Seattle is a laid-back city known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Seattle and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife.
How much does it cost to travel to Seattle?
You should plan to spend around $242 per day on your vacation in Seattle. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $88 on meals
- $30 on local transportation
- $240 on hotels
A one week trip to Seattle for two people costs, on average, $3,388. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
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One Week
Per person
$1,694
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2 Weeks
Per person
$3,388
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One Month
Per person
$7,260
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,388
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,776
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One Month
For a couple
$14,520
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Seattle cost?
A one week trip to Seattle usually costs around $1,694 for one person and $3,388 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Seattle on average costs around $3,388 for one person and $6,776 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Seattle will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Seattle on average costs around $7,260 for one person and $14,520 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Seattle expensive to visit?
Seattle is a lively and expansive city offering something for everyone. You'll encounter a mix of travelers here, each bringing their own budget and travel style to the party. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
If you're not cautious, Seattle can become costly, but you can save with strategies like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $99 per day, mid-range travelers spend $242 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $558 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Seattle.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Seattle is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Saint Petersburg or Bar Harbor.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Seattle Expensive?
Seattle's Waterfront
How much money do I need for a trip to Seattle?
The average Seattle trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Seattle travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Seattle cost?
Seattle on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$50
|
$120
|
$268
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$11
|
$30
|
$90
|
|
Food 2
|
$36
|
$88
|
$209
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$6.88
|
$16
|
$34
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-10
|
$8-24
|
$16-48
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
When planning your trip to Seattle, it's important to be realistic about your travel budget. While some people assume they can travel very cheaply, most people aren't comfortable on an extreme shoestring budget. Consider what you enjoy most on vacation and how you like to travel. Do you perfer to stay in resorts, hotels, or hostels? Do you enjoy sightseeing and dining out? These factors will affect your overall budget and travel plans.
Seattle on a Shoestring Budget?
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $99 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Luckily, Seattle has plenty of hostels like Green Tortoise Seattle Hostel and American Hotel Hostel. At these hostels, you can find affordable dorm beds and a vibrant social scene, but amenities tend to be quite limited. While food is an important aspect for all visitors in Seattle, budget travelers tend to favor street food or prepare their own meals in hostels, which might keep them from experiencing the local cuisine.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. Visitors to Seattle typically prioritize the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks during their stay. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $242 per person, per day.
In Seattle, you can find a variety of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with others, you can share the costs of your hotel with a partner, friend, or children, which can help you save money. Families will want to seek out hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Inn at the Market is a great choice for families, and Cedarbrook Lodge is another great option. To discover more family- and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel guide for Seattle.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you want a vacation with premium amenities and superior service, brace yourself for a price near $558 daily. Choosing upscale hotels, dining at award-winning eateries, enjoying lavish excursions, and using taxis or private drivers around the city will require a luxury budget. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Seattle Cocktail Culture Tour - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Seattle
Seattle has a wide range of hotel prices. Luxury hotels come with higher price tags and better amenities, and prices are much steeper during peak season. On average, a room costs $184 in the off-season and averages $343 during peak summer season. Overall, you can expect prices from $100 to $646. Hostels, especially dorms, are cheaper alternatives. You can save by traveling in the low season, booking in advance, or looking for special offers.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Seattle for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $240. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $120 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Seattle? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Seattle include:
- Inn at the Market starting at $268
- Cedarbrook Lodge starting at $189
- Hyatt at Olive 8 starting at $257
- The Alexis Royal Sonesta Hotel Seattle starting at $252
- Hotel Andra starting at $233
In Seattle, a large city, you'll discover a wealth of accommodation choices. From hostels like Green Tortoise Seattle Hostel to inviting vacation rentals and luxurious hotels, there's something to suit all preferences. Keep in mind that accommodations in the city center are usually more costly, but they offer convenient access to public transit and many tourist attractions.
Seattle's public transportation allows you to stay further away from the city for cheaper lodging, but commuting might add extra transportation costs and eat up your time.
By traveling in the low or shoulder season (and avoiding summer), you can benefit from cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds.
Walking is a favorite way for many to see Seattle, so look for lodging in a prime location. Keep in mind, though, that this can raise your expenses.
Transportation Budget in Seattle
The public transit in Seattle is quite good and serves many major spots. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses. Public transportation is a great money-saving choice if it's accessible to where you're headed. Taxis and rideshares are also widely available in town.
If walking is your preferred way to explore, you'll have a great time here. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $30 per person, per day, on local transportation in Seattle. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Seattle is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$30
When driving, confirm that your hotel has convenient parking options.
A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:
- Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Smith Cove Terminal - RoundTrip Private Transfer for $146 details
- Arrival Private Transfer: Seattle Airport SEA to Seattle in Business Car for $87 details
- Chauffeur Transfer Services for $120 details
How much does it cost to go to Seattle? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Seattle will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
The typical transit costs in Seattle are outlined below, based on data from actual travelers. These figures provide an estimate of overall transportation expenses in the city. Remember, your personal costs will depend on how you choose to get around, as taxis and hired cars tend to be much pricier than using public transportation.
Food Budget in Seattle
The cuisine in Seattle is amazing, and you definitely want to take the time to sample all the local flavors. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Seattle can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Seattle is $88 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$88
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Seattle is around $88 ($88) per person, with previous travelers spending from $36 to $209. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Seattle are as follows:
- Breakfast: $9 to $26
- Lunch: $13 to $35
- Dinner: $26 to $62
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $13
Fresh seafood is the specialty in Seattle. It's available in restaurants and markets throughout the city. If you're hoping to have a picnic, then head to Pike Place Market. There you can pick up some bread, cheese, sausage or smoked fish and dine on the grass at the north end of the Market. Make sure you try the fresh donuts that are for sale in the market.
Asian food is also plentiful throughout the city. Dim sum is a popular option and a great way to try a sampling of items. There's a high concentration of Asian restaurants in the Chinatown area. Each has its own flavor and prices are quite reasonable.
By opting to eat at nicer restaurants for lunch instead of dinner, you can save some money. Numerous restaurants in touristy areas or business centers have lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These often consist of smaller and less costly versions of their dinner selections. With the right choices, you can even enjoy a complete multi-course gourmet meal at a reasonable price. For dinner, just stick to something light.
Numerous hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some might charge extra for it. The cost and quality can differ from one hotel to another. Being aware of this beforehand can help you determine if you need to allocate additional funds. It could be worth it for a fantastic buffet at the hotel, or you might want to opt for a nearby bakery or cafe that's more budget-friendly.
Keep a water bottle with you to cut down on drink purchases. It's also better for the environment.
If you're thinking about taking a tour, it's wise to check in advance which meals are covered. You may need to cover some of your own food costs, which could increase your overall budget.
If you want to experience the culture in Seattle, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Eat Around the World Seattle Food Tour for $69 details
- Private Seattle Cooking Class with a Chef in Her Home for $198 details
- Pike Place Dietary-Friendly Food Tour for $79 details
Food and meal prices in Seattle, based on real travelers' reported expenses, are shown below. These typical costs can give you a sense of the overall price range for meals. However, your individual expenses might be different depending on your dining habits, restaurant choices, and specific orders.
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Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
$7.00
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Cashews at Pike Place Market
$6.00
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6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
$3.25
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Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
$21
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Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
$32
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Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
$37
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Seattle
It's not a shock that Seattle draws crowds, as it is known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and music.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Seattle typically cost an average of $16 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$16
Although exploring Seattle is really about exploring the neighborhoods, there are still some excellents sights and attractions throughout the city. Perhaps the most famous Seattle landmark is the famous Space Needle. You can visit the top for a good view of the city and the surrounding areas. Another must see is Pikes Place Market as well as Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. You should also head over to Chinatown where there are some good markets and restaurants. If you're in the area on a weekend definitely find a good restaurant that serves up dim sum.
There are some great museums in the city as well. The Seattle Art Museum is excellent. Also worth visiting are the Seattle Asian Art Museum, the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience and the Frye Art Museum.
Parks are spread throughout the city. If the weather holds out, top parks in the area include Woodland Park Zoo, Carkeek Park, Discovery Park, Gasworks Park, Golden Gardens Park, Green Lake, Kerry Park, Kubota Garden, Magnuson Park, Myrtle Edwards Park, Ravenna Park, Olympic Sculpture Park, Seward Park, and the Waterfront.
There is no shortage of events in Seattle. Notable events include Seafair in July and August, Bumbershoot, the Northwest Folklife Festival, Bite of Seattle, Hempfest, Capitol HIll Block Party and Fremont Fair.
A number of day trips outside of Seattle are also possible. Take the ferry across the sound to Bainbridge Island (or the other areas). Visit one of the many nearby National Parks such as Mt. Ranier and go for a hike. Head up to the small towns and beautiful lakes around Mt. Baker to the northeast. Or, take the drive out to visit Mel's Hole in Ellensburg on I-90.
Here are more ideas for day trips from Seattle.
Museums and Attractions:
Many people visit Seattle specifically to see its famous museums and landmarks. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.
Music:
The music scene in Seattle is lively and attracts many fans. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.
Hiking:
Exploring the hiking trails near Seattle is a wonderful experience. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.
A nice way to explore destinations in Seattle is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- 3 Hours Electric Bike Tour of Seattle's Waterways, Nature and Neighborhoods for $87 details
- Mount Rainier National Park Luxury Small-Group Day Tour with Lunch for $289 details
- Olympic National Park Luxury Small-Group Day Tour with Lunch for $289 details
Nightlife Budget in Seattle
Active and entertaining, the nightlife in Seattle is a hit with visitors who love spending time at local bars, clubs, and parties. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $16 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Seattle per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$16
While nightlife is a key part of many trips, scaling back on drinks can help free up some extra cash in your budget.
Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially if you're drinking at night. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes, so stick with trusted friends and avoid wandering alone.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Seattle. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Woodinville's Downtown Wine Tasting Pass for $65 details
- Half Day Private Woodinville Wine Tour from Seattle for $117 details
- Private Wine Tour on Whidbey Island, WA 7hrs for $288 details
Travel cost data last updated: Oct 11, 2023
Traveling in Seattle
Seattle, Washington
Situated on the Puget Sound in the state of Washington, Seattle is the largest city in the United States Pacific Northwest. It's a beautiful city surrounded by the water and mountains and filled with evergreen trees. It's also the home of some famous American institutions including Starbucks Coffee, Amazon, and Microsoft. The population of almost 700,000 continues to grow. As of 2014, the city was considered the fastest growing major city in the United States. The entire metropolitan area has about 3.6 million residents, making it the 15th largest metro area in the US. The natural beauty, growing economy, and educational base give Seattle a youthful vibe that keep the city young and energetic.
Well known for its frequent rainy days, you'll find the city flocks to the outdoors on the occasional days when the sun decides to make an appearance. The climate is considered oceanic or temperate marine. Temperatures are cool and damp in the winter and warmer and dryer during the summer.
Neighborhoods & Around
Seattle is known as a city of neighborhoods, and part of the city's charm comes from exploring it's many districts, each of which has its own personality and character. The downtown area has one of the most interesting areas, Pikes Place Market, where you can pick up anything from freshly caught seafood to homemade donuts. Pioneer Square and the International District make up the city's oldest areas and have some excellent and diverse restaurants. Capital Hill has a great nightlife and Ballard is where you should go if you want to see the canal locks.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
We always stay a bit outside of town when we visit Seattle. There are so many day trips and opportunities to get into nature, that being a bit removed from the downtown is actually convenient and affordable.