula. The Puget Sound is to the south and west, creating breathtaking views of downtown, the San Juan Islands, and massive cargo ships coming and going. The Lake Washington Ship Canal is to the north, home to the Hiram Chittenden Locks (or Ballard Locks), one of Seattle most popular tourist attractions.

The neighborhood is quiet and filled with cute single family homes and several parks; making Magnolia perfect for families. There are not very many apartments or condos, though some apartments are located on the eastern side, close to the train tracks. Homes in Magnolia are slightly above average for Seattle, there are also many expensive homes with water views. Magnolia doesn’t have any bad parts and crime is very low.

The heart of Magnolia has two grocery stores and several restaurants so it is very self-contained. There are two bus routes, the 19 and 24 that access Magnolia, but no express buses. The parks in Magnolia are some of the best in the city. Also, the roads are very bicycle friendly and access to downtown is very easy. It is only 4 miles to downtown by bike along a protected bike path that follows the water.

I would say Magnolia is great for families and those buying a home. Singles who want a vibrant nightlife should avoid Magnolia.


Some of my favorite places in Magnolia are:

Niko’s Gyros – Family Greek restaurant
El Ranchon – Wonderful Mexican restaurant
Time 4 Pho – Vietnamese noodle soup, perfect for rainy Seattle days
Palisade – A nice sit-down restaurant with views of downtown and the water
Discovery Park – A huge park with breathtaking views, check out the hiking trails and lighthouse
Ballard Locks – A Seattle top attraction and an easy walk to Ballard’s restaurants
Fisherman’s Terminal – Several restaurants and home to many fishing boats, visitors can walk among the large Alaskan fishing boats