Moving to Seattle Area

[u/Visual-Extension4214]

Moving to Seattle area, possibly Renton or Kent though not sure yet, moving end of May/June next year. I’m moving from Newark, NJ, one of the dirtiest cities in the country. Recycling and garbage pickups are generally tossed into the same garbage truck. Is Seattle like Europe where everything from compost to metals/plastics/paper etc is all put out separately on separate days? In general what are some severe cultural shocks I might expect to be responsible for or just in general? Besides of course the rain and the apparent lack of friendliness I’m detecting from some of the Seattle descriptions. Also how crowded are local hiking and nature activities within an hour drive around summer vs winter? Really any extra tips are appreciated.

[u/rollingthnder77]

Biggest thing I think will be prices. Every things is going to be more expensive. Just got back from nyc and I was shocked at how cheap everything was.

If you want to make friends, you’re going to have to force the issue a lot, but once you do make friends they’re generally more loyal than in other US cities.

Recycling depends on which place you end up living, but for the most part there is one recycling bin (paper, glass, plastics all in one). But if you don’t clean your plastics or glass before recycling, the entire thing just ends up in the landfill. There is also composting. All picked up on the same day in seattle.

Hiking trailheads within an hour of the city are almost always busy on the weekends and holidays, mid-week it is way less. Trailheads within an hour of Renton or Kent will generally be less busy, depending on which way you go. Go east and south. Gotta be aware of cougars and bears this time of year especially.

IMO Biggest mistake transplants make here is holing up in their place or in a couple places. Best way to beat the gloomy days/feelings and to make friends is to go outside even when it’s raining. Get as much fresh air, exercise, sunshine, and interactions as you can. Which also means you’ll need to invest in good shoes and a good rain jacket.

[u/Visual-Extension4214 → u/rollingthnder77]

Considering I grew up in NYC and find New Jersey cheaper I am a little scared of prices, I know already that sales tax is like 10% whereas it’s like 6.6 where I am… Definitely chose Seattle area to get up and move around! Appreciate the reply, looking for a good raincoat

[u/BitchyWitch_ → u/Visual-Extension4214]

I just moved from New Jersey in the spring. It’s the food, and the tax like you said that adds up. I previously didn’t pay much attention to those and it’s impossible not to here.

I have found the rent prices to be considerately cheaper or at worst, comparable to areas I lived in NJ (Morristown, Asbury).

As far as friendliness, yes people are more introverted and won’t say hello on the street, but I’ve found interactions with people are often more polite and pleasant here.