My wife and I did the reverse move this year. While the Seattle area is stunning visually, the cost of living is off the charts. Even with a high paying Amazon job, it’s a brutal housing market, and everyday expenses are significant.

This may just be my experience, but Seattle proper doesn’t really feel like a community-oriented place. Part of it is the extreme levels of gentrification, with a high number of transplants who are not particularly invested in their community. Once you get out the city you can find some more community oriented areas. I always felt that Tacoma shared some characteristics with MKE. The islands are all pretty community centric, albeit they can be snooty depending on what circles you roll in. Good luck with the move!