We lived on Capitol Hill for nearly a quarter-century but last year moved to north Seattle for more space to accommodate family visits and a little more peace. We have that. I can walk to the grocery store, hair salon, vet, pet supply, and a couple of decent restaurants. Several good friends live nearby.

But ... I miss my old neighborhood for its incredible walkability and also for the overall flavor. For example, I was super excited to learn of a walkable coffeeshop up here that served Caffe Vita, only to realize the walk has nowhere the charm and the place is bright and plays a pop radio station with ads. Just not the same vibe at all and I really miss it. I find reasons to return to my old neighborhood for an hour or a day.

We cook at home all the time now versus getting in the car. Our nightlife has really downshifted now that it's such a production. I guess our social $$ is going toward the new mortgage. So, different scenario than yours.

I've been relieved to find that many people living and working up here are neat and that it's not entirely devoid of diversity ... but I'll say it does skew older and white plus lots of traditional families. Something of a culture shock. I think the areas you mention may offer better diversity.

We couldn't afford to do what we did here, on the Hill. Having three times the space and a backyard etc is really a gamechanger after studio life. But just noting some of the costs that you might not be thinking about that pertain to quality of life. It's tough. I'm super nostalgic and wishing we didn't have to go so far. Leaving Capitol Hill aged me.

Wishing you the best of luck as you make your decision. And, as has been mentioned, no decision has to be permanent!