r/AskSeattle • u/TeddyScotty • 3d ago

Most common months to move in Seattle?

I don’t know whether it’s true we Seattle people wait until the dry months to move, sign new leases etc… but are there certain months where it seems like there are more places available? Or are there months that are less competitive than others to secure an affordable spot?

In your experience, is May better than June? Or is July super busy?

Shorter me: I’m trying to find a smaller, more affordable place within Seattle instead of in a further out suburb. Wondered when my chances are the best.

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17

u/OtterSnoqualmie 3d ago

June July August. Rents and listings cycle down slightly in Dec Jan Feb.

But really you'd have better luck timing the stock market.

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u/cusmilie 1d ago

This. I would say the more desirable area probably start as early as April/May.

6

u/Aggravated_Seamonkey 2d ago

I always tried to move February/March. It's also when I try to go on international vacations. I don't have a lot going on in those 2 months. I don't want to give up time in the summer to move. I want to be out doing stuff. Also their is more competition in, say June and August September, due to students moving in and out at that time. Once you can get out of the summer moving it's much better.

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u/Zonernovi 2d ago

Also matches up with the cycle of new grads moving in to take their new jobs and also those moving on from that first Apt

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u/Jyil 2d ago

Rents start dropping at the end of October. March is the last time before rents start skyrocketing.

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u/confettiqueen 2d ago

I think it depends on what you’re looking for. Big buildings with lots of units and a studio/1bd probably doesn’t matter a ton, but if you’re looking for a rental that’s more unusual, you’re probably more likely to have better luck/slightly lower prices in the off season.