AAR
We moved here a little over a year ago, and I’m so happy we did. I have lived in Southern California, Maryland and Atlanta, and hands down West Seattle is where I feel most at home. In the past year, we’ve been able to camp, ski and hike within a 30 minute-1 hour drive. We’ve also gone camping by the Pacific Ocean in the Olympic National Park, which is about a 3 1/2 hour drive (but totally worth it!).
As PLS stated, there are definitely more rural areas within a 30 minute drive from downtown Seattle. I am a huge fan of West Seattle…I feel like I’m living in a smaller, relaxed beach-y town with many interesting people and very family friendly.
All that said, Seattle is somewhat expensive, but it is what you make it. If you’re up for putting in work on an older home in a more “desirable” area, then there are plenty of those. The more rural areas are more affordable as well, even those that are within the 30-minute downtown commute.
Good luck with the decision! I know it’s not an easy one…
-A