Seattle Photo

Downtown, Seattle,WA

Neighborhood Data
Proximitii Score score
? /100
Amenities Score Amenities Score Locked
Transit Score Transit & Commute Score Locked
Schools Score Schools Score Locked
Health & Safety Score Health & Safety Score Locked
City Crime Score Crime (City) Score Locked
Location Crime Score Crime (Location) Score Locked
Economy Score Economy Score Locked
Housing Score Housing Score Locked

Downtown Seattle, nestled in the northwestern part of the city, is a vibrant hub that offers a perfect blend of urban excitement and cultural richness for those considering a move. Whether you're a young professional, a family, or someone looking to experience the heartbeat of Seattle, Downtown provides an unmatched living experience. The neighborhood is bustling with activity almost every hour of the day, featuring iconic landmarks like the historic Pike Place Market where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local crafts. Additionally, art lovers will appreciate the Seattle Art Museum and the nearby Benaroya Hall, home to the Seattle Symphony. With so much to see and do, residents have access to entertainment, shopping, and dining options that cater to a wide variety of tastes and lifestyles.

For those who need to commute or simply enjoy exploring the broader city, Downtown Seattle is incredibly well-connected. The area itself is the core of the city, so technically, it is the heart of Downtown Seattle. Public transportation options like the Link Light Rail and numerous bus routes make getting around a breeze, whether you’re heading to the bustling South Lake Union neighborhood to the north or the trendy Capitol Hill area to the east. With plenty of walkable streets and bike-friendly paths, many locals find they rarely need a car. This accessibility is one of Downtown’s biggest draws, making it easy to enjoy everything Seattle has to offer without the hassle of long commutes.

Life in Downtown Seattle also means having access to some fantastic green spaces despite the urban setting. Waterfront Park and Victor Steinbrueck Park provide peaceful escapes where you can enjoy stunning views of Elliott Bay and Mount Rainier on clear days. For foodies, the neighborhood doesn’t disappoint—there’s everything from cozy coffee shops to upscale eateries serving international cuisine. Plus, the vibrant nightlife scene includes everything from laid-back pubs to trendy cocktail lounges. For anyone moving to the area, Downtown Seattle offers a lively, convenient, and culturally rich environment that truly captures the spirit of this iconic Pacific Northwest city.

Community Snapshot

Population 18,241
Density (People/sqml.) 14,075
Median Age 36.6
Married Couples
31%
31% of the population of Downtown aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
3%
3% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 31% of the Downtown population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 3% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Downtown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Downtown demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Downtown has a population of 18,241, which is larger than many other Seattle neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Boasting a population density of 14,075, Downtown is more densely populated than many other Seattle neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 37, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Downtown

Crime Safety Index Score Locked 1 2 3 4 5

 

Total Crime Incidents
Try for free within 1 mile
Score Locked per 100k people

Types of Crime

Downtown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Downtown Crime Map

The Downtown crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

? /10
Home Price $865,004
Median Rent $2,189
People/Household 1.4

Home Price Breakdown

Downtown neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 84% Own 16%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 34% After 2010 66%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Downtown, home prices come in around $865,004, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Downtown can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,189, rental rates in Downtown are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Davids & Co
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Honor Coffee & Tea
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Benaroya Hall
Theatre Arts
min.
min.
The Triple Door
Theatre Arts
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Delicatus
Deli
min.
min.
Subway
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

World Fresh Bakery
Bakery
min.
min.
PCC Community Markets
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Westlake Park
Park
min.
min.
Westlake Park Children’s Play Area
Playground
min.
min.

Shops

Symphonica
Gift Shop
min.
min.
Melange Market
Convenience Store
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

3rd Ave & Union St
Bus Stop
min.
min.
3rd Ave & Union St
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

University Street
Transit Station
min.
min.
Westlake
Transit Station
min.
min.

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
min.
Walgreens
Pharmacy
min.
min.

Health Care

Seattle Dental Associates
Dentist
min.
min.
Solution Chiropractic
Doctor
min.
min.

Safety

Seattle Fire Station #5
Fire Station
min.
min.
Seattle Police Department
Police
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Washington Middle School
2101 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Lake Washington Girls Middle School
810 18Th Ave, Seattle, WA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Seattle Amistad School
1625 19Th Ave, Seattle, WA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Morningside Academy
901 Lenora St, Seattle, WA
High School 3 - 9 School Score
Lowell Elementary School
1058 E Mercer St, Seattle, WA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Seattle Academy
1201 E Union St, Seattle, WA
High School 6 - 12 School Score
The Northwest School
1415 Summit Ave, Seattle, WA
High School 6 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Downtown. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Downtown offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.

Economy

? /10
Income Per Capita $98,617
Household Income $121,487
Unemployment 3.3%

Income Breakdown

Downtown Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

Industry Employed
Agriculture & Mining Unlock
Construction Unlock
Manufacturing Unlock
Wholesale & Retail Unlock
Transportation & Warehousing Unlock
Information Unlock
Finance & Insurance Unlock

The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Downtown, median household incomes average $121,487, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In Downtown, the unemployment rate sits at around 3%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the social scene like?

Downtown Seattle boasts a vibrant social scene with a wide variety of dining, nightlife, and entertainment options. Visitors and residents can enjoy trendy restaurants like The Pink Door and Canlis, vibrant bars such as Bathtub Gin & Co., and live music venues including The Crocodile. The area also hosts numerous art galleries and theaters, with the Paramount Theatre offering Broadway shows and concerts. Additionally, the bustling Pike Place Market serves as a lively gathering spot featuring street performers, unique shops, and fresh local produce.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, Downtown Seattle is home to several iconic landmarks and historical sites. The famous Pike Place Market, established in 1907, is one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers' markets in the U.S. The Seattle Art Museum and the historic Smith Tower, once the tallest building west of the Mississippi, are also located downtown. Another landmark is the Seattle Great Wheel on the waterfront, offering panoramic views of Elliott Bay. Additionally, the waterfront area features the Seattle Aquarium and the Olympic Sculpture Park, both popular destinations for locals and tourists alike.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Downtown Seattle is well-connected by multiple major transportation options. The neighborhood is served by Interstate 5 (I-5), which runs along its eastern edge, providing easy access for drivers traveling north and south. Public transit is robust, with several King County Metro bus routes converging downtown and the Link Light Rail running through the area, connecting Downtown to the University of Washington and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Ferry terminals are also nearby on the waterfront, offering routes to Bainbridge Island and other destinations. This extensive transit network makes Downtown Seattle highly accessible and convenient for commuters and visitors.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
Unlock to see 82 68 80 56 88 80 64 53
Unlock to see 75 46 69 57 45 88 37 46
Unlock to see 68 73 58 43 72 52 34 87
Downtown Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe
Unlock to see 49 81 39 64 43 60 42 35
Unlock to see 36 57 77 39 84 80 48 41
Unlock to see 25 57 30 88 57 50 57 60

Other Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA