Ballard vs Wallingford
Compare these two popular Seattle neighborhoods side-by-side.Wallingford is more affordable with 2BR rents at $2,300/mo.
Ballard
Nordic heritage, brewery-focused, neighborhood
2BR Rent$2,500/mo
85
Walk
58
Transit
78
Bike
Wallingford
MORE AFFORDABLEFamily-friendly, established, neighborhood
2BR Rent$2,300/mo
78
Walk
55
Transit
75
Bike
Rent Price Comparison
Monthly rent by bedroom type
| Unit Type | Ballard | Wallingford | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,400 | $1,300 | +$100(+7.7%) |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,800 | $1,600 | +$200(+12.5%) |
| 2 Bedroom | $2,500 | $2,300 | +$200(+8.7%) |
| 3 Bedroom | $3,600 | $3,200 | +$400(+12.5%) |
Which Neighborhood Wins?
affordability
Wallingford
Average rent is $167/mo higher
transit
Ballard
Transit score: 58 vs 55
walkability
Ballard
Walk score: 85 vs 78
nightlife
Tie
Both neighborhoods have comparable nightlife scenes
families
Tie
Both neighborhoods are suitable for families
young Professionals
Tie
Both attract young professionals
commute
Wallingford
15-20 min to downtown
Ballard Overview
Nordic heritage neighborhood with craft breweries, Sunday farmers market, and Seattle character.
Best For
Beer loversFamiliesNordic heritageFarmers market fans
Pros
- +Great breweries
- +Farmers market
- +Community feel
- +Golden Gardens
Cons
- -Distance from downtown
- -Traffic
- -Rainy weather
- -Getting expensive
Safety
Very Good
Commute
20-25 min
Nightlife
Active - breweries, bars, restaurants
Schools
Good public schools
Wallingford Overview
Family-friendly neighborhood with local shops, Gas Works Park views, and established Seattle character.
Best For
FamiliesSchool seekersCommunity-mindedEstablished Seattle
Pros
- +Great schools
- +Community feel
- +Gas Works views
- +Family-friendly
Cons
- -Distance from downtown
- -Limited nightlife
- -Rainy weather
- -Getting expensive
Safety
Excellent
Commute
15-20 min
Nightlife
Limited - neighborhood focused
Schools
Excellent public schools
Key Takeaways: Ballard vs Wallingford
- Affordability: Wallingford offers lower rents with 2BR averaging $2,300/mo compared to $2,500/mo.
- Walkability: Ballard has the edge with a Walk Score of 85.
- Transit: Ballard offers better public transit access (Transit Score: 58).
- Commute: Ballard (20-25 min) vsWallingford (15-20 min) to downtown.
Which Neighborhood is Right for You?
Ballard is ideal for beer lovers and families, offering nordic heritage, brewery-focused, neighborhood vibes. Wallingford suits families and school seekers, known for its family-friendly, established, neighborhood atmosphere.