Seattle, Washington and Washington, D.C. are two of the most bustling cities in the United States. Despite sharing a state name, these cities offer distinct experiences, reflecting the Pacific Northwest's laid-back charm and the East Coast's hustle and bustle. There are essential differences in crime and safety, weather patterns, cost of living, education, work and economy, infrastructure, industries, and various other factors. Further analysis will compare and contrast these two diverse cities, providing valuable insight for those considering relocation or just planning a fun visit.
Distance between
Seattle, WA and
Washington, DC : 2,322.4 miles
Seattle's population is larger by 10%. Its population has grown by 170,545 people (30.3%) since 2000. The population of Washington has grown by 97,991 people (17.1%) during that time.
Crime rates differ significantly between the two cities. While both cities have been experiencing a drop in crime over the past few years, Washington, D.C. historically has had a higher crime rate than Seattle. However, it's essential to note that crime rates vary across different neighborhoods in both cities. Therefore, prospective residents and tourists should take caution and research the specific areas they plan to live in or visit. Overall, Seattle is "safer," especially outside the downtown area.
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
Sex Offenders
According to our data, there are 595 registered sex offenders living in Seattle and 1,058 registered sex offenders living in . The ratio of residents to sex offenders in Seattle is 1,184 to 1; the ratio in Washington is 644 to 1. The number of registered sex offenders compared to the number of residents is a smaller in Seattle than in Washington.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in both cities can be relatively high, reflecting their status as major urban areas. However, while Seattle is one of the most expensive cities in the U.S., due to its booming tech industry and high housing costs, Washington, D.C.'s cost of living tends to be slightly less. That said, it's essential to consider the higher income tax in D.C. when evaluating overall costs. Both cities offer a wide variety of amenities and services, although your dollar may go a bit farther in D.C.
Income Tax
D.C. has a progressive income tax with rates ranging from 4% to 8.95%, based on income levels. On the other hand, Washington state, including Seattle, does not impose a state income tax. This difference can significantly impact your take-home pay, especially for high earners.
Property Tax
Property taxes also differ between the two cities. Seattle's property tax rate typically hovers around 1%, while D.C.'s rate is lower, usually around 0.56%. This difference can add up substantially, particularly for more expensive properties.
Sales Tax
Washington, D.C. has a 6% sales tax rate, while Seattle's sales tax can go up to 10.1%. D.C.'s lower rate can be a significant savings for residents and tourists who plan to do a lot of shopping.
Income
Type
Seattle
Washington
Estimated median household income
$110,781
$90,088
Estimated per capita income
$74,733
$65,808
Cost of living index (U.S. average is 100)
118.5
124.2
If you make $50,000 in Seattle, you will have to make $52,405 in Washington to maintain the same standard of living.
Geographical Conditions
Seattle, nestled between the Puget Sound and Lake Washington, is known for its impressive natural beauty, offering numerous opportunities for outdoor pursuits. D.C., on the other hand, situated along the Potomac River, combines city living with access to nature. Both cities are walkable and bike-friendly, offering different types of natural beauty to enjoy.
Both cities have strong education systems with numerous highly regarded public and private schools. The D.C. area is home to renowned universities like Georgetown and George Washington University, while Seattle houses the highly-rated University of Washington. However, Seattle schools consistently rank higher for K-12 education. For those seeking higher education opportunities or a solid foundation for their children, both cities have much to offer.
The economies of both cities are robust and diverse. Washington, D.C.'s economy is heavily influenced by the government, although other sectors like education, healthcare, and tourism also contribute significantly. Seattle's economy, on the other hand, is driven by the tech industry, with companies like Amazon and Microsoft headquartered there. Both cities boast strong job markets, but your professional industry may dictate which city is the better choice for you.
Biggest Employers
The federal government is the largest employer in Washington, D.C. Other significant employers include Medstar Health and Georgetown University. In Seattle, some of the largest employers include Amazon, Microsoft, and the University of Washington, reflecting the city's tech and education-focused economy.
There were 264 building permits issued in Seattle in 2012 (52 less than in 2011) compared to 376 building permits issued in Washington in 2012 (149 more than in 2011).
In Seattle (King County), 69.0% voted for Democrats and 28.5% for Republicans in 2012 Presidential Election. In Washington (District of Columbia), 90.9% voted for Democrats and 7.3% for Republicans.
Elections
Type
Democrats
Republicans
Other
Year
Seattle
Washington
Seattle
Washington
Seattle
Washington
2020
75.1%
92.6%
22.3%
5.4%
2.6%
2.0%
2016
70.0%
90.9%
21.1%
4.1%
8.9%
5.0%
2012
69.0%
90.9%
28.5%
7.3%
2.5%
1.8%
2008
70.2%
92.5%
28.1%
6.5%
1.7%
1.0%
2004
65.1%
89.6%
33.8%
9.4%
1.1%
1.0%
2000
60.3%
85.2%
34.5%
9.0%
5.2%
5.9%
1996
56.4%
85.2%
31.4%
9.3%
12.2%
5.5%
Breakdown of population affiliated with a religious congregation
Type
Adherents
Congregations
Religion
Seattle
Washington
Seattle
Washington
CATHOLIC CHURCH
14.4%
12.6%
4.9%
7.4%
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
1.3%
0.5%
4.7%
2.1%
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
0.8%
3.1%
2.4%
5.3%
AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES IN THE USA
0.6%
6.2%
2.9%
10.3%
MUSLIM ESTIMATE
0.6%
0.7%
1.4%
1.1%
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
0.6%
0.9%
2.3%
1.8%
LUTHERAN CHURCH
0.5%
0.1%
2.0%
0.3%
SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION
0.3%
4.4%
3.8%
10.3%
Weather
The weather in Washington, D.C. is typically characterized by hot, humid summers and chilly winters, with a substantial amount of rain throughout the year. On the other hand, Seattle possesses a more moderate climate, with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers. If you're not a fan of intense summer heat, Seattle's cool summer climate might be more appealing. The frequent rainfall in both cities might be a consideration for those who prefer a drier climate.
Weather and climate
Type
Seattle
Washington
Temperature - Average
52.5°F
56.4°F
Humidity - Average morning or afternoon humidity
78.5%
68.8%
Humidity - Differences between morning and afternoon humidity
38%
33%
Humidity - Maximum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
86%
81%
Humidity - Minimum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
48%
48%
Precipitation - Yearly average
36.6 in
42.7 in
Snowfall - Yearly average
21.4 in
32.4 in
Clouds - Number of days clear of clouds
11.6%
15.9%
Sunshine amount - Average
49.4%
61.5%
Sunshine amount - Differences during a year
44%
21%
Sunshine amount - Maximum monthly
64%
66%
Sunshine amount - Minimum monthly
20%
45%
Wind speed - Average
8.6 mph
9.7 mph
Average climate in Seattle, Washington
Average climate in Washington, District of Columbia
Air pollution
Type
AQI
CO
NO2
OZONE
PB
PM10
PM25
SO2
Year
Seattle
Washington
Seattle
Washington
Seattle
Washington
Seattle
Washington
Seattle
Washington
Seattle
Washington
Seattle
Washington
Seattle
Washington
2018
82
88
0.21
0.32
10.6
11.6
20.7
23.2
N/A
N/A
N/A
16.4
8.3
8.8
0.7
0.8
2017
92
84
0.23
0.32
11.1
12.3
21.0
24.9
N/A
N/A
N/A
16.5
8.8
9.8
0.3
1.0
2016
67
98
0.22
0.43
11.9
14.7
20.3
24.6
N/A
0.002
N/A
17.2
6.6
9.5
0.6
1.0
2015
81
91
0.23
0.34
10.8
14.8
19.3
26.2
N/A
0.002
N/A
17.0
8.5
10.4
0.8
1.3
2014
75
85
0.24
0.33
11.5
11.6
19.5
25.9
N/A
0.002
N/A
17.1
7.4
10.0
N/A
1.0
2013
81
88
0.24
0.34
N/A
11.7
17.4
25.6
N/A
0.002
N/A
17.3
9.1
11.6
0.8
1.0
2012
77
103
0.23
0.58
N/A
15.2
19.5
27.6
N/A
0.002
N/A
N/A
7.7
12.2
1.0
1.6
2011
72
105
0.24
0.67
N/A
15.4
18.6
27.7
N/A
0.002
N/A
N/A
7.5
11.4
1.1
3.1
2010
71
114
0.24
0.88
N/A
15.9
18.0
29.3
N/A
0.003
N/A
N/A
6.7
9.3
1.1
3.4
2009
94
90
0.27
0.86
N/A
16.2
17.7
24.4
N/A
0.002
N/A
N/A
8.0
7.6
1.4
4.6
2008
80
103
0.30
1.23
N/A
16.2
17.8
25.3
N/A
0.003
N/A
N/A
6.5
8.5
1.3
5.6
2007
83
113
0.30
1.17
N/A
16.8
18.2
27.1
N/A
0.004
20.3
N/A
7.9
10.4
1.5
5.1
2006
98
114
N/A
1.11
N/A
17.2
18.3
25.5
N/A
0.004
22.6
N/A
8.7
10.9
N/A
4.5
2005
101
105
0.80
0.86
18.3
20.5
N/A
22.7
N/A
0.006
24.5
N/A
9.5
11.7
3.5
4.5
2004
102
113
0.81
0.62
17.9
21.3
N/A
20.6
N/A
0.004
N/A
N/A
10.3
11.3
3.0
6.5
2003
91
108
0.78
0.90
18.5
23.6
N/A
20.8
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
9.9
12.2
2.4
8.3
2002
87
125
0.82
1.16
19.3
23.7
N/A
25.0
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
11.7
N/A
2.7
6.7
2001
88
113
0.90
1.07
20.7
23.9
N/A
22.0
0.005
0.017
N/A
N/A
12.3
N/A
3.7
6.7
2000
98
115
1.06
1.17
20.9
20.2
N/A
19.1
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
13.3
N/A
3.2
8.2
Natural disasters
Type
Seattle
Washington
Tornado activity compared to U.S. average
5.5%
110.6%
Earthquake activity compared to U.S. average
1,394.2%
42.9%
Natural disasters compared to U.S. average
30%
19%
Transportation
Both cities offer efficient public transportation, reducing the necessity of a personal vehicle. D.C.'s Metro system provides a comprehensive network covering the city and extends into neighboring states. Seattle's public transportation consists of buses, light rail, and ferries, offering diverse ways to commute. Both cities also have extensive bicycle networks and are pedestrian-friendly, promoting active lifestyles.
Transport
Type
Seattle
Washington
Amtrak stations
1
1
Amtrak stations nearby
2
3
FAA registered aircraft
1
456
FAA registered aircraft manufacturers and dealers
2
3
Means of transportation to work
Type
Seattle
Washington
Bicycle
2.1%
2%
Bus
8.9%
6.3%
Carpooled
8.7%
7.8%
Car alone
67.8%
62.5%
Ferryboat
0.7%
0%
Motorcycle
0.3%
0.1%
Railroad
1.2%
0.3%
Streetcar
0.3%
10.6%
Subway
0.6%
1.3%
Taxicab
0.1%
0.8%
Walked
8%
5.7%
Average travel time to work
Type
Seattle
Washington
Average
35 min
39.2 min
Other means
23.5 min
26 min
Public transportation
35.6 min
38.9 min
Private vehicle occupancy
Type
Seattle
Washington
Average
1.2
1.1
Drove alone
89%
89.4%
In 2 person carpool
8.7%
9.7%
In 3 person carpool
0.8%
0.6%
In 4 person carpool
0.2%
0.4%
In 5-6 person carpool
1.1%
0%
In 7+ person carpool
0.2%
0%
How many people usually rode to work in the car, truck or van.
Real Estate
The real estate markets in both cities are competitive, with high costs and a limited supply of homes. While both cities have seen consistent growth in housing prices, Seattle's real estate market is particularly robust due to the city's economic growth and limited space. D.C.'s market, while also strong, is slightly less heated, offering somewhat more affordable options for homebuyers.
Neighborhoods
Both cities offer a range of neighborhoods, from vibrant downtown areas to quieter residential districts. In D.C., neighborhoods like Georgetown, Capitol Hill, and Dupont Circle are popular for their historical charm and proximity to key amenities. In Seattle, neighborhoods like Ballard, Capitol Hill, and Fremont attract residents with their unique blend of heritage, outdoor activities, and local attractions. The choice of neighborhood can heavily influence your experience and cost of living in either city.
Houses and residents
Type
Seattle
Washington
Houses
384,799
357,482
Average household size (people)
2.1
2.1
Median year apartment built
1987
1965
Median year house/condo built
1955
1941
Length of stay in the house since moving in
12.4 years
13.5 years
Houses occupied
351,650 (91.4%)
319,565 (89.4%)
Houses occupied by owners
161,587 (46%)
132,936 (41.6%)
Houses occupied by renters
190,063 (54%)
186,629 (58.4%)
Median rent asked for vacant for-rent units
$2,780
$2,791
Median monthly housing costs
$1,984
$1,817
Median price asked for vacant for-sale houses and condos
$860,506
$996,150
Estimated median house or condo value
$848,100
$669,900
Median numbers of rooms
4.1
3.8
Median number of rooms in apartments
3
3.1
Median number of rooms in houses and condos
6.3
6
Median house price - detached houses
Over $1,000,000
Over $1,000,000
Median house price - in 2-unit structures
$764,579
Over $1,000,000
Median house price - in 3-to-4-unit structures
$719,049
$471,443
Median house price - in 5 or more unit structures
$626,370
$527,983
Median house price - Townhouses or other attached units
$925,507
$817,288
Median house price - All housing units
Over $1,000,000
$790,542
Median house age
47
65
Renting percentage
51.9%
58%
Housing density (houses/condos per square mile)
4,587.9
5,821.9
House value disparities
20.6%
26.7%
Household income disparities
42.2%
45.7%
Median household income for houses/condes with a mortgage
$189,767
$163,111
Median household income for apartments without a mortgage
$112,771
$108,852
Housing units without a mortgage
2,459 (2.1%)
777 (0.8%)
Housing units with both a second mortgage and home equity loan
12,354 (10.5%)
8,586 (8.5%)
Housing units with a mortgage
115,481 (97.9%)
100,122 (99.2%)
Housing units with a home equity loan
240 (0.2%)
1,057 (1%)
Housing units with a second mortgage
13,881 (11.8%)
12,793 (12.7%)
House/condo owner moved in on average (years ago)
8
10
House/condo renter moved in on average (years ago)
1
1
Housing units lacking complete kitchen facilities
2.2%
1.5%
Housing units lacking complete plumbing facilities
0.4%
1.5%
Housing units in structures
Housing units in structures
Seattle
Washington
One, detached
39.6%
11.2%
One, attached
6.0%
22.2%
Two
2.0%
2.7%
3 or 4
3.2%
6.8%
5 to 9
5.7%
7.3%
10 to 19
7.0%
8.5%
20 to 49
11.9%
7.6%
50 or more
24.4%
33.6%
Mobile homes
0.1%
0.2%
Median real estate property taxes paid for housing units
Self-employed workers in own not incorporated business
24,994
16,654
State government workers
27,235
6,699
Unpaid family workers
947
580
Industries and Occupations
The leading industries in Washington, D.C. include federal government, education, and healthcare, while in Seattle, technology, healthcare, and manufacturing dominate. Both cities also have a flourishing tourism industry. According to your professional background, these cities offer numerous opportunities across various sectors. Seattle's tech industry is notably thriving, providing numerous job opportunities in the field.
Both cities have high-quality healthcare systems. Seattle is home to prestigious medical institutions like the University of Washington Medical Center. D.C. hosts world-renowned hospitals like Georgetown University Hospital. Both cities offer excellent healthcare options, with numerous specialists and primary care providers available.
Health (county statistics)
Type
Seattle
Washington
General health status score of residents in this county from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent)
Infrastructure in both cities is well-developed, with excellent public transportation systems. Seattle's infrastructure leans more towards sustainability and conservation, boasting more parks and green spaces. D.C.'s infrastructure, while also well-developed, has a more historical feel, with many iconic monuments and government buildings. Both cities offer excellent public amenities, though Seattle's commitment to sustainability might appeal to those interested in a greener lifestyle.
Infrastructure
Type
Seattle
Washington
Hospitals
22
114
TV stations
17
27
Arenas or stadiums
5
4
Bank branches located here
236
247
Bank institutions located here
37
34
Main business address for public companies
54
30
Drinking water stations with no reported violations in the past
3
5
Drinking water stations with reported violations in the past
HMDA - Conventional home purchase loans - Applications denied
Year
Seattle
Washington
1999
1,357
1,328
2000
1,148
1,438
2001
890
935
2002
840
886
2003
1,421
1,319
2004
1,810
2,281
2005
2,341
2,920
2006
2,789
3,362
2007
2,273
2,548
2008
1,113
1,095
2009
748
514
Culture and Food
Both cities offer diverse cultural scenes. Washington, D.C. is known for its rich historical culture, housing many national museums and monuments. Seattle is recognized for its music scene, having birthed 'grunge' in the 90s. Both cities have dynamic food scenes, with Seattle known for seafood and coffee and D.C. distinguished for its global cuisine, reflecting the diversity of its residents.
Sports Teams
Sport is a significant aspect of both cities. D.C. is home to four major sports teams: Washington Redskins(NFL), Washington Nationals(MLB), Washington Capitals(NHL), and Washington Wizards(NBA). Seattle boasts the Seattle Seahawks(NFL), Seattle Mariners(MLB), and the most recent addition, Seattle Kraken(NHL). Both cities boast strong fan bases and offer plenty of opportunities for sports enthusiasts.
Seattle, WA
Washington, DC
