Let the numbers do the talking.
Bellevue, WA vs Seattle, WA
Bellevue, WA vs Seattle, WA: What the data shows
Bellevue, WA is in Bellevue, WA while Seattle, WA is in Seattle, WA — both in the same state. On home prices, Seattle, WA is the more affordable option at $773,200 median — $1,089,000 less than Bellevue, WA's $1,862,200. WYLT rates Bellevue, WA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Seattle, WA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Bellevue, WA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Bellevue, WA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Seattle, WA has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. On environmental risk, Bellevue, WA has Low flood risk and Seattle, WA has Low flood risk.
Seattle, WA is the more walkable neighborhood. Bellevue, WA scores 88/100 (very walkable) versus Seattle, WA's 90/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, Bellevue, WA has the higher school rating — Bellevue, WA rates 8/10 and Seattle, WA rates 7.8/10.
| Category | Bellevue, WA | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.86M | $773K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $158K ✓ Higher income | $111K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 88/100 | 90/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 36/100 | 89/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.8/10 |
| Best for | young professionalstech workersfamilies with children | Young professionalsRemote workersTransit riders |
Bottom line
If affordability is a top priority, consider Bellevue as a more budget-friendly option outside of Seattle. However, for those who value the city buzz and don't mind high prices, Seattle downtown may be a good fit despite its drawbacks. Ultimately, it comes down to weighing luxury against affordability, with Bellevue offering more bang for your buck.
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