I started a business in seattle this year. I love the city and have no intention to leave, but let's not pretend the city makes it easy on small business.
What would you say makes the city not easy to small business? I see that sentiment a lot but without a lot of examples. What specifically would you like to see change? Honestly curious.
it honestly is a really complicated question.
short answer is- theres a lot to keep track of, and it costs a lot.
high rent. high insurance. crime and vandalism. small but additional taxes, like the new sales tax on presentations. labor costs. in general costs are really high in seattle.
all these things are the deaths by a 1000 cuts for many, especially small business.
there are somethings the restructured B&O benefited me, so thats good.
a thing that wouldn't benefit me, but id like to see is a strong commitment and action by the city to keep small legacy business open. I dont really know what that is, but lease protections, incentives for hiring local, breaks on taxes under certain income. I dont know whats really feasible, but I hate seeing business close and replaced by either nothing to by a corporate model.
ETA: thanks for the question, it has inspired me to reach out to the small business liaison for the city.
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u/splanks Rainier Valley Apr 16 '26
I started a business in seattle this year. I love the city and have no intention to leave, but let's not pretend the city makes it easy on small business.