Seattle Businesses Consider Relocating Amid Safety and Cost Concerns
Nearly half of Seattle businesses have considered moving operations out of the city due to public safety issues and high costs, according to a new survey.
A 2026 Business Climate Survey reveals that 47% of Seattle businesses have seriously considered moving operations, jobs, or investment outside the city. Conducted by the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Seattle Association, the survey of 247 businesses found that 61% of respondents are pessimistic about the city's business environment over the next 12 months. Respondents cited public safety, taxes, fees, homelessness, and regulatory barriers as primary grievances, with 72% stating Seattle is not competitive with comparable locations.
In September 2026, over 30 business leaders from major companies, including Microsoft and Starbucks, urged Mayor Katie Wilson and the Seattle City Council to implement a 100-day public safety action plan and improve emergency response times. The findings place significant pressure on Mayor Wilson during her first year in office. While she campaigned on socialist policies and expanded services, she has since shifted toward spending cuts, expanded surveillance, and an increased police presence to address budget deficits and deteriorating city conditions.
