Belltown is a centrally located Seattle neighborhood known for its urban lifestyle and proximity to…
Living in West Seattle: A Complete Neighborhood Guide
As Seattle’s top-rated moving company, we get a lot of questions about the Greater Seattle Area and which neighborhoods are best. One we often recommend is West Seattle, a laid-back neighborhood famous for its restaurants and city views.
If you are curious about what West Seattle has to offer, our hope is that this blog post will give you the information needed to make an educated decision about moving here.
West Seattle Alki Point
What Makes West Seattle Unique
West Seattle is a distinctive part of Seattle located west of the Duwamish River, offering a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. The community feels connected yet separate from the rest of the city, with Alki Beach and waterfront parks providing iconic views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and the Seattle skyline. West Seattle rarely feels like a typical urban neighborhood; instead, it combines coastal charm with a strong local identity that many residents describe as “small-town within a big city.”
1. You Can Get to Downtown Seattle in Just 15 Minutes
Seattle is a busy place, maybe you’re looking for a home that’s near the action without being overwhelmed by it.
West Seattle offers the best of both worlds by putting you near the growing metropolitan without subjecting you to the chaos of being in the center of the city. You can have the peace and quiet of West Seattle, with the bustling downtown just minutes away!
If you don’t feel like driving, there are a variety of public transportation options. One that comes with a side of ocean air is the water taxi that leaves from Seacrest park. Hop on the water taxi to enjoy a short 15-minute ride straight into Downtown Seattle. This is especially convenient for individuals who work in Seattle or commute there often. See the water taxi schedule and fares here.
2. The West Seattle Community is Chill
The community in West Seattle consists mainly of retirees, young professionals, empty nesters, and families. This creates a laid back environment that is great for raising a family or dog! This is also a great neighborhood for folks who prefer to sleep without the sounds of nightlife outside.
West Seattle residents report that the community is overall very relaxed, creating a safe environment for everyone.
3. Traffic Can be Bad
The one complaint we hear from people in West Seattle is this — the traffic can suck. But then again, traffic is terrible in every neighborhood and suburb of Seattle.
So if you work in or commute to central Seattle daily, we’d recommend giving yourself plenty of wiggle room when you leave your home, just in case there is traffic.
The bridge connecting West Seattle to downtown Seattle gets congested during rush hour so plan to leave your house very early if you have an appointment to make or arrange transport that doesn’t require passing over the bridge (i.e. the water taxi).
4. West Seattle Has Beaches & Cityscape Views
West Seattle offers peaceful beaches to walk along and gorgeous Seattle skyline views. If you want the best vantage point in the house, take a stroll along the north end of Alki Beach around dusk.
While being smack in the center of Seattle sounds nice for some, it is hard to get a good view of the city when you’re stuck inside of it. One of the perks of life in West Seattle is that you always have an iconic view of the Emerald City right outside your front door.
5. West Seattle is Great for Families
West Seattle, as mentioned above, is a really chill part of Seattle. It is home mostly to laid back professionals and retirees — making it a really safe part of Seattle to raise a family in.
Due to its vicinity to beaches and nature, West Seattle is a wonderful place to raise a family with a range of outdoor activities. With access to nature, parks, and community-centric activities, quality of life for families in West Seattle is pretty high (see family moving).
6. West Seattle Has Dining Options
Though not downtown Seattle or Bellevue, West Seattle has a host of excellent dining options as well.
Whether you are looking for ethnic cuisines like Indian, Korean, Japanese, or Italian, West Seattle has a plethora of options for you.
Vegan or vegetarian? Check out Chaco Canyon Organic Cafe and grab a healthy smoothie or a delicious coconut yogurt breakfast bowl.
7. West Seattle Has Great Transit
If you’d prefer not to drive your own vehicle in and out of Seattle, consider taking one of West Seattle’s commuter busses. They are fast, convenient, and run fairly often.
While commuting to downtown Seattle and other more populous areas at first can feel like a challenge to people moving from Bellevue or central Seattle, West Seattle has a good and efficient bus system that’ll get you where you want to go in a minimal time frame.
Useful Resource
What is Seattle Known For
Living In Seattle
What It’s Like to Live in West Seattle
Residents of West Seattle enjoy a relaxed lifestyle that doesn’t sacrifice access to urban amenities. The neighborhood attracts a diverse mix of families, young professionals, and retirees. Community events, local markets, and seasonal festivals help foster neighborhood engagement year-round. Daily life often includes outdoor recreation, waterfront walks, and easy access to restaurants and shops — all set against sweeping views of Puget Sound.
Housing and Neighborhood Character
West Seattle’s housing market includes a range of options, from classic bungalows and Craftsman homes to contemporary condos and townhouses with water or city views. Areas such as Admiral, Morgan Junction, and the Junction district each offer their own character and feel. Home styles vary widely, accommodating different lifestyles and budgets while reflecting the community’s scenic surroundings.
Parks, Beaches, and Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor recreation is one of West Seattle’s biggest draws. Alki Beach Park spans roughly 2.5 miles along Elliott Bay and is a hub for walking, beach volleyball, kayaking, and sunset views. Lincoln Park provides over 120 acres of trails, picnic areas, and waterfront access — ideal for hiking and nature experiences. Schmitz Park preserves old-growth forest within the city, offering quiet hiking paths and a sense of escape within Seattle.
Dining, Shopping, and Local Culture
The heart of community life is found around West Seattle Junction and surrounding commercial districts. Here, you’ll find locally owned restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and boutiques that give the neighborhood its vibrant flavor. Seasonal farmers markets and street fairs reinforce a sense of local culture, while community spaces offer opportunities for social gatherings and events that bring neighbors together.
Transportation and Commuting Options
West Seattle offers multiple routes to central Seattle. The West Seattle Bridge connects the peninsula to downtown, shortening travel time for drivers and transit users alike. Additionally, the Seattle Water Taxi provides a scenic commute into downtown for those who prefer a transit alternative with views of Elliott Bay. Public bus routes also serve many parts of West Seattle, making it possible to commute without relying solely on personal vehicles.
Is West Seattle a Good Place to Move To?
West Seattle appeals to people who want proximity to Seattle’s urban core while enjoying a more relaxed, seaside-influenced lifestyle. Its combination of parks, beaches, local commerce, and strong community identity makes it a popular choice for families, professionals, and anyone who values a balance between city access and natural surroundings. Many residents describe West Seattle as a place that feels like home from the moment they arrive.
Need Help Moving to West Seattle? We’re Here to Help!
Gearing up for a move to West Seattle? Let On The Go Moving help make your move easier through our professional moving services.
We offer a diverse range of moving plans and packages to meet the individual needs of our clients and would love to discuss a moving day plan with you.
To hear more about our moving and storage services and how we can help you with your West Seattle relocation, give us a call today.
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