First Hill, Seattle,WA

First Hill, nestled in the southeast part of Seattle, is a vibrant neighborhood that offers a unique blend of urban living and historic charm, making it a popular choice for newcomers. Known affectionately as "Pill Hill" due to its concentration of medical institutions, this area is home to some of Seattle’s major hospitals, including Swedish Medical Center, Harborview Medical Center, and Virginia Mason Medical Center. For anyone relocating here, this means excellent access to healthcare and employment opportunities in the medical and research fields. Beyond its medical prominence, First Hill boasts beautiful historic architecture and quiet, tree-lined streets that provide a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the standout attractions of First Hill is the Frye Art Museum, a hidden gem that offers free admission and showcases a remarkable collection of 19th and 20th-century paintings. Art lovers will find the museum’s rotating exhibitions and community programs a wonderful way to engage with the local culture. Additionally, the neighborhood features charming cafes, trendy restaurants, and cozy coffee shops, perfect for meeting friends or settling in with a good book. The nearby Cal Anderson Park provides a green space for outdoor activities, jogging, and community events, adding to the neighborhood’s appeal for families and young professionals alike.

First Hill’s proximity to Downtown Seattle is a major convenience, especially for commuters and city enthusiasts. Just a short drive or quick bus ride northwest, residents can easily access the bustling core of the city, including the iconic Pike Place Market, the waterfront, and numerous entertainment options. The neighborhood’s walkability and public transit options make it easy to enjoy all that Seattle has to offer without the need for a car. Whether you’re drawn by the healthcare hubs, cultural experiences, or simply the welcoming community vibe, First Hill presents a fantastic option for those moving to Seattle seeking a well-rounded urban lifestyle.

About 22% of the First Hill 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.

Exploring First Hill demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. First Hill has a population of 14,008, 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 31,276, First Hill 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 33, 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.

The First Hill crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In First Hill, home prices come in around $678,027, 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 First Hill 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 $1,989, rental rates in First Hill 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.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like First Hill. 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 First Hill 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.