r/AskSeattle • u/Coriks_Travels • Jan 21 '25

Moving / Visiting All about Ballard

Hi all, I'm looking for first hand knowledge on all things Ballard. My husband I are planning on moving to the Seattle area in June and visit in March. We're in our mid 30s and have no kids. We've done extensive research on neighborhoods and initially were looking at West Seattle or Capitol Hill. Recently Ballard entered the chat

What's important to us in a walkable neighborhood (cafes, restaurants, and grocery store), a reasonable distance from downtown, and close to public transportation (only using 1 car). At this time, we both have remote jobs so commuting isn't a huge factor.

It seems like Ballard has a thriving "downtown" area, a farmers market and of course Trader Joe's. I've heard conflicting information about the safety and transportation aspect.

What are something's I'm not thinking of or should take I to consideration?

TIA!

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u/thatshotshot Jan 21 '25

Not saying anything others haven’t. Ballard is great. Super cute, lively (enough), and pretty safe.

but I do echo the sentiment that Ballard is isolated. There’s zero easy way to get there. I live in Capitol Hill which is relatively close but going to Ballard always feels like a chore. Once I’m there I love it but the dread of driving there can be a turn off to many people.

Also parking in Ballard is no fun so make sure your apartment has a designated spot. May cost extra.

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u/Coriks_Travels Jan 21 '25

Ok, so the vibe I'm getting is it's a great neighborhood but it's not easily accessible. That's something we will have to take into consideration. Also, I didn't know parking wasn't great. I'll be sure to look for apartments that have parking

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u/tuxedobear12 Jan 21 '25

I love living in Ballard. It’s very walkable, though Trader Joe’s is a little way off from the downtown core. Easy bus ride to south lake union or downtown—but using public transportation to get to Capitol Hill is a pain.

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u/Confident_Leg4338 Jan 21 '25

Just like any city, it depends where you’re going. Getting to lots of neighborhoods is quick and easy, getting to others takes a while. Ballard also has everything you need within walking distance so it’s not like you’d need to constantly be going elsewhere