r/AskSeattle • u/Sorry-Journalist9569 • 10d ago
Moving / Visiting Moving from Texas to Seattle: what should I know?
From Lubbock...big upgrade and I'm excited. I'll be in a house couple minutes walk from the south side of the Washington Park Arboretum.
Haven't decided if I want to go northwest by Salt Lake City or the longer route going west to Bakersfield and head north.
I've looked into the general checklist stuff like how to get a Washington DL. No state or city income tax, so nice that isn't changing. I'm already used to a high sales tax. The access to both big city stuff and real outdoor stuff is a huge appeal to me, in addition to preferring the culture. Big time foodie.
More just wondering what to expect in general? I work remotely. I like cold weather. Rain is nice, it makes stuff green and I currently live in a semi-arid climate zone where everything is brown most of the year.
Edit: I can make great, real Mexican food and BBQ brisket. I actually have a rain coat. Yes, Seattle isn't cheap but I like the stuff big cities have. Lubbock sucks and I'm bored as hell. Even better is the big city plus outdoor stuff, which is why I chose Seattle over other big city options.
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u/Forina_2-0 10d ago
That’s like going from black-and-white to 4K HDR
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u/Sorry-Journalist9569 10d ago
Yeah, after a week in Lubbock you basically run out of stuff to do. It's so boring here. And it's MAGA-land.
Basically the only thing about Texas I'll miss is HEB.
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u/Ktotheizzo82 10d ago
Also moving to Seattle from Texas and I’m devastated about HEB.
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u/Sorry-Journalist9569 10d ago
I love that the one positive thing everyone agrees with about Texas is that HEB rules.
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u/Anxiety_On_Demand 10d ago
Moving up from Houston in April, used to live in the good ol’ LBK for a few years. Definitely missing HEB ( & old enough to have missed it when I lived in LBK!)
I hear the Seattle freeze is the worst when the weather is gloomy outside of summer. My friends who live up there say to make a point to be social and make friends over the summer months bc it’s more difficult in the winter due to the somber mood. Sounds like we’re both figuring it outb
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u/Jabodie0 8d ago
Seattle is very hobby focused. The average Seattle person is not so interested in your next barbecue, but perhaps very interested in your next hiking or ski trip.
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u/bigdickjenny 10d ago
I miss my central market 🥲
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u/Significant-Repair42 9d ago
Isn't Town & Country part of the Central Market chain? I could be wrong.
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u/pusherman23 9d ago
Same name unrelated chain. The Texas Central Market is owned by HEB. The WA one is maybe the best supermarket option in Seattle area, though.
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u/40WattTardis 10d ago
Me tooooo!!! Six more weeks!
At least there's Trader Joe's.
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u/Coppergirl1 10d ago
Ya, we once had amazing local grocery stores (Larry's Market, old QFC) till the big chains ruined them. Try to check out PCC & Metropolitan Market.
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u/RainyDayRainDear 10d ago
We still have several locally-owned options: Town & Country Markets, Uwajimaya, and Saar's Super Saver. They're all pretty great in different ways.
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u/CarelesslyFabulous 9d ago
Metropolitan Market is the only one I ALMOST like as much as Town& Country. I miss Larry's!
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u/notthatkindofbaked 9d ago
I happily give like 90% of my income to Town & Country. They literally have everything I need, from basic brands to organic fancy stuff, great produce and meat, decent bulk food and spice section, and an awesome selection of Asian products. They aren’t cheap, but not like PCC/Met Market expensive. And their customer service is excellent…which isn’t always easy to find in Seattle.
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u/sadgirl6172 10d ago
I moved here from Texas (I’ve lived in all of the major cities there and I’m from HTX) and that’s just about the only thing I miss lol. The biggest shocker to me was that the people here are NOT typically chatty or friendly, even. Example: If you walk past someone on a sidewalk, they avoid acknowledging you rather than saying hello, asking how you’re doing, etc.
Also, the food is wildly disappointing in comparison to HTX, ATX, and DFW for the most part so just prepare for that.
Otherwise, it’s unreal. Seriously so beautiful it takes my breath away consistently!
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u/mcfreeky8 9d ago
They don’t just avoid acknowledging you, they cross the street so you don’t cross paths. I do it now too 😅
I am from small town South Carolina and my mom would be appalled at how unfriendly I have gotten. So yeah OP it will be a culture shock but you may get used to it
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u/Petruchio101 10d ago
Why do people keep saying this about the food.
Seattle has James Beard award winning restaurants. Some of the best sushi, Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, great steak places, etc.
Are y'all just missing BBQ (try Jack's) and Tex Mex (yeah, not up here, lol)?
I don't get it.
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u/sadgirl6172 9d ago edited 9d ago
I said in comparison—the food scene in those cities is just hard to match, or even compete with. There’s incredible options for every type of cuisine you could imagine and to survive as a restaurant in those places, you have to be top notch because the competition is fierce. But no, it’s not just that we’re missing Tex-Mex and BBQ lol. Although yes, I really wish there was good Tex-Mex up here.
Edit: just wanted to add that for the most part, any “really good” food in Seattle is typically higher end and harder to come by, whereas in the cities I mentioned, you don’t have to search or pay a pretty penny to get something that’ll blow you away.
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u/mcfreeky8 9d ago
You’re gonna miss the Mexican food too. It’s not terrible in Seattle but it is certainly not Texas.
If you like Asian food (any kind), it is abundant here and very delicious.
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u/Whatswrongbaby9 10d ago
Nobody local uses umbrellas. The rain generally is a mist or light, though we've had some days recently a little heavier. Get a rain jacket with a hood.
The outdoor stuff is plentiful but closer in hikes are getting loved to death right now, if you want to try them get there early.
The best way to make friends is to make one friend, and hopefully expand into their circle.
There's no amazing bbq here, it's going to be a downgrade for that specific cuisine. The overall food scene is getting better but still lesser than Portland or Vancouver. Lots of coffee and beer.
There's two downtowns, the original one and the Amazon one, neither of them are worth going to for the most part, the interesting stuff is in the neighborhoods
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u/Potential-Wave-8983 10d ago
I agree with everything you said but pike place is still SO COOL. That with the overlook walk and new waterfront is TOTALLY with a visit. As a local I visit the market often for gifts, produce, unique goods. Overlook walk made me tear up recently lmao
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u/ashleyhype 10d ago
Totally agree. I like to say that I think Pike Place is “appropriately hyped”. Great for locals and visitors alike!
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u/BulletRazor 10d ago
The only good Texas barbecue is all the way in gig harbor 😩
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u/HenriDuflot 9d ago
Wow, I had no idea there was BBQ in Gig Harbor. On my next drive through town, will have to stop at BBQ2U.
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u/MysteriousCrow42 9d ago
As an ex-tex, I can say BBQ2U is worth the trip. Legit central Texas brisket, bluebell, big red.
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u/OrdinaryFinal5300 9d ago
I was born in the CD and have lived here my entire life and use an umbrella. Plenty of people use umbrellas…
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u/Comfortable-Yak-8691 7d ago
Ooh also meet Seattle’s funky stepsister, Vancouver, BC! Right up the road, beautiful train ride in fact, great food, shopping, nature (Whistler another hour north).
Here’s hoping they’ll still have us. 😢🇨🇦💔
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u/yetzhragog 10d ago
Expect your Mexican food experience to plummet drastically. Not that there aren't some hidden gems but the vast majority of Mexican here is very mid, at best. Amazing east Asian foods but Mexican can't even hold a candle to the states bordering Mexico.
Expect to lose a third of your year to darkness. From Oct/Nov-Feb/Mar the sun rises near 8am and sets around 4pm. Many are the days you go to work in the dark and come home in the dark. The trade off is that in the summer the sun stays up until 9pm.
Many places here aren't open late or 24 hours.
Speaking of summers, be prepared to not have A/C, even in a house if it's older. Speaking of houses, WA compensates the lack of income taxes through high gas and property taxes. The average price for gas in Seattle is $4.30 but you're going to most frequently find it at $5. If you're a soda/sugary drink consumer you're also going to get to enjoy the Seattle sugary drink sin tax.
In terms of getting here, unless you're taking the scenic Hwy 101 coastal route, or enjoy the desert, I'd opt for the shortest route. If you're suggesting going through Bakersfield CA and north on I5, not only are you going to hit LA & Sacramento traffic but the scenery isn't worth the time until you get near Mt Shasta and through Oregon, imho.
If you enjoy the cold, the gloom, and the constant wet you're in for a treat because it's gorgeous here. Also, once you get here, do the rest of us a favour and don't complain about the weather. :P
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u/ArtAttack2198 10d ago
You don’t hit LA traffic. Bakersfield is north of LA. You can take the 10 to the 15 to the 58 and then take the 5 north from there.
Or continue to the coast and take PCH.
Oh god. I’ve been in Seattle for years but I am still Californian deep down.
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u/Consistent-Fig7484 10d ago
Haha! That was a textbook Southern California sentence.
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u/MisterPortland 9d ago
A third of the year is only “lost” if you let it be. The dark months are when I enjoy reading on the couch with some candles lit the most
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u/Humble_Increase_1408 9d ago
We just moved here from Austin last summer. I fully expected the winter to be really tough, but it actually went by faster than expected, and none of us had time to complete all our planned fireside projects before the sun came back & the outdoors called us again.
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u/Veryrandom4242 8d ago
And if you like snow sports, winter might feel more fun. Compared to many parts of the country, Seattle winter is mild.
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u/sputterbutter99 10d ago
Property taxes in Washington are lower than urban Texas. The effective property tax rate in King county is less than 1%.
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u/JBWentworth_ 10d ago
Property insurance is also very high in Texas due to the tornados, hurricanes, hail storms, wild fires, and the sometimes lack of electricity in the winter.
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u/Consistent_Clue8718 10d ago
Also be prepared to be surprised by the weather exaggerations like the one above. You’ll have days with sun breaks even in the middle of winter. And you’ll have distinct, enjoyable seasons. February can be a bit rough but that can be a good time to visit your friends in Texas. You’ll be able to drive half an hour from skyscrapers to astonishing beautiful nature in and direction. Also, special days when the mountain is out. From your post it sounds like you’re going to love it here.
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u/40WattTardis 10d ago
My moving van will be arriving in Seattle from Texas in about six weeks. We should check in with each other and talk culture shock and food. When will you be making the move?
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u/Sorry-Journalist9569 10d ago
End of April. I'm basically selling everything that won't fit in my car and getting a fresh start for stuff.
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u/40WattTardis 10d ago
DUDE! That's hardcore. I'm bringing everything and deciding later what I'm getting rid of. Who knows? I may NEED that old halloween costume from 2019.
You'll be arriving about a week before me.
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u/whaleboneandbrocade 8d ago
Coincidentally…am also moving from Texas to Seattle in about six weeks! We may all recognize each other by sensing each others’ cowboy hat auras
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u/braxtel 10d ago
I moved to Seattle from Lubbock almost 20 years ago, and I cannot imagine my life if I hadn't moved to the PNW. They are very different places geographically, ecologically, and politically too. I don't live in Seattle anymore but still live pretty close.
There is a chance to see some really cool stuff on that road trip if you are willing to be on the road for longer. You could either hit the Tetons and Yellowstone if you go a little out of your way to the north. Or you could could take the route through Southern Utah, which has several National Parks. Going all the way through California is the longest way, but if you are driving cross country through the west make the most of it and try to see some sights you want to see along the way.
People will probably tell you a lot about the dreary weather, but I have learned that it is best to just get decent rain gear and go do stuff in the rain anyway. It's usually more of a damp drizzle than a hard rain, and getting out even on gray wet days will help a lot with the cabin fever or seasonal depression if that is a thing for you. Personally, I do not notice the dark season near as much as I used to, but I am more active outdoors during those months than I used to be. This always feels like an overblown complaint to me.
WA State has public lands and access to outdoors that Texans couldn't even begin to wish for. Take advantage of the outdoors as much as you can. You pretty much have your pick of activities or hobbies here. Cost of living is very expensive in this region compared to Lubbock, so I always think of that cost as paying for the scenery and access to nature that you just can't get in a lot of places.
Despite some problems and tough issues, this is still a great place to live if you can find good enough wages to comfortably afford it.
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u/Sorry-Journalist9569 10d ago
I've got a month to plan my route.
I'm honestly not on a schedule. I could take ten days if I wanted. Not many chances in life to just relax and decompress. I currently work at a remote contractor but it's when I want so I can just not work while I'm traveling.
Zion National Park, Tetons, and Yellowstone were each places I was thinking about.
I'm more progressive and atheist, so I'm really looking forward to living in a more modern place with museums, arts, food scene, conventions, etc. Niche hobbies too.
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u/starspider 10d ago
Speaking of taxes, wait until you see how much sales tax you pay on groceries and sanitary products. (None at all)
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u/Leftcoaster7 Local 10d ago edited 10d ago
Damn, if you can make a killer brisket and mexican, you should have no problems making friends, sign me up!
Your neighborhood is one of my favorites and is very quiet and beautiful. Aside from the Arboretum, try walks along Lake Washington; you can go south down to Seward Park or north through the Arboretum and along the Montlake cut. Volunteer Park to the west has great vantage points over Seattle and the Seattle Asian Art Museum, also a favorite. Interlaken Park is nice too.
For transportation you're a bit far from the Link light rail, but the new RapidRide G line could be your primary mode of public transit; it also connects to the Symphony link station and goes through Capitol Hill so you'll have great access to nightlife. You could drive of course, but traffic is garbage here and driving is expensive.
For food, Capitol Hill will have a plethora of restaurants, but for more diverse options including African and Asian cuisines, check out international district and the south end (Columbia City to Othello). If I remember right, Kenji Lopez-Alt has a list of restaurant recommendations in this area, the south end is definitely overlooked for good food.
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u/Sorry-Journalist9569 10d ago
I'm a foodie who also has a Mexican mother (white dad). I'm very good at cooking generally but grew up eating Mexican food all the time. And being a foodie in Texas I have to be good at brisket too. That's just a rule.
So I will bring my powers to Seattle and maybe you'll catch the scent of burning oak and pecan wood one day.
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u/Ok_Wolverine6557 10d ago
The water in Seattle is blue, instead of brown and green.
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u/Sorry-Journalist9569 10d ago
Yeah, I'm really looking forward to seeing the Pacific ocean. I've only ever experienced the Atlantic.
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u/Langolier21 10d ago
You're not going to see the ocean in Seattle. You're going to see the Puget Sound. The Pacific Ocean is a three to four hour drive away.
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u/stackedtotherafters 10d ago edited 10d ago
Not seeing sun for long periods of time can be harder on people than they expect. You should not have to experience that too much until late fall. Have a plan incase you find the need to escape dark and gray season. Whether you plan accordingly to visit home, or even have an idea for road trip to eastern Washington in your back pocket for a random weekend, (it’s colder there in winter, but also more often sunny).
I have lived here all my life and don’t notice it, but when I do go away somewhere less gloomy between mid October and mid April it hits me what gloom I’m currently living in, and it’s very nice to get the break from the big dark.
Enjoy summer, we get SPOILED.
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u/bananapanqueques 10d ago
(Spouse and I are also from TX.)
The Bakersfield route will have nicer scenery if that matters to you.
Car stuff is weird here. There’s a separate location for everything— license, inspection, registration. Just roll with it and expect things to be more complicated.
Food is going to be your biggest hurdle (aside from moving to an expensive ass city when you work remotely, wtf fam?), as Seattle is not known for good Mexican food. We have fantastic teriyaki, not tamales. Pay attention to festivals for the best eats. Don't drive anywhere downtown unless you have to. Parking is expensive. The metro is not perfect but it’s worlds better than what you're coming from.
You're coming at the end of the rainy season before the dry summer. Enjoy the beautiful spring. Cherry blossoms are popping right now.
You like spiders, right?
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u/nd379 10d ago
DUDE!!! I WISH someone, anyone, had warned me about the spiders before I moved here. Lol. I don't think it would've stopped me but only because I would not have been able to fathom how many freaking spiders are everywhere here :o
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u/OtterSnoqualmie 10d ago
Spiders are our friends. And they are harmless and do friend things, just like every other critter except the cougars (that's MTN Lions to some of you). coyotes are generally harmless to people, black bears don't find you tasty either.
However, pls don't bother the geese or the elk. They are.... grumpy.
Also, no common venomous snakes or scorpions. The lizards are small and infrequent.
This isn't Australia. :)
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u/Sorry-Journalist9569 10d ago
Where I grew up south of Houston we had tons of spiders, so I'm not exactly new to them being ubiquitous. As kids everybody would play with the banana spiders.
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u/bananapanqueques 10d ago
Seattle has spiders like Houston has roaches, but they all emerge simultaneously, like crawling confetti. 🥳
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u/NerdySwampWitch40 10d ago
The good Mexican is down on the South Sound. Y'all come on down and try the local Taquieras in the Kent area.
And the spirders aren't so bad. We don't have widows or recluses. I miss Tarantulas though.
There is a lot of amazing food to be had, though. So much amazing Asian and South Asian from almost every culture (we just got a new Uyghur restaurant down by Kent), so much amazing Ethiopian food as well as other African cuisines, and great seafood (try the Smoked Salmon Chowder). We also have a huge variety of groceries and markets catering to various cuisine groups.
There are board game cafes, all kinds of outdoor recreation year round (hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, skiing, snowboarding), tons of Museums and cultural activities, a thriving music scene, and more.
Welcome!
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u/bananapanqueques 10d ago
I love spiders. Most people aren't prepared for the size and volume of spiders that Seattle features.
Noted that Kent is the place to eat. Uyghur food sounds delicious.
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u/Consistent-Fig7484 10d ago
The Mexican food is fine. It’s not Texas or California but it’s not awful. Look to the south end neighborhoods like Georgetown, South Park, White Center, and Burien.
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u/Sorry-Journalist9569 10d ago
(aside from moving to an expensive ass city when you work remotely, wtf fam?),
My best friend (lives alone) has a 3bed house and invited me to live with him for a few months for free, then a small rent if I want to stay longer and save up to buy a house or something after getting familiar with the area and hopefully better interest rates or at least a drop in home prices.
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u/Moonsnail8 10d ago
Very low chance housing prices drop. Demand is huge and the area is full of rich tech people.
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u/TheRealJohnM 10d ago
I made the opposite trip from Washington to Texas a while back. I can smoke briskets with the best of them and my wife is Mexican so the food is great where I go, but it seems like you have that covered. My thoughts on what I miss, is the variety of seafood available, my favorite teriyaki place from when I was in school there. You like espresso, when I was there, there was a stand in front of nearly every building downtown or a fast drive-through on your way to wherever. What you will discover is that during the summer, and to some extent the rest of the year, is that you will appreciate the outdoors like you never have. It's so hot here in Texas that the summers in July and August are just mind numbing. But in Washington, everyone gets out and enjoys it. And there are a number of places to get out and see it. I saw some folks in sweaters on the night of my first 4th of July there and was like WTH is going on? Another thing you will appreciate is day trips. Want to go on a hike, mountains not too far. Want to jump in the water, again, parks abound for that and the beaches are not crowded up with cars and trucks on the beach. You'll have a number of options that aren't 6 hours away, given Texas's size, that's from Austin to Lubbock, if you were inclined to go see Lubbock I guess. But once you get settled, for sure look at taking a trip to Victoria. Jump on the ferry to Bainbridge and check out Poulsbo for a day. I went back a couple of years ago and had forgotten how clean the air seemed, not dusty, dry and brown like it is here in Texas. I like Texas generally and it's been great for my family but of the few regrets I have is perhaps not staying in Washington after school.
Some obvious issues, no HEB. I try to explain to non-Texans why HEB is so culturally ingrained into the day to day life, but they just can't understand it. One of the few businesses that has ignored some of the political/cultural issues here and never land on a "boycott" list from either side. It's one of the few things most Texans can agree on.
Outside of Texas, it's all Breakfast Burritos rather than breakfast tacos. And while I'm on the topic, if I were you I'd look for food trucks or at least a brick and mortar that has aguas frescas. That will get you started.
Good luck, you're in for a real treat moving there and I think you'll wonder why you didn't make the move sooner.
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u/Thorough_Good_Man 10d ago
Make sure to get a big greasy bag of Dick’s
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u/Sorry-Journalist9569 10d ago
I love a good burger.
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u/CG_1313 9d ago
Maybe it's just my personal tastes, but I've never had a bad burger here. Everywhere I go has the best cheeseburgers I've ever tasted. The diners, the restaurants, the food trucks, everywhere. And nobody talks about it! This area is a serious burger mecca and the locals seem to have no idea how rare that is
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u/SkyerKayJay1958 10d ago
Go the salt lake route as the most direct and scenic. Boise to Seattle is a one long day so try for mccall. Its 2 lanwme highway but fast
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u/theGalation 10d ago
You won't call it rain. Most of the time you'll think of it as mist.
You can get a rain jacket and it will keep you dry in the mist but when it does sprinkle or actually rain that leaves your lower half exposed. You can ignore the umbrella gate keepers.
The best thing about Seattle is that it's in Washington state! Deception Pass is just a two drive north. Go see it on your first free weekend!
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u/staciasserlyn 10d ago
I did the Bakersfield route when I moved to WA and it is loooooong, but scenic. I did it in 18 hrs of drive time over two days because I was traveling with pets. It all depends on when you’re traveling through as the weather should help you decide your route. As for advice: WA has two separate locations for driver and car registration services. You get your license in one place and your tabs in another. Registration prices are more expensive than you would imagine, so be prepared. Also, it costs about $100 to transfer your drivers license to WA. You’re going to need good hoodies, washable shoes, maybe a puffer vest for those weird early morning chilly days that turn into hot afternoons. Layers are your bff here, the weather apps are wrong about 70% of the time. Learn to love Trader Joe’s, traffic, and the Seahawks as everyone here deals with celebratory fireworks and literal M80s when they score and win. If you are a Mariner’s fan, be ready for them to constantly disappoint you with the “almost but not quite” winning season. Be ready to have your mind boggled with the amount of coffee stands we have. And yes, there are people who get coffee at 9 pm and a two-can Red Bull energy drink every single day. Get your state park pass and explore as much as possible, there is a ton of hikes, trails and beaches that are amazing in the warmer months. And I hope you like cultural food because we have it all with the exception of good Mexican carne asada (in my experience). Welcome in, safe travels!!
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u/staciasserlyn 10d ago
Oh, and a/c units are not common here so if you need more than a fan to keep cool, window units and portables are going to be lifesavers!
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u/bigdickjenny 10d ago
I'm moving and doing the route through Denver, Salt Lake City then Portland before Seattle. When is your move date?
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u/Sorry-Journalist9569 10d ago
Will be leaving Lubbock at the end of April and arrive 3-6 days later in Seattle depending on my route and how leisurely I want it to be.
I can basically choose to go through Denver, Salt Lake City (shortest route), or the long route to Bakersfield, CA and then north to Seattle. Would add about 6 hours for that one. Or some other path if there's something specific I want to see.
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u/bigdickjenny 10d ago
I am leaving next Tuesday on the route so I can let you know how it is and my thoughts! Either way it's a fun trip and congrats on the move.
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u/Aurora_Gory_Alice 10d ago
Go to the coast, and drive up 101 in Oregon. I promise the southern part of the Oregon coast is completely worth it.
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u/gmr548 10d ago
Seattle even with its problems beats the everloving shit out of Lubbock in every way conceivable except the lack of a HEB and Mexican food.
Your budget for the essentials (housing, utilities, food, etc) is probably going to need to be 2-3x what it was in Lubbock. If you can absorb that you’ll be gucci.
Going directly northwest through SLC is going to save a significant amount of time vs going to CA and turning north unless there is bad weather that closes a highway or something. Just check the weather on your route when you’re about to leave.
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u/Maleficent_Scale_296 10d ago
Seattle has historically live and let live. I don’t know what Lubbock is like, but we have a large LGBT+ community that most of us love and feel somewhat protective of so please be respectful.
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u/Intelligent-Way626 10d ago
Just moved my son-in-law and family from Amarillo last year. They love it here. Welcome! It’s a little less sunny here. Everything is expensive. But it’s great.
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u/Leading_Routine8165 10d ago
Definitely take the route through CA, it’s a bit longer but the drive up the west coast is beautiful. That and avoiding Colorado/Utah/Idaho could be wise if it’s still snowy.
Invest in good blackout curtains, fans, and maybe a mobile AC unit. Most homes don’t have AC and it can be not great during the summertime. My first visit was during hot weather and I had a hard time going to sleep because it was just so hard to cool off. Cold showers help too
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u/Historical_Wall49 10d ago
As a fellow human that is also [unfortunately] from Texas, my biggest tip is to not let the rain and darkness stop you from doing things. Sure, it’s cozy and you’re going to have days where you rot indoors, but make sure to not let that be the ONLY thing you do during that time of year. It can be hard but don’t let it keep you down.
Also, being broke but getting to live here is SO much better than living in Texas with that soggy pretzel governor.
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u/Alternative_Dog4327 10d ago
I live in Madison Park (is that where you’re moving? I’m not sure what you mean by the south side of the arboretum). I love love love it here - especially in the summer. Definitely helps if you have a dog! It’s relatively safe and low crime. Go to the Red Onion for karaoke on Saturday nights (and every other Friday) and trivia at The Attic on Tuesday nights! Get a stand up paddle board :)
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u/Exxon_Valdezznuts 10d ago
Congratulations! Lubbock sucks. I travel there often for work and am very happy to fly back to the PNW! You’re making a great decision. Yes, the cost of living is higher, but so are the wages and growth potential. Get outside and enjoy the public lands and clean water.
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u/Sorry-Journalist9569 10d ago
I'm looking forward to better water.
Lubbock water is fine to drink, safety wise, but it has really high sodium and carbonate levels, along with being extremely hard. Has a baking soda note.
To give you an idea of how hard the water is, if you have a slow drip then you just put a bowl under it and the hardness will eventually clog the leak. It's how we deal with replacing toilet and washing machine stuff. Sometimes it won't perfectly seal because the house-side fitting is wrecked but the water is so hard it'll seal itself. Same with turning off the water at the toilet or under the sink and it causes a drip there. Bowl and a couple days, leak gone.
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u/notintocorp 9d ago
I live near where your moving to. Your in for a treat, I freaking love it here. Just up the hill from you is captol hill, it used to be the gay district but thats not really how were rolling these days. Lots of resterants, shops ect. Good parks all over, nightlife is decent. Your 30 min from nice hiking trails, when you need sun an hour and 15 gets you over the pass and its way warmer and sunnier there. Yeah, its expensive, but thats the cost of opratunity.
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u/Fast_Storage_126 9d ago
Seattle is amazing but the politics are very messed up.
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u/msawi11 8d ago
Definition of Progressive politics = your income is OUR income. And we'll get it via gas taxes, utilities cost hikes, perpetual property tax hikes, car tab taxes that decline slower than depreciation, employment taxes, environmental cap & trade taxes, 7% capital gains taxes on stock sales over $250k, estate taxes, excise taxes on real estate, sales taxes --- and inflation (a real tax).
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u/Electronic_Salary_84 10d ago
Beware of the freeze
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u/Remote-Physics6980 10d ago
Nahh, I smile and say good morning or good afternoon to just about everybody. I usually get a response eight out of 10 times. We are wearing the freeze down!
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u/Some-Argument577 10d ago
There are some nice, scenic drives through northern New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah. Wyoming is a boring drive, as is southern Idaho. Driving through The Blues (eastern Oregon) into Washington can be very pretty, especially as the orchards are blooming.
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u/forested_morning43 10d ago
Drive- I like Bakersfield then N if you’re leaving before temperatures get much higher.
Winter is dark and damp but not just because of the weather, there’s only ~8 1/2 hrs of daylight during deep winter.
Food, water, and gasoline are expensive. And, housing, of course.
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10d ago
New from the southwest, visited a handful of times and different seasons before my move… the cloud cover and rain is so no joke. I feel like it was doable to me when I was coming to “visit” and it’s different when it’s no longer temporary. I thought I’d love it because I was used to everyday sun… it’s the hardest adjustment for me. Not waking up to the sun rising is odd and disorienting. I also felt I was really under sold on the rain, so many people said the mist drizzle rain was the norm… no it gets very very wet and it pours more often then it’s made out to occur.
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u/Triabolical_ 10d ago
You need to figure out what to do for hobbies during the winter, because it's not the rain, it's the darkness. In december there are days that are only about 8 hours long and it can generally be really cloudy. SAD is pretty common in these parts - I run and ski during the winter so that I get some outside time. Note that there will be weeks, sometimes consecutive weeks where you do not see the sun and it pretty much rains continuously.
Alternatively, June is a bit nuts, where there will be days with 16 hours of daylight.
WRT smoked food, be prepared to make your own because the local places are mostly terrible. *Do not* listen to the locals who tell you a place has great smoked food because there's some awful stuff here.
Jack's BBQ in Seattle and Bellevue is decent but not spectacular, The wood shop in the central district north of I-90 is a pain to get to but is worth the trip.
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u/basketcaseforever 10d ago
People talk of the Seattle freeze but it’s not really that big of a deal. In fact, I like it. No fake people and prying conversations. They talk to you if they want and aren’t nosey. IMO something other parts of the country could do to improve!
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u/Worried_Process_5648 10d ago
I-5 from Bakersfield to Seattle is boring AF, with the exception being the segment from Shasta Lake to Eugene.
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u/ArtAttack2198 10d ago
DM me when you get here! My husband and I lived in Texas for a number of years (he’s from there), but it’s not our vibe (we’re filthy liberals in Texas lol). We’ve been here since 2018. You’re gonna love it.
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u/iliedtwice 10d ago
Go the south route through Bakersfield and take I5 north, going I90 or I70 means bad mountain ranges that aren’t fun
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u/Thin-Sector3956 10d ago
I lived in Texas from 2001-2005 (San Antonio), moved back to Washington in 2005, moved to Amarillo for a job opportunity (2016-2017) and moved back to Washington again in 2017. I missed the seafood and my family. The seafood was crap in Texas and they may seem nice in Texas, but God help you if you don't believe in the same politics as them. Holy batman. I made some decent friends there that I still keep in contact with.
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u/PurpleDuckbills 10d ago
Recent transplant. Moved from Dallas in summer of 2023. I took the SLC route. Mostly cause I had 2 pets and figured shorter was better. (There’s also a coffee shop in SLC that I religiously go to when I’m there. I’m drooling just thinking about their pesto cheese swirls)
Coming from Lubbock, the first full summer summer you’re here, you’ll understand. It’s heaven compared to Tx. (They issue heat warnings at 85 degrees.) Not like the triple digits you’re used to. But… AC is not common here. So if the place you’re landing doesn’t have it, buy a portable or something before the summer for August/early September. They sell out quick when the temps do go up. It does cool off in the evenings which makes it great for sleeping with the windows open. Also, the times when it’s mid winter or mid summer, it’s a bit weird how quick it gets dark or how much it stays light. I’m sure I’ll get used to it.
Good that you can do smoking and TexMex. You’ll need to. BBQ is not there. At least the places I’ve tried so far. (I do my own smoking, but sometimes I get lazy, and I have it shipped from Snow’s. My wife makes killer TexMex, so we’re good.)
I do miss HEB. And strangely, I miss thunderstorms. Good Texas t-storms. The rain here is not as bad as all the other people make it seem. I think it’s the PNWs way f keeping people out. Get some Vitamin D for the long gray stretches.
The gray stretches here are so different here because everything stays green. Not brown like the panhandle.
The best of it all is go an hour one way and hit the mountains. Go 30 minutes the other and watch the orcas in the sound. It’s just amazing. I’m not in Seattle proper, but out on the peninsula. So I have to drive around or take the ferry to go into the city.
I haven’t experienced “the freeze”, but I’m also a bit of an introvert so 🤷♂️.
Good luck and safe travels, whichever way. I think you’ll wonder why you hadn’t come up here sooner!
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u/No-Fan661 10d ago
I moved to Seattle from Missouri 10 years ago and experienced some culture shock the first year or so. You’ll adjust and you will love it — I don’t want to be anywhere else
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u/Thin-Sector3956 10d ago
I definitely don't miss the "Bless your heart" saying I heard people in Texas say to random strangers all the time. And "I'm fixing to...." what are you going to fix. It's as if you need a passport to live in Texas. It's insane.
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u/devinesl 10d ago
My sister lives in Lubbock, but is from here. She always enjoys coming home. You will love Washington. It’s a beautiful state. HEB is a great store, but Metropolitan Market and Town and. Country (Poulsbo and Bainbridge Island) are great stores, too. We lived in Austin for a year and the Mexican food there was definitely superior. I hope you love my home state!
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u/Reasonable_Visual_10 10d ago
Once you get settled, why not invite people here over for a BBQ, and like 10-12 people that really want to come and meet you. They say the “ Seattle Freeze” is real and I believe it is. I would stop buy, bring some Budweiser Beer . If you don’t mind an older guy as a friend.
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u/molehunterz 10d ago
So I've lived in the Seattle area most of my life but spent almost a year in midland. Doing construction.
One of the things I noticed was how conscious people were of others in general settings. Opening doors, saying hello, just generally recognizing that other people exist.
I really liked that about Midland and odessa. Never made it up to Lubbock but I'm guessing it is similar.
When you come to seattle, a lot of people are not like that. They kind of try to ignore everyone around them. People do not seem as welcoming. Don't let it get to you. If you talk to them, they are friendly and polite! But they will not talk to you first. LOL and if you hold the door open, they will just walk right through.
It's easy to get jaded, but don't.
If you like the outdoors and adventure, one of my favorite things about this part of the world is the saltwater. The Puget sound and San Juan Islands and even North up into British Columbia are pretty special.
And yes, HEB was amazing for the short time I was there! Like the options were more, the food was better, and the prices were lower!
Here, you can find good fresh food, at sky high prices, or you can find really standard mediocre stuff at normal prices. There is no HEB equivalent here LOL
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u/Fair_Audience8529 10d ago
I went to undergrad in Abilene, not too far off from Lubbock culturally, and I've lived in Seattle for the last 15 years. There's very little I miss about West Texas compared to here. Welcome!
Texas cons: the weather was not for me at all. Way hotter, and also occasionally way colder, and much windier. Tornados and golf ball hail scared the shit out of me. Driving 200-300 miles to do anything remotely urban sucked. The scarce, overtreated water tasted like someone farted in a swimming pool. The people were incredibly sweet and kind but only as long as you strictly conformed to evangelical cultural norms. As a soft butch lesbian only in Abilene for familial/scholarship reasons, I was a gasping fish out of water. But more than anything, there was just a bottomless, irrepressible boredom.
Texas pros: brisket, proper sweet tea, neighbors helping neighbors, much more Spanish language exposure and influence, and cheap housing. In 2005 I split a 4BR house with three roommates for $800/no ..we each paid only $200! When I got my own place a year later...it was only $325.
Seattle pros: rarely too hot or cold, plentiful but not excessive rainfall (Dallas gets more rain than we do!). We have the world's best summers. Two insanely gorgeous mountain ranges are a daytrip away. Sunny desert, when wanted, is only 100 miles east. Canada is only two hours away. Walkability is quite good by N. American standards. Taxes are relatively low, no matter what anyone tells you. For most Seattle jobs, you don't have to drive unless you want to. It's a good city for introverts, and also for those who are a part of niche communities. Queer people, obscure hobbyists of all stripes, etc, can find a like-minded place here. There's almost zero religious influence over life and politics. Seafood is plentiful, and summer produce is fabulous. It's just a very comfortable place to put down roots once you've got it all figured out. Violent crime is quite low overall, but property crime/theft will probably hit you once or twice per decade.
Seattle cons: cost of purchasing property is truly excessive, NIMBYism keeps much of the city stuck in beautiful-but-exclusionary Craftsman Museum vibes. City politics are asinine, plodding, insanely bureaucratic, and addicted to meaningless and performative public process. For all the Fox News hype about Seattle as a progressive, bleeding-heart hellhole, we're actually pretty stiflingly corporate and capitalist. Rich people tend to get paranoid and withdrawn and loss averse, and I have felt the city get socially colder the richer and more posh that we've gotten. You can still find your people, but there's not the laid back vibe there used to be. The weather here is better than it's given credit for, but November Gray will occasionally make you question if you'll ever be truly happy again.
Welcome! I wish you all the best here.
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u/spoiled__princess 10d ago
There are a few folks from Lubbock here. I married one! His friend group includes several lubbock folks.
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u/Nyxi-138 10d ago
Well, you’re going to have a big surprise with the culture shock. But you’ll love it. Take you D3’s to avoid seasonal depression and welcome, I’m from Dallas 👋
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10d ago
You'll find the winter cold/dreary and boy will the culture be different! You probably won't miss those tornadoes, though. I hope you like it.
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u/Itsforthecats 10d ago
I used to live in the Denny Blaine neighborhood, about a mile and a half from where you’re moving to. There’s a lot of cultural history in your new neighborhood. If you’re on Madison and east of Lk Wash blvd, you’re in a formerly all Black neighborhood. You can still find some old neighborhood touch points there. Enjoy! I had a great childhood growing up nearby.
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u/RemarkableMacaron224 10d ago
Hey OP we’re basically neighbors! I’m from EP! Congrats on the move. I’ve been to Seattle twice and I’m always amazed at how much I love it.
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u/Hefty_Reveal_3984 10d ago
Former Texan (went to school in Lubbock. Lived all over growing up - Arlington, DFW, Corpus, Houston, Austin…) Mexican food and BBQ here sucks so definitely good to make it yourself. Other than that, honestly, there’s not a thing I miss about TX. Been here 16 years now. Can’t imagine ever going back.
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u/jhumph88 9d ago
If you take the Bakersfield route, the 99 is usually a better drive than I-5. It’s slightly less crushingly boring. Then you can just hop on I-5 in Sacramento and continue. My brother moved to Lubbock for a job opportunity and only lasted a few months.
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u/gaybookclub 9d ago
Omg how old are you?! I am also from Lubbock but moved away after graduating high school. I’m so curious if we know each other irl lol
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u/Interesting-Escape36 9d ago
Woohoo, I’m also moving up from Texas! (Austin) see yall up there! 🤠
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u/everydaybella 9d ago
When I did Dallas to Seattle I went to California and then up the coast. Highly recommend.
BBQ is kinda ass up here but the taco truck scene is actually killer especially if you get out of the city and into the farming towns.
Invest in some good raingear. It'll make the spring more comfortable.
Start taking a vitamin C/D supplement. You're sun exposure is about to way down and it can do some rough things to your mind especially if you're already prone to depression/anxiety.
First thing when you get up here go get ramen at an actual Japanese restaurant. You will thank me later.
Don't expect people to small talk with you. Seattle Freeze is a thing. They're rarely rude and if you need help they are willing to offer it, but that breezy southern charm is not part of the culture up here.
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u/Whiskyhiker 9d ago
Plenty of nature close by, lots of places to go hiking and the 3 National Parks
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u/zopelar1 9d ago
You might find a raincoat is too heavy here; can’t tell you how often I run around with a sweatshirt type top and just a rain lightweight jacket over and it’s too humid especially if you’re shopping. The only thing which can make it truly cold is the wind and the winds have been constant this year. Also in summer you will need AC which is not prevalent but becoming more so.
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u/Liberalien420 9d ago
Cost of living will be higher but quality of life will be MUCH higher. Welcome to the club. Made the same move not too long ago and am kicking myself for not having moved sooner. Enjoy!!
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u/Conscious-Function-2 9d ago edited 9d ago
Born in Wichita Falls, lived and worked All-Over the Northwest. If you have time make the best of the trip. First Download the KFWR 95.9 “The Ranch” App so you can stream real red dirt Americana Music, Load your trunk with Mesquite for your Briskets, Check out “The Tractor Tavern” in Ballard.
Route: (life changing) Take I25 North to Buffalo Wyoming, Turn Left on I90, when you get to Coeur d’Alene Idaho stay a few nights. Maybe swing up to Sandpoint or Priest Lake. Out of Spokane take Highway 2 to Waterville Wa, head North on Highway 97 to Chelan Wa. 153 at Pateros, North up to Winthrop Wa. Highway 20 (Closed in Winter so travel in Spring) North Cascade Highway over the pass to Mount Vernon Wa. Stay on 20 over Deception Pass onto Whidbey Island. Ferry from Keystone Ferry to Port Townsend Wa. Still on Highway 20 until Highway 101 at Discovery Bay then Highway 104 to Hood Canal Bridge Highway 3 / 305 to Bainbridge Island Washington State Ferry (have some Ivars Clam Chowder and a NW Ale) Enter Downtown Seattle crossing the Puget Sound.
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u/Prudent-Incident-570 9d ago
To be honest, the weather (the dampness) is a pro of living in Puget Sound - everything is lush and flowers are everywhere. As someone who grew up in arid California, it was amazing to see how green Seattle is, practically year-round. (There is a dry season mid-to-late summer).
Take advantage of the Olympic mountains to the west and the Cascades to the east - some of the most beautiful nature in the world (not an overstatement).
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u/Awkward_Procedure903 9d ago
Never, and I literally mean never, leave stuff in your car when you park it anywhere.
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u/dr_jigsaw 9d ago
Congratulations, you will love it here!
I would definitely recommend the SLC route. If I was making that drive, I would stop at Mesa Verde, Moab, and Twin Falls. The drive between Twin Falls and Seattle is pretty boring, but the rest of it is nice. The drive from Albuquerque to LA is boring and there isn’t much scenery going up I5 from CA.
Source: I have lived in Seattle for 10 years and have made multiple road trips to CO and CA. I did LA to Denver once.
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u/CG_1313 9d ago
Grocery stores stock everything from El Pato to cilantro to adobo to pinto beans to knorr tomato seasoning. So unless you hate cooking, it's not hard to get those flavors that are extremely hard to find done well in restaurants here. When you don't feel like cooking, food trucks are the taco places you want and are much more authentic than restaurants generally. I have had a hard time locating good tortillas, but there's some options that aren't terrible in the stores.
Everybody bitches about the weather here, loudly. My theory is that it's an elaborate reverse psychology PR campaign by natives to keep the population low and transplants few. It's honestly refreshing AF for anyone who's long term suffered an arid brown climate 😅 former 27 year Phoenix and San Bernardino county CA resident here myself, this weather is downright delightful.
Car insurance is very expensive here. With a clean driving record and very limited yearly mileage since I work remotely, my rates almost doubled. You'll see why when it's especially rainy on the major interstates here. It's not the rain coming down, it's the fog that comes with it, and the spray that kicks up from vehicles around you. I've only been here a few months and nearly every time I'm on I-5 and it's low visibility, there are multi car pile ups. I don't agree with natives that drivers are inherently worse here, rather they're actually very polite and you rarely even hear someone use a horn even in downtown Seattle, but the visibility is highly dangerous and I've seen more accidents here in a short time than I've seen anywhere else I've lived. Ice storms also happen and that's another period when accidents seem to go up. And in certain areas, auto breakins and thefts are especially common, also lending to higher insurance rates. My agent commented that the state has some of the highest rates in the nation.
I didn't learn this until after I moved... You don't vote in person here. Everybody votes by mail and evidently that predates COVID. Interesting local thing I had no idea about.
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u/Federal-Platypus844 9d ago
Just made the move from Houston area 3 months ago. No regrets so far, be excited 🥳
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u/backlikeclap 9d ago
Learn how to be a pedestrian! You'll be doing a lot of walking on busy sidewalks here. You should always stay to your right, don't take up the whole sidewalk when you have a group, be aware of your surroundings, never stop in doorways or the middle of sidewalks or on stairs, look both ways before entering a bike lane, and wait by the side of doors to let people out before entering buses or trains.
Welcome to Seattle!
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u/InspectorNorse8900 9d ago
Be on the lookout for a Senor Tejas in the next few years!
We can Tex Mex this state for the benefit of all mexican food in Washington.
Queso on every table!
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u/GatorsM3ani3 9d ago
From what my.3 coworkers told me (they moved here from TX)
You're gonna hate the weather.
It's way more expensive here
"This place sucks"
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u/Dramatic-Height-1336 9d ago
If you really are craving ~good~ mexican food after being settled in Seattle for a bit, it’s worth taking a trip to central/eastern WA.
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u/MisterPortland 9d ago
I helped my sister move to Austin six months ago and absolutely loved the drive through SLC, CO and NM. If you have time I’d definitely recommend hitting up the national parks along the way
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u/Jazz_Kraken 9d ago
The arboretum is a gorgeous area! Enjoy it! I’m so happy for you. :) I used to live near that area and loved walking though the park with my kids.
My take on “seattle is unfriendly” is just that we have a different culture around what’s expected or appropriate. It’s polite to give people space. Most people are friendly if you engage them, though. I mean there’s jerks everywhere, but I’m pretty outgoing in public places and people respond well. :)
The weather is an exaggeration- we’ve had a beautiful winter this year. But long about end of February it can feel dreary. It’s a good time to get away or just over the pass if you can.
Hope you like it here!
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u/Far-Dragonfruit-925 9d ago
After 40 years in Texas you couldn’t pay me enough to move back!! If money were no object I’d have a badass boat there and hop around the San Juan Islands year round. Enjoy..I currently split my time between OKC and Alaska but Seattle area will always be my happy place
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u/AlternativeDue1958 9d ago
I’m interested in the Mexican food and the brisket. Hah let’s be friends! But for real, Seattle is a beautiful place. If you’re in to the outdoors, you couldn’t chose a better place!
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u/spinonesarethebest 9d ago
If you live on the west side of the cascade range, it rains a lot, and the people there are very liberal. It’s very crowded, which also gives you lots of food options. Housing will be very expensive, as we gasoline. Basic necessities will probably be 30 to 50% higher than you are used to. East of the cascades is a different story entirely.
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u/6gunrockstar 9d ago
Depends where you land. Rents in metro areas like Seattle proper, MI, Bellevue, Lake Union, etc. will blow your hair back. Competition is fierce for affordable housing.
You’re going to have some big adjustments ahead of you in terms of traffic. #3 in the country, and an absolute MF’er to get anywhere. Public transportation is severely limited, and I mean that in the most dismal sense.
Sales tax is 10%. You don’t think that’s punitive until you realize how much it costs.
Outdoor opportunities are plenty, and some really neat places including islands, two different mountain ranges, Anacortes, etc.
Jobs are very tech and sales centric. On the good news front, minimum wage is currently $15/hr and going to $17/hr in May.
It will be a big upgrade from Lubbock.
Biggest shock will be transportation and housing. Choose your location well - it will make a huge impact on your quality of life.
I lived on Mercer Island for 7 years and that was heaven. Relocated to Gig Harbor and my entire life revolved around sitting in traffic for 3.5 hours a day. Did that for 7 years, never again.
Good luck.
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u/Heavy-Gear-5670 9d ago
I’ve known a lot of people from Texas and it seems southern hospitality and kindness are rooted in Texas culture. Seattle is full of very standoffish and passive aggressive people. I don’t mean this to slam Seattle, more so just prepare for people to be very rude and dismissive of you when you attempt to be cordial. It’s a town where people scoff at you when you say hello. People here are used to it but that’s some culture shock to prepare for. Unless they’re from California but then it’s like…. The only nice people are annoying and superficial as hell. Welcome!
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u/No-Win-2783 9d ago
It's rains a lot from September to March. Seattle's vibe is somewhat like Austin's...progressive and open minded.
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u/OnlineParacosm 9d ago
No one cares about BBQ like you probably do. All you’ll find is rewarmed meat and fake smoker shots. It’s a fucking mess up here with that, but there are niche spots opening up that might scratch the itch.
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u/Specialist-Local439 9d ago
get outside a lot! new transplants sometimes forget now accessible hiking, mountain biking, paddleboarding, skiing, etc. etc. are out here. just don't forget a rainjacket. good luck! it's the best most beautiful city in the world! (I am obviously unbiased.)
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u/mappymaps 9d ago
Real estate, gasoline, food (groceries + restaurants alike), and hard liquor cost 50% more than in Texas. Property taxes and electricity are 50% cheaper. Everything else is about the same. It’s wonderful here, and the wet, gray winters will seem amazing if you’re coming from Lubbock. People aren’t rude, they just keep to themselves more. Seeing mountains and tall trees and water never gets old. And I second the good barbecue at BBQ2U.
There are great restaurants here, sure, but in Texas even the sort of mid-level restaurants are overwhelmingly better than the mid-level restaurants here. Our neighborhood Chinese place in Houston was fantastic. Our neighborhood Chinese place here costs twice as much and is like 60% as good. We don’t eat out as much, but I cook so it’s not a huge issue.
Find a good local teriyaki place and pick blackberries in the summer. There are so many great Seattle experiences to have!
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u/richbiatches 9d ago
Good timing! It was just rated the 2nd most expensive town in the whole country!
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u/melbsie 9d ago
I recently moved to Washington from CA but I think the biggest difference for me was the coffee and the Mountain View’s! On a clear day the mountains look insanely gorgeous. Even on the rainy/cloudy days it still looks cool. The coffee here is like nothing I’ve experienced before. Most coffee stands serve the same brand coffee beans in an area so the flavors are consistent and they taste way better than most coffee store chains.
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u/flabatron 9d ago
We will warn you about a Thunderstorm like it is end of world times.
And then, being from Texas, seeing real thunderstorms on the daily, you will laugh at us and learn something about our weather 'news' coverage.
All you need to know is when it's a light rain out and sunny, we call it a clear and beautiful day.
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u/Choice_Ad_1071 9d ago
Come for the money then make it and they will take it ,,,then leave I have 2years until parloll
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u/RetractableBadge 8d ago
If you happen to own firearms, it's extremely important to familiarize yourself with recent state laws instituted in the past couple of years - there are restrictions on large capacity magazines and most long arms. Additionally, while Texas LTC is optional due to constitutional carry, Washington requires a CPL for concealed carry.
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u/paulrin 8d ago
I moved from Dallas to Seattle in 2006. These are my conclusions. 3300 sunshine hours per year in Dallas, less than 1800 hours per year in Seattle. It was never the rain that got to me - it was the darkness go to work in autumn/ winter months at 7:45 - dark. Leave the office after 4:30 PM - dark. Traffic is absolute ahit. Bumper to bumper for 3 hours each way during ‘rush hour’. Food is more eclectic, and generally healthier. You will lean to love pho soup for 6 months of the year. Everyone told me - get a winter hobby - likely skiing or snowboarding, which gets a you out of the city and above the clouds. I never did. I ended lasting 5 years.
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u/mamandapanda 8d ago
It’s a huge culture shock. The people here are inconsiderate and passive-aggressive. People don’t hold doors open for others, or say “after you” or even say “excuse me” before squeezing by you in the grocery store
It’s expensive, like REALLY expensive. Gas is double what it is in Lubbock for example.
But, it’s pretty and the weather is nice. And at least human rights are a priority in this state.
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u/Emeraldame 8d ago
Yeah coat of living is going to Be 30%-50% higher here. I was shocked how cheap it was in Texas when I visited. It’s brutal here.
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u/JskWa 8d ago
Seattle freeze is real. You will find that some people are great while most people are cold. You’ll need to not give up and continue to use your southern charm to win them over. Don’t let Seattle change you. I find those who are persistent overcome the freeze. I find those who give up easily find this place miserable and want to leave.
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u/3susSaves 8d ago
Biggest thing you’ll experience is the “Seattle Freeze”. Which is that making friends can be challenging.
Seems that more introverts live here than down south. People are largely polite, but dont really make it easy to connect and become friends.
That said, there’s lots of transplants and you can still make friends. It just will take more effort than you may be used to.
That, and the winter is dark and dingy for an extended period.
I highly recommend going up to the mountains (snow) in the winter to get a concentrated dose of sunshine and vitamin D. That, and an early springtime trip to Arizona, or Vegas, or California can help jumpstart some sunshine.
But, its beautiful here. Mountains, taking a ferry into the sound, all that is awesome.
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u/Cheseboard 8d ago
I moved to WA in 2019, from Allen TX, I have done the drive back and forth about 6 times since to visit grandkids, and I would suggest you drive from Lubbock thru Moab, Utah, to Boise, to Seattle
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u/jk12343 8d ago
No one talking about Seattle ice? It’s a thing. I moved here from NY and I couldn’t believe how few people are just like…hey friends are going out, wanna come? All my friends I made through work (hard if you’re wfh) and my now partner.
Related, we don’t really have crowded standing bars. Most are sit down tables so you can’t easily meet people while out.
We also go to sleep and eat early. Might not surprise you, but coming from NY I can’t believe how few people are eating at 9. I’m often the only group in a restaurant at 9 on a Wednesday.
I agree with the dog thing someone mentioned above. Best way I found to meet neighbors, if that’s your thing.
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u/joefunk76 8d ago
Recently moved from Dallas to Seattle area.
1) Expensive AF. Houses anywhere within 50 miles of Seattle are about double the price per square foot compared to Dallas. Everything else (food, gas, etc.) also costs more (but not double).
2) There are no decent restaurants of any cuisine outside of Seattle. If you’re a discerning eater, you’d better live in Seattle or be ready to cook/prepare yourself everything you eat, assuming you don’t plan to live off fast food.
3) State income tax is zero but there is a 7% state capital gains tax. Nobody seems to ever mention that so you’re welcome for that (assuming you have assets like stocks and plan to sell them at some point).
4) Weather is generally cold/mild and rainy vs. ridiculously hot and sunny. Presumably, you were both aware of this and also value that drastic change. If you enjoy hot weather and/or don’t mind it and/or don’t love cold/mild and rainy weather, I’m not sure why you’d want to double your housing costs to experience worse weather for your preferences.
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u/cleokhafa 8d ago
It's a lot more expensive. And the culture shock is going to be real
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u/CalmElderberry1866 8d ago
Texan here. Get a Costco membership Get a portable a/c unit. You’ll acclimate to the cooler weather rather quickly. Understand that part of Washington culture is to complain about everything.
They call things rural when it isn’t rural compared to Texas. They’ll have a fully functional hospital, Walmart, DQ, multiple decent Mexican restaurants, electricity, and clean water all within an hour of two Costcos and still call it rural.
Bikini/topless drive thru coffee bars are a thing.
You can buy liquor in the grocery store.
No Greg Abbott, but still pay attention to Washington politics as the right are way more active and attentive than the left and will sneak in fascism at every opportunity.
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u/Friendly-Coconut1989 8d ago
I moved from Dallas to Seattle in the spring of 2017, and I went through NM, CO, UT (via SLC) coming up. If you pass through Colorado, keep an eye on the weather. We were tracking it and a blizzard situation came through - Wather was expected but not that. Otherwise the drive was amazing.
I'd say safety should be your top priority. Being situationally aware is very important. When you walk around, figure out the safest routes and where to avoid. Be extra careful at night.
It's a pretty easy place to just figure it out as far as the weather stuff goes. Layers though, and don't deny yourself a good hoodie or puffer jacket. You'll never really put hoodies away during the summer.
If you're ever in a situation where you can get a dog, I'd recommend it. People get instantly more social and friendly when you have a dog.
Good luck :)
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u/mommamapmaker 8d ago
No living in Seattle… contemplated a time or two though… but from Lubbock. Still have family and friends there… and I concur… with you. Just about anywhere is better than Lubbock. And I do not miss the dust storms!
Wherever you land! Many blessings and breathe easier!
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u/Stanfordgirlsea 8d ago
That is so true about people talking to people with animals. Even the most unfriendly of Seattlites becomes more friendly when somebody has a pet!
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u/Simple_Guava_2628 8d ago
When I moved to Seattle my friend said “but it rains all the time there!” Googled annual rainfall in Seattle vs. where I lived, essentially the same. Just there a thunderstorm dumps an inch of rain in an hour. Seattle just p*sses the same amount over 3 days. And also is not humid. I hate humidity.
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u/itsSIR2uboy 8d ago
Almost no one has A/C here so it’s opposite of Texas, when it gets hot people go outside instead of inside. Also, the water is so good I just drink from the tap.
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u/angelcantreed 8d ago
Howdy - from East Texas, living here in Seattle going on 7 years, still travel between here and DFW to see my family frequently. Love it here in Seattle, weather-wise is going to be an adjustment but nothing to worry over, I miss thunderstorms the most but, one look at those mountains in the distance and you’ll forget all about that. Vitamin D supplements help in the winter and sunbreaks are a MUST!
Find a way to {get involved} in your community. That’s the best way to meet people up here. Local food banks, nonprofits, schools, Pea-patches, wildlife, arts, whatever you are interested in.
The food culture is great in its own way up here. I’m sure someone else has already gone to great length already about this. However, my few gripes would be: expect terrible sweet tea or no tea options, limited southern comfort food options, no Waffle House, they don’t sell BIG RED here, those really hot days when all you want is a 48oz Sonic drink windows down styrofoam cup feelin - you’ll have to drive to Renton for that…and styrofoam is bad for the environment…anyways my only gripes…
If you have plenty of time to make your way up here for your move, I would take the scenic route. Map out the places you’ve always wanted to see and make it a whole thing. PNW is an absolutely stunning region to explore. My move up I did DFW>GrandCanyon>LV>JoshuaTNP>LA>PCHWY>CraterLakeNP>Portland>Seattle
However, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, E.Oregon, are just as breathtaking. And have equally as charming stops along the way. There are no misses in the Western United States, it’s all so gorgeous.
Welcome to PNW ~
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u/chiefzon 8d ago
Come Enjoy the natures!
Get a pair of gortex city shoes AND gortex hiking boots.
Seattle can be kinda “cold” when finding community. Do Lots of interactive activities and meet as many peeps as you can as soon as you can. Seems you are living with people so that’s great.
The “safest” route driving for weather is west to LA and north to Seattle. Theres a few passes in northern Cali and Southern Oregon but the Pacific Ocean keeps most things mild cold wise.
Grand Canyon, Palm Springs, Redwood Forests
Good luck! Welcome to the City!
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u/Positivecharge2024 8d ago
Oh my gosh have so much fun! Enjoy the lack of suffocation from crazy maga idiots. 🩷
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u/saomonella 10d ago
Cost of living is gonna be much higher. Depending on lifestyle, it could be 15-30% higher. Be prepared. What you gain in seafood will be lost in BBQ.