Study the Art of Seattle Student Living

If you’re living on a college budget in Seattle, use this guide to find the best places to live, as well as things to do without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re cheering on the Huskies at the University of Washington, studying art at Seattle University or attending one of the other 25 colleges in the Seattle area, it is important to find the right place to live and participate in activities that won’t put a hole in your wallet. To get you started, here are a few neighborhoods to check out and a few activities to consider while living on a college budget in Seattle.

Neighborhoods to Call Home
With a metropolitan area defined as Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, Seattle expands for nearly 5,900 square miles. Finding an apartment in the right neighborhood for college might seem difficult, but with a little research and knowledge, you’ll be able to find a place to call home soon. Here are a few neighborhoods to consider.

• The University District – This neighborhood is packed with students, bars and live music. It’s a neighborhood with a college town feel, and it’s close to University of Washington’s campus.
• Wallingford – Located in north central Seattle, Wallingford is close enough to the University District to enjoy the college atmosphere, but it’s a quieter neighborhood. While here, check out Gasworks Park.
• Roosevelt – This neighborhood is perfect for students, especially students with pets. This pet-friendly neighborhood is quiet and more affordable than the surrounding neighborhoods, and it has great restaurants and grocery stores.
• Cherry Hill – This diverse neighborhood is a great neighborhood for Seattle University students. Not only is it conveniently located near the university, Cherry Hill is also more affordable than surrounding neighborhoods. And for students looking for an easy way to get around, you can catch a ride via bus service to get around town.

Things to Do in Seattle
If you think living on a college budget in Seattle limits your activities, think again. Seattle has been called an outdoor mecca because it’s surrounded by mountains, waterways and remote wilderness. It is also home to lots of great attractions, which are enjoyable whether you’re a Seattle native or a transplant. And with a little research and knowledge, you can check out Seattle without breaking the bank.

• Seattle Art Museum – Flash your student ID or come on the first Thursday of every month, and you’ll get in free. Permanent exhibits include American, African, Australian Aboriginal, Asian, Native American and European art.
• Pike Place Market – This is the oldest continuously operated farmers market in America. Take a stroll around the market, and you’ll find fresh fruits, fish and produce to take home.
• Fishing – This is a great activity to do with friends when you have some free time. Whether you want to throw a line from the pier or go out on the lake, check out these suggestions for fishing in Seattle.
• Seattle Mariners – Head out to Safeco Field and join 47,000 of your closest friends to enjoy a Mariners game. It’s located in the SoDo neighborhood. This is a great excuse to get out of your apartment and spend time with your friends while cheering on the local nine.
• Disc Golf – Ever wanted to try your hand in disc golf? Head out to Mineral Springs Park. Take a walk around the park and admire the many spectacular trees and wildlife, and then finish the day by playing a round of disc golf.
• Hiking – Not too far of a drive from downtown are lots of parks to visit and hike. Depending on how adventurous and experienced you are, there is a trail out there for you. To plan out your hike, start with this Seattle hiking guide.

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/ElementalImaging