Seattle is known by many names – Emerald City, Jet City, Transplant City, but the most famous one by far is the nickname Rain City. This is for a good reason: Seattle experiences around 150 days of measurable precipitation each year, which is more frequent than in most cities east of the Rocky Mountains in the U.S. And not many people like rainy weather, so this rain can cause some challenges for people to thrive in this city. But why let the rainfall stop you from enjoying all the benefits living in Seattle can offer you? So, let’s sit back, keep on reading, and learn interesting new things that can help you thrive here.
Start Fresh in Seattle During the Driest Time of Year
If you are only about to move to Seattle and are scared that you won’t be able to get used to the climate, timing your move can help. Consider moving during July or early August. These two months are considered to be less rainy. If you are moving from states like Florida, it will give you time to somewhat gradually say goodbye to the Sun and avoid shock.
On the other hand, this is also the time of the year when people move the most. Naturally, the best moving companies will be fully booked months in advance. That said, if you have your eye on Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage Seattle, you better book early. This company has been operating since 1890, and it offers a wide array of moving services. They have a good reputation and services that cater to everyone’s moving needs – from international, commercial, and piano moving to specialized services like senior moving. Everyone wants a smooth move – so plan ahead if a reputable moving company like Hansen Bros. is your top choice.
Make The Most Of The Situation
Even though reduced sunlight can cause a drop in the happy hormone, it is highly unlikely that someone will develop depression just from lack of sunlight. But if you shift your mindset just a little, you can even see the rain as a gift, not an obstacle. Rainy days are the only time when it’s socially acceptable not to want to go outside and just stay inside and watch the rain pour.
Many Seattle residents use this time as an opportunity to enjoy their hobbies or take up new ones. Indoor hobbies like cooking, reading, crocheting, and knitting are great choices. This way, you will have a great time and won’t even notice the weather outside. What’s more, it will improve the ambiance.
The Right Wardrobe Will Make All The Difference
To survive the rainy, gloomy days, you need the right wardrobe. Quality rain gear is a must. A waterproof jacket that is breathable yet warm will be your staple. Waterproof boots, too. In fact, no matter what kind of footwear you use, you need to learn how to clean shoes like a pro. Even the most skilled puddle-dodger will get their shoes dirty with this much rainfall!
Layering is also important, as the weather can change quickly. For example, it’s not uncommon to start your day with temperatures around 45°F (7°C) in the early morning, only to see them climb to 65°F (18°C) by late afternoon. With more layers on, you can adjust your outfit to the outside temperatures without being too hot or cold.
Outdoor Activities Can Be Enjoyed Too
Despite the wet climate, the Rainy City still offers many outdoor activities. Local favorites are Discovery Park and Seward Park. They can both be easily accessed and enjoyed, even on a drizzly day. The rain keeps the crowds away, so you will feel like you are in a natural retreat, even when you are in the heart of a big city.
Locals strongly believe that living in Seattle is about seeing the rain as a gift and being outside despite it. Kayaking on Lake Union or hiking in the nearby Cascade Mountains can be more memorable with rain, creating unique sights. All you have to do is dress appropriately and keep your sensitive gear dry.
Find Your Perfect Cozy Indoor Spots to Relax
Seeing as we are known as the “indoor generation,” you will likely want and need to spend days indoors. Whether you need to work remotely or just want to chill in a place with a good ambiance, Seattle can accommodate these needs. Places like The Pink Door, Tilikum Place Cafe, and Cafe Champagne are all local favorites for when they want to spend time inside, surrounded by good friends, good drinks, and even better music.
Sometimes, the introvert emerges, and you won’t want to leave your home. That is why, in Seattle, your home needs to be cozy, too. Soft blankets, warm lighting, and indoor plants that purify the air are all great options. And if you recently went from renting to becoming a first-time homebuyer, you might even add things like a fireplace. A surround sound system can also be a good addition for soft ambient music or more upbeat music for those weekend deep cleaning days.
What Is Seattle’s Social Scene Like?
In a city with a climate like this, you would think that making friends can be difficult. And you are not entirely wrong. If you recently completed a move across the city by hiring local movers, you might be able to keep seeing your old buddies. But you can never have too many friends! You can make friends, but you just need to visit places and attend events that interest you in order to meet like-minded people. It’s not like you will meet your best friends on a park bench – parks are not social gathering places in cities like Seattle. Cafes and bars are aplenty if you are into that. For people looking for fresh produce, The Ballard Farmers Market, open every Sunday, is also a great place to connect with suppliers and meet new people.
Maintain Your Health In Seattle’s Climate
Staying healthy is important no matter the city or the climate. Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common deficiencies. According to Cleveland Clinic, 35% of adults in the USA are deficient in this essential vitamin. But did you know that you can get this vitamin from the sun, even on cloudy days? Full-spectrum sunlight still penetrates overcast skies during any season. So, while you might not see it, it will do its job. If it is not possible for you to be outside, then you have various options when it comes to supplements. Just keep an out for the labels, as supplements should not contain things like:
- Titanium dioxide
- Artificial colors
- Hydrogenated oils
- Magnesium stearate
- Synthetic magnesium silicate
- Artificial flavors, etc.
It can be difficult to avoid these unnecessary, unhealthy additives. So, many people opt to get their vitamin D from food. Sardines, mushrooms, liver, tuna, egg yolks, and many other foods are rich in this vitamin.
You Will Enjoy Living in Seattle
Living in Seattle offers some very unique challenges. But from day one, try to adopt a positive mindset and accept the fact that you cannot change the climate. Trust us, with time, you will even start to like the rain.
