Seattle is the 13th fastest growing city in the nation. While it used to rank higher, it still has a much larger population than it ever did before. As the tech industry only grows more deeply rooted into Seattle culture, cost of living has skyrocketed. If you’re planning to move your family to Seattle, but are debating the details this article is exactly what you need to know.
Understanding Seattle’s Cost of Living
According to Massachusetts Institute of Technology Living Wage Calculator, a living wage for a family of four in Seattle is a minimum of $103,000 gross per year. This takes into account expenses like housing, childcare, food, transportation, and healthcare. So, how much does it cost families to live in Seattle?
Here’s a breakdown of some key cost factors:
- Housing: Seattle housing is notoriously expensive. Median home prices can be significantly higher than the national average. Renting can also be pricey, with studios averaging over $1,000 per month bestplaces.net.
- Transportation: Public transportation is readily available in Seattle, but gas prices tend to be higher than the national average. Owning a car adds to the overall cost of living.
- Childcare: Childcare costs in Seattle are above the national average. Expect to pay an average of $1,500 per month for infant care niche.com.
- Education: If you want your children in private school expect to pay almost double what you would outside of the greater Seattle area.
Top Neighborhoods for Raising a Family
Seattle Housing: Brace Yourself for a Pricey Paradise
Seattle’s beauty comes at a cost, especially when it comes to housing. Owning a home here will set you back a pretty penny. Here’s a breakdown to help you budget:
- The median home price in Seattle is a whopping $823,900. That’s 143.7% more expensive than the national average and a hefty 54.1% more than the Washington state average.
- If buying isn’t in the cards, renting isn’t much easier on the wallet. A typical two-bedroom apartment will cost you around $2,410 per month. That’s 68.5% more than the national average and 28.2% more than the state average.
The Bottom Line: Seattle housing is undeniably expensive. Be prepared to adjust your budget or explore different neighborhoods to find something that fits your needs.
Eastside Havens:
- Kirkland (98033): Nestled across Lake Washington, Kirkland offers a charming downtown, excellent schools (including top-ranked Lake Washington High School), and a strong sense of community. The commute to Seattle varies depending on location, but expect a 20-35 minute drive or a scenic ferry ride.
- Redmond (98052): Home to Microsoft, Redmond boasts a family-friendly vibe with numerous parks, a top-rated school district (Redmond High School), and easy access to nature trails. The commute to Seattle can range from 20-45 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
- Bellevue (98004): Bellevue’s diverse neighborhoods offer something for everyone. Bellevue School District is highly regarded, and families will find a plethora of parks, from Kelsey Creek Park to the Meydenbauer Center. The commute to Seattle is manageable, ranging from 15-40 minutes by car or light rail.
Seattle Proper Gems:
- Ballard (98107): This trendy neighborhood boasts a strong sense of community, with the Ballard Farmers Market and Golden Gardens Park as central hubs. Ballard boasts good schools (Salmon Bay K-8) and a relaxed family atmosphere. The commute to downtown Seattle is a breeze, with a 10-15 minute drive or a convenient bus ride.
- Greenwood (98103): Greenwood offers a mix of affordability and family-friendly amenities. Green Lake Park provides ample green space for recreation, and the neighborhood is known for its excellent public schools (Greenwood Elementary). The commute to downtown Seattle is convenient, with a 15-20 minute drive or bus ride.
- Wedgwood (98102): This hidden gem features a mix of single-family homes and apartments. Wedgwood offers easy access to parks like Ravenna Park, and the schools are well-regarded (John Stanford International School). The commute to downtown Seattle is manageable, with a 20-25 minute drive or bus ride.
Remember: “Lower cost of living” in a Seattle suburb is relative. While these areas may be more affordable than Seattle itself, they likely won’t be budget-busters.
How much dos daycare and preschool cost in Washington?
Finding the perfect childcare can feel like a big adventure, and navigating costs can be part of the journey! Here’s a quick guide to childcare options in the Seattle area:
Seattle
Seattle offers a wealth of childcare options with nearly 1,000 providers in the city. This variety allows you to find the perfect place for your little one to feel right at home. When it comes to budgeting, the average monthly price for full-time childcare in Seattle falls around $1,480. Thankfully, the Seattle Preschool Program can offer a helping hand. This program provides financial assistance on a sliding scale for all three and four-year-olds in Seattle, making childcare more accessible.
Beyond Seattle
Tacoma childcare
In Tacoma, parents can expect to spend an average of $1315 a month on full-time childcare.
Bellevue Child Care
Bellvue families can expect to pay upwards of $2235 a month for full-time childcare, nearly double the cost of other cities.
Kent Childcare
According to provider data on Winnie, childcare in Kent costs an average of $1230 a month.
Hidden Costs to Consider
Finding the perfect childcare fit goes beyond the monthly price tag. Here are some additional factors to keep in mind:
- Registration Fees: Some programs have application fees or deposits to hold your child’s spot.
- Food: Not all programs include meals. Be sure to factor in the cost of packing lunches or snacks if needed for your child’s specific program. For infants, formula and breast milk may also need to be provided.
- Transportation: Consider transportation costs of getting your child to and from daycare, whether you drive, use public transport, or have another arrangement.
With some research and planning, you can find a fantastic childcare option that fits your family’s needs and budget in the Seattle area!
How much does it cost to own a car in Seattle?
Washington State – $7,151 Annually
The Evergreen State places eighth on the list of costliest states to own a car because it is the second highest Average Annual Gas Cost ($2,421) and Average Annual Vehicle Tax rate ($1,704), along with the third highest Average Annual Maintenance Cost ($1,267). Washington is in the bottom half of States for Average Annual Insurance Premium Cost ($1,759).
If you would like to dive into more data regarding Washington State, click here.
How much does it cost to send my kid to private school?
Seattle boasts a significant number of private schools, offering a diverse range of educational philosophies and religious affiliations. However, this privilege comes at a premium. According to Private School Review, the average tuition cost for private schools in Seattle is $20,410 per year. This is higher than the Washington state average of $13,337, making private school a significant investment for families considering this educational path for their children.
Click here to read a comprehensive breakdown of the best private and public schools in Seattle.
Seattle offers a fantastic lifestyle with so much access to nature that very few metropolitan areas can match, and with careful planning, you can make it work for your family. By understanding the cost of living and exploring affordable neighborhoods, you can find your perfect spot in the Emerald City. Remember, there’s more to a neighborhood than just the price tag. Consider your lifestyle needs and priorities to make the best choice for your family.
