History

Pioneer Square was first settled in 1852, as Seattle’s original downtown. After 29 blocks burned in a fire in 1889, much of the area was rebuilt in Romanesque buildings of brick and stone, some of which endure today.

The Great Panic of 1893 turned grand hotels into flophouses and saw a Hooverville camp erected in the area; but in 1897, the steamship Portland docked near Waterfront Park, bringing with it newly wealthy prospectors who had struck gold on the Klondike River and were eager to invest in new developments.

While partially devastated by the earthquake of 1949 and the “urban renewal” projects of the 1960s, today Pioneer Square’s historic buildings are protected and recognized by the city for their unique place in Seattle’s history.

Description

Located above the shipping yards of the Port of Seattle and just south of Seattle’s modern-day downtown, Pioneer Square provides an experience unlike any other neighborhood. Historic brick buildings sit shoulder-to-shoulder with modern developments, condos and apartments nestled next to businesses and landmarks.

Professionals love Pioneer Square for its stylish lofts and proximity to downtown. Stunning views of Elliot Bay are available from almost every location, and the city’s baseball and football stadiums are just blocks away. With the International District bordering Pioneer Square on the fourth side, there’s always something happening in this vibrant area.

Average Rent: $$$

Primary Housing:

Medium Apartment Buildings

Large Apartment Buildings

Lofts

Commute Times:

Downtown 2-5 minutes

Eastside 25 minutes

Located just south of central downtown Seattle, Pioneer Square truly reflects the history of Seattle. It is home to the underground tours, numerous long-standing clubs, bars and live music venues.

It's also the home of Century Link Field, where the Sounders and the Seahawks play, and Safeco Field, where the Mariners play. This neighborhood is a focal point of Seattle's local history.

The rental housing in this area primarily consists of vintage apartment buildings and older buildings converted into condominiums and lofts. Although historically somewhat limited in number of rental units, the continued development and evolution of this neighborhood is providing more and more opportunities for those wishing to live at the heart of the history of Seattle.