What should I know before moving from Long Island to Seattle?

Q: What should I know before moving from Long Island to Seattle?
A: Moving from Long Island to Seattle means relocating from suburban New York to the Pacific Northwest, where tech, coffee culture, and natural beauty define the lifestyle. Here’s what you should know — and how Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate can help guide you.

Cost of Living & Lifestyle Comparison

Seattle has a high cost of living, though it’s often lower than San Francisco’s and in some cases comparable to Long Island. Housing prices are expensive, particularly in desirable neighborhoods, but property taxes are lower than in Nassau and Suffolk counties. Everyday costs, including groceries and gas, can be higher than what Long Islanders are used to.

Lifestyle differences are distinct. Long Island emphasizes suburban communities and coastal living, while Seattle offers an urban vibe with easy access to mountains, lakes, and forests. Residents embrace outdoor recreation, sustainability, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Employment & Opportunities

Seattle has a booming job market, anchored by companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, Starbucks, and Boeing. The city is also a hub for biotech, healthcare, and aerospace.

Unlike Long Island residents who often commute into Manhattan, Seattle’s workforce is largely local, with short commutes to major tech campuses. The city also attracts remote workers who value its quality of life and natural surroundings.

Education & Schools

Seattle’s public schools are diverse, with some highly rated districts such as Mercer Island, Bellevue, and Lake Washington consistently ranking among the top in Washington State. Families relocating from Long Island’s strong districts will find good suburban options around the city.

The region is also home to respected universities, including the University of Washington, which adds to the area’s academic and cultural reputation.

Real Estate Practices: What’s Different?

The Seattle housing market is competitive, with bidding wars common in popular neighborhoods. Housing styles range from craftsman and modern townhomes in the city to larger suburban homes in surrounding areas.

Unlike New York, where attorneys often handle closings, Washington uses escrow companies and title companies for transactions. Inspections and contingencies are also structured differently. Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate can help you navigate these differences and connect with trusted local professionals.

Logistics of the Move

Relocating from Long Island to Seattle is a cross-country move of nearly 3,000 miles. Most families hire long-distance movers or ship vehicles. Downsizing before the move can help manage costs.

The climate is very different. Seattle has mild, wet winters and cool, dry summers, compared to Long Island’s four distinct seasons. The city is known for frequent rain, though total rainfall is less than in many U.S. cities — it’s the drizzle and cloudy skies that define the weather.

Community & Quality of Life

Seattle offers a mix of urban and suburban communities:

• Capitol Hill: Trendy, vibrant, with nightlife and culture.

• Ballard & Fremont: Family-friendly, eclectic, with strong community vibes.

• Bellevue & Redmond: Suburbs with top schools and proximity to tech hubs.

• Queen Anne: Historic homes and scenic city views.

Compared to Long Island, Seattle offers a stronger connection to nature and a tech-driven lifestyle, with easy access to hiking, skiing, and water sports.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

1. Prepare for a competitive housing market with multiple-offer scenarios.

2. Factor in the rain and gray weather when adjusting to the climate.

3. Explore suburban districts for top-rated schools.

4. Adjust to escrow closings instead of attorney-driven ones.

5. Partner with Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate for relocation expertise and Seattle-area connections.

Your Move to Seattle

Relocating from Long Island to Seattle brings career opportunities, outdoor living, and a unique Pacific Northwest lifestyle. With Eric Berman with Compass Real Estate supporting your move, you’ll have expert guidance, trusted referrals, and the confidence to make your relocation seamless and successful.