Seattle: Quality and Quantity
Nestled snugly in the beautiful northwest corner of the United States, Seattle and the greater Puget Sound area combine spectacular natural beauty with the energy and cultural attractions of a thriving urban center. From the tranquility of the Puget Sound’s scenic lakes, rivers and waterways, to the bucolic Olympic National Forest and San Juan Islands, to cultural institutions such as the Seattle Symphony and the Seattle Mariners, Seattle residents find in the Pacific Northwest an endless source of inspiration— from locales as different as Mt. Ranier, bustling Pike Place Market and the bars and clubs of the city’s many vibrant and eclectic neighborhoods. Seattle is also within commuting distance of Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, British Columbia.
Seattle is much more than its impressive physical setting and entertainment options—greater Seattle is also the economic engine driving growth and commerce in the Puget Sound area. It celebrates its connection to the Pacific Rim through its local culture and as the home of industry giants in the fields of information technology, aerospace, life sciences, international trade/logistics and clean technologies. Microsoft, Boeing, Nordstrom, Safeco, Starbucks, T-Mobile, Washington Mutual and Weyerhaeuser—these innovative companies—among many—help give Seattle its distinctive character.
Closest to home, Seattle’s University District surrounds the UW. The U-District is one of the city’s oldest and most diverse neighborhoods. Boasting a unique mix of ethnic restaurants, coffeehouses, retail shops and other services, the neighborhood caters to the needs of UW students. The U-District is also a great base for your forays into the city or its less urban surroundings! BY THE NUMBERS: Seattle ranks second in the U.S. among adults with a bachelor's degree or higher (nearly 50%) and has one of the highest rates of home Internet access.
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