West Seattle Houses: Find Your Perfect Pad in the Emerald City

Why West Seattle Houses Stand Out in Seattle's Real Estate Market

West Seattle houses offer a rare find: a genuine neighborhood feel just minutes from downtown Seattle. Over 230 homes are currently on the market, from $320,000 condos to $2.5M waterfront estates, with a median sale price of $840,000.

Quick West Seattle Housing Overview:

• Median Home Price: $840,000 (up 2.4% year-over-year)
• Average Cost Per Sq Ft: $502-$530
• Days on Market: 34-59 days average
• Price Range: $320,000 (condos) to $2,550,000 (luxury homes)
• Popular Property Types: Single-family homes, craftsman bungalows, modern townhomes, waterfront condos
• Top Neighborhoods: Alki Point ($999,000 avg), The Junction, Admiral District, Fauntleroy

If you want city convenience with a community vibe, West Seattle delivers. This peninsula feels like its own island, offering tree-lined streets, beach access, and mountain views while staying connected to Seattle's tech jobs and urban core.

Looking for expert guidance on Seattle real estate? Check out our comprehensive Seattle housing market guide. Ready to start your search? Connect with Special Agents Realty today to find your perfect West Seattle home.

The housing stock is incredibly diverse, featuring classic 1920s craftsman homes next to sleek modern builds. Properties may include rooftop decks with water views or private patios. From starter condos to four-bedroom family homes, West Seattle has inventory to fit your needs.

The Current West Seattle Real Estate Market

The market for West Seattle houses is healthy and active. As of July 2025, the median sale price is $840,000, a solid 2.4% increase from last year, showing steady, sustainable growth. Homes are moving quickly; well-priced properties often sell in just 34 days, indicating strong buyer demand. The cost per square foot ranges from $502 to $530. Recent sales illustrate the market's diversity, with prices ranging from a $535,000 home on 26th Ave SW to a $1,325,000 property on 34th Ave SW.

Wondering if now's the right time to jump in? We've done a deep dive in our article, Is It A Good Time To Buy A Home In Seattle?.

Price Comparison: West Seattle vs. Other Areas

How do West Seattle houses stack up against other areas? At $840,000, West Seattle's median price is higher than Seattle's city average of $750,000, reflecting the premium for its water views, community feel, and beach access.

While downtown neighborhoods like Belltown are less expensive, they lack the neighborhood character and outdoor lifestyle of West Seattle. Within West Seattle, prices in coveted Alki Point jump to nearly $1 million.

Regionally, West Seattle is more affordable than Eastside tech hubs like Bellevue ($1,545,000) but priced higher than cities like Tacoma ($525,000). It's comparable to other desirable waterfront communities like Edmonds ($835,000).

The takeaway is that West Seattle offers excellent value, providing true Seattle living with a neighborhood feel that's hard to find. These trends confirm that Seattle real estate remains a solid investment. For more on why Seattle homes hold their value, check out our article: Seattle Real Estate Maintains Its Value.

Exploring the Types of West Seattle Houses

The search for West Seattle houses reveals an incredible variety of architectural styles, reflecting the area's history and evolution.

• Single-family homes are the core of the market, from 2-bedroom starters to large 4-bedroom residences with yards. Prices can range from the $700,000s for an older home to over $1.5 million for a renovated property with views.
• Craftsman homes and bungalows, common in The Junction and Admiral, offer historic character with front porches and built-in details. For more on this style, read about the West Seattle Rambler.
• Mid-century modern homes feature clean lines, open floor plans, and large windows. Often on larger lots, they are great renovation projects for fans of retro-modern design.
• Townhouses offer contemporary finishes, efficient layouts, and often spectacular rooftop decks with water views, appealing to those seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle.
• Condominiums are the most accessible entry point, with prices starting around $320,000. Options range from older buildings to new developments with luxury amenities, with some units exceeding $800,000.
• Waterfront properties, especially along Alki Point, are the pinnacle of West Seattle living. Offering direct Puget Sound access and stunning views, these luxury homes often exceed $2 million.

The diverse selection of houses in West Seattle ensures you'll find a home that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Key Features and Amenities

Many West Seattle houses include features that improve the Pacific Northwest lifestyle.

• Modern construction often features open-concept layouts and rooftop decks to maximize space and views.
• Puget Sound views are a major draw, with expansive windows framing water, mountain, and city vistas. Private patios offer more intimate outdoor space for relaxing or gardening.
• Updated kitchens with modern appliances and gas ranges are common in desirable properties.
• En-suite bathrooms and walk-in closets in primary bedrooms create private retreats.
• Garages are a highly valued amenity, providing covered parking and storage for outdoor gear in Seattle's climate.

These features transform a house into a home that supports an active and comfortable lifestyle.

Top Neighborhoods to Find Your Dream Home

Each West Seattle neighborhood has a distinct personality. Here are some of the top spots to find West Seattle houses.

• Alki Point: Famous for its sandy beach along Puget Sound, Alki offers stunning skyline and mountain views. The boardwalk is popular for recreation, and the area has many waterfront restaurants and cafes. Homes range from beach bungalows to luxury estates, with an average price around $999,000.
• The Admiral District: This historic, walkable neighborhood features tree-lined streets, classic homes, and a vibrant commercial strip centered around the landmark Admiral Theater. It offers an established community feel with easy access to Alki Beach.
• The Junction: As the heart of West Seattle, the Alaska and Morgan Junctions are lively hubs. The area hosts the weekly West Seattle Farmers Market and is packed with independent shops, diverse restaurants, and cafes. With excellent walkability, it's perfect for those who want to be in the center of the action.
• Fauntleroy: This peaceful, family-oriented neighborhood is anchored by the 135-acre Lincoln Park and the Fauntleroy Ferry Terminal. Homes often sit on larger lots, many with water views, offering a quiet residential feel.
• Arbor Heights: Appealing to families seeking a suburban atmosphere, this neighborhood offers spacious homes with yards, good schools, and a strong sense of community.
• Genesee and Gatewood: Situated on liftd terrain, many homes here enjoy territorial or water views without the waterfront price tag. These residential areas offer a sweet spot between peaceful living and convenient access to The Junction.
• Highland Park: An increasingly popular neighborhood offering more affordable West Seattle houses. It features a diverse community, community gardens, and growing commercial districts.

Other areas like Delridge, Fairmount Park, Seaview, and High Point also offer unique characteristics. The beauty of West Seattle is that no matter which neighborhood you choose, you're never far from beaches, parks, and the community vibe that makes this peninsula feel like home. At Special Agents Realty, we know these neighborhoods inside and out and can help you find where you belong.

Lifestyle and Livability in West Seattle

Choosing West Seattle houses means investing in a lifestyle that balances city access with neighborhood charm. Here are key aspects of daily life in the area.

Commuting: The West Seattle Bridge is the main route to downtown Seattle, with commute times of 20-45 minutes during peak hours. For those working downtown, the West Seattle Water Taxi offers a scenic and often faster alternative to driving across Elliott Bay. Commute times provided by INRIX and Transitland are based on typical traffic conditions, not actual traffic, and will not include activities such as a crash or construction in the commute time calculation.

Schools: West Seattle has excellent educational options. Notable public schools include Pathfinder K-8 and Madison Middle School, which is highly rated at 9 out of 10. West Seattle High School serves the area with a comprehensive curriculum. We encourage families to visit campuses and check current reviews on GreatSchools.org to find the best fit.

Climate and Environment:

• Flood, Fire, and Wind Factors are all minimal for most properties, meaning risks are very low.
• The Heat Factor is moderate. Expect around 7-11 days above 86°F annually, a number that may increase slightly over the next few decades.
• The Air Quality Factor is rated "Severe," with 8-11 unhealthy air days expected per year, typically due to summer wildfire smoke. Residents often monitor air quality and adjust outdoor activities accordingly.

Understanding these practicalities helps paint a complete picture of what it means to call West Seattle home.

Frequently Asked Questions about West Seattle Real Estate

Here are answers to common questions we receive about West Seattle houses.

What is the average price for West Seattle houses?

As of July 2025, the median sale price for a home in West Seattle is $840,000, which is higher than Seattle's overall average of $750,000. The market is diverse, with condominiums starting around $320,000 and luxury waterfront homes reaching up to $2.55 million. This range reflects the wide variety of property types available, from starter homes to large family estates.

What are the most popular neighborhoods for buying West Seattle houses?

Several neighborhoods are consistently popular with buyers, each offering a unique lifestyle:

• Alki Point: Ideal for beach lovers, offering stunning water views and a vibrant boardwalk.
• The Junction: The walkable, central hub of West Seattle, known for its farmers market, shops, and restaurants.
• The Admiral District: Valued for its historic charm, tree-lined streets, and strong community feel.
• Fauntleroy: A family-friendly area with large parks, quiet streets, and convenient ferry access.

For more guidance on finding your ideal Seattle neighborhood, check out our article on whether Is It A Good Time To Buy A Home In Seattle?.

Are there homes available for lease in West Seattle?

Yes, there is an active rental market in West Seattle if you're not ready to buy. The inventory includes single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. Average lease prices for houses typically range from $2,900 to $7,000 per month, depending on the property's size, location, and amenities. Leasing can be a great way to experience different neighborhoods before purchasing.

Contact Special Agents Realty for leasing options in West Seattle—we can help you find a rental that fits your needs.

Conclusion: Your West Seattle Home Awaits

West Seattle houses offer a rare combination of stunning natural beauty, genuine community spirit, and a lifestyle that makes coming home the best part of the day.

We've explored what makes this real estate market so special: a median price of $840,000 reflecting strong demand, and a diverse housing stock from modern townhomes to classic craftsman bungalows. Neighborhoods like Alki Point offer a beach lifestyle, while The Junction provides a vibrant, walkable hub. We've also covered practical considerations like commute options, including the scenic Water Taxi, and highly-rated schools.

Buying a home is about investing in your entire lifestyle. At Special Agents Realty, we turn this process into an exciting journey. Our team knows the Seattle market inside and out, and we love helping people find their perfect fit in West Seattle. We're here to provide expert guidance and support you every step of the way.

Your West Seattle story is waiting to begin. Explore current West Seattle and Seattle listings with Special Agents Realty, and let's find your perfect home together.