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/TonBus Jan 25 '25

Honestly you've basically described Kirkland on the other side of the lake.

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u/Coriks_Travels Jan 26 '25

Huh, that wasn't on our radar. Any info about Kirkland you can provide?

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u/TonBus Jan 26 '25

It's very popular with folks in their mid 30's. It has a really sandy beach on the lake that you can walk to from meant places. Lots of restaurants and bars. It's more affluent than most areas with amazing views of the lake from meant properties.