A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Seattle vs. Anchorage for Hiking, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Seattle or Anchorage?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Seattle or Anchorage, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a nature-oriented, outdoorsy, and scenic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Seattle and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Space Needle
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Seattle or Anchorage?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seattle than Anchorage. Seattle is bigger than Anchorage, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seattle is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, and big city activities, while Anchorage is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle. Anchorage is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Seattle different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Anchorage and Seattle. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seattle or Anchorage?

Seattle
Anchorage

Seattle is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.


Is Seattle or Anchorage Better for Theater?

Seattle
Anchorage

Seattle is a city with good options for theatre. However, Anchorage is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Anchorage is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Seattle or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Seattle
Anchorage

Seattle is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Seattle makes for a great culinary experience. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Anchorage has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Seattle or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Seattle
Anchorage

Seattle is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

Seattle offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.


Is Seattle or Anchorage Better for Music?

Seattle
Anchorage

Seattle is a well-known place for live music. However, Anchorage is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Seattle is very popular with diverse venues. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Anchorage is not a live music destination.

Is Seattle or Anchorage Better for Beaches?

Seattle
Anchorage

Seattle is a city with good options for its beaches. However, Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Is Seattle or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Seattle
Anchorage

Anchorage is renowned for the nearby hiking options. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Anchorage draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.


Is the Shopping Better in Seattle or Anchorage?

Seattle
Anchorage

Both Seattle and Anchorage are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Seattle to go shopping. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Anchorage. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Is Seattle or Anchorage Better for Families?

Seattle
Anchorage

Seattle and Anchorage are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Seattle is a family-friendly place to visit. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Anchorage is a family-friendly city. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Seattle or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Seattle
Anchorage

Anchorage is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Anchorage is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.


Is Seattle or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Seattle
Anchorage

Both Seattle and Anchorage are notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Anchorage is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Is Seattle or Anchorage Better for Students?

Seattle
Anchorage

Seattle is a well-known place for students. However, Anchorage is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Anchorage is not popular with students.

Is Seattle or Anchorage Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Seattle
Anchorage

Seattle is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.


Is Seattle or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Seattle
Anchorage

Seattle is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Anchorage is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Seattle Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Seattle?

How long in Seattle or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Seattle and Anchorage. In our opinion, Seattle has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Seattle than Anchorage. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Seattle, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

Families should spend more time in Seattle than Anchorage. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Seattle, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Seattle than Anchorage. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Seattle that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle than Anchorage if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Seattle.


  • How many days in Seattle or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Seattle 2-3 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Seattle or Anchorage?

People visit Seattle because there is so much to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Anchorage, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Seattle or Anchorage?

People visit Seattle because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Anchorage, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Anchorage has to offer.


Five days in Seattle or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the laid-back city of Seattle. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Anchorage is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Seattle or Anchorage?

Seattle is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Anchorage. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Anchorage. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Seattle?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Seattle is $205, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $191. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Seattle and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Seattle $120
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Seattle $240
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Seattle and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Seattle or Anchorage? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Seattle


Hotels in Anchorage


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Seattle Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Seattle $30
    Anchorage $27
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seattle

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Seattle:


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seattle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:

  • One-Way Transfer: Cruise Piers to Airport : $28
  • One-Way Transfer: SeaTac Hotels to Seattle Cruise Terminals : $33
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer(Seattle Airport To/From Seattle): $58
  • Seattle Departure Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Executive Sedan : $63
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Seattle - Arrival Private Transfer: $72
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Airport (SEA) - Departure Transfer: $75
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Smith Cove Terminal - Arrival Private Transfer: $75
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) - Departure Private Transfer: $75
  • Private Transfer from Seattle hotels to Smith Cove Terminal : $75
  • Seattle Airport (SEA) to Smith Cove Terminal - Arrival Transfer: $75
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Seattle Airport: $76
  • Seattle Departure Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Executive SUV: $81

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299

Is it cheaper to fly into Seattle or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Seattle change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Seattle $51
    Anchorage $50
Typical Food Prices in Seattle

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seattle are as follows:


  • Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
    $7.00
  • Cashews at Pike Place Market
    $6.00
  • 6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
    $3.25
  • Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
    $21
  • Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
    $32
  • Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
    $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seattle

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seattle.

  • Seattle : Fun Cooking Classes With Chef Seamus: $55
  • Seattle Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $60
  • Pike Place Market: Walking Food Tour: $66
  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market- 2 Hours: $67
  • Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour: $67
  • International District Food Tour: $69
  • Ballard Waterfront Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Plant Based Food Tour in Pike Place Market: $79
  • Secret Food Tours: Seattle Pike Place Market: $86
  • Pike Place Market Food Tour: $99
  • Small Group Cooking Class: $138
  • Market to Table Tour and Cooking Class at Pike Place Market: $159

Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of dining costs in Anchorage are as follows:


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Seattle $16
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Seattle

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seattle are as follows:

  • Experience Mining For Genuine Montana Sapphires in Seattle: $5.00
  • Space Needle Park Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Downtown Seattle Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Seattle Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Downtown Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Smith Tower Straight Up Observatory Access Ticket: $16
  • Seattle Mariners Baseball Game Ticket at T Mobile Park: $16
  • National Nordic Museum Entry Ticket: $20
  • Seattle Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Sky View Observatory Admission Tickets: $23
  • MoPOP Entry Ticket: $25
  • Terrors and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour: $26

Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Anchorage are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $33
  • 1/2 Day Rafting Trip
    $105

Tours and Activities in Anchorage

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Anchorage are as follows:

  • Salmon Express Anchorage's Fish Hatchery Experience: $20
  • Anchorage Museum General Admission Ticket: $25
  • 1-Hour Trolley Tour: $25
  • Anchorage Trolley Tour: $25
  • Adventurers Ready To Jump Into the Void Alaska Style Wanted: $39
  • Botanical Garden Walking Tour: $40
  • Guided Tour of the Alaska Botanical Garden: $45
  • Deluxe Trolley City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage Trolley's Deluxe City Tour: $50
  • Anchorage's Winter City Tour: $59
  • Last Frontier Anchorage City & Wilderness Tour - Top Winter Value: $65
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Seattle $16
    Anchorage $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Seattle

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Seattle:

  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Seattle Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $38
  • Woodinville's Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Woodinville Wine Country: Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Woodinville Wine Country: Artisan Hill Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour : $120
  • Day Private Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tour from Seattle: $181
  • From Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting: $262

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $109
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179


When comparing the travel costs between Seattle and Anchorage, we can see that Seattle is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Seattle Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Seattle or Anchorage?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Anchorage. When comparing the sizes of Seattle and Anchorage, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Seattle or Anchorage?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Seattle or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Seattle are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seattle this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Seattle is a little warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Seattle in July average around 67°F (19°C), and Anchorage averages at about 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seattle. Seattle usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Seattle gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Seattle usually receives less rain than Anchorage. Seattle gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Seattle 67°F (19°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Seattle or Anchorage in the Autumn?

Both Anchorage and Seattle during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Anchorage in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the autumn. In October, Seattle is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Seattle average around 54°F (12°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

In the autumn, Seattle often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Seattle gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Seattle usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Seattle gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Seattle 54°F (12°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Seattle or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Seattle and Anchorage. Many visitors come to Seattle in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Anchorage for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during winter. Seattle is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Seattle averages around 42°F (5°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

Seattle usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Seattle gets 67 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

Seattle gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Seattle usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Seattle gets 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Seattle 42°F (5°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Seattle or Anchorage in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Seattle as well as Anchorage. Most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. In the spring, Seattle is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Seattle in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. In the spring, Seattle often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Seattle gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Seattle usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Seattle gets 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Seattle 51°F (11°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Seattle

Seattle Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 42°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 57°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 67°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 67°F (19°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 47°F (8°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 42°F (6°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)