What neighborhood for a young teacher/musician? (Seattle, George: apartment, rent)

[dennis01077]

Frustrated with job prospects in Philadelphia, I've started to realistically consider a move to Seattle. Currently, I work as a Substitute Teacher. Recently, I learned that Seattle public schools pay their subs considerately more than what I currently earn. This discovery has significantly increased the odds of actually picking up and moving to the West Coast. The problem? I have no idea what neighborhoods I should be looking at.

My first consideration is professional. Are some schools "better" than others? I hate to use that term. Keep in mind, I'm from Philadelphia, where there are legitimate concerns that accompany working in the city's public school system. Are Seattle schools generally safe?

My second consideration is social. I'm a musician and intend on immersing myself in the local music scene. I'm not a hipster by any means, but I'd love to walk out my door, see a great band play, have a few beers, then simply stumble back to a humble apartment, the burden of driving never to interfere with a Saturday night of fun. I envision a younger neighborhood, filled with musicians, artists, coffee-shops, ect.

Thanks in advance for your help! My hope is that by being given a starting point, this city of neighborhoods will lose it's mystery and become a familiar and enticing future home.

[tobester]

A few suggestions for neighborhoods ... Columbia City, Capitol Hill, Georgetown ... can't answer if they're affordable on a sub teacher pay.

And, I would say Seattle schools are safe

[BATCAT]

Your description fits Capitol Hill perfectly. Rents on the hill are high but if you can still find deals if you work at it. The Central District neighbors the hill and rents are a little lower.

[Hemlock140]

Most jobs pay better here than many other places (state minimum wage is $9.19) but be aware that the cost of
living is also higher, including rent and home prices.

Yes, some Seattle schools are better than others, but they are all considered safe.

[Ira500]

All of the above named neighborhoods(Capitol Hill, Columbia City, Georgetown, Central District), and I'd add Ballard too.