Living in Queen Anne Neighborhood in Seattle, WA

If you’re relocating to a neighborhood in Seattle for work and are considering where to live, the Queen Anne neighborhood in Seattle, WA, should be at the top of your list. Known for its charming, historic homes and panoramic views, living in Queen Anne offers a unique blend of urban convenience and residential tranquility. This guide will help you understand what it’s like to call Queen Anne neighborhood home, comparing it to nearby neighborhood in Seattle like the Central District, Leschi, and Capitol Hill, and providing insights into housing options, public transportation, schools, and more.

Housing Options in Queen Anne: Houses, Condos, and Apartments

Queen Anne is a diverse neighborhood offering a variety of housing options suitable for professionals relocating to Seattle. Whether you’re looking for a single-family home, a condo, or an apartment, living in Queen Anne has something to match your needs.

Houses: The neighborhood is known for its historic, often stately, single-family homes. These properties range from classic Craftsman-style houses to modern architectural designs, with prices typically starting around $1.5 million and reaching upwards of $3 million, depending on size and location.
Condos: Condos in Queen Anne offer a more affordable entry point into the neighborhood, with prices generally ranging from $500,000 to $1.5 million. Many condo developments feature modern amenities and stunning views of the Seattle skyline or Puget Sound.
Apartments: For those not yet ready to buy, Queen Anne also has a range of apartment options. Rent prices can vary widely, but a one-bedroom apartment typically ranges from $2,000 to $3,500 per month, depending on location and building amenities.

Comparing Queen Anne to Central District, Leschi, and Capitol Hill

Queen Anne stands out among nearby neighborhoods for its elevated terrain and quiet residential streets. Here’s how it compares:

Central District: The Central District is known for its cultural diversity and historic significance. Housing is generally more affordable here, with a mix of older homes and new developments. However, it lacks the sweeping views and serene atmosphere of Queen Anne.
Leschi: Leschi is situated along the shores of Lake Washington, offering beautiful waterfront views and a more suburban feel. It’s quieter than Queen Anne but lacks the same level of urban convenience, especially in terms of proximity to downtown.
Capitol Hill: Capitol Hill is Seattle’s cultural hub, bustling with nightlife, dining, and entertainment options. It’s a great choice for those who want to be in the center of the action, but it can feel more hectic and less residential compared to the peaceful streets of Queen Anne.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Queen Anne

Advantages:

Proximity to Work: Living in Queen Anne means you’re just minutes away from downtown Seattle, making for an easy commute, whether by car, bike, or public transportation.
Urban Convenience: The neighborhood offers a range of amenities, including grocery stores, cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, all within walking distance.
Stunning Views: Queen Anne’s elevated position provides some of the best views in the city, from the Space Needle to Mount Rainier.

Disadvantages:

Hilly Terrain: The steep hills in Queen Anne can make walking challenging, especially during winter. It’s not uncommon for residents to find the area less walkable compared to flatter neighborhoods like Capitol Hill.
Parking Challenges: Parking can be difficult, especially in lower Queen Anne where streets are narrower and busier.

Public Transportation and Walkability

Queen Anne is well-served by public transportation, with several bus routes connecting the neighborhood to downtown and other parts of the city. The RapidRide D Line, for example, offers frequent service to downtown, making it feasible to live in Queen Anne without a car.

For those who prefer walking, Queen Anne has a mix of flat and hilly areas. The neighborhood is generally safe and walkable, but the steep hills can be a deterrent for some. Grocery stores like Safeway and Trader Joe’s are conveniently located, ensuring that daily errands can be done on foot.

In addition to its convenient bus routes, Queen Anne is also well-connected to the rest of Seattle through nearby light rail stations and bike-friendly streets.

The neighborhood’s close proximity to downtown means that popular destinations like Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, and the waterfront are easily accessible by public transit or a short bike ride.

For those who enjoy an active lifestyle, Queen Anne’s numerous parks, such as Kerry Park and the expansive Queen Anne Greenbelt, offer beautiful green spaces for jogging, cycling, or simply enjoying a scenic walk. Despite its urban setting, Queen Anne provides a peaceful, community-oriented environment that balances the hustle of city life with the charm of a close-knit neighborhood.

Schools and Crime Levels

Queen Anne Neighborhood in Seattle, WA is home to several highly-rated public and private schools, making it a desirable location for families. The neighborhood is considered safe, with crime levels that are generally lower than in more central areas like Capitol Hill.

Things to Do in Queen Anne Neighborhood

Living in Queen Anne means you’re never far from entertainment and cultural activities. The neighborhood is home to the iconic Seattle Center, which includes the Space Needle, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Pacific Science Center. You can also enjoy performances at the Seattle Repertory Theatre or catch a film at the SIFF Cinema Uptown.

Parking and Suburban Conveniences: While Queen Anne offers many urban conveniences, some suburban amenities like large shopping centers or big-box stores are less accessible. Parking can also be a challenge, especially during events or peak times.

Alternative Neighborhoods

If Queen Anne isn’t the perfect fit, there are several other neighborhoods in Seattle and its suburbs to consider:

Ballard: A trendy neighborhood with a mix of historic homes and modern apartments, Ballard offers a vibrant community with a strong sense of local culture. Housing prices are similar to Queen Anne, with a slightly younger demographic.
Green Lake: Known for its namesake lake and park, Green Lake offers a more suburban feel with excellent outdoor amenities, making it ideal for those who love an active lifestyle.
West Seattle: For those looking for a more suburban vibe with proximity to the beach, West Seattle is a great option. It’s slightly more affordable than Queen Anne, with a mix of single-family homes and apartments.
Bellevue: Across Lake Washington, Bellevue offers a more suburban environment with excellent schools and a booming tech industry. It’s a great option for those willing to commute a bit further for more space and newer housing.

Queen Anne is a prime choice for those seeking a balance of urban living with a touch of residential calm. Whether you choose Queen Anne or explore nearby neighborhoods, you’ll find that Seattle offers a wide range of living options to suit any lifestyle.