What Should I Know Before Moving From Long Island to Seattle, Washington?

Moving from Long Island to Seattle means trading dense suburbs, humid summers, and traditional Northeast rhythms for a Pacific Northwest city shaped by water, tech, and nature. Seattle offers no state income tax, strong job growth, and unmatched access to the outdoors—but housing costs, weather, and neighborhood-by-neighborhood differences require thoughtful planning for Long Islanders used to the New York market.

Cost of Living & Lifestyle Comparison

Seattle is expensive by national standards and can rival parts of Long Island, but the cost structure is different.

Here’s how the shift typically looks:

  • Home prices are high, especially close to the city core and water

  • No state income tax, a major change from New York

  • Property taxes are moderate compared to NY

  • Utilities are reasonable due to mild temperatures

  • Dining and everyday expenses are mid-to-high range

Lifestyle differences are immediate:

  • Mild summers and cool, damp winters

  • Strong emphasis on work-life balance

  • Casual, less formal culture

  • Neighborhood identity matters more than town lines

  • Outdoor living despite frequent drizzle

For many movers, Seattle is a lifestyle and career play rather than a cost-saving move.

Employment & Opportunities

Seattle has one of the strongest job markets in the country, especially for tech, engineering, and professional services.

Key industries include:

  • Technology and cloud computing

  • Aerospace and engineering

  • Biotechnology and life sciences

  • Healthcare

  • Professional and corporate services

Major employers and anchors include Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, Meta, and University of Washington.

Seattle is especially attractive to Long Islanders relocating for tech roles or hybrid work flexibility.

Education & Schools

School quality varies widely by neighborhood and nearby suburbs, making location choice critical for families.

Well-regarded areas and districts include:

  • Bellevue School District

  • Lake Washington School District (Redmond/Kirkland)

  • Mercer Island School District

  • Select Seattle Public Schools options

Private and independent schools are also common and often part of relocation decisions.

Higher education is anchored by the University of Washington, which plays a major role in the regional economy.

Real Estate Practices: What’s Different?

Washington’s real estate process is faster and more standardized than New York’s.

Key differences include:

  • Attorneys are not typically involved in residential transactions

  • Faster contract-to-close timelines

  • Strong emphasis on inspections and seller disclosures

  • Competitive bidding in desirable neighborhoods

  • A mix of older craftsman homes and newer townhomes

Homes often prioritize location, views, and walkability over lot size.

Eric Berman REALTOR® can connect you with trusted Seattle-area agents who understand relocation needs and micro-market nuances.

Logistics of the Move

Relocating from Long Island to Seattle is a true cross-country move.

Be prepared for:

  • A less car-dependent lifestyle in urban areas

  • Strong public transportation options in the city

  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) with nonstop NYC flights

  • Frequent rain but minimal snow

  • Limited weather-related travel disruptions

Many New Yorkers find daily life calmer and less rushed once settled.

Community & Quality of Life

Seattle is best understood as a collection of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own feel.

Popular areas include:

  • Queen Anne: Scenic, residential, and central

  • Ballard: Walkable, waterfront, and community-driven

  • Capitol Hill: Urban, cultural, and vibrant

  • Bellevue: Polished suburban living and major employers

  • Kirkland: Waterfront charm and family-friendly feel

Lifestyle highlights include:

  • Easy access to hiking, skiing, and water activities

  • Strong coffee, food, and craft culture

  • Environmentally conscious communities

  • Outdoor fitness year-round

  • A quieter, more intentional pace of life

Seattle appeals to buyers who value nature, innovation, and balance.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

  • Visit in winter to understand the weather reality

  • Explore neighborhoods carefully—vibe varies block by block

  • Budget for competitive housing in top areas

  • Learn how bidding strategies differ from NY

  • Work with Eric Berman REALTOR® to connect with vetted local professionals

Your Move to Seattle

Relocating from Long Island to Seattle offers a shift toward innovation, outdoor living, and a more balanced lifestyle. While housing costs and weather require adjustment, many Long Islanders find Seattle’s career opportunities and quality of life deeply rewarding.

With Eric Berman REALTOR® guiding your relocation, you gain trusted insight, strong connections, and a clear plan to move with confidence.

FAQs

Is Seattle more expensive than Long Island?
Housing can be comparable in prime areas, but no state income tax changes the overall equation. For a personalized comparison, visit 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Which Seattle suburbs are best for families moving from New York?
Bellevue, Mercer Island, Kirkland, and Redmond are popular for schools and community. Learn more at 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

How does buying a home in Washington differ from New York?
Closings are faster and typically handled without attorneys. Get guidance at 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

What is the biggest adjustment for Long Islanders moving to Seattle?
Weather and housing competition are the biggest changes. For relocation prep, reach out via 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Is Seattle a good long-term place to buy a home?
Yes. Strong job growth and limited supply support long-term demand. For market insight, contact 👉 https://www.theericbermanteam.com/contact-us

Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com
www.theericbermanteam.com

https://www.theericbermanteam.com/blog/what-should-i-know-before-moving-from-long-island-to-seattle-washington-1