Rental Scams in Seattle
Everything you need to know about rental fraud in Seattle — local rent data, pricing red flags, and the scam patterns unique to this market.
Seattle Average Rent (2026)
| Unit Type | Avg Rent / Month |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,100 |
| 2 Bedroom | $2,700 |
| 3 Bedroom | $3,300 |
Source: FlagMyListing market data engine, updated February 2026.
Red-Flag Pricing
If you see a 1-bedroom in Seattle listed under $1,470, be cautious.
That is roughly 70% of the local average for a 1-bedroom apartment. Listings priced significantly below the market average are one of the strongest indicators of a rental scam. Scammers use below-market pricing to attract as many victims as possible before the listing is taken down.
Common Scam Patterns in Seattle
Amazon / Tech Campus Relocation Fraud
Seattle's tech campuses (Amazon, Microsoft, Meta) create a steady stream of relocating workers. Scammers target new hires in South Lake Union and Bellevue with listings priced just below market, knowing these workers have signing bonuses and are willing to pay deposits before arriving.
Rainy Season Sight-Unseen Scams
Seattle's long rainy season (October-May) discourages in-person property viewings. Scammers take advantage by offering "virtual tours" using stolen video footage and pressuring renters to commit without ever visiting the property in person.
Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) Fraud
Seattle's push for backyard cottages and detached accessory dwelling units has created a new scam vector. Listings advertise "brand new DADU" units that are either still under construction, not permitted, or do not exist at all.
Move-In Cost Inflation
Washington state limits deposits to one month's rent for most leases. Scammers circumvent this by tacking on fake "cleaning deposits," "pet deposits," "key deposits," and "administrative fees" that violate state law, collecting thousands above the legal limit.
How to Protect Yourself in Seattle
- ✓Always visit the property in person before paying anything. If you are relocating to Seattle, ask a friend or hire a local rental agent to view on your behalf.
- ✓Verify ownership through WA county property records. In Seattle, you can search online through the county assessor's office.
- ✓Never wire money or pay with gift cards. Use traceable payment methods like checks or credit cards.
- ✓Compare prices against the rent averages above. If a listing is more than 30% below average, treat it as suspicious until verified.
- ✓Run the listing through our free checker to scan for 40+ scam patterns before you engage with the landlord.
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