Written by: Isaac Grant
Date:

When considering leaving your home in San Diego, you might be thinking about trying your luck in Seattle. Or maybe you have already decided to move from San Diego to Seattle. You have hired long distance movers San Diego and all? Either way, moving is one of the hardest things to do in life. And everyone can do with a little help and support. So read further to learn more about Seattle and discover some tips on moving from San Diego to Seattle.

Getting to Know Seattle

Since you’ve booked movers in advance it’s good to get to know the city that is going to be your new home before moving from San Diego to Seattle. Because if you are familiar with, in this case, Seattle, it will be easier for you to adjust to it. Knowing its history and background will help you know what to expect. It can also increase the chances of finding a perfect neighborhood for you.

Picture of the skyline that you will see after moving from San Diego to Seattle
You need to get to know the city before deciding to move there

So here are some basic facts about Seattle:

  • Seattle is the seat of King County, Washington
  • it is the largest city in the state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest region of North America
  • Seattle metropolitan area is the 15th largest in the USA with 3.94 million residents
  • it’s one of the fastest-growing cities in the USA.
  • Seattle is the 4th largest port in North America in terms of container handling

A Little Bit of Seattle’s History

Before the first permanent settlers from Europe came to Seattle, Native Americans inhabited it for at least 4,000 years. In 1851, the Denny Party (Arthur A. Denny and his group of travelers) arrived from Illinois and made a settlement. But it was in 1852 that the settlement was named “Seattle”, in honor of Chief Si’ahl of the local Duwamish and Suquamish tribes.

Since then, Seattle had its ups and downs. Thanks to the lumber industry, Seattle had its first boom in the early years of the city. The second and most dramatic boom was the Klondike Gold Rush which came after the economic depression called Panic of 1893. Seattle became the main transportation center for the miners in Alaska and the Yukon during that period. Later on, it became a company town during World War I due to its massive shipbuilding industry. But then the Great Depression came to the city and Seattle faced massive unemployment. The city began to prosper during and after World War II thanks to Boeing’s growing dominance among commercial airlines. And in the 1980s Seattle became home to many technology companies like Microsoft and Amazon. After the Great Recession, Seattle emerged strong and became one of the fastest-growing cities in the USA.

Interesting facts about San Diego and Seattle

Compared to San Diego, you can find more native culture and history in public spaces. And it’s not strange given the fact that Seattle has high populations of Native, Scandinavian, and Asian Americans. And you can see their traditional cultures in some parts of the city. However, Seattle also has a high percentage of same-sex households. In fact, it’s one of the highest percentages in the USA!

Another thing that Seattle can brag about is green building and clean technologies. Seattle was ranked as America’s No. 1 “smart city” based on its government policies and green economy. This protectiveness over nature doesn’t come as a surprise. Seattle has magnificent nature and wildlife. You can find everything there, from beaches to forests. And you don’t even have to go far to enjoy nature! Seattle was ranked as tenth for the best park system in 2013 by the Trust for Public Land.

If you love drinking coffee then you’re in for a treat once you’ve moved from San Diego to Seattle. The residents of Seattle are famous for heavy coffee consumption. And who wouldn’t be when coffee companies like Starbucks, Seattle’s Best Coffee and Tully’s are founded and based in Seattle? Plus, you can find many successful and independent artisanal cafes and espresso roasters! So one of the top 5 post-move activities in Seattle for you can be finding your favorite coffee shop!

Picture of people drinking coffee after moving from San Diego to Seattle
People in Seattle love their coffee!

Cost of Living Comparison: San Diego vs. Seattle

After you find the right movers using Verified Movers platform, it’s essential to grasp the differences in the cost of living. Seattle generally has a higher cost of living compared to San Diego. Let’s delve into more specifics to give a clearer picture:

  • Groceries for a Single Person: On average, a single person might spend around $500 per month on groceries in Seattle, compared to $300 in San Diego.
  • Utility Bills: Utilities in Seattle are more expensive, too. The average utility bill in Seattle is about $200, whereas in San Diego, it’s closer to $135.
  • Internet: Monthly internet costs are fairly similar, averaging around $60 in both cities.
  • Dining Out: Eating out in Seattle is slightly more expensive. A standard meal in a mid-range restaurant could cost $60 in Seattle and $45 in San Diego, per person.
  • Entertainment: For general entertainment, expect to pay a bit more in Seattle. A movie ticket in Seattle costs around $16, compared to $12.50 in San Diego.

To give an example, a single person monthly costs, excluding rent, are estimated to be around $1,800 in Seattle and $1,500 in San Diego. These figures provide a clear understanding of the everyday expenses one might encounter in these cities.

Median Home Prices and Rent in San Diego and Seattle

Next, let’s dive deeper into the housing market. The median home price is a significant factor when considering moving from San Diego to Seattle. Let’s explore the housing options and their costs in both cities:

  • Median Home Price: The median home price in Seattle is around $815,000, compared to approximately $960,000 in San Diego.
  • Rent Prices: Average rent for an apartment is about $2,000 in Seattle and $3,000 in San Diego.

In Seattle:

  • Most Affordable Neighborhood: Delridge, with median home prices around $657,000.
  • Most Expensive Neighborhood: Bellevue, where median prices can soar above $1.3 million.

In San Diego:

  • Most Affordable Neighborhood: City Heights, where median home prices are around $455,000.
  • Most Expensive Neighborhood: La Jolla, with median prices exceeding $2.2 million.

These figures indicate that while buying a house is generally more expensive in San Diego, renting is similarly priced in both cities. In terms of neighborhood specifics:

  • Seattle: For families considering top neighborhoods for families in Seattle, Ballard and Green Lake, though pricier, offer great community facilities and schools. Ballard’s and Green Lake’s median home price is around $934,000.
  • San Diego: Neighborhoods like North Park and Hillcrest offer a vibrant community experience, with median home prices around $698,000 and $860,000, respectively.

This detailed look at the housing market in both cities provides a clearer picture for those contemplating the move. It’s essential to consider both the costs and the lifestyle each neighborhood offers.

Picture of a toy home
Housing in Seattle is more affordable than in San Diego

Job Market Analysis

Analyzing the job market is a crucial step when planning on moving from San Diego to Seattle. Seattle’s job market has distinct characteristics compared to San Diego. In Seattle, the median household income stands at about $105,000 per year, which is higher than San Diego’s average of $90,000. The city’s lower unemployment rate, around 3.7%, compared to 4,10% in San Diego, reflects a more robust job market.

Seattle is particularly known as a technology hub, hosting industry giants like Amazon and Microsoft. This tech dominance makes it one of the best cities for job seekers in Washington, offering a dynamic environment for career growth in technology. In contrast, San Diego’s job market is heavily oriented towards healthcare and biotech industries.

For those considering this move, finding a job in Seattle before relocating can significantly ease the transition. This pre-move job security is especially important given the higher cost of living in Seattle. Employment opportunities in Seattle are not limited to technology; the city also has a thriving retail, manufacturing, and clean technology sector. This diversity in job options means that Seattle caters to a wide range of professional interests and skills.

Considering the robust job market, Seattle stands out as a promising destination for those looking to advance their careers. Preparing and securing employment beforehand can make the process of moving from to Seattle more successful.

Transportation Insights

Next, we’ll explore transportation options and costs for moving from San Diego to Seattle. The journey spans approximately 1,250 miles, offering various travel methods:

  • Driving: Taking a road trip can be an adventure, lasting about 20 hours depending on traffic and stops. The cost of driving mainly involves fuel, which can be around $150 to $200, and if you plan overnight stays, lodging costs average $100 per night.
  • Flying: A direct flight is the quickest option, taking around 2.5 hours. Average airfare ranges from $100 to $300, depending on how far in advance you book. Airlines offer daily flights, giving flexibility in travel dates.
  • Train and Bus: For those preferring not to drive or fly, Amtrak and bus services like Greyhound offer routes, though they take significantly longer. A train ticket can cost between $100 and $150, while bus fares are usually around $80 to $120.

To save money on transportation:

  • Driving: Save on fuel by driving a fuel-efficient vehicle and packing light to reduce weight. Plan your route to avoid toll roads and high-traffic areas.
  • Flying: Book your tickets well in advance and be flexible with your travel dates to get the best deals. Mid-week flights often offer lower fares.
  • Train and Bus: Booking tickets early can also secure lower prices. Traveling overnight can save on a night’s accommodation.

For families living in one of the top neighborhoods for families in San Diego, planning your transportation to Seattle is vital, especially with children. Each method offers different advantages: driving provides a scenic route along the West Coast, flying is faster and more convenient, while trains and buses offer a more relaxed pace.

Picture of a person enjoying a road trip
When moving from San Diego to Seattle, you will have different traveling choices

Education Opportunities in Seattle

Seattle offers a wealth of educational opportunities, essential for families and individuals moving from California to Washington. In this city you can find:

  • Public Schools: Seattle has over 100 public schools, with many ranking high for academic performance.
  • Higher Education: The city is home to the University of Washington, known for its research programs, and Seattle University, praised for its law and business courses.
  • Specialized Programs: There are numerous options for specialized education, including STEM-focused schools and arts programs.

For families considering the move, Seattle’s diverse educational landscape ensures options for every need.

Seattle’s Most Popular Neighborhoods

Seattle has a variety of neighborhoods, each with its unique lifestyle and appeal. But there are the most popular ones:

  • Ballard: This area, known for its Scandinavian heritage, offers a lively culinary scene. Points of interest include the Nordic Museum and the bustling Ballard Farmers Market. The population here enjoys a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
  • Capitol Hill: As a hub for arts and culture, Capitol Hill is popular among young professionals and creatives. The median home price in this neighborhood is approximately $667,000. It’s home to landmarks like the Jimi Hendrix Statue and the historic Paramount Theatre. Capitol Hill is known for its nightlife and diverse community, making it a dynamic place to live.
  • Fremont: Famous for its quirky art installations, such as the Fremont Troll, and lively community events, Fremont has a median home price of about $889,000. It’s a neighborhood that prides itself on its artistic spirit and hosts a variety of unique shops and restaurants. The population here is eclectic, contributing to Fremont’s reputation as the “Center of the Universe.”
Picture of arelial view of Seattle
Ballard, Capitol Hill and Fremont are some of the most popular neighborhoods in Seattle

Average Cost of Moving From San Diego to Seattle With Professional Assistance

When planning the logistics of moving from San Diego to Seattle, budgeting is crucial. Based on industry standards, here’s what you can expect:

  • Moving Services: Costs range from $4,000 to $6,000 for a standard family home.
  • Packing and Unpacking: Additional services like packing could add $1,000 to $2,000 to the total cost.
  • Storage: If needed, storage services can cost around $100 to $300 per month.

These estimates vary depending on the volume of belongings and specific service requirements. Reading All Good San Diego Moving company reviews can ensure an efficient move.

Comparing The Eco-Friendliness of These Two Cities

Seattle and San Diego both prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness but in different ways. Seattle is renowned for its extensive green initiatives, including significant investment in public transportation and clean technology. The city’s commitment to recycling and energy efficiency is evident in its numerous eco-friendly buildings and green spaces, making it one of the best West Coast cities to live in.

On the other hand, San Diego excels in solar energy utilization and has a strong focus on water conservation and sustainable urban planning. While both cities are leaders in environmental stewardship, Seattle’s comprehensive approach to green living, from transportation to energy use, gives it a slight edge as the more eco-friendly city overall.

Picture of green plants
Both cities are sustainable, but in different manners

You Will Notice a Difference in the Climate

The main difference you’re going to experience once you move to Seattle from San Diego is the climate. It’ll take some time to get used to such a big change. So I’ll try to write in detail what you can expect once you relocate to Seattle. There’s a bit of a disagreement about the classification of the climate in Seattle. Some say that it’s a Mediterranean climate (and officially it is) but some say that it’s actually an oceanic climate. The reason for this is because Seattle has cool, wet winters and mild, relatively dry summers which are characteristics of both types of climate. Both extreme heat waves and very cold (below about 15 °F) temperatures are rare in Seattle.

However, two things you can find in abundance in Seattle (unlike San Diego) are clouds and rain. And those two things are the ones you’ll have the hardest time getting used to after moving from San Diego to Seattle. Because of the adjacent Pacific Ocean, Seattle is the cloudiest region of the USA. It is cloudy for 201 days out of the year and partly cloudy for 93 days. And considering that it’s that cloudy it’s no wonder that it rains there more than in nearly all USA cities east of the Rocky Mountains! But don’t worry. I’m not talking about rainfall. What I’m talking about is a very light drizzle (at least 0.01 inches) that falls on 150 days a year. Whereas, if we are talking about rainfalls then cities like Chicago and New York receive more rainfall than Seattle.

Picture of clouds that you will get to see after moving from San Diego to Seattle
The climates differ greatly between these two cities

Now You Are Equipped With Knowledge For Moving from San Diego to Seattle

Now that you know everything about Seattle, it’s high time you found long-distance moving companies Seattle to help you with your move. Finding a reliable moving company is the most important thing when you’re moving from San Diego to Seattle. Long-distance moving is a big investment. And having a moving company you can rely on is the key. So check thoroughly to make sure that the moving company you want to hire isn’t a scam!