The Best Of The Best: Top Rated Apartment Buildings In Seattle

Seattle is a bustling city known for its natural beauty, booming tech industry, and vibrant culture. With its picturesque waterfront views and plenty of things to do, it’s no wonder Seattle is a popular place to live. However, finding the right apartment can be challenging with so many options. This article will explore some of the highest-rated apartment complexes in Seattle based on location, amenities, and reviews from residents.

The Mayflower (Capitol Hill)

The Mayflower is consistently rated as one of the best apartment buildings in Seattle’s lively Capitol Hill neighborhood. Situated right in the heart of Capitol Hill, this apartment complex is within walking distance of great restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and outdoor spaces like Volunteer Park and Cal Anderson Park.

The apartments feature clean, modern interiors with in-unit washers and dryers, large windows providing plenty of natural light, and luxurious details like granite countertops in the kitchen. Residents praise the building’s beautiful art deco lobby filled with original details from the 1920s. The staff is also highly rated for being friendly and quick to address any maintenance needs.

While not the most affordable in the area, residents agree it’s worth the price thanks to the charming historic building, prime location, and high-quality amenities like a rooftop deck with fantastic city views. The pet-friendly community also means residents can enjoy Capitol Hill with their furry friends. Overall, the Mayflower’s blend of historic character, convenient location, and well-maintained interiors make it one of the top-rated apartment options in Seattle.

The Elliott (Downtown Seattle)

For luxury living right in the heart of downtown Seattle, The Elliott is often ranked one of the best large apartment buildings in the city. Situated steps away from the waterfront and Pike Place Market, with panoramic views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains, it’s easy to see the appeal.

Spacious one- and two-bedroom apartment homes feature gourmet kitchens, marble bathrooms, plank flooring, and oversized windows taking in the views. High-end amenities include a 24-hour concierge, rooftop infinity pool and lounge area, resident lounge with baristas, and a state-of-the-art gym—all making it easy for high-powered professionals to relax after work Downtown.

Pets are also welcome in the pet spa and dog run. Residents praise the architecture, amenities, professional management team, and overall upscale atmosphere. While prices certainly reflect the prime location and luxury offerings, past tenants say it’s worth paying more to live in such a modern, well-appointed building steps from all that downtown Seattle has to offer.

The Dakota (South Lake Union)

For those working in or around Seattle’s booming South Lake Union neighborhood, few apartment buildings compare to The Dakota. Situated in the heart of it all on Mercer Street, this luxury high-rise is within a short walk to Amazon, Google, and tons of restaurants and cafes along the lake.

Spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments feature modern kitchens with quartz countertops, plank flooring or tile, in-unit washer and dryer, and many with balconies or patios. Select units offer dens that can double as home offices. Popular amenities include a billiards lounge, game room, music studio, private dining room with chef’s kitchen, 24/7 fitness center, and a landscaped rooftop with grilling areas and seating.

The pet-friendly community has a dog run and spa facility. Current residents cite the central location, high-end building and apartment features, and friendly community as reasons it consistently ranks among the top choices for South Lake Union living. While not budget-friendly, the amenities, location, and quality of the apartments make it an attractive option for those who prioritize upscale downtown living near major employers.

The Mark (First Hill)

For those who want to be nestled in a quiet, historic neighborhood but still close to the action, First Hill’s The Mark has become a leading choice. Situated steps from the cafe’s, restaurants, grocery stores, and outdoor space of Melrose Market, it provides the best of neighborhood living combined with an impressive roster of amenities.

Spacious one- and two-bedroom apartment homes feature vaulted ceilings, in-unit washer and dryers, plank flooring, and sleek kitchens with quartz countertops. Penthouses offer two floors of living space. Top-rated features include a 24-hour fitness center, rooftop deck with skyline views, community kitchen and lounge, and pet spa equippe with grooming services and self-serve dog washing.

Within walking distance of downtown but nestled among charming older homes, residents say the contemporary building and seamless smart home package make it feel like resort-style living in a prime Seattle neighborhood. As one of the pet-friendly buildings around with lavish dog amenities and walking proximity to local parks, it’s an especially popular choice for animal lovers choosing First Hill.

The Lakehouse (Seward Park)

offering more affordable waterfront living, South Lake Union’s The Lakehouse provides luxury without emptying the wallet. Situated right on Lake Washington near popular Seward Park, it has become one of the highest-reviewed options for the price.

Spacious one-bedroom apartments feature quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, plank flooring, and spectacular waterfront views. Pricier two-bedroom units have two bathrooms and private balconies as well. Residents love relaxed amenities including a rooftop deck with grill stations and lake views, co-working space, and a club room perfect for social events.

Location along the Burke-Gilman Trail makes it easy to walk or bike to the Amazon and Facebook offices nearby or explore more of the Eastside. With ample proximity to transit, parks, and the interurban trail, residents cite the affordability, water views, and quiet neighborhood as hallmarks of their living experience here. As one of the more reasonably priced options on the Lake Washington waterfront, it continues to be a top choice for the Eastside.

The Vue (Downtown Bellevue)

Across Lake Washington in booming Bellevue lies another top-rated luxury high-rise, The Vue. Situated in the heart of downtown Bellevue steps from shops, restaurants, parks, and transit, it provides upscale living in one of the Seattle area’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

Large one- and two-bedroom floor plans feature floor-to-ceiling windows taking in expansive views of the downtown skyline and Mt. Rainier beyond. Sophisticated kitchens with quartz counters and stainless steel appliances are perfect for entertaining. Luxury amenities include a heated indoor pool, saunas, outdoor terrace, 24-hour concierge, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

Residents consistently rave about the architecture, unbeatable location, and impressive amenities including a party room with a catering kitchen. While not the most budget-friendly, many feel it provides far more value than similar properties in Seattle, given the space and luxury offerings. As one of Bellevue’s most coveted buildings, it remains at the top of many apartment hunters' lists.

Conclusion

Whether seeking luxury downtown high-rises, historic charm, waterfront living, or vibrant neighborhoods, these stand out as some of Seattle’s highest-rated and most coveted apartment communities based on location, quality of amenities, and reviews from current and former residents. While more expensive options, residents consistently praise the unmatched value these buildings provide in some of the most desirable regions across Seattle and Bellevue. For those wanting to experience the convenience, charm, or amenities a premier apartment complex can offer, these represent some of the top options.