If you’re considering a move from Seattle to New York City, a key factor to consider is the cost of living.
Both cities are known for being expensive, but how do they compare?
We’ll explore the cost of living in Seattle vs NYC. We’ll discuss each factor to consider when relocating.
Plus, we’ll break down the key differences and similarities between these two cities. We’ll cover housing and food expenses.
Let’s see the compared components below and start with “Why move from Seattle to NYC?”
Why Move From Seattle to New York City?
Moving from Seattle to NYC is a big decision.
I will cover a few reasons why people decide to move from Seattle to NYC in 2024:
- Job opportunities: NYC has a larger job market than Seattle, particularly in industries such as finance, media, and fashion.
- Wordwide-Known Museums: NYC is known for its world-class museums, theaters, and music venues, as well as its diverse food scene.
- Cost of Living: While NYC is generally more expensive than Seattle, some people might prefer the higher cost of living in exchange for the cultural and entertainment opportunities that the city offers (we’ll discuss this later in detail).
Now let’s talk about the Pros and Cons of Seattle vs NYC, break down the details, and compare the two cities.
Pros and Cons of Seattle vs NYC
Living in NYC Pros:
- Vibrant arts and culture scene: NYC is home to many museums, theaters, and music venues, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Broadway, and Carnegie Hall.
- Job opportunities: NYC has a diverse economy with many job opportunities in various industries.
- Exciting entertainment: NYC has many entertainment options. These include sports teams, such as the New York Yankees and New York Knicks. Plus, there are music festivals and comedy clubs as well.
Living in NYC Cons:
- High cost of living: NYC is one of the most expensive cities in the US, with high housing costs and other expenses.
- High taxes: NYC has some of the highest taxes in the United States. Among them are sales tax, property tax, and income tax.
- Poor air quality: Since NYC is a huge megapolis, this city has quite low air quality.
- Cold winters: No one can argue with this. NYC experiences cold and snowy winters. So if you’re planning to visit NYC in winter, get prepared to face cold here.
Living in Seattle Pros:
- Beautiful natural scenery: Mountains, forests, and water surround Seattle. So it’s a great place for hiking and kayaking.
- Thriving tech industry: Seattle is home to many tech companies, such as Amazon and Microsoft. This has led to a strong job market in the city.
- Mild climate: Seattle has a mild climate, with temperatures rarely getting too hot or too cold.
Living in Seattle Cons:
- High cost of living: Seattle is one of the most expensive cities in the US. It also has high housing costs and other expenses.
- Heavy traffic: Seattle has some of the worst traffic in the US, particularly during rush hour.
- Homelessness crisis: Seattle has many homeless people. This has led to problems like tent camps and public health issues.
- Rainy weather: Those who prefer sunny days may find Seattle’s rainy weather difficult. Since is known for its rainy weather.
- Limited job opportunities (outside of the tech industry): The tech industry is thriving in Seattle. But there may be few jobs for people in other fields.
Next, let’s compare the population and demographics of both municipalities.
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Comparisons of Chicago vs. Seattle in 2024
Seattle Population and Demographics:
- Seattle Population: 3.5mln (2023)
- Seattle Population Density: 2,593.5/km2 (6,717.0/mi2)
- Seattle Median Age: 36.8 years
- Seattle Female vs. Male: 50.3% female and 49.7% male
- Seattle Median Household Income: $104,063 in 2019
- Seattle Educational Attainment: 60.1% of Seattle residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher
NYC Population and Demographics:
- NYC Population: 8.96mln (2023)
- NYC Population Density: 28,491 people per square mile
- NYC Median Age: 36.7 years
- NYC Female vs. Male: 52.3% female and 47.7% male
- NYC Median Household Income: $74,694 in 2023
- NYC Educational Attainment: 36.9% of New York City residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher
Seattle vs NYC Cost of Living: Comparison
Typical Seattle Living Expenses
Seattle’s living expenses can vary but are generally lower than those in New York City. Housing in Seattle is pricey. The median home price is above the national average.
Above all, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from $2,000 to $3,000 per month. Groceries, transportation, and dining out are also moderately expensive.
Typical NYC Living Expenses
New York City is one of the most expensive cities not just in the US but in the world.
In general, housing costs are very high. One-bedroom apartments in Manhattan often cost over $3,000 a month.
Groceries, transportation, and dining out are also expensive. They add to the high cost of living.
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Seattle vs. NYC Crime Rates
According to the Seattle Police Department report, the violent crime rate for the City of Seattle increased from 729 per 100,000 in 2021 to 736 per 100,000 in 2022. Property crime rates increased slightly from 5,730 to 5,784 per 100,000 for 2022.
Seattle has a crime rate of 66 per 1,000 residents. It ranks among the highest in the U.S. for crime in all community sizes (see Seattle’s crime map below):
The chance of being a victim of violent or property crime in Seattle is one in 15.
Over 97% of Washington communities have lower crime rates. When compared to similar-sized populations, Seattle’s crime rate is much higher.
Violent crime in Seattle is notably high. It includes offenses like rape, murder, armed robbery, and assault. The chance of falling victim to violent crime in Seattle is one in 122.
Property crime is common. It includes burglary, motor vehicle theft, and arson. The chance of a property crime in Seattle is one in 17.
Plus, motor vehicle theft is especially common, with a one in 106 chance.
Also, Numbeo’s crime index shows that Seattle has a moderate level of crime, with a score of 59.32, while NYC has a slightly lower score of 53.63.
Overall, the violent crime rate in Seattle is 626 per 100,000 people, and the murder rate was 6.7 per 100,000 people in 2023.
In contrast, New York City has a lower crime rate than similarly sized metro areas, with a crime rate of 256.3 per 100,000 people.
Seattle vs. NYC Weather/Climate
Seattle has a milder, temperate climate with mild summers and cool, wet winters. The city is known for its frequent rainfall.
In contrast, New York City has a humid subtropical climate. It has hot, humid summers and cold winters with snow. NYC has more extreme temperature variations throughout the year compared to Seattle.
Let’s provide some details:
Weather/Climate in Seattle:
- Seattle is known for its rainy weather, which can be difficult for those who prefer sunny days.
- Seattle averages 152 sunny days per year, which is lower than the US average of 205 sunny days.
- Seattle’s summers are generally mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 70°F (21°C).
- Seattle’s winters are cool and wet, with temperatures averaging around 45°F (7°C).
- Seattle’s surroundings are beautiful, with mountains, forests, and water all around the city.
Check the current weather in Seattle here.
Weather/Climate in NYC:
- NYC experiences more extreme weather conditions than Seattle, including hurricanes and snowstorms.
- NYC gets an average of 46.6 inches of rain per year.
- NYC’s summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 80°F (27°C).
- NYC’s winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures averaging around 35°F (2°C).
- NYC has a lower number of sunny days per year than Seattle, with around 230 sunshine days.
Check the current weather in Seattle here.
Seattle vs NYC Public Transportation
Both Seattle and NYC have extensive public transportation systems.
NYC’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) operates one of the largest and most complex subway and bus systems in the world, covering all five boroughs.
Seattle’s public transportation system includes buses, light rail, and a commuter rail system. NYC’s system is larger and more established, while Seattle’s has been expanding in recent years.
The Economy in Seattle vs NYC
Here’s the overview of the economy in Seattle vs NYC:
Seattle Economy:
- Seattle Average Hourly Rate: $23.17
- Seattle Average Salary: $75,594
- Seattle Unemployment Rate: 4.40%
- Seattle Top Employers: Amazon, Boeing, Microsoft, University of Washington, Seattle Children’s Hospital
NYC Economy:
- NYC Average Hourly Rate: $23.26
- NYC Average Salary: $59,752 (with 80% of salaries falling between $31,200 and $150,000)
- NYC Unemployment Rate: 4.90% (2022).
- NYC Top Employers: JP Morgan Chase, Citigroup, Verizon Communications, Goldman Sachs, American Express
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Sports Teams in Seattle vs NYC
Here’s the overview of Sports teams in both cities:
Sports Teams in Seattle:
- Seattle is home to several professional sports teams. Among them are the Seattle Seahawks (NFL), Seattle Mariners (MLB), Seattle Sounders FC (MLS), and Seattle Storm (WNBA).
- Seattle is known for its passionate sports fans. The Seahawks and Sounders FC have some of the loudest stadiums in the world.
Sports Teams in NYC:
- New York City is home to several professional sports teams. Among them are the New York Yankees and New York Mets (MLB), New York Giants and New York Jets (NFL), New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets (NBA), New York Rangers and New York Islanders (NHL), and New York City FC (MLS).
- NYC is also home to several major sports events such as the US Open tennis tournament and the New York City Marathon.
Seattle vs NYC Distance
Here’s a brief overview of transportation options from Seattle to NYC in one table, for your convenience:
| Transportation | Distance | Duration | Condition |
| Car | 2,800 – 3,000 miles | Approximately 40-45 hours | Varies from excellent to moderate, includes toll roads |
| Bus | Varies based on route | Approximately 45-55 hours | Typically good, but travel time may vary |
| Flight | Approximately 2,400 – 2,800 miles | Approximately 5-6 hours | N/A |
| Train | Varies based on route | Approximately 3-4 days | Scenic route, but longer travel time |
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Conclusion
Overall, the decision to live in Seattle instead of NYC will depend on many factors. These include job opportunities, lifestyle preferences, and your budget.
and yes – both cities are expensive. But Seattle is cheaper than NYC and has a higher salary.
However, NYC has a larger job market and more cultural attractions. So the decision will depend on individual circumstances and priorities.
Good luck!!
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