Top 7 Best neighborhoods in Seattle with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Crime rate: 0.42 per 1,000 people
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,895
• Average home price: $1,060,187

North Admiral is a vibrant neighborhood filled with history, being known as the oldest neighborhood in West Seattle. North Admiral is a waterfront neighborhood where most travel via the King County Water Taxi. The neighborhood is easily accessible, as it is an 18-minute drive to Downtown Seattle. Residents can also take a ferry to Downtown Seattle, which only costs $1 and takes 15 minutes.

This area is perfect for those looking to rent their first apartment or for young couples, as you have all the amenities within walking distance. Locals love to enjoy their time at Alki Beach, where they can take a long walk or have picnics in the sun. North Admiral is also very safe with a low crime rate of 0.42 crimes per 1,000 people. 

As of December 2023, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,895, and the average home price is $1,060,187.

Seattle Police Department City Maps (Dec 2022), Zillow (Dec 2023) & Rockethomes (Dec 2023)

• Crime rate: 0.45 per 1,000 people
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,250
• Average home price: $979,975

Wallingford is a residential neighborhood located north of Lake Union. The neighborhood is situated 18 minutes from Downtown Seattle and is filled with panoramic views of the city. Locals enjoy spending their time cycling or walking on the Burke-Gilman Trail, which runs past the park. Students benefit from the location of Wallingford as it is a 7-minute drive to the University of Washington campus.

Wallingford is also conveniently located next to the major highway 5 for easy accessibility throughout the city. Many locals have noted that the major advantage of this neighborhood is its proximity to amenities without having to leave Wallingford. The neighborhood is also safe with a low crime rate of 0.45 crimes per 1,000 people. 

As of December 2023, the average home price is $979,975, with a 1-bed apartment renting for $2,250.

Seattle Police Department City Maps (Dec 2022), Zillow (Dec 2023) & Rockethomes (Dec 2023)

• Crime rate: 0.76 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,385
• Average home price: $3,160,000

Madison Park is a neighborhood located in east-central Seattle, Washington. The significant advantage of this neighborhood is its surroundings of green spaces, such as the Washington Park Arboretum, Broadmoor Golf Club, the Foster Point trail, and Lake Washington. If you have a furry friend, Madison Park is the place for you, as the neighborhood is equipped with its own dog parks.

Residents appreciate the overall safety of Madison Park, with a crime rate of 0.76 per 1,000 people. Madison Park also has multiple high-quality schools recommended by locals, such as McGilvra Elementary School and the Bush School. The neighborhood also has its own market known as Bert’s Red Apple Market, which has been open for many generations, providing local groceries. 

As of December 2023, the average home price is approximately $3,160,000 with 1-bed apartments renting for $2,385. 

Seattle Police Department City Maps (Dec 2022), Zillow (Dec 2023) & Rockethomes (Dec 2023)

• Crime rate: 0.45 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $1,850
• Average home price: $852,285

Ballard is a neighborhood located in the northwestern area of Seattle. If you are looking for a vibrant and trendy neighborhood, Ballard is the place for you. Many locals appreciate the Sunday farmer’s market, with all amenities within walking distance.

Many residents shared the same sentiment of feeling safe on the streets of Ballard. This is proven with the area’s low crime rate of 0.45 crimes per 1,000 people. It has been noted that Ballard is especially enjoyable during the summer due to outdoor dining options, coffee shops, Golden Gardens Park, and nightlife spots like Hale’s Ales Pub and Hazlewood.

As of December 2023, the average home price is $852,285 and renting a 1-bed apartment costs approximately $1,850.

Seattle Police Department City Maps (Dec 2022), Zillow (Dec 2023) & Rockethomes (Dec 2023)

• Crime rate: 1.14 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,400
• Average home price: $645,000

The neighborhood of Belltown is filled with high-rise condos and some of Seattle’s hip dining spots. Locals appreciate the accessibility of public transportation options in this area. The area is also a five-minute drive to Downtown Seattle or a 20-minute walk. Most of the residents in this area do not own vehicles, as walking or cycling is preferred. 

If you love being immersed in busy city life, Belltown is the place for you. You can find residents at the Pike Place Market which has locally made specialty foods. The area is assuredly one of the best neighborhoods in Seattle with a crime rate of 1.14 per 1,000 people. It has been noted by locals that the homeless population has increased in Belltown, however, it does not take away from the neighborhood’s beauty.

As of December 2023, the average home price is $645,000, and the cost of renting a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,400.

Seattle Police Department City Maps (Dec 2022), Zillow (Dec 2023) & Rockethomes (Dec 2023)

• Crime rate: 2.01 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,000
• Average home price: $1,150,000

Bounded on the east by Lake Washington, Madrona is a residential haven. Locals have noted that the area is known to be costly; therefore, it is best for those looking for an upscale and serene lifestyle. Nonetheless, Madrona offers its residents local libraries, an annual Mayfair, and green spaces.

The area is perfect for raising a family, as it is also known for its top schools like Garfield High School, Northwood Elementary School, and Cascadia Elementary School. Madrona is also equipped with its own beach, known as Madrona Beach, where locals wind down on their days off.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,000, and the average home price is $1,150,000 as of December 2023. With a reported crime rate of 2.01 per 1,000 people, it provides a sense of security.

Seattle Police Department City Maps (Dec 2022), Zillow (Dec 2023) & Rockethomes (Dec 2023)

• Crime rate: 2.25 crimes per 1,000 people
• Average 1-bed apt rent: $2,950
• Average home price: $725,000

If you are looking to settle in a neighborhood right outside the city center with city amenities, Arbor Heights is the place for you. Located in West Seattle, the area is known for its stunning views and Downtown strip known as White Center, where you can find dining and bar options. As for safety, Arbor Heights has a crime rate of 2.25 crimes per 1,000 people. 

This neighborhood features community parks, recreational areas, and beautiful natural settings for outdoor relaxation; a community favorite is Lincoln Park. The neighborhood also plans its own events, with the Arbor Heights Swim and Tennis Club offering physical activities for the children of the area.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,950, and the average home price is $725,000 as of December 2023.

Seattle Police Department City Maps (Dec 2022), Zillow (Dec 2023) & Rockethomes (Dec 2023)