Move to Seattle
United States · Expat Guide for Tech Workers
Rent (1BR)
$2,200
Rent (2BR)
$3,100
Transport
$99/mo
Expat Community
4/5
🌟 Why Seattle?
- ✓ Home to Amazon, Microsoft, and major tech employers
- ✓ No state income tax (significant savings)
- ✓ Stunning Pacific Northwest nature (mountains, water, forests)
- ✓ Strong coffee culture and thriving food scene
🏠 Best Neighborhoods
Capitol Hill
Vibrant nightlife, walkable, LGBTQ+ friendly
$2,300/mo
South Lake Union
Amazon HQ area, modern, tech workers
$2,600/mo
Ballard
Breweries, waterfront, Scandinavian heritage
$2,100/mo
Fremont
Quirky, artsy, close to Google campus
$2,000/mo
✈ Airport
SEA (Seattle-Tacoma International)
☔ Weather
Mild but rainy (8-24C). Overcast Oct-Apr. Beautiful dry summers. Snow is rare.
🎓 Schools
Several options available
💻 Coworking
Many (WeWork, Galvanize, The Riveter)
✅ First Week Checklist
- Get an ORCA card for buses and light rail
- Buy a good rain jacket (umbrellas are for tourists)
- Open a bank account (no state income tax is a perk)
- Explore Pike Place Market for fresh produce and coffee
- Join Seattle tech community events and meetups
🏗 Top Industries
Tech
Cloud Computing
Aerospace
E-commerce
💰 Seattle Salary Insights
Is your salary competitive in Seattle?
Is $80k good in Seattle?
Is $100k good in Seattle?
Is $120k good in Seattle?
Is $150k good in Seattle?
Is $200k good in Seattle?
Top tech salaries in Seattle