Seattle is a diverse, vibrant city with so much to offer in terms of culture, dining, shopping, and community. Each neighborhood has its own unique identity with a different vibe and offerings, so where you decide to put roots down in the city is going to play a huge part in how your day-to-day life looks. For families with children, you’re not only choosing the best area for your own needs but also the needs of your kids, so read on for a breakdown of Seattle’s best neighborhoods to buy a home in if you have children.
Laurelhurst
For seamless access to Lake Washington and beautiful Tudor homes, look no further than Laurelhurst. Close proximity to the Burke-Gilman trail opens up the door to walks or bike rides on sunny weekends. Tour the UW Botanic Gardens and put everyone’s plant identification skills to the test. Laurelhurst’s high safety rating (safer than 90% of Seattle neighborhoods) makes it especially appealing.
Madrona
South from Laurelhurst, but still on Lake Washington, lies the smaller neighborhood of Madrona. A quick drive away from downtown Seattle means there won’t be a shortage of entertainment options for the family, including the aquarium, parks, and Ferris wheel if you want to play tourists for the day. Take a dip or have a picnic at Madrona Beach during warmer months.
Magnolia
Suburb-like without leaving the city, Magnolia is a safe, tight-knit community. You’re close to plenty of quality public schools. For recreation, the nearby Discovery Park, the largest park in the city, offers endless fun and scenic nature. You’ll never have to worry about dinner time being boring as there’s a variety of amazing, diverse cuisines all around you.
Queen Anne
One of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods also happens to be one of the top places to raise a family in the area: Queen Anne. Known for stunning Victorian homes, this neighborhood exudes a sense of history. Plenty of hills offer beautiful views (and a good workout) while nearby attractions like Pacific Science Center, Museum of Pop Culture, and Kerry Park mean you and your kids will never be bored!
West Seattle
West Seattle is one of the more affordable areas on the list. There’s a great sense of community, with neighborhood events going on year-round, like Summer Fest and the farmer’s market, which offer something appealing to everyone in the family. Alki Beach is the perfect laidback, beachy setting for a day spent recreating outdoors and enjoying some fresh seafood at Duke’s for dinner.