It’s a tough decision: should you live downtown amid the constant bustle of the deliciously funky urban organism that is Seattle? Or, should you live in a quieter neighborhood with better parking and perhaps slightly cheaper housing prices? Luckily, with Beacon Hill, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
The Basics
Located south of downtown, between I-5 and Rainier Valley, the up-and-coming Beacon Hill is one of Seattle’s oldest neighborhoods. This large area is known for its relatively affordable housing and its convenient location—residents enjoy easy access to downtown Seattle without having to navigate the freeways (which we all know are not, ahem, Seattle’s best feature).
Homes in the northern part of Beacon Hill were mostly built in the early 1900s, and so this area contains many lovely Craftsman bungalows and Seattle box houses. The hill also offers views of downtown, Elliott Bay, Rainier Valley, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains.
Neighborhood Vibe
Depending on where you are in the neighborhood, Beacon Hill can be both bustling and quiet. Currently, as well as historically, the neighborhood is home to a diverse population of working-class families.
Completed just a few years ago, Beacon Hill’s light rail station has reenergized the neighborhood. Not only does the station provide an easy ride to downtown, it also houses rotating art installations and acts as a popular community hub.
Bars and Restaurants
While it’s easy to drive to downtown Seattle’s thriving foodie scene from this neighborhood, Beacon Hill also features its own excellent dining options. If you’re in North Beacon Hill, check out Carnitas Michoacan for authentic tacos. Or, head over to Bar Del Corso, Beacon Hill’s hidden gem, for wood-fired pizzas, simple Italian-style comfort food, and a relaxed atmosphere. Finally, The Station is a cozy and artistic coffee shop with excellent coffee, yummy breakfasts, and friendly patrons.
Activities and Attractions
Jefferson Park is the sixth largest park in Seattle and features a community center, children’s play equipment, tree-lined walking trails, and the stellar Jefferson Park Golf Course that was built in 1915. (Fun fact: due to efforts by local organizations of do-gooders, this golf course was accessible to all races and genders when it first opened over a century ago.)
Finally, the Beacon Hill Food Forest is an exciting part of this neighborhood because it is the first large-scale edible permaculture garden on public land. When the project is complete, it is also slated to be one of the largest in the country. The Food Forest is open to the public for foraging.
With its convenient location and ongoing development, city natives predict that Beacon Hill’s prices will only continue to rise. So, snag a spot in this neighborhood while you still can and thank yourself later. Check out Pickett Street’s website to get in touch with a realtor who can help you find a home in this thriving area.
Info@pickettstreet.com or #425.502.5397