Getting Around Seattle: Transit, Commuting Options, and Local Travel Tips

If you’re moving to Seattle or settling into a new neighborhood, understanding how the city’s transit system works can make daily life much easier. Seattle offers multiple ways to get around — whether you work downtown, commute to nearby cities, work remotely, or travel frequently.

This guide breaks down the most commonly used transit options and how they influence local lifestyle and neighborhood choice.

And if you’re still choosing where in the city to live, this is an area where thoughtful guidance truly matters.

Local Bus Service

King County Metro provides extensive bus coverage across Seattle, connecting neighborhoods like:

• Capitol Hill

• Queen Anne

• Beacon Hill

• Ballard

• Fremont

• West Seattle

• Lake City

• Rainier Valley

Buses are often used for:

• Work commutes

• UW and Seattle U student travel

• Daily errands

• Car-light or car-free living

RapidRide lines offer faster, more frequent service along major corridors — ideal for those wanting convenience without driving.

Link Light Rail

Seattle’s Link Light Rail is one of the most reliable ways to travel across the city.

Major stops include:

• Northgate

• Roosevelt

• University of Washington

• Capitol Hill

• Downtown / Westlake

• International District

• Sea-Tac Airport

Upcoming extensions will connect Ballard and West Seattle, and eventually reach Everett and Tacoma, meaning transit access will continue to shape neighborhood values over time.

Sounder Train (For Seattle–Tacoma–Everett Commuters)

The Sounder Train provides a calm, predictable commute without traffic — especially useful for those working downtown but living outside the city.

It connects:

• Everett → North Seattle → Downtown Seattle

• Tacoma → South Seattle → Downtown Seattle

If you prefer to start and end your day without I-5 stress, this is one of Seattle’s best commuting assets.

Ferries

If you live or work near:

• Bainbridge Island

• Bremerton

• Vashon Island

• West Seattle (Water Taxi)

Ferries offer a scenic, community-oriented way to commute or explore.

Air Travel: Sea-Tac & Boeing Field

Seattle is served by:

• Sea-Tac International Airport (major national and international flights)

• Boeing Field / King County International Airport (private, charter, and business travel)

Light Rail access to both makes travel simpler than in many major U.S. cities.

How Transit Affects Neighborhood Choice

Transit access influences:

• Commute time

• Walkability

• Lifestyle rhythm

• Property value stability and appreciation

Neighborhoods with strong transit access — like Capitol Hill, Roosevelt, University District, Beacon Hill, and Columbia City — tend to feel more connected and community-oriented.

This is where local experience matters.

How Keith Bruce Helps Buyers & Homeowners in Seattle

Keith Bruce has been helping buyers and homeowners throughout the Puget Sound region for over 30 years. As a Navy veteran, longtime homebuyer educator, and hands-on real estate advisor, Keith focuses on helping people find neighborhoods that feel right for their life — not just a house that fits a search filter.

Keith provides:

• Neighborhood guidance based on lifestyle and commute, not just price

• Calm, experienced support through every stage of the home search

• Access to WSHFC and Covenant Homeownership Program education

• Fee-for-Service and full-service brokerage options depending on client needs

• Local insight into transit, schools, communities, and future development

When you work with Keith, you won’t feel rushed, sold, or pressured.
His focus is helping you make decisions you feel confident about.