If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Seattle, there are plenty of neighborhoods from which to choose. We’ve compiled a list of the best places to rent in Seattle based on the following factors:
- Rental availability
- Average rent relative to other neighborhoods in the city
- Proximity to points of interest like work hubs, universities, downtown areas, shopping centers, or major parks
- Niche.com’s neighborhood report cards
The five best neighborhoods in Seattle for renters are:
Westlake
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Seattle: $2,087/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Westlake: $2,429/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Westlake: 665 square feet
Why Westlake is good for renters
Westlake is a compact, scenic neighborhood nestled between Lake Union and the base of Queen Anne. Its proximity to the water means incredible views, while quick access to bike trails, downtown, and South Lake Union make it ideal for commuters. Rentals here often offer modern finishes and strong amenity packages in mid-rise and high-rise communities.
|
Exceptionally Walkable |
Strong Public Transit |
Fairly Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
90Westlake has a walkability score of 90 out of 100 |
80Westlake has a transit score of 80 out of 100 |
50Westlake has a drivability score of 50 out of 100 |
60Westlake has a bikeability score of 60 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Westlake’s appeal and location come at a premium. Inventory may also be limited due to the neighborhood’s small footprint.
Belltown
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Seattle: $2,087/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Belltown: $2,398/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Belltown: 681 square feet
Why Belltown is good for renters
If you want to be in the heart of the action, Belltown delivers. This dense and walkable neighborhood offers nightlife, dining, boutique shopping, and waterfront parks — all within a few blocks. It’s an easy walk to Downtown and South Lake Union, and many buildings come with sweeping views of Elliott Bay.
|
Exceptionally Walkable |
Exceptional Public Transit |
Fairly Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
90Belltown has a walkability score of 90 out of 100 |
90Belltown has a transit score of 90 out of 100 |
40Belltown has a drivability score of 40 out of 100 |
70Belltown has a bikeability score of 70 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Living in Belltown means lively streets and higher rents. Noise and parking can be challenges, especially on weekends.
Downtown Seattle
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Seattle: $2,087/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Downtown Seattle: $2,274/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Downtown Seattle: 660 square feet
Why Downtown Seattle is good for renters
For renters who want a short commute, nothing beats living in the center of the city. Downtown Seattle puts you steps from major employers, restaurants, shops, and transit hubs. High-rise apartments offer luxury amenities, and the views from upper floors are tough to top.
|
Exceptionally Walkable |
Exceptional Public Transit |
Moderately Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
100Downtown Seattle has a walkability score of 100 out of 100 |
100Downtown Seattle has a transit score of 100 out of 100 |
70Downtown Seattle has a drivability score of 70 out of 100 |
50Downtown Seattle has a bikeability score of 50 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Downtown living often means paying more for less space. Expect smaller units and limited quiet zones.
Capitol Hill
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Seattle: $2,087/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Capitol Hill: $1,967/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Capitol Hill: 626 square feet
Why Capitol Hill is good for renters
Capitol Hill is one of Seattle’s most eclectic and energetic neighborhoods. Known for its music venues, coffee shops, nightlife, and vintage boutiques, it’s a favorite if you prefer nonstop activity. The neighborhood is also well-connected to light rail and bus lines, making it easy to explore the rest of the city.
|
Exceptionally Walkable |
Exceptional Public Transit |
Fairly Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
100Capitol Hill has a walkability score of 100 out of 100 |
90Capitol Hill has a transit score of 90 out of 100 |
40Capitol Hill has a drivability score of 40 out of 100 |
70Capitol Hill has a bikeability score of 70 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Capitol Hill’s popularity means higher demand and occasional street noise. Older buildings may have less square footage or fewer amenities.
Queen Anne
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Seattle: $2,087/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Queen Anne: $2,049/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Queen Anne: 645 square feet
Why Queen Anne is good for renters
Queen Anne, also known as Uptown, offers a great mix of quiet residential charm and city convenience. You’ll find theaters, grocery stores, green spaces, and iconic landmarks like the Space Needle all within reach. The neighborhood sits at the base of Queen Anne Hill, just minutes from downtown but with a slightly more relaxed vibe.
|
Moderately Walkable |
Some Public Transit |
Fairly Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
60Queen Anne has a walkability score of 60 out of 100 |
40Queen Anne has a transit score of 40 out of 100 |
50Queen Anne has a drivability score of 50 out of 100 |
60Queen Anne has a bikeability score of 60 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Some apartment communities in this area are older, so not all buildings include modern finishes or in-unit laundry.
Ready to Make the Move?
If Seattle has caught your eye, take the next step with Apartments.com! Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to set down roots, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find the perfect place.
Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine and use our customizable filters to narrow your search by price, amenities, and floor plan. Wherever you are and wherever you’re going, the options are endless with Apartments.com.
Methodology
Rent and cost of living data are sourced from the Apartments.com Rent Trends pages and Cost of Living Calculator. Walkability, transit, drivability, and bikeability ratings are sourced from the Apartments.com Area Guides, courtesy of Local Logic.
FAQs
Is Seattle a good place to live?
Yes, Seattle is a great choice for renters who want a mix of natural beauty and urban energy. The city offers water views, green spaces, strong public transit, a vibrant food scene, and access to major employers.
Is Seattle an expensive place to live?
Seattle is more expensive than many U.S. cities. The cost of living is 44.5% higher than the national average, and rents tend to run high, especially in central neighborhoods. If you're on a budget, there are plenty of affordable neighborhoods to choose from.
What’s the average rent in Seattle?
The average rent in Seattle is $2,087/month, as of April 2026. This is 27% above the national average rent of $1,640/month.
What salary do you need to live in Seattle?
According to our cost of living data, a comfortable salary for a single adult with no dependents to cover housing, utilities, groceries, and goods and services in Seattle would be about $112,000 before taxes.
