Vibrant and diverse neighborhood in the northwest part of Seattle, Washington, known for its rich history, maritime heritage, and contemporary cultural scene.
Ballard is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in the northwest part of Seattle, Washington, known for its rich history, maritime heritage, and contemporary cultural scene. Originally established as a Scandinavian fishing village in the late 1800s, Ballard has evolved into one of Seattle's most desirable areas, offering a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. Today, the neighborhood is known for its strong sense of community, thriving local businesses, and scenic waterfront views.
One of Ballard's most defining features is its proximity to water. The neighborhood is located along the shores of Puget Sound, with easy access to the Ballard Locks and the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, which connect the freshwater of Lake Washington to the saltwater of Puget Sound. The Locks are a popular spot for visitors and locals alike, providing a unique view of boats passing between the lake and the sound, and offering beautiful gardens and walking paths along the water. Additionally, Ballard is home to Golden Gardens Park, a popular beach park with sandy shores, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.
Ballard is also known for its strong Scandinavian influence, which is evident in its historic architecture and cultural events. The annual Ballard SeafoodFest celebrates the neighborhood’s maritime heritage with food, music, and activities that highlight its connection to the fishing industry. The Nordic Museum, which showcases the area’s Scandinavian roots, is another major cultural institution in the neighborhood, offering exhibits on the history of Nordic immigrants in the Pacific Northwest.
The neighborhood is a popular destination for food lovers, with a diverse range of dining options that reflect Ballard's cultural diversity. The Ballard Avenue Historic District is home to a mix of upscale restaurants, cafes, breweries, and shops, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The neighborhood is also known for its vibrant craft beer scene, with several breweries and taprooms scattered throughout the area. The proximity to the water means that fresh seafood is always on the menu, and many restaurants take advantage of the scenic views.
Ballard’s real estate market reflects the neighborhood's popularity, offering a mix of housing options ranging from historic single-family homes and modern townhomes to condos and apartments. Many of the older homes in Ballard have been carefully preserved and restored, while new developments continue to pop up, offering contemporary amenities and higher-density living. The neighborhood has become increasingly desirable for families, young professionals, and retirees alike, and it has one of Seattle's most active real estate markets.
Ballard is also known for its walkability, with a variety of local shops, boutiques, and grocery stores that make it convenient for residents to run errands and enjoy the neighborhood without needing to drive. While the area has become more urbanized in recent years, it still maintains a residential charm, with tree-lined streets, parks, and quiet neighborhoods providing a suburban feel in the midst of the city. Additionally, Ballard is well-connected to downtown Seattle and other areas via public transportation, including buses and the nearby Ballard Bridge, which connects the neighborhood to other parts of the city.
The neighborhood is served by the Seattle Public Schools, and its schools are generally highly regarded, making it an attractive option for families. Ballard also offers plenty of community events, farmer’s markets, and cultural activities, contributing to its strong sense of community and local pride.
Overall, Ballard is a dynamic neighborhood that blends a rich cultural history with modern-day amenities and a strong community vibe. Whether you're enjoying the waterfront, exploring the local art scene, or sampling craft beers and fresh seafood, Ballard offers a unique living experience that captures the essence of Seattle’s waterfront culture and its evolving urban landscape. It’s a neighborhood that appeals to a wide range of people, from history enthusiasts and foodies to families and outdoor lovers.
Based on information submitted to the MLS GRID as of . All data is obtained from various sources and may not have been verified by the broker or MLS GRID. Supplied Open House Information is subject to change without notice. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.
43,966 people live in Ballard, where the median age is 37 and the average individual income is $78,397. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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There's plenty to do around Ballard, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Lobby Bar at REN, Mary Meyer Life Fitness, and Stacey Sorgen Coaching.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 4.65 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.1 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.14 miles | 47 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 0.58 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.87 miles | 33 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.57 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.2 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.49 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.66 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.34 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.68 miles | 16 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.3 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.2 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 0.75 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.24 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.69 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.8 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.83 miles | 13 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.8 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Ballard has 21,355 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Ballard do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 43,966 people call Ballard home. The population density is 16,068.528 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
Population by Age Group
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10-17 Years
18-24 Years
25-64 Years
65-74 Years
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Education Level
Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
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Marital Status
Blue vs White Collar Workers
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