Best Places to Live &
Work at Fred Hutch
Your 2026 guide to finding the perfect neighborhood near Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. Explore walk/bike distances, transit options, and housing costs in South Lake Union's vibrant research district.
World-Renowned Cancer Research Center
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is a premier independent research institution located in Seattle's South Lake Union neighborhood. Home to Nobel Prize-winning scientists and cutting-edge immunotherapy research.
Main Campus Address
1100 Fairview Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
Located in the heart of South Lake Union's biotech corridor
Research Focus
Cancer immunotherapy, bone marrow transplantation, HIV/AIDS, and infectious diseases
Explore Neighborhoods Near Fred Hutch
Click on the map markers to see commute times, bike distances, and neighborhood highlights. Fred Hutch is marked in purple.
Best Places to Live for Fred Hutch Researchers
These neighborhoods offer the best combination of commute time, lifestyle, and value for Fred Hutch employees.
Fremont - "Center of the Universe"
Fremont is the top choice for Fred Hutch researchers who want a quirky, artistic neighborhood with excellent bike infrastructure. The Burke-Gilman Trail provides a scenic, car-free route to South Lake Union.
Pros
- Protected Burke-Gilman bike trail
- Vibrant Sunday Market & food scene
- Unique arts community & culture
- Great cafes for remote work
- Family-friendly with parks
Cons
- Higher rent than U District
- Limited parking availability
- Can be touristy on weekends
Housing Costs
Wallingford - Family-Friendly Charm
Wallingford is a charming residential neighborhood perfect for Fred Hutch employees with families. Excellent schools, parks, and restaurants make it a well-rounded choice with easy bike access to South Lake Union.
Pros
- Top-rated schools nearby
- Gas Works Park access
- Excellent dining on 45th St
- Quiet residential streets
- Strong community feel
Cons
- Less nightlife than Fremont
- Moderate rent prices
- Fewer grocery options
Housing Costs
Eastlake - Waterfront Living
Eastlake is the closest neighborhood to Fred Hutch, offering waterfront living along Lake Union. Many researchers can walk or bike to work in under 10 minutes via the Westlake Cycle Track.
Pros
- Shortest commute to Fred Hutch
- Streetcar direct to campus
- Lake Union waterfront access
- Houseboats & unique living
- Protected bike lanes
Cons
- Limited restaurants & nightlife
- Fewer grocery stores
- Pricier waterfront units
Housing Costs
Capitol Hill - Urban Energy
Capitol Hill offers the most vibrant urban lifestyle near Fred Hutch. The South Lake Union Streetcar provides direct access to campus, and the neighborhood is packed with restaurants, bars, and cultural venues.
Pros
- Best nightlife & dining scene
- Streetcar direct to Fred Hutch
- Walkable to downtown
- Light rail station access
- Diverse, inclusive community
Cons
- Higher rent prices
- Can be noisy at night
- Limited parking
Housing Costs
Queen Anne - Upscale & Scenic
Queen Anne offers upscale living with stunning city and water views. Lower Queen Anne is particularly convenient for Fred Hutch employees, with excellent restaurants and easy bike access to South Lake Union.
Pros
- Spectacular city views
- Kerry Park & scenic walks
- High-end dining options
- Close to Seattle Center
- Safe, quiet streets
Cons
- Premium pricing
- Upper QA is very hilly
- Limited transit options
Housing Costs
U District - Most Affordable
University District offers the most affordable housing near Fred Hutch. With a vibrant student population, diverse dining, and light rail access, it's perfect for postdocs and early-career researchers on a budget.
Pros
- Most affordable rent
- Light rail to downtown
- UW libraries & resources
- Diverse international food
- Academic community vibe
Cons
- Longest commute distance
- Student noise & parties
- Limited upscale dining
Housing Costs
Compare Commute Times & Costs
Commute Times to Fred Hutch
Average Rent (1BR)
Distance from Fred Hutch (Miles)
Transit & Bike Routes
Bike Routes
Fred Hutch is extremely bike-friendly with protected bike lanes and secure bike parking. Most researchers bike year-round thanks to Seattle's mild winters.
Burke-Gilman Trail
Car-free route from Fremont & U District
Westlake Cycle Track
Protected lane from Eastlake & Fremont
Bike Parking
Secure covered parking & showers on campus
Public Transit
Multiple transit options connect neighborhoods to Fred Hutch. The South Lake Union Streetcar is the most direct route from Capitol Hill and First Hill.
SLU Streetcar
Direct to Fred Hutch from Capitol Hill
Metro Routes
Routes 62, 70, C Line serve South Lake Union
ORCA Card
Employer subsidies often available
Parking at Fred Hutch
Fred Hutch has limited employee parking with monthly permits. Most researchers opt for biking or transit due to cost and convenience.
Parking Costs
Fred Hutch Commute FAQs
Moving to Seattle for Fred Hutch?
Next Phase Moving specializes in relocations for researchers and medical professionals. We understand the unique needs of Fred Hutch employees moving to Seattle and can help make your transition seamless.
