Hello, Been living here since 2023. You can expect to pay around $1,444 for rent here. Median household income is $115,750, which feels pretty solid for the area. Crime rate is something to consider -Vashon sits at 90.8 per 100K. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Is this normal for Vashon? Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look.
11 upvotes
8 Replies
minneapoliswalker2023
been saying this for years
40 upvotes
Colton Gonzalez
exactly what I was thinking
38 upvotes
Jackson
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 58, moved here 10 years ago from San Francisco. I've lived in Sunset and East, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Four distinct seasons
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Limited public transit options
2. Far from beaches/mountains
3. The cultural scene situation is pricey and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Sunset: Great for families. underrated vibes, walkable.
- East: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from San Francisco, everything felt challenging. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are established. Gas is affordable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$150K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
33 upvotes
Jacob Stewart
noted, appreciate it
30 upvotes
Owen Bennett
Moved here last year, no regrets.
29 upvotes
Adam C.
Used to live on the Midtown side, now on the Riverside side. Completely different vibe. it was the best decision I ever made.
29 upvotes
Naomi Kim
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 42, moved here 4 years ago from New York. I've lived in Old Town and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Strong job market in several industries
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally excellent - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Nightlife is limited
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The cost of living situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Old Town: Great for remote workers. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from New York, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are wild. Gas is reasonable. You can live comfortably on $50K-$110K here.
**Final verdict:**
Definitely worth checking out.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
17 upvotes
Kennedy Taylor
The food scene here is hit or miss. Tons of great Vietnamese places. I love the pace of life here.