$1,007,865Average Value$532Average Price per Sq Ft35Homes For Sale
University District has the waterside UW campus and a lively vibe
University District, commonly called U District, is home to the University of Washington, also known as UW or U-Dub. The leafy campus is beside Portage Bay and Union Bay, and about 5 miles north of Downtown Seattle. Much of U District’s historic character, landscape design and architecture dates to the early 1900s. An array of funky shops, international eateries and entertainment options add to the district’s youthful vibe.
University of Washington walkways link Portage Bay and Union Bay across a leafy campus.
University of Washington grounds feature landscaped paths near Portage Bay.
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Many early 1900s homes, in pockets like University Park
There are a lot of early 20th-century Craftsman and Arts and Crafts homes. University Park, a suburban-style pocket of single-family homes, is one place to find these. Its residents share resources through the University Park Community Club (UPCC).
There are also some 21st-century homes with either vintage-inspired or modern styling. Single-family homes range from the $600,000s to $2 million; the median is over $1 million. Condos range from the $200,000s to the $700,000s.
Foursquare homes are found in pockets of the University District with early 1900s roots.
Colorful bungalows add variety to housing styles throughout the University District.
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There are more renters than owners, expect parties on Greek Row
Renters far outnumber owner-occupants. "For me personally, I got tired of living in dorms for two years, so we rented a house," says Celine Williams, who graduated from UW and is now a managing broker with Realty ONE Group Orca. Greek Row is adjacent to University Park. "Essentially, it's 4 or 5 blocks of mansions with sororities and fraternities," Williams says. The UPCC advises open communication with neighbors as the first step in dealing with what it calls "chronic party homes." Violations of the Seattle Noise Ordinance may be reported.
Shop or go out to eat in University Village or on The Ave
The area offers an eclectic mix of shopping and dining options. Grocery stores include Safeway, Trader Joe's and H Mart. Distinct retail areas include University Village, an open-air shopping center with an upscale vibe. It has a mix of name-brand stores, such as the Apple Store and Crate & Barrel, and some small businesses. Restaurants include Din Tai Fung and Piatti Ristorante & Bar.
University Way Northeast, known as The Ave, is packed with indie shops, many catering to student tastes. There are several bookstores: University Book Store, Magus Books and The Globe Bookstore. Long-time favorites include Al's Music & Video Games and Red Light Vintage & Costumes. On Saturdays, shoppers stroll The Ave during the University District Farmers Market.
Safeway on Roosevelt Way offers central grocery access in the University District.
University District Farmers Market hosts regional vendors with produce and handmade goods.
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There’s a lot to do outside, check out The Quad in the spring
Outdoor amenities in or adjacent to University District include:
Fritz Hedges Waterway Park: beach pier and access for small watercraft on Portage Bay
University Playground Park: play areas, athletics courts and field
Ravenna Park: forested park with trails and a ravine, connects to Cowen Park
Though some university facilities, such as the fitness center, are not open to the public, the campus grounds are accessible. "UW overall is huge, and a lot of things are walkable. If you want to enjoy a nice spring day, there are tons of trees with cherry blossoms at The Quad. Everybody goes there, not just students …. It's like an Instagram spot," Williams says.
Cherry blossoms at the UW Quad create a seasonal draw for visitors each spring.
Ravenna Park features wooded trails and a ravine connecting to Cowen Park.
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You can walk, bike or take the bus or light rail
In addition to being highly walkable, the area is very bike-friendly, with protected lanes, calm streets and trails. There's access to the Burke-Gilman Trail, which passes through campus. The multi-use rail-trail is 20 miles long and connects to Ballard, Wallingford, Fremont and the north side of Lake Union.
"Buses are constantly running, and they go to downtown and all the way up to North Seattle. There's a bus stop everywhere," Williams says. Getting downtown by bus takes 25 to 45 minutes; you'll get there even quicker when the Metro's RapidRide J line launches in 2027. The U District Station offers Link light rail, with a trip downtown taking about 10 minutes. Driving typically takes 10 to 35 minutes.
Parking and zoning rules to know about if you live in U District
Much of U District is within a Restricted Parking Zone (RPZ). Residents can buy a permit if they live at an eligible address; this extends to students whose cars are not registered locally.
U District, considered a high-growth area, has seen density and building heights increase in the past decade due to some of Seattle's zoning changes, including Mandatory Housing Affordability (MHA) requirements. There's been development in areas like the district core and blocks closest to station because of this.
There's a lot to do with shows, art, sports and events
There are a variety of attractions and events, both off and on campus:
Husky Stadium: home to UW's Huskies football team, about 70,000-person capacity
The Neptune Theatre: seats about 1,000 for concerts, comedy shows and special events
The Burke Museum: collection of more than 16 million objects related to natural history and culture
Henry Art Gallery: contemporary art and photography, large permanent collection
Events include the springtime U District Cherry Blossom Festival, the U District Street Fair in May, the Seattle Boba Fest in the summer and U District Chow Down & Street Party in the fall.
Husky Stadium hosts UW Huskies games with capacity near 70,000 along Lake Washington.
Neptune Theatre in Seattle seats about 1,000 for concerts, comedy shows, and events.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
It's mostly just rainy and grey. Never extreme weather.
3.0Current Resident
4/10/2024Niche Review
I have lived here for many years as a woman living alone. This place looks scary but has cheap rent and if you get an apartment 4th floor or higher, it is safe.
4.0Niche User
7/15/2014Niche Review
The bus system is great
4.0Niche User
6/12/2014Niche Review
There is diversity in the option of food in this area of Seattle. Most are locally-owned.
Are you familiar with the University District neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
University District
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
6
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
6
4
Larceny
6
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
University District Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in University District, Seattle sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in University District, Seattle over the last 12 months is $745,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Positioned in the heart of Seattle’s highly sought-after University District, this exceptional property offers a rare blend of versatility, comfort, and income potential just minutes from the University of Washington. Featuring three separate living spaces, including a beautifully remodeled 3,092 sqft main residence with a fully finished lower level complete with its own private entrance and
Live in one residence while generating income from the other, expand your investment portfolio, or capitalize on one of Seattle's most sought-after rental neighborhoods with long-term, short-term, or Airbnb potential. Just blocks from Green Lake, Woodland Park Zoo, Roosevelt Link Light Rail, PCC, Whole Foods, neighborhood cafés, breweries, and countless other local dining favorites, this classic
Welcome to this beautiful and well-maintained 1 bedroom, 1 bath move-in-ready condo built in 2008 at Duncan Place, ideally located near the University District, two blocks from Trader Joe's, shopping, restaurants and I-5. This unit offers one oversized garage parking space and a large private storage unit in front of the assigned garage space. Thoughtfully designed floor plan maximizes space and
Garden living meets city convenience in this rare stand-alone end-unit cottage at Ravenna Cottages. Set within a secure, gated community of just nine homes, this residence is surrounded by a beautifully maintained courtyard filled with blooming flowers, fountains, blueberries, BBQ space, and inviting spots to gather or unwind. It feels tucked away and peaceful, yet sits moments from the best of
Garden living meets city convenience in this rare stand-alone end-unit cottage at Ravenna Cottages. Set within a secure, gated community of just nine homes, this residence is surrounded by a beautifully maintained courtyard filled with blooming flowers, fountains, blueberries, BBQ space, and inviting spots to gather or unwind. It feels tucked away and peaceful, yet sits moments from the best of
Just blocks from UW, this rare PRE-INSPECTED END-UNIT TOWNHOME is not just a place to live, it is a smart UNIVERSITY-AREA INVESTMENT. One student can occupy the home while unused bedrooms create strong ROOM-RENTAL POTENTIAL, with NO HOA limiting your options. Tucked behind the front row of townhomes and set back as a corner unit, this home offers something truly hard to find in the U District:
Ideal Investment in Seattle's vibrant University/Roosevelt District. Perfect for owners or investors targeting strong rental demand. Both units are currently occupied, total rents are $5,000/month. Main unit has 4 beds (3 upstairs) with large living room with fireplace and full kitchen with peninsula/breakfast bar seating. Lower unit is 1 bed/1bath with its own laundry and separate entrance and
Investment-ready property with over 20 years of successful rental history. This classic craftsman is ideally located close to the University of Washington, making it a perennial favorite for long-term tenants. The fully furnished property features spacious, well-maintained rooms, large shared living areas, two hot water heaters and two refrigerators. Separate entrance and downstairs kitchenette
Turnkey Investment Opportunity in the University District! Incredible cash-flow asset featuring an active, hassle-free lease generating $4,750/month through August 2027. This prime property is perfectly situated just blocks from the University of Washington campus, light rail station, parks, and vibrant local dining. The home offers a highly functional layout designed for seamless rental
Location, Location, Location! Live in the heart of Seattle's vibrant University District in this charming, remodeled 1923 co-op at the historic Wayfarer. Boasting an incredible Walk Score of 99, you'll enjoy the ultimate urban lifestyle just two blocks from the University of Washington, Link Light Rail, the lively University District, and the popular weekly Farmers Market.This spacious
Large U-District investment property located approximately four blocks from the UW campus and just minutes to Greek Row. This 10-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers 3,380 SF and has been a consistent student housing investment with continuous leasing history since 2012. Currently leased and pre-leased for the 2026–2027 school year at $10,300 per month, with tenants paying all utilities. Updated kitchen
Vintage charm meets vibrant city living. Classic 1928 Cooperative nestled in the heart of Ravenna. You are welcomed by a lush garden and tranquil fountain as you enter the timelessness of the timeless foyer of this building. This large one bedroom plus a den, huge great room, kitchen with eating space, full wall of book shelves and plenty of storage. All of this has just been completely repainted
Lightbox’s stylish apartment homes provide residents with a comfortable living experience amongst the urban energy of University District. Just north of downtown Seattle, our community grants residents easy access to a variety of shopping centers such as University Village and Bellevue Square. Our central location puts us within only a few minutes of I-5 and 520. Enjoy upscale living with a
Find your perfect retreat in our spacious student apartments near University of Washington. You’ll enjoy plenty of space to relax, study, and play whether you select a cozy studio or an expansive 5-bedroom to share with your friends.
The Kennedy Building Apartments north of Downtown Seattle in the University District, close to I-5. We have easy access to Bellevue and are only minutes from 520. Our community is right across the street from Metro Cinemas and just a short 10 minutes from University Village's unique shopping and dining. The University of Washington is 1 1/2 miles away. We are proud to offer studios, one and
Find the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and community just a 5-minute walk from North Campus! Our studios put you right where you need to be — close to classes, study spaces, and all the campus amenities you rely on. With this unbeatable location, you’ll enjoy shorter commutes and more time for what matters most — whether that’s grabbing coffee with friends, making use of campus
Augusta Apartments offers a vibrant and comfortable living experience in Seattle's lively University District. Featuring spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes, the community is designed to support both relaxation and productivity. Residents enjoy modern interiors alongside thoughtfully curated amenities that enhance everyday life. Located just minutes from the University of
Introducing The Malloy Apartment Homes, a charming community within an urban setting that boasts connectivity. Part of a historic building with thoughtful conveniences, our studio and one-bedroom residences offer a lifestyle that you cannot help but love. Vintage fixtures, hardwood floors, efficient appliances, and gorgeous city and mountain views, your home at The Malloy offers a historic
Theory U District is all about the tailored experience, because one size never fits all. Whether you choose a standard or premium unit, you'll enjoy energy-efficient appliances, a sleek furniture package, and tons of community features that make your everyday life easier, whether that means biking to campus, studying with friends, or squeezing in an afternoon workout.
** NOW PRELEASING NEWLY REMODELED HOMES*** EARLY BIRD PRICING! Walk to UW Campus. Express yourself in a community of unique apartment homes nestled in between private courtyards and lush Northwest landscaping. Designed to exist in harmony with the upscale residential appeal of the Ravenna neighborhood, and perched at the edge of the University of Washington, Ivy Ridge offers a warm, yet
Clara Apartments offers a blend of comfort and convenience with its thoughtfully designed amenities, perfect for students and young professionals alike. Located within walking distance to campus, Clara provides easy access to public transportation. Residents can enjoy stunning views from the roof terrace, stay active with bike storage, and take advantage of controlled access and security cameras
Be one of the next five residents to sign a lease at Greta Apartments and receive one month FREE rent! Plus $600 off for all units! Furnished and unfurnished units available. Rates starting at just $1,149/month. Offer valid until 7/31.Discover Greta Apartments, bright and modern studio living in Seattle’s sought-after University District, just a short walk to the University of
Welcome to Metro 5000, a brand-new apartment community in Seattle’s vibrant University District—just steps from the University of Washington and the U-District light rail station. Enjoy unbeatable convenience with Safeway right next door, Sip House for your daily coffee fix, plus a variety of restaurants, shops, and bus stops all within walking distance.Designed for comfort and modern
UDistrict Square Apartments are a collection of three apartment buildings just steps from the University of Washington in the heart of Seattle. Our prime location and fantastic amenities make UDistrict Square the top choice for students and professionals alike. With shops, restaurants, and nightlife within walking distance, your search is over for your new apartment home. Come in today and see
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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