Why people move to Seattle?
You may think that people move to Seattle because of the coffee, but that’s not the only reason. Sure there is a coffee shop on every corner in the city because coffee is good and popular there, but there are quite a few other reason why people move to Seattle. If you do a search online you will find mixed reviews of the city and the Seattleites. Thus, as we always recommend, before moving to Seattle, visit the city and talk to the locals. Get the mood for yourself by walking the streets and feeling the rain. Oh, yes the rain, because it really rains there. People say it rains sometimes every day and it stops sometimes. In this what to know before moving to Seattle guide, we will try to provide some city data, opinions, advice and general information about the current situation in the city, as well as some things to know before moving to Seattle relocation information.
Things to know before moving to Seattle
It Rains
Yes hundreds of people say it rains a lot, so it must be true. If you are not sure whether to believe it, just go spend a week in the city during any season and let us know. Rain is good though, yet the lack of sufficient sunny days makes it less attractive even to locals. When the sun is shining though, all the life is good.
No State Income Tax
Seattle, Washington is one of the few states that don’t impose a state income tax. Some senators have tried to implement it, but it never happened. There is a sales tax of 6.5 % though, but compare to other major US cities this is a decent rate.
Seattle Economy
Seattle’s economy has been quite stable over the years although recession had an impact on the city. The unemployment rate is around 7% yet the job growth is quite notable. Seattle is popular with the fact that more than 50% of the population holds higher education degree. Most of these degrees are in the IT field as the city is known for the high tech jobs. Google, Amazon and Microsoft all have a big influence in the area. Computer programmers and Software Development Engineers are some of the top job positions, along with healthcare jobs.
Moving to Seattle cost of living and house market
Depending on the lifestyle you want to lead there are some things to consider. Seattle is not among the most affordable US cities. It is not as expensive as New York City or San Francisco, so if you are moving to Seattle from New York you will like it. Moving to Seattle from California is another matter. Some Seattleites claim that Californians are taking over and this is probably because of the great opportunities and more affordable lifestyle that still somewhat matches Cali style. So, a relocation to Seattle WA may prove a great choice for many from around the US. Housing market is good, but our Seattle moving advice to you is to contact a real estate agent to find you a home. Whoever has moved to Seattle claims that. This is a well-oiled system that has no way around. You will need an agent to find you a home. There are 1 bedrooms for around $1000/month and most 2 bedrooms in the city start at $1400.
Seattle public transportation and entertainment
Seattle is one of the most affordable US cities. Check out the complete Seattle moving guide for info on how to relocate for less.
Public transportation is a controversial topic. Some say it is really good, some just laugh at that. I would say like most big US cities, the public transportation system needs work. The city does offer some variety of moving options to get around, but it is still only for the city area. Since you are moving to Seattle though, check out the city transit options. One of the best transportation options in the city is the Seattle Street Car, an European way of transportation that we don’t see in many US cities.
Entertainment and culture is something you will love
For most people in Seattle the culture and surroundings are more important than their home or job. The city has a whole neighborhood named Broadway, which is the most densely populated with culture lovers and artists. It is also known as ‘Capitol Hill’ and it is the artsy center of Seattle with mostly young and hip singles with quite good income. This is all a recipe for endless social and cultural activities. With coffee shops on every corner that feature evening gatherings with live music, quite a few theaters, museums and festivals year around Seattle’s cultural life is eventful and satisfactory.
Moving to Seattle options
Now a few things to know before moving to Seattle concerning your moving options. It all depends on your type of moving, your budget and requirements. How you are going to relocate is entirely up to you. There are plenty of Seattle moving companies you can research and contact for a quote. Or, you can move by yourself which may save you money. It may because it depends. When you ask how much does it cost to move to Seattle, there is no one-sided answer. There are ways on how to save on moving costs, but it all depends on your moving. Some types of moving may come less expensive if done by professional movers, while others may require only your friends’ help. If you decide to go for the self moving services, consider reading our self moving guide. It will give you some practical advice on how to prepare for the moving and what to do. If you choose to go for Seattle relocation services, then compare moving companies and choose wisely.
Seattle moving companies
There are plenty of state-to-state movers to choose from. How to choose a moving company though is not an easy task. Moving can be stressful and trying event. People move for different reasons, yet one thing is always the same – the fact that you move your whole life. Thus, hiring Seattle moving companies is not easy. First question people ask is how much does it cost to hire movers, and it depends. Depends on whether you are moving from New York or moving from California. It depends on how much stuff you are moving, how heavy they are, and often depends on their volume. Moving to Seattle from Los Angeles will cost differently, then moving to Seattle from Boston. Therefore, you have to contact a few Seattle moving companies and get quotes.
Seattle Relocation Information
Moving to Seattle Washington is easier with a professional moving company. Now it is even easier to set your moving budget by getting a free moving cost estimate online.
You can get a moving quote right here on our site as well. Get a free moving cost estimate fast and easy and plan your moving budget.
Once you collect a few moving quotes, compare the rates and moving services you have been offered. Moving rates will vary based on your point of origin – rates are different for the different states. If you require additional full coverage, besides the basic liability insurance, you will have to pay more. Thus, there are quite a few things to know before moving to Seattle that will affect the cost of your moving. Before you choose a moving company though, don’t forget to check the company’s rating Read Seattle moving companies reviews and compare their reputation. What people say about the service of a particular company is important. However, if there are a couple of bad moving reviews do not automatically consider the company as bad. Talk to the moving agents, ask for references and then decide whether to go with this company or not. Also, do not forget to check the standard elements – Seattle moving companies’ license and associations affiliation. Check if the company is registered with BBB and AMSA. Do your research in order to avoid moving scams.
Let us know if you need more moving to Seattle tips and we will gladly advise you. You can also read our moving day tips to be better prepared. Good luck with your relocation and don’t forget to share your moving story.
