We used our proprietary Location Scores to rank the neighborhoods in Seattle, Washington based on the following family-friendly characteristics: quiet, pedestrian-friendly, parks, groceries, elementary schools, and high schools.
Here’s our list of the best neighborhoods for families in Seattle:
Local Logic builds location intelligence solutions to help home seekers and investors find opportunities that are most suited to their preferences and requirements. We draw upon thousands of data points to develop 18 proprietary Location Scores to provide street- and neighborhood-level insights.
Location Scores measure amenities close by and mobility patterns around a neighborhood, so homebuyers can better understand and assess a location. Using our location insights, you can find properties based on specific characteristics, such as proximity to schools or quiet neighborhoods, and make more informed decisions on where to live.
Below you’ll find the Location Scores for the best Seattle neighborhoods for families as well as the city’s average. We analyzed the locations by the following family-friendly scores:
Then, we ranked each neighborhood by a composite score of all these factors.
Here are the average scores for Seattle:
👪 Composite score for family-friendliness: 6.9
Here’s our data-informed list of urban Houston’s most family-friendly neighborhoods:
👪 Composite score for family-friendliness: 8.2
Madrona is a small, mellow neighborhood that sits right on the shores of Lake Washington. The neighborhood’s motto is “The Peaceable Kingdom,” which is reflective of the diverse heritage it has. There are tons of things for you to enjoy with your family. Hi-Spot Café is a neighborhood favorite for dinner, and is just a stone’s throw away from Alvin Larkins Park.
One of the best things about the neighborhood is how easy it is to do activities in nature without leaving the city. Take a Sunday stroll in Madrona Park, and enjoy its Madrona Beach during the warmer months. There are a lot of amazing schools in the area, too, especially for elementary-aged children. Consider Madrona Elementary School for your little ones and Garfield High School for your teens.
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👪 Composite score for family-friendliness: 7.9
Leschi is another lakeside neighborhood in Seattle, known for being home to a racially and economically diverse group of folks. When it comes to homes, there’s a healthy mix of turn-of-the-century properties and modest homes. When you’re not walking right by the water, you and your family can enjoy a number of outdoor spaces, including Leschi Park, Frink Park, and the String of Pearls.
When it comes to the school week, Leschi Elementary School is the top-rated choice among parents. For your high schoolers, consider Canterbury Academy. If you’re looking for a brunch date spot with your partner after you drop the kids off at school, Meet the Moon Café is a must-try.
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👪 Composite score for family-friendliness: 7.8
The neighborhood of Wallingford is located about four miles from Seattle’s downtown core. Known for its quick development into a streetcar suburb, Wallingford is home to a number of iconic places, such as the original Dick’s Drive-In location.
From the neighborhood, you and your family can enjoy views of both Olympic Mountain and Cascade Mountain, visit the famous Gas Works Park, and play around at the Meridian Playground. There are a number of elementary schools in the neighborhood, including The Meridian School. For your high schoolers, consider a spot like the highly-rated Lincoln High School.
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👪 Composite score for family-friendliness: 7.7
One thing about the best Seattle neighborhoods for families is that they’ll describe themselves as “mellow.” Wedgwood is no different. Despite the calm, the neighborhood is quite active. All of the best restaurants, bars, and services are spread out on two streets, and it is home to some of Seattle’s best schools (including top prep schools).
If you’re considering private education for your children, enroll your youngest ones at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic School and your teens at University Prep. Wong’s Kitchen and Bar is known for its reasonable prices and “neighborhood vibe,” making it a chill spot for the whole family.
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👪 Composite score for family-friendliness: 7.5
Montlake is a neighborhood in central Seattle with a lot of significant landmarks and natural amenities on its borders. Enjoy a family hike or bike ride through Interlaken Park, and see a bunch of beautiful flowers and plants along the trails in the Washington Park Arboretum.
As with all of the neighborhoods mentioned, there are many wonderful choices for your children. If your child wants to live at home during their post-secondary years, the University of Washington campus is just a stone’s throw away.
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If you’re looking to provide your family with a mellow, laidback lifestyle just outside of the big city, then one of these neighborhoods in Seattle may be the perfect fit for you.
Our Location Scores are available through Local Content on many of our partner sites and their real estate listings in Seattle. When searching for your next home, or a new neighborhood, you can look for specific characteristics on each individual listing to find the perfect place for you and your family.
Try Local Content to see Location Scores, nearby Points of Interest, and School data for any location in the U.S. and Canada
Curious about how other neighborhoods (or cities!) might fare?
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Thao Tram Ngo
May 25, 2023 | 8 minutes read
