Figuring out the average rent in Seattle can be difficult! If you’re moving there for a new job or to attend college you might be on a tight budget and want to know the good neighborhoods and prices for your new city.

Seattle has been among the fastest growing cities in the U.S. for the past decade, and it’s easy to understand why. A booming tech industry coupled with the allure of the Pacific Northwest has made it an appealing destination for young professionals and college students alike. There's also great outdoor activities near the city!

Unfortunately being one of the country’s most desirable places to live comes at a cost.

The average rent in Seattle is just over $2,100, which is significantly higher than the national average of around $1,460. Despite this, there are several ways you can minimize your rental costs in a city with steep housing costs like Seattle.

If you’re a student looking for an apartment near the University of Washington, don’t let the numbers scare you off. Here’s a helpful guide to renting an apartment in Seattle.

How Much Can You Expect To Spend On Average Rent in Seattle?

While the average rent in Seattle is over $2,100, there’s a wide availability of smaller units such as studio apartments for less. The average rent for a studio in Seattle is about $1,400, while a one-bedroom hovers between $1,750 and $1,900.

If you intend to live alone, you may be spending anywhere from $1,400 and $1,900 on monthly rent. Keep in mind that certain fees such as utilities and parking may not be included in your original rental rate, too.

Choosing to live with roommates, on the other hand, could help you keep those rent costs down. The average rent in Seattle for a four-bedroom apartment is about $3,600. This means that splitting a larger apartment with four roommates could be the best bang for your buck.

How To Choose Your New Neighborhood

Seattle is made up of several vibrant and unique neighborhoods. Choosing which you’ll live in will depend on where your monthly budget falls and what you’re looking for.

For example, you can expect to find higher priced rentals in popular Seattle neighborhoods like Belltown and Capitol Hill, whereas apartments in The Highlands and Richmond Beach are generally more affordable.

If you’re a student, then living near the University of Washington may be a priority. While the University District is a popular option, but apartments there can be more expensive due to their prime location within walking distance of campus.

Yet there are plenty of other off-campus housing options to choose from. Additional close to UW are neighborhoods to look into include Northgate, Montlake, Capitol Hill, Bryant, Ravenna, Roosevelt and Wedgewood. Check out our guide to apartment hunting near UW!

Have You Considered Alternative Options Like Co-Living?

One option worth exploring in Seattle is co-living apartments.

Companies like Tripalink offer fully furnished apartments that are shared by like-minded students or young working professionals. The average rent for a private room in one of Tripalink’s Seattle properties is about $1,200 — and that includes utilities and weekly cleaning services. 

Tripalink also offers a roommate matching service, which helps relieve the stress of having to find someone to live with on your own. Plus, since the apartments come fully furnished, the financial burden of buying furniture is erased.

Living Your Pacific Northwest Dreams

If you’ve always dreamed of living in Seattle, then the higher-than-average rent prices will be worth it. After all it has an amazing nightlife, a booming tech industry, and high quality universities. Just don’t let the rain get you down!