New to Seattle
AdditionalResources
Helpful tools, trusted links, and practical services for navigating life in Seattle. Whether you’re renting, relocating, setting up utilities, or getting familiar with the area, this page is designed to make your transition smoother.
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Seattle'sNeighborhoods
Every pocket of Seattle feels different. Use the interactive map to explore communities, compare local stats, and find your best fit.
New To Seattle
ResourcesGuides
Moving to a new city involves more than finding a home. These resources can help you navigate renting, moving services, utilities, transportation, and housing support as you settle into life in Seattle.
In addition to links to help you find rental properties below, it’s important to understand the unique factors of becoming a tenant in Seattle.
The City of Seattle provides a helpful resource site called Renting in Seattle. This site explains how to verify registered rentals, evaluate your readiness to rent, understand renter rights, and access additional resources. The Renting in Seattle Renter’s Handbook is also an excellent guide to renting in the city.
If you’re ready to search websites for rental options, here are some popular platforms:
- Seattle.gov Affordable Housing Search Map
- aptfinder.org – Connects low-income households with affordable apartments throughout Washington State.
- AffordableHousing.com – Listings for landlords participating in the Housing Choice Voucher program.
- Zillow
- Seattle Craigslist
- The NWMLS – Some rentals are listed exclusively through the Northwest Multiple Listing Service and require a licensed real estate agent to access.
- Zumper
- Rent.com
- Apartments.com
- Budget Moving
Locally owned and operated company offering residential and commercial moving services, packing services, emergency moves, cross-country moves, and furniture assembly. - Eco Movers
Provides environmentally responsible moving services using green moving techniques to minimize environmental impact. - NextStep Transitions
Provides move management services including downsizing, organization, mover coordination, donation delivery, unpacking, and home setup. They also assist with senior living transitions.
- Tenant Relocation Assistance Ordinance (TRAO)
Provides relocation assistance for tenants required to move due to demolition, renovation, or major building changes. - Hopelink
Offers financial assistance to individuals and families experiencing unexpected financial hardship that could lead to housing instability. - 2-1-1 Washington
A 24/7 service connecting residents to health, housing, and community services. - King County Housing Authority
Provides rent-subsidized housing options and mixed-income housing communities. - Supportive Services for Veteran Families
Provides rapid re-housing services and financial assistance for veterans experiencing homelessness.
Most homes in Seattle will be serviced by the following utilities:
- Electricity – Seattle City Light
- Water – Seattle Public Utilities
- Sewer – Seattle Public Utilities
- Garbage – Seattle Public Utilities / Waste Management
- Gas – Puget Sound Energy
Set up services through Seattle Public Utilities / City Light / Waste Management
Register to Vote in Washington State
When you move to Washington, you must register to vote. If you move within the state, you’ll need to update your voter registration before participating in elections.
Moving to Washington – Department of Licensing
You have 30 days after moving to Washington to obtain a state driver’s license and register your vehicle.
Seattle Public Transportation Options
– Information on buses, light rail, ferries, and water taxis across the Puget Sound region.
FlipYourTrip
– A transportation planning hub that maps road closures, major events, construction projects, and alternative travel options like biking, walking, and public transit.
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Whether you’re relocating soon, renting for now, or starting to think about buying, we’re here to help you sort through your options and take the next step with confidence.
















