How to Get from SEA to Downtown Seattle

There are several ways to travel between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and downtown Seattle, ranging from budget-friendly public transit to door-to-door private cars.

All Transportation Options

• Link Light Rail — 1 Line from airport to downtown Seattle (~40 min) and University of Washington
• Sound Transit Express Bus — routes 560, 574 to Bellevue, Tacoma, and surrounding cities
• Ride-share & taxi — pickup on 3rd floor of Parking Garage
• Rental car facility — accessible via walkway from Parking Garage

Taking the Train from SEA

SEA has direct rail/train service, which is often the most cost-effective and reliable option, especially during rush hour when road traffic is heavy. Link Light Rail — 1 Line from airport to downtown Seattle (~40 min) and University of Washington.

Cheapest to Most Expensive

• Public transit: $2–15 — Slowest but cheapest
• Shared ride-share (UberX/Lyft): $15–40 — Good balance of cost and convenience
• Taxi: $25–60+ — Fixed rates may be available to city center
• Private car: $50–100+ — Most comfortable, door-to-door

For the complete transportation breakdown, see our SEA ground transportation guide. For driving directions, use the interactive map on our SEA airport guide.

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