West Seattle

Seattle, WA

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$825,000 (mid-2025 estimate for single-family homes)
Median Home Price
65–85 (higher in Alaska Junction and Admiral, lower in Arbor Heights)
Walkability Score
Generally above average for Seattle; Genesee Hill and Alki Elementary highly rated.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

West Seattle is a peninsula bordered by the Duwamish River to the east, Elliott Bay to the north, and Puget Sound to the west and south. Key sub-neighborhoods include Admiral, Alaska Junction, North Delridge, Fauntleroy, and Arbor Heights.

Zip Codes

9811698126981369810698146

Market Data Summary

Price Range$500,000–$1,400,000+ (most activity in $600K–$1.2M range)
Price per Sq Ft$560–$650 (varies by micro-location and property type)
Inventory LevelsModerate; higher than 2023 but still below pre-pandemic norms. More choices for buyers, but not a true buyer’s market.

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Single-family homesTownhomesCondosDuplexes

Architectural Styles

CraftsmanMid-century modernContemporaryBungalowsNew construction townhomes

Property Details

Typical Lot Sizes3,000–6,000 sq ft for most single-family homes; some larger lots in Arbor Heights and Fauntleroy.
Home Age Range1920s–2025; mix of historic homes and new infill construction.
Construction QualityGenerally high; older homes often updated, new builds meet modern energy and seismic codes.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Diverse, with a mix of young professionals, families, and long-term residents. Increasing diversity as new buyers move in. Median household income above Seattle average.

Community Vibe

Laid-back, neighborly, and locally focused. Strong sense of community pride and identity.

Typical Residents

  • Young professionals
  • Families with children
  • Retirees
  • Remote workers

Family Friendly

Very family-friendly, with excellent parks, schools, and community events.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Alki Beach Park
  • Lincoln Park
  • Schmitz Preserve Park
  • West Seattle Golf Course

Dining Options

  • Ma'ono
  • Ephesus
  • The Swinery
  • Husky Deli

Shopping Centers

  • Westwood Village
  • Alaska Junction retail core

Local Businesses

  • Easy Street Records
  • Bakery Nouveau
  • West Seattle Nursery
  • Elliott Bay Brewing

Education & Schools

Generally above average for Seattle; Genesee Hill and Alki Elementary highly rated.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Alki Elementary
  • Genesee Hill Elementary
  • Gatewood Elementary

Middle Schools

  • Madison Middle School
  • Denny International Middle School

High Schools

  • West Seattle High School
  • Chief Sealth International High School

Private Schools

  • Hope Lutheran
  • Holy Rosary
  • Seattle Lutheran

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • King County Metro RapidRide C Line
  • Multiple local bus routes

Major Roads

  • West Seattle Bridge (reopened 2023)
  • Fauntleroy Way SW
  • California Ave SW

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times15–35 minutes to downtown Seattle (variable with traffic); improved since bridge reopening.
WalkabilityHigh in Junction areas, moderate elsewhere.
ParkingStreet parking is generally available outside of Junctions; some congestion near commercial hubs.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Young families
  • Tech professionals
  • Move-up buyers
  • Remote workers

Key Selling Points

  • Proximity to downtown with a neighborhood feel
  • Excellent parks and beaches
  • Strong community identity
  • Diverse housing stock

Pricing Considerations

Homes priced at market value sell quickly; overpricing leads to longer DOM. Strategic pricing in the $700K–$1.2M range attracts the most buyers.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Traffic congestion and commute times, especially during bridge closures or peak hours.

Response Strategy:

Emphasize the West Seattle Bridge reopening, improved transit options, and flexible work-from-home culture.

Objection: Older homes may need updates or seismic retrofitting.

Response Strategy:

Highlight recent renovations, available inspection reports, and local contractors specializing in updates.

Objection: Perceived distance from downtown and other Seattle amenities.

Response Strategy:

Showcase improved commute times, vibrant local scene, and unique West Seattle lifestyle.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Solid, with 5–6% YoY growth in 2024–2025. Long-term outlook positive due to limited buildable land and ongoing demand.[2][3]

Rental Demand

Strong, especially for single-family homes and updated condos. Proximity to downtown and tech hubs drives demand.

Buyer Competition

Moderate to high, especially for well-priced homes in walkable areas. Multiple offers common under $1M.

Best For

  • Move-up buyers
  • Young families
  • Remote workers
  • Investors seeking stable appreciation

Potential Concerns

  • Earthquake/landslide risk
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Older homes may need updates

Professional Recommendations

1

Price accurately based on hyperlocal comps and recent sales.

2

Leverage professional photography, drone, and video tours to showcase views and outdoor spaces.

3

Stage for flexible living—emphasize home office and outdoor entertaining.

4

Educate buyers on infrastructure improvements and neighborhood amenities.

5

Network with local businesses and community groups to tap into off-market opportunities.

6

Prepare for multiple-offer scenarios, especially under $1M.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Ballard
  • Beacon Hill
  • Columbia City

Market Positioning

West Seattle is positioned as a balanced alternative to pricier neighborhoods like Ballard, offering more space and community feel with similar amenities.

Competitive Advantages

  • Waterfront access
  • Distinct neighborhood identity
  • Strong schools and parks

Price Comparison

Generally more affordable than Ballard or Queen Anne, but higher than Beacon Hill or Rainier Valley.

Investment Metrics

3.8–4.5% for single-family rentals; 4.5–5.2% for condos/townhomes (mid-2025)
Cap Rates
4–5% gross annual yield typical for updated homes
Rental Yields
22–25 (reflects strong appreciation and rental demand)
Price-to-Rent
Positive cash flow possible with 25%+ down payment, especially for multi-family or updated properties
Cash Flow
1.5–2% annual growth forecast for 2025–2026, with upside if inventory remains tight.[2]
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Condos and smaller townhomes are accessible entry points. Education on inspection and renovation process is key.

Move-Up Buyers

Strong selection of larger homes; focus on school zones and outdoor space. Competitive but more options than 2023.

Downsizers

Single-level homes and condos in Admiral and Alaska Junction are attractive. Walkability and amenities are selling points.

Investors

Look for updated duplexes, condos, and homes with ADUs. Rental demand is robust, especially near transit and commercial hubs.

Relocators

Highlight community feel, access to downtown, and unique West Seattle lifestyle. Virtual tours and remote closing support recommended.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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