About Greater Seattle

Innovative companies, world-class research and educational institutions, international ports, diverse communities and a superb quality of life: Greater Seattle is a gateway for today-and tomorrow’s–global economy.

Economic activity
Greater Seattle is the economic hub of the most trade-dependent state in the nation. Almost three quarters of Washington state’s exports originate in the Greater Seattle region, and international trade accounts for about one in three jobs in the local economy.

Strategically located
Greater Seattle is strategically positioned for the new economy. Greater Seattle is only a nine hour flight from both Tokyo and London, and our marine ports are closer to Asia than any other major ports on the United States’ West Coast.

An Economy of the Future
Just as important as geographic location is greater Seattle’s depth in key industry clusters. Aerospace, biotechnology and life sciences, information technology, clean technology, and logistics and international trade are among the thriving sectors that continually attract top talent and dollars.

International Trade: More than Exports and Imports
Greater Seattle’s international economy is also driven by scores of international tourists and students. Locally-based global development organizations, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, are addressing health and poverty issues all over the world. And our top-tier research institutions, such as the University of Washington, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and Microsoft Research, have extensive international partnerships.

Explore all the facets of the Greater Seattle region through our: