University District

Seattle, Washington Homes for Sale

About University District

The University District, or U-District as it’s affectionately known by locals, is one of the most exciting neighborhoods in Seattle. The bedrock of the community is the University of Washington, or “U-Dub” as most Seattleites refer to it, but this eclectic area is more than just a college town. It features world-class dining, an array of performance venues and live music shows, and an innovative museum. It’s just seven miles northeast of Downtown Seattle and lies along Portage Bay and Union Bay.

Quick Facts

Current Prices: $269,000 to $1,280,000

Closed Prices: $239,000 to $1,600,000

Median Sale Price: $740,000

Average $ per sq ft: $537

Association Fee Ranges:

Around University District

University Ave NE, also known as “The Ave,” is one of the main shopping hubs. Living nearby affords residents the most walkable lifestyle. There are also plenty of shopping and dining options on the east side of the neighborhood along 25th Avenue. The western part of the neighborhood near Wallingford makes for easy commutes via the 5 freeway. Near the intersection of NE 50th Street and 7th Avenue is the University Playground. This greenspace features a variety of outdoor recreational fields like baseball diamonds and multiple tennis and basketball courts in addition to a large children’s play area with a jungle gym.

The U-District houses the most diverse collection of restaurants in all of Seattle where residents can find cuisine from around the globe. The highest concentration of dining options is on Roosevelt Way NE and University Avenue NE. A longtime favorite, Portage Bay Café, is beloved for its hearty breakfasts in a homey atmosphere. For fresh produce and artisan foods, the University District Farmers Market is open every Saturday throughout the year. This popular market is located on University Avenue between 50th and 52nd Streets NE.

This is one of the most geographically diverse areas in the city. Main streets feature bustling shopping districts lined with shops, bars, and restaurants. Residential streets can feature quaint homes with well-manicured lawns under mature fir and pine trees. The University of Washington is a picturesque campus lined with cherry trees that turn the landscape pink in the spring. Along the waterfront, chic boats line the marina that merges into Husky Stadium, one of the most scenic stadiums in the nation.

Grab a seat at the counter of the district’s popular dive noodle bars Thai Tom before a night on the town. Then see a show at one of the University District’s legendary music venues the Neptune Lounge or the Blue Moon Tavern. Take in the stunning views at Mountaineer Club. Located on the rooftop of the Graduate Hotel, this climbing-themed bar and restaurant features inventive libations alongside campfire fare.

Order a brew at one of Seattle’s vintage coffee haunts such as Cafe Allegro, which has been serving coffee since 1975 and features the city’s oldest espresso bar. Take a kayak or stand-up paddle board lesson at Aqua Verde for some outdoor recreation. Spend the day wandering the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture for a dose of culture. This educational haven features rotating exhibits on paleontology, biology, Pacific Northwest history, as well as Native and contemporary art.

Since the extension of the Sound Transit Link Light Rail that used to only go as far north as downtown, the U-District has become a transit hub that makes getting around Seattle a breeze. In addition to making its way to Sea-Tac Airport, the Light Rail also goes to Capitol Hill, a trendy neighborhood in the eastern part of the city. King County Bus Line 70 goes south through Eastlake to Downtown Seattle. The neighborhood is also highly walkable and bikeable, making it easy to get around town without driving a car.

Locals Love

  • Access to Union Bay and Portage Bay
  • Husky Stadium
  • Variety of cultural attractions
  • Diverse restaurant and shopping scene

Locals Don't Love

  • Lack of street parking
  • Limited real estate options
  • Crowds and traffic during college sporting events

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