Explore the elevation of Seattle—set along Puget Sound at an average of 170 feet above sea level. This vibrant city rises across hills, coastal inlets, and waterways, nestled between the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, offering scenic views and rich cultural depth in the Pacific Northwest.

Table of Contents

Where is Seattle?

  • Location: Seattle is a major seaport city located in the northwestern United States, near the border with Canada.
  • Proximity to Canada: Just 100 miles south of the U.S.-Canada border.

City Profile

  • Nicknames: Known as Rain City and The Emerald City.
  • Population: Roughly 725,000 residents in the city; around 3.87 million in the metro area.
  • Size: Covers approximately 142 square miles.
  • Founding: Established by the Denny Party in 1851, named after Chief Si'ahl.
  • Economic significance: Home to Boeing, Microsoft, Amazon, and a powerful tech sector.
  • Cultural influence: Birthplace of grunge music and artists like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Jimi Hendrix.

Elevation Basics

  • Average elevation: Seattle’s average elevation is approximately 170 feet (52 m).
  • Highest point: Reaches up to 520 feet (158 m).
  • Lowest point: At sea level along the waterline.
  • Terrain: Hilly with varied topography, making elevation measurements less consistent.
  • Early history: Inhabited by Native American tribes before European colonization.
  • Growth factors: Rapidly developed as a logging town and later as a shipping and trade hub, especially during the Klondike Gold Rush.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Elevation significance: Important for weather forecasting, flood management, and urban planning.
  • State comparison: Washington’s mean elevation is 1,700 feet (520 m), much higher than Seattle’s.
  • Highest point in Seattle: 520 feet (158 m).
  • Highest point in Washington: Mount Rainier – 14,417 feet (4,394 m).
  • Lowest point in Washington: Pacific Ocean – sea level.
  • Highest town in Washington: Waterville, at 2,622 feet (799 m).
  • Other major cities:
    • Spokane: 1,843 ft (562 m)
    • Tacoma: 243 ft (74 m)
    • Vancouver: 171 ft (52 m)
  • National comparison: Like other coastal cities (New York City, Los Angeles), Seattle’s elevation is relatively low.

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Temperate marine climate (oceanic), influenced by proximity to the Pacific Ocean.
  • Rainfall: Receives around 37.5 inches annually, with heaviest rain in November through January.
  • Snowfall: Occasional light snowfall in winter months.
  • Winters: Cool and wet.
  • Summers: Dry and warm.
  • Warmest month: July – average highs of 91°F (33°C).
  • Coldest month: December – average lows of 41°F (5°C).
  • Tourism: Seattle is a major tourist destination and cultural hub of the Pacific Northwest.
  • Landmarks:
    • Space Needle – panoramic city views.
    • Pike Place Market – iconic seafood and produce market.
    • Lake Union, Seattle Waterfront, and museums.
  • Activities: Hiking, kayaking, boating, cultural festivals, live music, and culinary experiences.

Plan Your Trip