Why Live in South Lake Union
South Lake Union in Seattle is recognized as the city's technology hub, home to major companies like Apple, Google, and Amazon. This neighborhood has seen significant growth over the past decade, attracting many professionals in the tech industry. While primarily renter-based, South Lake Union offers condos for sale, typically featuring open-concept designs with floor-to-ceiling windows. Monthly association fees often cover utilities, private parking, and earthquake insurance. The area is served by Seattle Public Schools, with Meany Middle School and Garfield High School being highly rated. Meany Middle School offers a unique health program providing free medical and behavioral health services to students, while Garfield High School is among the top 20 public high schools in Washington.
For outdoor activities, residents frequent Lake Union Park and Denny Park. Lake Union Park offers picnic spots, a spray park, boat tours, and the Museum of History and Industry, as well as The Center for Wooden Boats. Denny Park, Seattle's oldest park, features green spaces, a children's play area, and an off-leash dog park. Dining options are abundant, with Portage Bay Cafe, mbar, The White Swan Public House, Daniel’s Broiler, Tapster, and Flat Stick Pub providing a variety of culinary experiences. Whole Foods Market is conveniently located nearby for grocery needs.
Interstate 5 borders the neighborhood to the east, facilitating easy highway access. Although foot traffic remains high, it has decreased recently due to the rise in remote work. Public transportation is well-supported by King County Metro, with numerous light rail stations and bus stops throughout the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is South Lake Union a good place to live?
South Lake Union is a good place to live, receiving 4.3 stars from its residents. South Lake Union is considered very walkable and a biker's paradise with great transit options. South Lake Union has 6 parks for recreational activities. It is very dense in population with 36.6 people per acre and a median age of 33. The average household income is $160,190 which is above the national average. College graduates make up 74.8% of residents. A majority of residents in South Lake Union are renters, with 96.2% of residents renting and 3.8% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving South Lake Union can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
South Lake Union neighborhood guide.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in South Lake Union?
The median home price in South Lake Union is $455,559. If you put a 20% down payment of $91,100 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.56%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $2,320 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $99K a year to afford the median home price in South Lake Union. The average household income in South Lake Union is $160K.
What are the best public schools in South Lake Union?
The best public schools that serve South Lake Union are:
What are the best private schools in South Lake Union?
The best private schools that serve South Lake Union are:
- Epiphany School has an A+ Niche grade, a student teacher ratio of 7:1 and an average review score of 5.0.
- St Joseph School has an A+ Niche grade, a student teacher ratio of 12:1 and an average review score of 4.8.
- The Northwest School has an A+ Niche grade, a student teacher ratio of 7:1 and an average review score of 4.3.
What are the most popular zip codes in South Lake Union, Seattle, WA?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near South Lake Union, Seattle, WA?
Home Trends in South Lake Union, WA
On average, homes in South Lake Union, Seattle sell after 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in South Lake Union, Seattle over the last 12 months is $450,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$450,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$200,000
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$599,900
Median 1 Bedroom Sale Price
$435,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$564
Number of Homes for Sale
8
Last 12 months Home Sales
19
Median List Price
$455,559
Median Change From 1st List Price
3%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-5%