Getting Around in Seattle

Getting around in Seattle is easier than you might expect. While the public transport network in Seattle is smaller than those in cities like New York or Chicago, it’s efficient and well regarded. Traffic in Seattle can be challenging, particularly during peak hours.

In fact, it’s highly regulated, and thanks to the city’s small but well-maintained public transport network, extended commute times are primarily experienced during peak hours. The city ranked 10th worst nationally for traffic congestion in 2024, although it is still better than cities like New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles. Most large companies in Seattle provide passes for public transport, which encourages commuters and employees to travel using these systems rather than driving.

Public transport in Seattle

Public transport in Seattle is jointly managed by King County Metro and Sound Transit. Seattle’s modes of public transport connect the city’s suburbs to the downtown area. While there’s a choice of transport options available, not all are necessarily fast or well connected.

Fares for public transport vary according to the mode of transport and the distance travelled. If you’re going to use the public transport system frequently, it’s wise to invest in an ORCA pass. This pass is a cost-effective and convenient option for getting around Seattle and is valid on both King County Metro and Sound Transit services.

Light rail

Operated by Sound Transit, the Link light rail system has been expanding rapidly. The system now includes the 1 Line (extending from Lynnwood to SeaTac Airport), the 2 Line (serving Bellevue and Redmond), and the T Line in Tacoma. Extensions to Federal Way have opened, with further expansions planned through the 2030s.

The Link light rail is particularly useful for business travellers who need quick access to the airport, with trains running approximately every eight to 15 minutes, depending on the time of day. Ridership has grown significantly, reaching over 30 million passengers in 2024.

Buses

There are various types of buses in operation in Seattle, most of which fall under the King County Metro Transit system. The bus network is fairly extensive, with connections to most areas of the city.

Seattle’s Sound Transit Express is an additional bus system that operates independently of the King County Metro Transit system. An express bus with limited stops, Sound Transit Express provides an easy, convenient and fast way to travel along the motorway to the suburbs.

Streetcar

The Seattle tram service consists of two lines: the South Lake Union Streetcar and the First Hill Streetcar. Trams arrive every 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the time of day.

Ferry

Washington State operates the largest fleet of ferries in the US and runs both passenger and vehicle ferries. Services are regular, and it isn’t uncommon to commute via the ferry.

Useful links

• King County Metro
• Sound Transit

Taxis in Seattle

Taxis are readily available in Seattle’s city centre. You can hail a taxi on the street in the downtown area, but if you’re travelling from outside the city centre, you should book your vehicle in advance. While commuting by taxi in Seattle is convenient, it can also be expensive.

Ride-hailing applications such as Uber and Lyft are also available in Seattle. Some prefer using these apps instead of regular taxis, as they have more control over the route and cost of the ride.

Useful links

• Farwest Taxi
• Uber
• Lyft

Driving in Seattle

Driving in Seattle is manageable for newcomers, although the city has its quirks. Hills, one-way streets, and limited bridge crossings can take some getting used to. Peak-hour traffic can be a little aggravating, and there’s particularly heavy congestion on major routes like Interstate 5. The city ranked 10th worst nationally for congestion in 2024, but it’s still better than cities like New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles.

Parking can be an issue in Seattle’s city centre, as it’s both pricey and limited. You’ll also need to account for insurance and vehicle maintenance when deciding to purchase a vehicle. Car insurance costs in Washington have increased significantly in recent years.

See Transport and Driving in the US for more on securing a driver’s licence in the country.

Walking in Seattle

Seattle is a pedestrian-friendly city, and walking is a fun, free and healthy way to explore the city. There are clearly marked pavements and pedestrian crossings. In Washington State, pedestrians have the right of way at all intersections, whether marked or unmarked. Vehicles are obligated to stop for pedestrians at crossings.

The city aims to become the most walkable and accessible city in the country, with ongoing improvements to pavements, crossings, and pedestrian infrastructure. Downtown, the waterfront, Pike Place Market, and many neighbourhoods are particularly pedestrian friendly, although Seattle’s hilly terrain means some areas require more stamina than others.

Useful links

• Seattle Department of Transportation: Pedestrian Program
• Walk Score: Seattle Walkability Ratings by Neighbourhood

Cycling in Seattle

Cycling infrastructure in Seattle has undergone significant improvements. The city has an expanding network of bike trails and protected bike lanes, with major additions along the waterfront and throughout key corridors. Seattle’s temperate climate is generally good for cycling. The city’s frequent rainfall and hilly topography mean protective gear is recommended to avoid unexpected skids or accidents.

The city also has bike sharing schemes, with Lime as the primary operator and other companies periodically entering the market. These services allow residents to rent electric bikes through an app, typically by the minute or hour. You’ll simply pick up a bike using the app and can drop it off at designated areas throughout the city.

Useful links

• Lime: Bike Share in Seattle
• Seattle Department of Transportation: Bike Program